Optimizing sheep growth curves using a meta-heuristic algorithm.

Sheep were among the first animals domesticated by humans, and to this day, small ruminants are primarily raised for their meat, milk, and wool. This study evaluated the goodness of fit for growth curve models using observed age and weight data from crossbred lambs of various breeds based on the mean values between paired breeds. We employed a hybrid metaheuristic algorithm, combining a simulated annealing (SA) algorithm and a genetic algorithm (GA) called SAGAC, to determine the optimal parameter values for growth models, ensuring the best alignment between simulated and observed curves. The goodness of fit and model accuracy was assessed using the coefficient of determination (R2), Mean Absolute Error (MAE), Root Mean Square Error (RMSE), and Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE). Errors were measured by comparing the criteria differences between simulated and observed data. Thirty crossbreed combinations were simulated, considering the average weight. Analysis of the observed and simulated growth curves indicated that specific crossbreeding scenarios produced promising results. This simulation approach is believed to assist geneticists in predicting potential crossbreeding outcomes, thereby saving time and financial resources in field research.

SNP Markers: Analysis of Genetic Diversity and Identification of Genomic Regions in Pantaneiro Sheep and Texel Sheep Under Natural Selection.

BACKGROUND: Sheep farming is growing substantially in Brazil, driven by the increasing demand for sheep meat. This rising demand has heightened the focus on sheep, making them the subject of numerous studies, including those centered on genetic analysis. A notable research area involves Pantaneiro sheep, which are indigenous to the Pantanal region of Mato Grosso do Sul and other locations. These sheep are of particular interest due to their adaptation to the unique environmental conditions of the Pantanal, a floodplain characterized by its distinctive climatic and ecological features. This study primarily aimed to conduct a comprehensive genomic analysis of Pantanal sheep subjected to natural selection within the Pantanal region and compare different sample herds using methodological approaches. METHODS: Genomic analysis was performed to examine genetic diversity and structure via GGP50K single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) analysis. A sample of 192 adult sheep over 4 years old was categorized into seven populations based on location: Six populations comprised Pantaneiro sheep with one Texel sheep population. Outlier SNPs were assessed to pinpoint regions under natural selection, with comparisons between the Pantaneiro and the commercial Texel breeds. All data analyses were conducted using the R programming language, employing specialized genetic analysis packages. These outlier SNPs were detected using three methodologies, PCAdapt, OutFLANK, and FDIST2/fsthet, with false discovery rate (FDR) corrections applied to ensure result accuracy. Each method was evaluated, and the genes associated with the identified SNPs were cross-referenced with the most recent sheep genome database, focusing specifically on genes with known phenotypic traits. RESULTS: Analysis of a sample comprising 192 adult individuals revealed greater genetic variability within the Pantaneiro breed than the Texel breed, highlighting the adaptation of the Pantaneiro breed to the unique Pantanal environment. Conversely, the Texel breed exhibited significantly higher levels of inbreeding, attributed to its controlled breeding practices. Outlier SNPs were detected with notable variation across different methodologies, underscoring the importance of FDR correction in ensuring the reliability and concentration of identified outliers. These outlier SNPs facilitated the identification of genes associated with key phenotypic traits, including hair growth, tissue regeneration, pigmentation regulation, and muscle capacity. CONCLUSION: The integrated analysis of methodologies demonstrated significant efficiency in elucidating the genomic landscape of Pantanal sheep, highlighting the genetic richness inherent in sheep from the Pantanal region of Mato Grosso do Sul. The techniques employed effectively identified outlier SNPs associated with phenotypically relevant genes. These findings, which reveal greater genetic variability and adaptability, underscore the potential of these animals for future research and their significance within Brazilian sheep farming. The Texel breed served as a valuable comparative group, illustrating the limited genetic variability in highly controlled breeding environments.

