Economic and financial risks of commercial tilapia cage culture in a neotropical reservoir.

The aim of this study was to analyze the financial and economic risks of tilapia cage culture across different production water volumes (m³). The production water volumes evaluated were 10 to 50 thousand m³ (Small Volume, SV), 51 to 150 thousand m³ (Medium Volume, MV), 151 to 300 thousand m³ (Large Volume, LV), and >301 thousand m³ (Extra-Large Volume, ELV). Productivity and economic data were obtained from a commercial Nile tilapia cage farm with 232 net cages installed in a neotropical reservoir, in Brazil, from 2017 to 2019. Cost and profitability analyses, economic feasibility, and risk and sensitivity analyses were performed using a Monte Carlo simulation. The implementation of commercial tilapia cage farming relies mainly on feed prices. The initial investment demand is proportional to the size of the farms. On the other hand, MV, LV, and ELV tilapia farms showed the lowest financial risks despite the higher investments. These farms presented a medium-low risk at ≈39% probability, whereas the SV farm presented a medium to medium-high risk at 51.17% probability. Thus, fish farms with a production volume above 51 thousand m³ tend to be more profitable and have a ≈36% probability of low financial and economic risk with a Payback period of fewer than 10 years, mainly due to the lower feed costs per mass of fish produced. This study assists investors in choosing a better path toward a more viable and profitable activity.

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the economic viability of distributed photovoltaic systems in Brazil.

Electricity consumption in Brazil increases significantly, making feasibility studies to diversify the Brazilian electricity mix with other renewable sources become essential. However, the electricity market continues to be primarily driven by government or regulatory incentives and economic status. With the coronavirus pandemic since the beginning of 2020, the market has been undergoing significant changes that cause uncertainty in consumer investments in grid-connected photovoltaic systems. This article presents an economic feasibility analysis of photovoltaic system installation for the Brazilian residential sector, estimating a cash and term investment and comparing the viability of the investment before the global pandemic (December 2019) with the pandemic scenario (April 2021) for each of the 27 Brazilian capitals. The baseline scenario for economic feasibility analysis calculations considered a power system of 4 kW. The results show that the effects of the pandemic in the electricity market were positive in the feasibility of investing in grid-connected photovoltaic systems. Also, financing the system increases the chances of profitability. The current scenario is possibly the most attractive ever experienced by potential investors. However, this favorable scenario could decline in the coming years due to climatic and governmental factors.

Feeding okara, a soybean by-product, to dairy cows as partial protein source enhances economic indexes and preserves milk quality, intake, and digestibility of nutrients.

This study was carried out to evaluate the potential of dietary inclusion of okara (a soybean by-product) on feed intake, apparent in vitro digestibility of dry matter, production and milk quality of dairy cows, and economic indexes. Four lactating Holstein cows were assigned to a 4 × 4 Latin square design. Treatments were control diet with no okara, diet with 35 g/kg okara, diet with 65 g/kg okara, and diet with 95 g/kg okara in dry matter basis. There was no effect of the inclusion of okara in the diet on the intake of dry matter, crude protein, and ether extract. The inclusion of okara did not affect the in vitro digestibility of nutrients either. However, neutral detergent fiber intake differed between levels 0 and 35 g/kg of okara in the diet, with lower (8.15 kg/day) and higher (9.30 kg/day) values for these treatments, respectively, with values intermediates for the other treatments. There was no significant difference for milk production, fat, protein, lactose, milk urea, somatic cell score, and conjugated diene. However, there was an effect of including okara on thiobarbituric acid reactive substance content in milk. Regarding the economic analysis, the inclusion of 95 g/kg of okara in the diet (dry matter) showed the best results for average feed cost, gross margin, breakeven, and profitability index. Okara can be included in diets of lactating dairy cows up to 95 g/kg of total mixed ration on dry matter basis without interfering on milk production, milk solids, nutrient digestibility, and providing beneficial economic indexes, being economically feasible.

Análise da aplicabilidade da Portaria 557 do Ministério das Cidades em estudos de viabilidade técnico-econômica para incineração com recuperação energética de resíduo sólido urbano no Brasil / Analysis of the applicability of Ordinance 557 of the Ministry of Cities in technical-economic feasibility studies for incineration with MSW energy recovery in Brazil

RESUMO Os estudos de viabilidade técnico econômica são elementos primordiais para a viabilização de projetos de saneamento, inclusive de incineração de resíduo sólido urbano com recuperação energética. O artigo teve como base os padrões para estudos de viabilidade técnico econômica conforme Portaria n° 557 do Ministério das Cidades, previstos na lei n° 11.445 que estabelece diretrizes nacionais para o saneamento básico. Foram realizadas visitas técnicas em quatro incineradores em operação na Suíça e dois em Portugal, com o objetivo de estabelecer um benchmarking para referenciar a análise da aplicação da Portaria, a identificação dos fatores críticos que dificultam a adoção dessa tecnologia no Brasil, assim como as ações necessárias para a viabilidade técnico-econômica do incinerador. Os principais fatores críticos identificados foram a localização da planta, o efeito Not in My Backyard, a concepção de conflito entre reciclagem e incineração, o elevado investimento inicial, o risco de adoção de tecnologias já superadas, a falta de experiência e mão de obra capacitada local, a variação e sazonalidade na alimentação de resíduo sólido urbano, a volatilidade do preço da energia no mercado, as receitas mínimas para viabilidade financeira, a adequação do arcabouço legal e a seleção de modelo de negócio adequado.

ABSTRACT Technical-economic feasibility studies are essential elements for making sanitation projects feasible, including projects of MSW incinerators with energy recovery. This article is based on the reference standards for technical-economic feasibility studies according to Ordinance No. 557 (2016) of the Ministry of Cities, provided for in Law No. 11.445, which establishes national guidelines for basic sanitation. Technical visits were carried out in four incinerators in Switzerland and two in Portugal in order to establish a benchmark to reference the analysis of the application of the Ordinance, the identification of critical factors that hinder the adoption of this technology in Brazil, as well as the necessary actions for technical-economic feasibility. The objective of this article is to propose an adaptation of the technical-economic feasibility studies model of the Ordinance for a MSW incinerator project with energy recovery, identifying the critical factors and actions related to the financial-economic viability that hinder the adoption of this technology in Brazil. The critical factors identified were the location of the plant, the Not in My Backyard effect, the concept of conflict between recycling and incineration, the high initial investment, the risk of adopting technologies that have already been overcome, the lack of experience and hands of qualified local work, variation and seasonality in MSW supply, volatility in the price of energy in the market, minimum revenues for financial viability, adequacy of the legal framework, and selection of an appropriate business model.

Production of the Kappaphycus alvarezii extract as a leaf biofertilizer: technical and economic analysis for the north coast of São Paulo-Brazil / Produção do extrato da macroalga Kappaphycus alvarezii como biofertilizante foliar: análise técnica e econômica para o litoral norte de São Paulo-Brasil

The extract of the Kappaphycus alvarezii seaweed is used as a leaf biofertilizer and several studies had proven its efficiency in several crops. This study aimed to analyze the economic viability of fresh seaweed production and the chemically characterized seaweed extract cultivated as a technical-economic alternative for coastal communities. Yields of the solid and liquid fractions were quantified, the extract was characterized in its chemical composition of macronutrients and micronutrients and it was classified according to the criteria of the Brazilian legislation of agricultural fertilizers. For the study of economic feasibility, different sales price scenarios were considered and compared with the commercialization of fresh seaweed. The average yield obtained from the processing of the Brazilian adapted strains of the K. alvarezii for the liquid fraction or fresh seaweed extract was 0.71 ± 0.0080 L kg-1 and the moisture solid production was 295 ± 0.0126 g kg-1. The production of fresh seaweed was unfeasible and for the handmade extract was economically viable for the scenario with the sale price of US$ 2.77 with a net present value of US$ 35,300.13 and an internal rate of return (IRR) of 38.99% over ten year.(AU)

O extrato da alga marinha Kappaphycus alvarezii é utilizado como biofertilizante foliar e vários estudos comprovaram sua eficiência agronômica em diversas culturas agrícolas. Este estudo teve como objetivo analisar a viabilidade econômica do cultivo de algas marinhas frescas e seu extrato quimicamente caracterizado como alternativa técnico-econômica para comunidades costeiras. Os rendimentos das frações sólida e líquida foram quantificados, o extrato foi caracterizado em sua composição química de macronutrientes e micronutrientes e foi classificado de acordo com os critérios da legislação brasileira de fertilizantes agrícolas. Para o estudo de viabilidade econômica, diferentes cenários de preços de venda foram considerados e comparados com a comercialização das algas marinhas frescas. O rendimento médio obtido pelo processamento das linhagens brasileiras de K. alvarezii para a fração líquida ou extrato de alga marinha fresca foi de 0,71 ± 0,0080 L kg-1 e o rendimento da fração sólida foi de 295 ± 0,0126 g kg-1. A produção de algas marinhas frescas foi inviável economicamente e, para o extrato artesanal, foi viável para o cenário com preço de venda de US$ 2,77, com valor presente líquido de US$ 35.300,13 e taxa interna de retorno (TIR) de 38,99% para um horizonte de dez anos.(AU)

Production of the Kappaphycus alvarezii extract as a leaf biofertilizer: technical and economic analysis for the north coast of São Paulo-Brazil / Produção do extrato da macroalga Kappaphycus alvarezii como biofertilizante foliar: análise técnica e econômica para o litoral norte de São Paulo-Brasil

The extract of the Kappaphycus alvarezii seaweed is used as a leaf biofertilizer and several studies had proven its efficiency in several crops. This study aimed to analyze the economic viability of fresh seaweed production and the chemically characterized seaweed extract cultivated as a technical-economic alternative for coastal communities. Yields of the solid and liquid fractions were quantified, the extract was characterized in its chemical composition of macronutrients and micronutrients and it was classified according to the criteria of the Brazilian legislation of agricultural fertilizers. For the study of economic feasibility, different sales price scenarios were considered and compared with the commercialization of fresh seaweed. The average yield obtained from the processing of the Brazilian adapted strains of the K. alvarezii for the liquid fraction or fresh seaweed extract was 0.71 ± 0.0080 L kg-1 and the moisture solid production was 295 ± 0.0126 g kg-1. The production of fresh seaweed was unfeasible and for the handmade extract was economically viable for the scenario with the sale price of US$ 2.77 with a net present value of US$ 35,300.13 and an internal rate of return (IRR) of 38.99% over ten year.