Reproductive behavior of Pantaneiros sheep, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil

The objective was to evaluate fertility, cyclicality behavior, and sexual performance of Pantaneiro sheep throughout the year's photoperiods in Mato Grosso do Sul - Brazil. Two experiments were conducted. In experiment one, the ewes used aged between 2 and 4 years, distributed in three homogeneous groups of 54 animals and subjected to reproductive evaluation in three different predefined luminosity periods, consisting of autumn (11h 45 min.), spring (12h 30 min.), and summer (12h 55 min.). The characteristics studied were body weight (BW), body condition score (BCC), estrus distribution (EST), percentage of pregnant females per cycle (%P), plasma progesterone (PP), and fertility (F) in the three predefined seasons. The mating system used was controlled natural nocturnal and lasted for 45 days. Experiment two, evaluated the ram sexual activity. The males (10) were individually exposed to four ovariectomized ewes. The ewes cycled during evaluated seasons, and the highest fertility was observed in animals with BCC >2.75. The PP concentration differed among periods, and higher conception rates (F) were observed in autumn and spring. The rams (75%) had a medium of sexual performance when they performed more than two ejaculations in 20 min throughout the seasons. Pantaneiro sheep of both genders had a similar fertility index, with early and constant activity throughout the year, displaying no photoperiodism or seasonality.

Effect of copaíba essential oil (Copaifera officinalis L.) as a natural preservative on the oxidation and shelf life of sheep burgers.

We evaluated the effects of the inclusion of copaíba (Copaifera officinalis L.) essential oil at 0.05 and 0.1% as a possible replacement of synthetic additive butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) in sheep burgers during 14 days of storage in a refrigerated display case (4°C). During the shelf life days, analyzes of antioxidant activity, lipid oxidation, pH, color, cooking loss, texture and consumer acceptability were carried out on refrigerated burgers. The addition of copaíba essential oil showed an antioxidant effect in sheep burgers (P > 0.05), reducing lipid oxidation. Copaiba essential oil added at 0.05% showed the highest antioxidant activity, decreased cooking losses and delaying discoloration (loss of redness) during storage; it further improved, the tenderness of sheep burgers (P < 0.05). The treatments had no effect (P > 0.05) on consumer acceptability. Copaiba essential oil is a promising natural antioxidant to increase the shelf life of meat products, as well as being a viable solution to replace synthetic antioxidant BHT, thereby promoting the fresh-like quality appeal of sheep burgers.

Discrimination study between the carcass and noncarcass components for interaction between gender, age, and production system in indigenous sheep / Estudo de discriminação entre os componentes da carcaça e não da carcaça para interação entre gênero, idade e sistema de produção em ovinos indígenas

The objective of this work was to evaluate the yields, morphometric measures, carcass, and non-carcass components, and carcass regional and tissue composition of an indigenous sheep (Pantaneiro) of different physiological stages (gender, age, system production. Thirty sheep, eleven lambs, nine wethers, and ten cull ewes were used. The lambs were finished in feedlots, the wethers were maintained on pastures and supplementation, and the cull ewes were maintained on an extensive pasture system with mineral salt ad libitum. Slaughter ages were defined to simulate the most representative products and farming systems. Animals were slaughtered and classified as non- castrated lambs, wethers, and cull ewes. The criteria to slaughter lambs and wethers were the body condition, which ranged from 2.5 to 3.0. Cull ewes were slaughtered based on negative pregnancy diagnosis, regardless of their body condition, which ranged from 4.0 to 4.5. All animals were slaughtered after 16-hours of fasting (solids). The ewes presented the greatest fat thickness, differing significantly from the lambs. The morphometric measures were higher in ewes and lambs. The muscle to fat ratio of the animal's cuts from different physiological stages presented no significant differences. The indigenous Pantaneiro sheep have good potential for meat production regardless of their physiological stages. The ewes stood out, presenting carcasses with good performance considering their potential and longer permanence in the herd due to their reproductive function.(AU)

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o rendimento, medidas morfométricas, componentes da carcaça e da não carcaça e a composição regional e tecidual da carcaça de ovelhas indígenas (Pantaneiro) de diferentes sistemas de produção, sexo e idade. Foram utilizadas trinta ovelhas, onze cordeiros, nove borregos e dez ovelhas de descarte. Os cordeiros foram terminados em confinamento, os borregos mantidos em pastagem e suplementação, e as ovelhas de descarte mantidas em sistema a pasto extensivo com sal mineral ad libitum. As idades ao abate foram definidas para simular os produtos e sistemas agrícolas mais representativos, cordeiros, borregos e ovelhas de descarte. Os animais foram abatidos e classificados como cordeiros não castrados, borregos e ovelhas de descarte. Os critérios para abate de cordeiros e borregos foram a condição corporal, que variou de 2,5 a 3,0. As ovelhas de descarte foram abatidas com base no diagnóstico de gestação negativo, independentemente da condição corporal, que variou de 4,0 a 4,5. Todos os animais foram abatidos após jejum de 16 horas (sólidos). As ovelhas apresentaram as maiores espessuras de gordura, diferindo significativamente dos cordeiros. As medidas morfométricas foram maiores em ovelhas e cordeiros. A relação músculo / gordura dos cortes dos animais nas diferentes fases fisiológicas não apresentou diferenças significativas. Os ovinos pantaneiros apresentam bom potencial para produção de carne, independentemente de seus estágios fisiológicos. As ovelhas se destacaram, apresentando carcaças com bom desempenho considerando seu potencial e maior permanência no rebanho devido à sua função reprodutiva.(AU)

Effects of type of tropical pasture and concentrate supplementation level on the carcass traits of grazing lambs.

The nutritional requirements can be met, and carcass quality can be achieved by using concentrate supplementation in the diets of grazing lambs. This study evaluated the effects of different concentrate supplementation rates (0 %, 1.5 %, and 3 % of body weight) and tropical pastures (Panicum maximum cv. `Aruana' and Brachiaria brizantha cv. `Marandu') on lamb carcass traits. Thirty-six male Suffolk lambs, with an initial body weight of 22.54  ±  2.72  kg , were evaluated in a 3  × â€¯2 factorial experimental design. The concentrate used consisted of milled soybean, maize, and oat grains. The pasture species affected empty body weight and commercial cuts. The use of concentrate supplementation affected carcass weight, yield, indexes, and commercial cuts. Also, the use of concentrate supplementation improved the weight of muscle and fat content. Based on discriminant analysis it is possible to identify the rearing systems, when all variables where used, or the level of concentrate supplementation when variables of weight were used. Carcasses of animals on grass-only diets were different and easier to discriminate. The use of concentrate supplementation on rearing lambs improves the quality of carcass traits. The period of finishing can be shorted with supplementation of 3 % of body weigh in Aruana and Marandu grass. The discriminant analysis can identify the differences between rearing systems based on all carcass traits. This analysis can be used to develop carcass traceability systems.

Composição e qualidade da carcaça de ovinos com diferentes pesos corporais ao abate / Carcass composition and quality of sheep with different slaughter body weights

Objetivou-se quantificar os cortes comerciais e seus tecidos em relação às diferentes faixas de peso corporal de abate de cordeiros. Foram utilizados 150 cordeiros sem raça definida e divididos nas faixas de peso corporal de abate, entre 16 a 20 kg; 21 a 25 kg; 26 a 30 kg; 31 a 35 kg; 36 a 40 kg e 41 a 45 kg. Os cortes comerciais avaliados foram o pescoço, paleta, pernil, costilhar, costelas fixas, costelas flutuantes, lombo com vazio e baixo. A partir desses dados calculou-se o rendimento dos cortes comerciais em relação ao peso de carcaça fria, rendimento de gordura (subcutânea e intermuscular) e de músculo e a relação músculo/gordura. Nos animais abatidos com 21 a 25 kg foi verificado maior rendimento da paleta em relação ao grupo de animais com 41 a 45 kg. Para o pernil, os resultados foram semelhantes aos da paleta. De um modo geral, os cortes comerciais dos animais abatidos mais leves apresentaram maiores rendimentos de músculo e menores de gordura. Os pesos corporais considerados como leves e medianos apresentaram uma melhor relação tecidual, proporcionando melhor porção comestível.(AU)