O extrato da alga marinha Kappaphycus alvarezii é utilizado como biofertilizante foliar e vários estudos comprovaram sua eficiência agronômica em diversas culturas agrícolas. Este estudo teve como objetivo analisar a viabilidade econômica do cultivo de algas marinhas frescas e seu extrato quimicamente caracterizado como alternativa técnico-econômica para comunidades costeiras. Os rendimentos das frações sólida e líquida foram quantificados, o extrato foi caracterizado em sua composição química de macronutrientes e micronutrientes e foi classificado de acordo com os critérios da legislação brasileira de fertilizantes agrícolas. Para o estudo de viabilidade econômica, diferentes cenários de preços de venda foram considerados e comparados com a comercialização das algas marinhas frescas. O rendimento médio obtido pelo processamento das linhagens brasileiras de K. alvarezii para a fração líquida ou extrato de alga marinha fresca foi de 0,71 ± 0,0080 L kg-1 e o rendimento da fração sólida foi de 295 ± 0,0126 g kg-1. A produção de algas marinhas frescas foi inviável economicamente e, para o extrato artesanal, foi viável para o cenário com preço de venda de US$ 2,77, com valor presente líquido de US$ 35.300,13 e taxa interna de retorno (TIR) de 38,99% para um horizonte de dez anos.

Total replacement of the soybean meal with extruded semi-whole soybean in the piglets feeding during the nursery phase / Substituição total do farelo de soja com soja semi-integral extrusada na alimentação de leitões durante a fase de creche

The objective of this study was to evaluate the total replacement of soybean meal (SM) with extruded semi-whole soybean (ESWS) and its effects on feed digestibility, growth performance, plasma urea concentration (PUC) and economic feasibility. In Experiment I, a digestibility assay was undertaken using 12 crossbred pigs with an initial average body weight (IABW) of 18.85 ± 0.69 kg, distributed in a completely randomized design (CRD), with two treatments (reference diet and replacement of 30% of the reference diet by ESWS), six replicates and one pig per experimental unit. Experiment II involved 64 crossbred piglets, entire males, with an IABW of 7.46 ± 0.55 kg, distributed in a CRD, with two treatments (a control diet containing SM and another in which ESWS replaced SM), eight replicates and four animals per experimental unit. The digestible contents of dry matter, crude protein and gross energy of ESWS were 91.26%, 42.21% and 4,629 kcal kg -1, and the digestibility coefficients were 92.33%, 96.49% and 91.21%, respectively. Experiment II data indicated an effect on the feed conversion (FC) in the total period, in which pigs fed SM presented better FC. The diets affected the PUC in the pre-starter II phase and the total period, with pigs fed SM showing higher PUC. The cost of feed per kilogram of live weight gain increased in the starter phase. ESWS does not change the DWG and ADFI of piglets but worsens both the FC in the total period and economic results.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi o de avaliar a substituição total do farelo de soja (FS) com soja semi-integral extrusada (SSIE) e seus efeitos na digestibilidade das rações, no desempenho zootécnico, na ureia plasmática e na viabilidade econômica. Um ensaio de digestibilidade foi realizado usando 12 suínos mestiços com peso corporal inicial médio (PCIM) de 18,85 ± 0,69 kg, distribuídos em um delineamento inteiramente casualizado (DIC), com dois tratamentos (dieta referência e substituição de 30% da dieta referência pela SSIE), seis repetições e um suíno por unidade experimental. Para o desempenho zootécnico (Exp. II), foram utilizados 64 leitões mestiços, machos inteiros, com PCIM de 7,46 ± 0,55 kg, distribuídos em DIC, com dois tratamentos (dieta controle contendo FS e outra em que o FS foi substituído pela SSIE), oito repetições e quatro animais por unidade experimental. Os teores digestíveis de matéria seca, proteína bruta e energia bruta da SSIE foram de 91,26%, 42,21% e 4.629 kcal kg -1, e os coeficientes de digestibilidade foram de 92,33%, 96,49%, 91,21%, respectivamente. Os resultados do Exp. II indicam um efeito na conversão alimentar (CA) no período total, em que os suínos alimentados com FS apresentaram melhor CA. Houve diferença na concentração de ureia plasmática (CUP) na fase pré-inicial II e no período total, e os suínos alimentados com o FS apresentaram maior CUP. O custo da ração por quilograma de peso vivo ganho aumentou na fase inicial. A SSIE não altera o GDP e o CDR dos leitões, mas piora a CA no período total e nos resultados econômicos.(AU)

Total replacement of the soybean meal with extruded semi-whole soybean in the piglets feeding during the nursery phase / Substituição total do farelo de soja com soja semi-integral extrusada na alimentação de leitões durante a fase de creche

The objective of this study was to evaluate the total replacement of soybean meal (SM) with extruded semi-whole soybean (ESWS) and its effects on feed digestibility, growth performance, plasma urea concentration (PUC) and economic feasibility. In Experiment I, a digestibility assay was undertaken using 12 crossbred pigs with an initial average body weight (IABW) of 18.85 ± 0.69 kg, distributed in a completely randomized design (CRD), with two treatments (reference diet and replacement of 30% of the reference diet by ESWS), six replicates and one pig per experimental unit. Experiment II involved 64 crossbred piglets, entire males, with an IABW of 7.46 ± 0.55 kg, distributed in a CRD, with two treatments (a control diet containing SM and another in which ESWS replaced SM), eight replicates and four animals per experimental unit. The digestible contents of dry matter, crude protein and gross energy of ESWS were 91.26%, 42.21% and 4,629 kcal kg -1, and the digestibility coefficients were 92.33%, 96.49% and 91.21%, respectively. Experiment II data indicated an effect on the feed conversion (FC) in the total period, in which pigs fed SM presented better FC. The diets affected the PUC in the pre-starter II phase and the total period, with pigs fed SM showing higher PUC. The cost of feed per kilogram of live weight gain increased in the starter phase. ESWS does not change the DWG and ADFI of piglets but worsens both the FC in the total period and economic results.