The aim of this study was to characterize and quantify commercial sheep meat cuts and their tissues in relation to different ranges of slaughter body weight of lambs. One hundred and fifty lambs were divided according to the following slaughter weight ranges: 16 to 20 kg, 21 to 25 kg, 26 to 30 kg, 31 to 35 kg, 36 to 40 kg, and 41 to 45 kg. The commercial meat cuts evaluated were the neck, shoulder, leg, ribs, fixed ribs, floating ribs, loin with void, low. Based on these data, the cut yields in relation to cold carcass weight, fat yield (subcutaneous and intermuscular), muscle yield, and muscle/fat tissue ratio were obtained. Animals slaughtered with 21 to 25 kg exhibited higher shoulder yield than heavier animals slaughtered with 41 to 45 kg. Similar results were obtained for the leg. In general, the commercial cuts of animals slaughtered with lighter weight provided higher muscle yields and lower fat yields. Body weights classified as light and medium exhibited a better tissue ratio, providing a better edible portion to consumers.(AU)

Importance of naturalized breeds as a base for the formation of exotic sheep (Ovis aries) breeds in tropical altitude regions.

Recent molecular tools and technologies have marked the discovery of the origin and domestication processes of a wide variety of species, using either genomic or mitochondrial molecular markers to provide input for selection programs, as well as the management and conservation of animal breeds. This study aimed to analyze genes of mitochondrial DNA of the following sheep (Ovis aries) breeds: Pantaneira, Bergamácia, Dorper, White Dorper, Ile de France and Hampshire Down, to obtain their population genetic parameters and investigate the origin of these sheep populations reared in the State of Mato Grosso do Sul. The analysis of mitochondrial DNA allowed to infer their phylogenetic relationships and revealed significant differences among them when compared with each other and with sequences obtained from GenBank. Through the formation of haplotypes, it was noted that the Pantaneira breed served as the maternal basis for the formation of the other breeds reared in the region, and it was possible to suggest a European origin for the sheep populations studied.

Milk Potential of Pantaneira Cows, a Local Breed, at Organic System.

Pantaneiro cattle (Bos taurus taurus) is a breed locally adapted to the Brazilian Pantanal. Local breeds are essential for the quality production of organic systems based on planned grazing practices, because of their results in resilient and productive ecosystems, enhancing biodiversity. This study aimed to evaluate the performance of Pantaneira primiparous cows, and systems with reduced use of concentrate, simulating organic production conditions. Five animals, with an average body weight of 396.2 ± 43.5 kg, were kept in individual continuous grazing regimes and supplemented with different concentrate levels (1.2%, 0.9%, 0.6%, 0.3%, and 0.0% of body weight). The animals were allocated at random in a 5 × 5 Latin square design repeated twice during the study time. The cows had a low dry matter and nutrient intake with a reduction in concentrate level, with improvement in neutral detergent fiber digestibility and a reduction in total nutrient digestibility. No changes were observed in plasma glucose levels or urea excretion, but the plasma urea nitrogen decreased with reductions in concentrate levels. There was a reduction in milk yield, but the energy-corrected milk was not affected by the reduction in concentrate levels; furthermore, the milk yield efficiency was not affected. The milk fat content improved with the reduction in concentrate levels. The Pantaneira breed has the genetic potential for the maintenance of competitive production and quality in organic systems.

Composição e qualidade da carcaça de ovinos com diferentes pesos corporais ao abate / Carcass composition and quality of sheep with different slaughter body weights