O objetivo deste estudo foi o de avaliar a substituição total do farelo de soja (FS) com soja semi-integral extrusada (SSIE) e seus efeitos na digestibilidade das rações, no desempenho zootécnico, na ureia plasmática e na viabilidade econômica. Um ensaio de digestibilidade foi realizado usando 12 suínos mestiços com peso corporal inicial médio (PCIM) de 18,85 ± 0,69 kg, distribuídos em um delineamento inteiramente casualizado (DIC), com dois tratamentos (dieta referência e substituição de 30% da dieta referência pela SSIE), seis repetições e um suíno por unidade experimental. Para o desempenho zootécnico (Exp. II), foram utilizados 64 leitões mestiços, machos inteiros, com PCIM de 7,46 ± 0,55 kg, distribuídos em DIC, com dois tratamentos (dieta controle contendo FS e outra em que o FS foi substituído pela SSIE), oito repetições e quatro animais por unidade experimental. Os teores digestíveis de matéria seca, proteína bruta e energia bruta da SSIE foram de 91,26%, 42,21% e 4.629 kcal kg -1, e os coeficientes de digestibilidade foram de 92,33%, 96,49%, 91,21%, respectivamente. Os resultados do Exp. II indicam um efeito na conversão alimentar (CA) no período total, em que os suínos alimentados com FS apresentaram melhor CA. Houve diferença na concentração de ureia plasmática (CUP) na fase pré-inicial II e no período total, e os suínos alimentados com o FS apresentaram maior CUP. O custo da ração por quilograma de peso vivo ganho aumentou na fase inicial. A SSIE não altera o GDP e o CDR dos leitões, mas piora a CA no período total e nos resultados econômicos.

Technical and economic indicators of milk production systems in the Caiuá sandstone region

The aim of this study was to analyze technical and economic indicators of family milk production systems, with different technology levels, in the Caiuá sandstone area in Northwestern Paraná, Brazil. The analysis period covers the agricultural years 2002/2003 to 2013/2014. The categorization of the milk production systems was based on information from agricultural farms monitored by the Reference Network for Family Agriculture. The cost-benefit analysis method was used for the economic assessment of milk production. Based on the results, three family milk production systems were identified in the region, characterized by the use of low, medium and high intensification technologies for pasture management. The production costs per unit area were found to be higher in the system with high technology and lower in the system with low technology. However, although the total revenue in the production system with a high technological intensification is greater than in the other systems, the capital needed for a technological transition is higher. In all the systems, when the costs were deducted, including the return on family labor, there was a profit, even with the climate and soil constraints inherent in the region.(AU)

Technical and economic indicators of milk production systems in the Caiuá sandstone region

The aim of this study was to analyze technical and economic indicators of family milk production systems, with different technology levels, in the Caiuá sandstone area in Northwestern Paraná, Brazil. The analysis period covers the agricultural years 2002/2003 to 2013/2014. The categorization of the milk production systems was based on information from agricultural farms monitored by the Reference Network for Family Agriculture. The cost-benefit analysis method was used for the economic assessment of milk production. Based on the results, three family milk production systems were identified in the region, characterized by the use of low, medium and high intensification technologies for pasture management. The production costs per unit area were found to be higher in the system with high technology and lower in the system with low technology. However, although the total revenue in the production system with a high technological intensification is greater than in the other systems, the capital needed for a technological transition is higher. In all the systems, when the costs were deducted, including the return on family labor, there was a profit, even with the climate and soil constraints inherent in the region.

Defining research & development process targets through retro-techno-economic analysis: The sugarcane biorefinery case.

A new approach is reported for techno-economic analysis of lignocellulosic ethanol production. With this methodology, general targets for key process variables can be draw, a valuable feedback for Research & Development teams. An integrated first- and second-generation ethanol from sugarcane biorefinery is presented as a case study for the methodology, with the biomass pretreated by liquid hot water, followed by enzymatic hydrolysis of the cellulose fraction. The hemicellulose fraction may be either fermented or biodigested. The methodology was able to identify the main variables that affect the process global economic performance: enzyme load in the cellulose hydrolysis reactor, cellulose-to-glucose, and xylose-to-ethanol yields. Windows of feasible operation are the graphical output of the methodology, outlining regions to be further explored experimentally. One example of quantitative result is that the maximum feasible enzyme load was 11.3 FPU/gcellulose when xylose is fermented to ethanol and 7.7 FPU/gcellulose when xylose is biodigested.

Silvopastoral System Economical and Financial feasibility with Jatropha curcas L. in Manabí, Ecuador / Viabilidad económica y financiera de sistemas silvopastoriles con Jatropha curcas L. en Manabí, Ecuador

ABSTRACT Objective. To assess the economic and financial feasibility of traditional silvopastoral systems for the biofuels production as a contribution to the sustainability of "Piñón for Galapagos" project. Materials and methods. A survey was conducted to 450 small livestock producer in 10 cantons of the Manabí province in order to collect basic agronomic knowledge, management, establishment and costs involved in production of the Piñón ((Jatropha curcas L.)/Savoy (Megathyrsus maximus) silvopastoral systems. For Piñón CP041 production recording plantation in live fence were stablished and for the tradition Piñón, the production of 10 sites were recorded, both systems since 2009. With those data were calculated the following economic indicators: ratio benefit/cost, net present value (NPV), internal rate ratio (IRR) and land expectation value (LEV). Results. The study exhibited a production decrease of Piñón with the passage of time. The CP041 INIAP improved silvopastoral system Piñón showed a B/C 1.07, NPV of USD$ 404.11, LEV US$ 970.23 and IRR of 18%. Followed by silvopastoral system with a local Piñón with a B/C 1.06, NPV of USD$ 363.66, LEV USD$ 873.10 and IRR of 17% and finally silvopastoral system without harvesting Piñón with a B/C 1.05, NPV of USD$ 285.72, LEV USD$ 685.99 and IRR of 15%. Conclusions. The alternative biofuels production was the silvopastoral systems (INIAP CP041)/Savoya in Manabí and is economically feasible. This system does not compete for arable land for food production and would not affect food security.