Objetivou-se quantificar os cortes comerciais e seus tecidos em relação às diferentes faixas de peso corporal de abate de cordeiros. Foram utilizados 150 cordeiros sem raça definida e divididos nas faixas de peso corporal de abate, entre 16 a 20 kg; 21 a 25 kg; 26 a 30 kg; 31 a 35 kg; 36 a 40 kg e 41 a 45 kg. Os cortes comerciais avaliados foram o pescoço, paleta, pernil, costilhar, costelas fixas, costelas flutuantes, lombo com vazio e baixo. A partir desses dados calculou-se o rendimento dos cortes comerciais em relação ao peso de carcaça fria, rendimento de gordura (subcutânea e intermuscular) e de músculo e a relação músculo/gordura. Nos animais abatidos com 21 a 25 kg foi verificado maior rendimento da paleta em relação ao grupo de animais com 41 a 45 kg. Para o pernil, os resultados foram semelhantes aos da paleta. De um modo geral, os cortes comerciais dos animais abatidos mais leves apresentaram maiores rendimentos de músculo e menores de gordura. Os pesos corporais considerados como leves e medianos apresentaram uma melhor relação tecidual, proporcionando melhor porção comestível.

The aim of this study was to characterize and quantify commercial sheep meat cuts and their tissues in relation to different ranges of slaughter body weight of lambs. One hundred and fifty lambs were divided according to the following slaughter weight ranges: 16 to 20 kg, 21 to 25 kg, 26 to 30 kg, 31 to 35 kg, 36 to 40 kg, and 41 to 45 kg. The commercial meat cuts evaluated were the neck, shoulder, leg, ribs, fixed ribs, floating ribs, loin with void, low. Based on these data, the cut yields in relation to cold carcass weight, fat yield (subcutaneous and intermuscular), muscle yield, and muscle/fat tissue ratio were obtained. Animals slaughtered with 21 to 25 kg exhibited higher shoulder yield than heavier animals slaughtered with 41 to 45 kg. Similar results were obtained for the leg. In general, the commercial cuts of animals slaughtered with lighter weight provided higher muscle yields and lower fat yields. Body weights classified as light and medium exhibited a better tissue ratio, providing a better edible portion to consumers.

Effect of sugarcane treated with non-protein nitrogen and hydrolyzed with calcium oxide in the diet of dairy steers / Efeito da cana-de-açúcar tratada com nitrogênio não proteico e hidrolisada com óxido de cálcio na dieta de novilhos leiteiros

This study examines the effect of sugarcane hydrolyzed with calcium oxide (quicklime) associated with non-protein nitrogen (a mixture of urea and ammonium sulfate) on nutrient intake, rumen degradability and kinetics, intestinal digestibility and blood and urinary parameters in dairy steers. The treatments consisted of fresh sugarcane (Sc); fresh sugarcane with urea (ScUr); sugarcane hydrolyzed with quicklime (ScQl); and sugarcane hydrolyzed with quicklime plus urea (ScUrQl), maintaining a roughage:concentrate ratio (DM basis) of 70:30. Four rumen-cannulated Jersey steers were used in a Latin square design for data collection. The animals were fed the respective diets for 72 days. Mineral matter intake differed across the treatments, with higher values obtained with the treatments containing quicklime. The average mineral matter intake was 0.27, 0.22, 0.54 and 0.48 kg day-¹ for the Sc, ScUr, ScQl and ScUrQl treatments, respectively. Short-chain fatty acid and ammoniacal nitrogen concentrations, pH, rumen-fluid kinetics and potential degradability of DM ("a" + "b" fractions) were not influenced by the additives. The diets containing quicklime provided an increase in calcium absorption, which averaged 18.7, 21.3, 25.8 and 26.5% for the Sc, ScUr, ScQl and ScUrQl treatments, respectively. Serum nitrogen levels were higher in the animals fed urea, averaging 12.3, 20.4, 15.3 and 21.1 mg dL-¹ urea for the Sc, ScUr, ScQl and ScUrQl treatments. However, urinary glucose and nitrogen excretion levels did not differ significantly. Hydrolysis with quicklime and the inclusion of urea in sugarcane promote increases in intake, absorbed calcium and plasma nitrogen levels.(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar o efeito da cana-de-açúcar hidrolisada com óxido de cálcio (cal virgem) associado à nitrogênio não proteico (mistura de ureia com sulfato de amônio) sobre o consumo de nutrientes, degradabilidade e cinética ruminal, digestibilidade intestinal e os parâmetros sanguíneo e urinário em novilhos leiteiros. Os tratamentos testados foram a cana in natura (Ca); cana in natura com ureia (CaUr); cana hidrolisada com cal virgem (CaCal) e cana hidrolisada com cal virgem mais ureia (CaUrCal), mantendo-se em todas as dietas uma relação volumoso:concentrado, na matéria seca, de 70:30, respectivamente. Quatro novilhos Jersey, canulados ruminalmente, foram utilizados num delineamento em quadrado latino para a coleta dos dados, sendo os animais alimentados durante 72 dias com as respectivas dietas. Houve diferença no consumo de matéria mineral, sendo maior nos tratamentos contendo cal virgem, com médias de 0,27, 0,22, 0,54 e 0,48 kg dia-¹ para os tratamentos Ca, CaUr, CaCal e CaUrCal, respectivamente. As concentrações de ácidos graxos de cadeia curta (AGCC) e nitrogênio amoniacal (N-NH3), o pH, a cinética da fase líquida ruminal, e a degradabilidade potencial (frações "a" + "b") da MS não foram influenciadas pelos aditivos. As dietas contendo cal virgem proporcionaram uma maior absorção de cálcio, com médias de 18,7, 21,3, 25,8 e 26,5% para os tratamentos Ca, CaUr, CaCal e CaUrCal, respectivamente. Os níveis de nitrogênio sérico dos animais alimentados com ureia foram superiores, com média de 12,3, 20,4, 15,3 e21,1 mg de ureia dL-¹ para os tratamentos Ca, CaUr, CaCal e CaUrCal; porém, os níveis de glicose e as excreções de nitrogênio na urina foram semelhantes. A hidrolise com cal virgem e a inclusão da ureia na cana-de-açúcar promovem aumentos nos consumos e nos níveis de cálcio absorvido e de nitrogênio plasmático.(AU)