RESUMEN Objetivo. Evaluar la viabilidad económica y financiera de los sistemas silvopastoriles tradicionales para la producción de Biocombustibles como aporte a la sostenibilidad del proyecto "Piñón para Galápagos". Materiales y Métodos. Se llevaron a cabo encuestas a 450 pequeños productores ganaderos de 10 cantones de la provincia de Manabí con la finalidad de colectar información agronómica, manejo, costos implicados en establecimiento y producción de los sistemas silvopastoriles vigentes de Piñón (Jatropha curcas L.)/Saboya (Megathyrsus maximus). Para recopilar datos de producción del Piñón establecido en cercas vivas de Piñón INIAP CP041 e igualmente se registró la producción de sistemas en 10 sitios, desde el año 2009. Con estos datos se calcularon los siguientes indicadores financieros radio beneficio/costo (B/C), valor actual neto (VAN), tasa interna de retorno (TIR) y valor de expectativa de la tierra (VET). Resultados. El estudio mostró una disminución de la producción del Piñón con el transcurso del tiempo. El sistema silvopastoril mejorado con Piñón INIAP CP041 mostró B/C 1.07, VAN de USD$ 404.11, VET USD$ 970.23 y TIR de 18%. Seguido del sistema silvopastoril con Piñón local con un B/C 1.06, VAN de USD$ 363.66, VET USD$ 873.10 y TIR de 17% y finalmente sistema silvopastoril sin cosecha del Piñón con un B/C 1.05, VAN de USD$ 285.72, VET USD$ 685.99 y TIR de 15%. Conclusiones. La alternativa de producción de biocombustibles con sistemas silvopastoriles Piñón (INIAP CP041)/Saboya en Manabí es el sistema de mayor rentabilidad y no competiría por superficies de cultivo para la producción de alimentos, sin afectar a la seguridad alimentaria.

Performance of beef heifers supplemented with sodium lasalocid.

This study was conducted on 78 13-month-old crossbred beef heifers that weighed 215 kg in Southern Rio Grande do Sul (RS) State, Brazil. We evaluated the performance of beef heifers that were reared in a pasture system that received a mineral supplement energy-type protein with added sodium lasalocid (LAS). The heifers were randomly and uniformly divided into 2 groups, with 39 animals in each group. One group of animals received a mineral supplement energy-type protein without sodium lasalocid (CON), and the other group received a mineral supplement energy-type protein with added LAS. The mean feed intake, the body weight (BW), the average daily gain (ADG), the body condition score (BCS), and ovarian cyclicity were recorded, and economic parameters were calculated. No differences in supplement intake were observed between the groups, which ensures adequate intake of the other components of the mineral mixture, which are part of the nutritional requirements for the production process. Similarly, no difference in the ADG was observed between treatments. We observed that the heifers in the LAS group had a higher BW gain (51 kg) that the CON heifers (40 kg; P < 0.05). In addition, LAS-supplemented heifers had a higher BCS (3.53) than CON heifers (3.38) at the end of the experiment (P < 0.05). The heifers supplemented with LAS had a higher profitability than the CON heifers, even with the higher cost of the supplement containing LAS; this effect was due to the higher live BW at the end of the study. We concluded that the administration of a mineral supplement energy-type protein with added LAS has beneficial effects on beef heifers in terms of production and economic feasibility.

Evaluation of the economic feasibility of a processing plant for steelmaking slag.

The utilisation of steelmaking slag as recycled aggregate for concretes is a widely investigated solution for mitigating the expenditure and environmental impacts of its storage. The Brazilian steel industry is investing in research and slag reprocessing practices, aiming to reuse most of its metallic fraction and properly allocate the non-metallic fraction, saving energy and reducing mining impacts. Research results demonstrate the technical and environmental feasibility of steel slag aggregates for civil construction. However, it is essential to evaluate whether the processing of the slag is economically feasible for this purpose. Economic analysis of the processing of steel slag was conducted through simulation - Monte Carlo method - in which it is possible to determine the risks and uncertainties inherent to the project. The costs that comprise the proposed project, from design through construction and operation itself, were estimated at US$2.8 million. The result of the simulation indicates economic feasibility of the project with 98% certainty, and an estimated profit of around 42%.

Semi-purified glycerin in the meat quails feeding / Glicerina semipurificada na alimentação de codornas de corte

Three experiments were conducted to determine the nutritional value of semi-purified glycerin (SG), and its economic feasibility for use in meat quail feed. Its effect on the performance, body chemicalcomposition, and carcass yield were assessed. In experiment 1, 22-day-old quails, were housed in metabolic cages, distributed in a completely randomized design (CRD), with three treatments, five replicates, and five birds per repetition, using 75 quails in total. Treatments consisted of a reference diet (RD) and two test diets (TD) in which 8% and 12% SG replaced the RD. The estimated value of nitrogen-corrected apparent metabolizable energy (AMEn) for SG was 2,476 kcal/kg. In experiment 2,1320 quails (55 quails in each box) were distributed in a CRD with six treatments and four replicates. The treatments consisted of a control diet, based on corn and soybean meal, and five diets with increasing levels of SG (3%, 6%, 9%, 12%, and 15%). There were no effects of SG on the performance variables. The cost per kilogram of live weight produced increased linearly (P<0.05) with the percentage of SG in the diet. The performance data suggest that SG may be included in up to 15% of the diet in 1- to 14-day-old quails. In experiment 3, 1032 quails (43 quails in each box) were distributed under the sameconditions as in experiment 2. SG influenced linearly the litter moisture (P<0,05) and body biomas accumulated (BBA), and had a quadratic effect on feed conversion ratio and BBA (P<0,05). The costper kilogram of live weight produced increased linearly (P<0.05) with the percentage of SG in the diet. Therefore, SG may be used to make-up 10% of the diet of 15–35-day-old quail.(AU)

Três experimentos foram conduzidos para determinar o valor nutritivo da glicerina semipurificada (GS) e verificar seu efeito sobre o desempenho, composição química corporal, características de carcaça e a viabilidade econômica de sua utilização em dietas para codornas de corte. No Experimento 1 foramutilizadas 75 codornas, com 22 dias de idade, alojadas em gaiolas de metabolismo, distribuídas em um delineamento inteiramente casualizado (DIC), com 3 tratamentos e 5 repetições, com 5 aves por repetição. Os tratamentos consistiram de uma ração referência (RR) e duas rações teste (RT), sendo que a GS substituiu a RR em níveis de 8 e 12%. O valor estimado de EMAn para a GS foi de 2.476 kcal/kg de matéria natural. No Experimento 2 foram utilizadas 1.320 codornas de corte (55 aves em cada boxe), distribuídas em DIC, com seis tratamentos e quatro repetições. Os tratamentos foram constituídos por uma dieta controle, a base de milho e farelo de soja, e cinco dietas com níveis crescentes de inclusão de GS (3, 6, 9, 12, e 15%). Não foram observados efeitos da GS sobre as variáveis de desempenho. O custo por quilograma de peso vivo produzido aumentou linearmente (P<0,05) com a inclusão dos níveis de GS. Considerando os dados de desempenho, conclui-se que a GS pode ser incluída até o nível de 15%, na fase de 1 a 14 dias. No Experimento 3 foram utilizadas 1.032 codornas (43 aves em cada boxe), distribuídas sob as mesmas condições do Experimento 2. A glicerina semipurificada influenciou de forma linear (P<0,05) a umidade da cama e a biomassa corporal acumulada (BCA), e,de forma quadrática a conversão alimentar e a BCA (P<0,05). O custo por quilograma de peso vivo produzido aumentou linearmente (P<0,05) com a inclusão dos níveis de GS. Considerando os dados de desempenho, a GS pode ser incluída até o nível de 10%, na fase de 15 a 35 dias. (AU)

Cottonseed meal on pigs feeding (30 - 90 kg) / Farelo de algodão na alimentação de suínos (30 - 90 kg)

One experiment was carried out to evaluate the use of cottonseed meal (CM42) on growingfinishing pigs feeding and the effect on performance, carcass traits and economic feasible. Were used 40 crossbred pigs, with body weight of 29.7±1.6 to 52.2 ± 3.6kg in the growing and 52.7 ± 2.9 to 86.9 ± 5.0kg in the finishing phase. For each phase were formulated four diets, the first contain no cottonseed meal (0%) and three experimental diets with increasing levels of inclusion (5, 10 and 15%) of CM42. The pigs were allotted in a completely randomized block design with four treatments and four blocks, resulting in four replicates per treatment. No were observed effect of inclusion of CM42 for performance variables in growing phase, however for finishing phase, there were linear effect in performance of levels of inclusion on daily feed intake and feed:gain ratio. No was effect of inclusion of CM42 on carcass traits and plasma urea nitrogen. The CM42 can be used in diets pigs on growing phase in levels up to 15% and to used up to 10% on finishing phase, respectively, or in replaced next 50% in crude protein of soybean meal, without impairing for pigs. However, 5% level of inclusion showed better economic efficiency.(AU)

Foi conduzido um estudo com objetivo de avaliar o uso do farelo de algodão (FA42) na alimentação de suínos, nas fases de crescimento e terminação, seus efeitos sobre o desempenho zootécnico, características de carcaça e viabilidade econômica. Foram utilizados 40 suínos mestiço com peso de 29,7 ± 1,6 aos 52,2 ± 3,6 kg para o crescimento e 52,7 ± 2,9 aos 86,9 ± 5,0 kg para a terminação. Para cada fase foram formuladas três rações (5, 10 e 15% de FA42). Adicionalmente foi formulada uma ração sem a inclusão de FA42 (0%). Os suínos foram distribuídos em um delineamento em blocos ao acaso com quatro tratamentos e quatro blocos, com quatro repetições por tratamento. Não foram observados efeitos da inclusão de FA42 para as variáveis de desempenho na fase de crescimento, entretanto para a fase de terminação, houve efeito linear crescente dos níveis de inclusão sobre o consumo e conversão alimentar. As características de carcaça e o nitrogênio da uréia plasmática não foram influenciados. A análise econômica indicou aumento linear do custo em ração por kg de peso vivo ganho com o aumento da inclusão do FA42. Na terminação, a ração contendo 15% de FA42 apresentou maior custo, comparado com a ração sem FA42.(AU)

Semi-purified glycerin in the meat quails feeding / Glicerina semipurificada na alimentação de codornas de corte