Effect of sugarcane treated with non-protein nitrogen and hydrolyzed with calcium oxide in the diet of dairy steers / Efeito da cana-de-açúcar tratada com nitrogênio não proteico e hidrolisada com óxido de cálcio na dieta de novilhos leiteiros

This study examines the effect of sugarcane hydrolyzed with calcium oxide (quicklime) associated with non-protein nitrogen (a mixture of urea and ammonium sulfate) on nutrient intake, rumen degradability and kinetics, intestinal digestibility and blood and urinary parameters in dairy steers. The treatments consisted of fresh sugarcane (Sc); fresh sugarcane with urea (ScUr); sugarcane hydrolyzed with quicklime (ScQl); and sugarcane hydrolyzed with quicklime plus urea (ScUrQl), maintaining a roughage:concentrate ratio (DM basis) of 70:30. Four rumen-cannulated Jersey steers were used in a Latin square design for data collection. The animals were fed the respective diets for 72 days. Mineral matter intake differed across the treatments, with higher values obtained with the treatments containing quicklime. The average mineral matter intake was 0.27, 0.22, 0.54 and 0.48 kg day-¹ for the Sc, ScUr, ScQl and ScUrQl treatments, respectively. Short-chain fatty acid and ammoniacal nitrogen concentrations, pH, rumen-fluid kinetics and potential degradability of DM ("a" + "b" fractions) were not influenced by the additives. The diets containing quicklime provided an increase in calcium absorption, which averaged 18.7, 21.3, 25.8 and 26.5% for the Sc, ScUr, ScQl and ScUrQl treatments, respectively. Serum nitrogen levels were higher in the animals fed urea, averaging 12.3, 20.4, 15.3 and 21.1 mg dL-¹ urea for the Sc, ScUr, ScQl and ScUrQl treatments. However, urinary glucose and nitrogen excretion levels did not differ significantly. Hydrolysis with quicklime and the inclusion of urea in sugarcane promote increases in intake, absorbed calcium and plasma nitrogen levels.