Three experiments were conducted to determine the nutritional value of semi-purified glycerin (SG), and its economic feasibility for use in meat quail feed. Its effect on the performance, body chemicalcomposition, and carcass yield were assessed. In experiment 1, 22-day-old quails, were housed in metabolic cages, distributed in a completely randomized design (CRD), with three treatments, five replicates, and five birds per repetition, using 75 quails in total. Treatments consisted of a reference diet (RD) and two test diets (TD) in which 8% and 12% SG replaced the RD. The estimated value of nitrogen-corrected apparent metabolizable energy (AMEn) for SG was 2,476 kcal/kg. In experiment 2,1320 quails (55 quails in each box) were distributed in a CRD with six treatments and four replicates. The treatments consisted of a control diet, based on corn and soybean meal, and five diets with increasing levels of SG (3%, 6%, 9%, 12%, and 15%). There were no effects of SG on the performance variables. The cost per kilogram of live weight produced increased linearly (P<0.05) with the percentage of SG in the diet. The performance data suggest that SG may be included in up to 15% of the diet in 1- to 14-day-old quails. In experiment 3, 1032 quails (43 quails in each box) were distributed under the sameconditions as in experiment 2. SG influenced linearly the litter moisture (P<0,05) and body biomas accumulated (BBA), and had a quadratic effect on feed conversion ratio and BBA (P<0,05). The costper kilogram of live weight produced increased linearly (P<0.05) with the percentage of SG in the diet. Therefore, SG may be used to make-up 10% of the diet of 15–35-day-old quail.

Três experimentos foram conduzidos para determinar o valor nutritivo da glicerina semipurificada (GS) e verificar seu efeito sobre o desempenho, composição química corporal, características de carcaça e a viabilidade econômica de sua utilização em dietas para codornas de corte. No Experimento 1 foramutilizadas 75 codornas, com 22 dias de idade, alojadas em gaiolas de metabolismo, distribuídas em um delineamento inteiramente casualizado (DIC), com 3 tratamentos e 5 repetições, com 5 aves por repetição. Os tratamentos consistiram de uma ração referência (RR) e duas rações teste (RT), sendo que a GS substituiu a RR em níveis de 8 e 12%. O valor estimado de EMAn para a GS foi de 2.476 kcal/kg de matéria natural. No Experimento 2 foram utilizadas 1.320 codornas de corte (55 aves em cada boxe), distribuídas em DIC, com seis tratamentos e quatro repetições. Os tratamentos foram constituídos por uma dieta controle, a base de milho e farelo de soja, e cinco dietas com níveis crescentes de inclusão de GS (3, 6, 9, 12, e 15%). Não foram observados efeitos da GS sobre as variáveis de desempenho. O custo por quilograma de peso vivo produzido aumentou linearmente (P<0,05) com a inclusão dos níveis de GS. Considerando os dados de desempenho, conclui-se que a GS pode ser incluída até o nível de 15%, na fase de 1 a 14 dias. No Experimento 3 foram utilizadas 1.032 codornas (43 aves em cada boxe), distribuídas sob as mesmas condições do Experimento 2. A glicerina semipurificada influenciou de forma linear (P<0,05) a umidade da cama e a biomassa corporal acumulada (BCA), e,de forma quadrática a conversão alimentar e a BCA (P<0,05). O custo por quilograma de peso vivo produzido aumentou linearmente (P<0,05) com a inclusão dos níveis de GS. Considerando os dados de desempenho, a GS pode ser incluída até o nível de 10%, na fase de 15 a 35 dias.

Farelo de algodão na alimentação de suínos (30 - 90 kg)

One experiment was carried out to evaluate the use of cottonseed meal (CM42) on growing-finishing pigs feeding and the effect on performance, carcass traits and economic feasible. Were used 40 crossbred pigs, with body weight of 29.7 ± 1.6 to 52.2 ± 3.6kg in the growing and 52.7 ± 2.9 to 86.9 ± 5.0kg in the finishing phase. For each phase were formulated four diets, the first contain no cottonseed meal (0%) and three experimental diets with increasing levels of inclusion (5, 10 and 15%) of CM42. The pigs were allotted in a completely randomized block design with four treatments and four blocks, resulting in four replicates per treatment. No were observed effect of inclusion of CM42 for performance variables in growing phase, however for finishing phase, there were linear effect in performance of levels of inclusion on daily feed intake and feed:gain ratio. No was effect of inclusion of CM42 on carcass traits and plasma urea nitrogen. The CM42 can be used in diets pigs on growing phase in levels up to 15% and to used up to 10% on finishing phase, respectively, or in replaced next 50% in crude protein of soybean meal, without impairing for pigs. However, 5% level of inclusion showed better economic efficiency.

Foi conduzido um estudo com objetivo de avaliar o uso do farelo de algodão (FA42) na alimentação de suínos, nas fases de crescimento e terminação, seus efeitos sobre o desempenho zootécnico, características de carcaça e viabilidade econômica. Foram utilizados 40 suínos mestiço com peso de 29,7 ± 1,6 aos 52,2 ± 3,6kg para o crescimento e 52,7 ± 2,9 aos 86,9 ± 5,0kg para a terminação. Para cada fase foram formuladas três rações (5, 10 e 15% de FA42). Adicionalmente foi formulada uma ração sem a inclusão de FA42 (0%). Os suínos foram distribuídos em um delineamento em blocos ao acaso com quatro tratamentos e quatro blocos, com quatro repetições por tratamento. Não foram observados efeitos da inclusão de FA42 para as variáveis de desempenho na fase de crescimento, entretanto para a fase de terminação, houve efeito linear crescente dos níveis de inclusão sobre o consumo e conversão alimentar. As características de carcaça e o nitrogênio da uréia plasmática não foram influenciados. Os resultados sugerem que o FA42 pode ser utilizado nas rações de suínos em crescimento em até 15% e em até 10% na terminação ou em substituição próxima de 50% da proteína do farelo de soja, sem prejuízos ao desempenho. Entretanto, o nível de 5% de inclusão do FA42 foi o que apresentou a melhor eficiência econômica.