Objetivou-se avaliar o efeito da cana-de-açúcar hidrolisada com óxido de cálcio (cal virgem) associado à nitrogênio não proteico (mistura de ureia com sulfato de amônio) sobre o consumo de nutrientes, degradabilidade e cinética ruminal, digestibilidade intestinal e os parâmetros sanguíneo e urinário em novilhos leiteiros. Os tratamentos testados foram a cana in natura (Ca); cana in natura com ureia (CaUr); cana hidrolisada com cal virgem (CaCal) e cana hidrolisada com cal virgem mais ureia (CaUrCal), mantendo-se em todas as dietas uma relação volumoso:concentrado, na matéria seca, de 70:30, respectivamente. Quatro novilhos Jersey, canulados ruminalmente, foram utilizados num delineamento em quadrado latino para a coleta dos dados, sendo os animais alimentados durante 72 dias com as respectivas dietas. Houve diferença no consumo de matéria mineral, sendo maior nos tratamentos contendo cal virgem, com médias de 0,27, 0,22, 0,54 e 0,48 kg dia-¹ para os tratamentos Ca, CaUr, CaCal e CaUrCal, respectivamente. As concentrações de ácidos graxos de cadeia curta (AGCC) e nitrogênio amoniacal (N-NH3), o pH, a cinética da fase líquida ruminal, e a degradabilidade potencial (frações "a" + "b") da MS não foram influenciadas pelos aditivos. As dietas contendo cal virgem proporcionaram uma maior absorção de cálcio, com médias de 18,7, 21,3, 25,8 e 26,5% para os tratamentos Ca, CaUr, CaCal e CaUrCal, respectivamente. Os níveis de nitrogênio sérico dos animais alimentados com ureia foram superiores, com média de 12,3, 20,4, 15,3 e21,1 mg de ureia dL-¹ para os tratamentos Ca, CaUr, CaCal e CaUrCal; porém, os níveis de glicose e as excreções de nitrogênio na urina foram semelhantes. A hidrolise com cal virgem e a inclusão da ureia na cana-de-açúcar promovem aumentos nos consumos e nos níveis de cálcio absorvido e de nitrogênio plasmático.

Meat quality of Pantaneiro lambs at different body weights / Qualidade da carne de cordeiros Pantaneiros de diferentes pesos corporais

The aim of this study was to assess the meat quality of Pantaneiro lambs finished in confinement and slaughtered at different body weights (15, 20, 25, 30, and 35 kg). Forty-five non-castrated male Pantaneiro lambs were distributed in a completely randomized design, with five treatments and nine replicates. The animals were housed in individual pens and slaughtered when they reached the target weights. For instrumental and centesimal analyses, the Semimembranosus, Longissimus lumborum, Gluteobiceps, and Triceps brachii muscles were used, whereas for fatty acid profile analysis only the Longissimus lumborum muscle was used. The different body weights influenced the final pH of the meat, but this still remained within the recommended values; however, the meat of heavier lambs had increased water-holding capacity (WHC), redness (a*), and fat content, making it the tenderest but least luminous and humid meat. Greater body weight led to a higher saturated fatty acid (SFA) content, reduction of monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA) and polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA), higher hypercholesterolemic fatty acid content (H), and higher atherogenicity (AI) and thrombogenicity indexes (TI). Therefore, it was concluded that the meat of lambs slaughtered at lower body weight presented better nutritional quality, making it more suitable for human consumption.(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar a qualidade da carne de cordeiros Pantaneiros terminados em confinamento e abatidos com diferentes pesos corporais (15, 20, 25 30 e 35 kg). Foram utilizados 45 cordeiros Pantaneiros, machos, não castrados, distribuídos em um delineamento inteiramente casualizado, com cinco tratamentos e nove repetições. Os animais foram alojados em baias individuais e abatidos quando atingiram os pesos pré-determinados. Para as análises instrumentais e centesimais, foram utilizados os músculos Semimembranosus, Longissimus lumborum, Gluteobiceps e Triceps brachii, enquanto que apenas o Longissimus lumborum foi utilizado para análise de perfil de ácidos graxos. Os diferentes pesos corporais influenciaram no pH final da carne, mas este se manteve ainda dentro do valor recomendado; porém, a elevação do peso corporal dos cordeiros, aumentou a capacidade de retenção de água (CRA), o índice de vermelho (a*) e os teores de lipídeos da carne, deixando-a mais macia, porém, menos luminosa e úmida. O maior peso corporal levou a um maior teor de ácidos graxos saturados (AGS), redução nos teores de ácidos graxos monoinsaturados (AGMI) e poli-insaturados (AGPI), aumento da hipercolesterolemia (H) e dos índices de aterogenicidade (IA) e trombogenicidade (IT). Portanto, concluiu-se que a carne de cordeiros abatidos com menor peso corporal apresentou melhor qualidade nutricional, tornando-a mais adequada ao consumo humano.(AU)