Cottonseed meal on pigs feeding (30 - 90 kg) / Farelo de algodão na alimentação de suínos (30 - 90 kg)

One experiment was carried out to evaluate the use of cottonseed meal (CM42) on growingfinishing pigs feeding and the effect on performance, carcass traits and economic feasible. Were used 40 crossbred pigs, with body weight of 29.7±1.6 to 52.2 ± 3.6kg in the growing and 52.7 ± 2.9 to 86.9 ± 5.0kg in the finishing phase. For each phase were formulated four diets, the first contain no cottonseed meal (0%) and three experimental diets with increasing levels of inclusion (5, 10 and 15%) of CM42. The pigs were allotted in a completely randomized block design with four treatments and four blocks, resulting in four replicates per treatment. No were observed effect of inclusion of CM42 for performance variables in growing phase, however for finishing phase, there were linear effect in performance of levels of inclusion on daily feed intake and feed:gain ratio. No was effect of inclusion of CM42 on carcass traits and plasma urea nitrogen. The CM42 can be used in diets pigs on growing phase in levels up to 15% and to used up to 10% on finishing phase, respectively, or in replaced next 50% in crude protein of soybean meal, without impairing for pigs. However, 5% level of inclusion showed better economic efficiency.

Foi conduzido um estudo com objetivo de avaliar o uso do farelo de algodão (FA42) na alimentação de suínos, nas fases de crescimento e terminação, seus efeitos sobre o desempenho zootécnico, características de carcaça e viabilidade econômica. Foram utilizados 40 suínos mestiço com peso de 29,7 ± 1,6 aos 52,2 ± 3,6 kg para o crescimento e 52,7 ± 2,9 aos 86,9 ± 5,0 kg para a terminação. Para cada fase foram formuladas três rações (5, 10 e 15% de FA42). Adicionalmente foi formulada uma ração sem a inclusão de FA42 (0%). Os suínos foram distribuídos em um delineamento em blocos ao acaso com quatro tratamentos e quatro blocos, com quatro repetições por tratamento. Não foram observados efeitos da inclusão de FA42 para as variáveis de desempenho na fase de crescimento, entretanto para a fase de terminação, houve efeito linear crescente dos níveis de inclusão sobre o consumo e conversão alimentar. As características de carcaça e o nitrogênio da uréia plasmática não foram influenciados. A análise econômica indicou aumento linear do custo em ração por kg de peso vivo ganho com o aumento da inclusão do FA42. Na terminação, a ração contendo 15% de FA42 apresentou maior custo, comparado com a ração sem FA42.

Estudo do mercado consumidor e da viabilidade econômica da produção de frangos caipira no Município de Parauapebas, Estado do Pará

O projeto visou pesquisar aspectos relacionados ao mercado consumidor, viabilidade econômica e desempenho produtivo de frangos caipira no município de Parauapebas, no sudeste do estado do Pará. Primeiramente foi realizada uma pesquisa de mercado, onde foram identificados o percentual de compra de carne de frango caipira pela população do município estudado, os fatores que levam as pessoas a não consumirem o produto e as variáveis sociais que podem influenciar na decisão de ser um consumidor de frango caipira. Os resultados mais importantes revelados pela pesquisa foram que quase 60% da população da cidade consome carne de frango caipira, sendo que o mercado consumidor ainda pode crescer 26,90% nos próximos anos. As dúvidas sobre as condições sanitárias de criação dos animais é principal causa para o não consumo do produto. No que diz respeito às variáveis sociais, identificou-se que a idade e o nível de escolaridade influenciam diretamente na decisão de ser um consumidor de frango caipira. No que diz respeito ao estudo da viabilidade econômica da atividade Os resultados demonstram que o sistema intensivo foi o mais viável economicamente, pois todas as quatro linhagens apresentaram resultados positivos em todos os indicadores calculados. No que se refere as melhores linhagens para se trabalhar em cada sistema, a Caipira Francês Barré foi a mais adaptada ao sistema intensivo, a Caipira Francês Pedrês ao sistema semi-extensivo e a Caipira Francês Vermelho ao sistema Extensivo, sendo que foi percebido que este último sistema apresenta viabilidade apensas se a estrutura da cadeia produtiva for mudada

The project aimed to research aspects related to the consumer market, economic viability and productive performance of free range chickens the city town of Parauapebas, in the southeastern of Para state. First was developed a market survey, for identified the percentage of the population that purchase the free range chicken’s meat in the city, the factors that cause people not to consume the product and the social variables that may influence in the decision of to be a consumer of free range chicken. The most important results were revealed by the survey that almost 60% of its population consumes meat of free range chicken, and the health conditions of animal production are the main reason for not consuming the product. Regarding social variables, we found that age and education level have a directly influence in the decision to be a consumer of free range chicken. With regard to the study of the economic viability of the activity The results show that the intensive system was the most economically feasible because all four strains showed positive results in all indicators calculated. Regarding the best lines to work on each system, the hick French Barré was more suited to intensive system, the hick French Pedrês to the semi-extensive and French Red Caipira Extensive system, while the latter was perceived system presents feasibility attached to the supply chain structure is changed.