Meat quality of Pantaneiro lambs at different body weights / Qualidade da carne de cordeiros Pantaneiros de diferentes pesos corporais

The aim of this study was to assess the meat quality of Pantaneiro lambs finished in confinement and slaughtered at different body weights (15, 20, 25, 30, and 35 kg). Forty-five non-castrated male Pantaneiro lambs were distributed in a completely randomized design, with five treatments and nine replicates. The animals were housed in individual pens and slaughtered when they reached the target weights. For instrumental and centesimal analyses, the Semimembranosus, Longissimus lumborum, Gluteobiceps, and Triceps brachii muscles were used, whereas for fatty acid profile analysis only the Longissimus lumborum muscle was used. The different body weights influenced the final pH of the meat, but this still remained within the recommended values; however, the meat of heavier lambs had increased water-holding capacity (WHC), redness (a*), and fat content, making it the tenderest but least luminous and humid meat. Greater body weight led to a higher saturated fatty acid (SFA) content, reduction of monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA) and polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA), higher hypercholesterolemic fatty acid content (H), and higher atherogenicity (AI) and thrombogenicity indexes (TI). Therefore, it was concluded that the meat of lambs slaughtered at lower body weight presented better nutritional quality, making it more suitable for human consumption.

Objetivou-se avaliar a qualidade da carne de cordeiros Pantaneiros terminados em confinamento e abatidos com diferentes pesos corporais (15, 20, 25 30 e 35 kg). Foram utilizados 45 cordeiros Pantaneiros, machos, não castrados, distribuídos em um delineamento inteiramente casualizado, com cinco tratamentos e nove repetições. Os animais foram alojados em baias individuais e abatidos quando atingiram os pesos pré-determinados. Para as análises instrumentais e centesimais, foram utilizados os músculos Semimembranosus, Longissimus lumborum, Gluteobiceps e Triceps brachii, enquanto que apenas o Longissimus lumborum foi utilizado para análise de perfil de ácidos graxos. Os diferentes pesos corporais influenciaram no pH final da carne, mas este se manteve ainda dentro do valor recomendado; porém, a elevação do peso corporal dos cordeiros, aumentou a capacidade de retenção de água (CRA), o índice de vermelho (a*) e os teores de lipídeos da carne, deixando-a mais macia, porém, menos luminosa e úmida. O maior peso corporal levou a um maior teor de ácidos graxos saturados (AGS), redução nos teores de ácidos graxos monoinsaturados (AGMI) e poli-insaturados (AGPI), aumento da hipercolesterolemia (H) e dos índices de aterogenicidade (IA) e trombogenicidade (IT). Portanto, concluiu-se que a carne de cordeiros abatidos com menor peso corporal apresentou melhor qualidade nutricional, tornando-a mais adequada ao consumo humano.

Different physiological stages and breeding systems related to the variability of meat quality of indigenous Pantaneiro sheep.

This study configures a first report regarding the variability of meat quality of locally adapted Pantaneiro sheep depending on different physiological stages and breeding systems. Pantaneiro sheep are raised in Brazil under a tropical wetland ecosystem denominated Pantanal. Twenty-nine Pantaneiro sheep from different sex and physiological stages were sorted into three groups, simulating three of the most representative ovine meat products commercialized by South American industries: a) non castrated male lambs (n = 11); b) wethers (n = 9); c) cull ewes (n = 9). Animals from each physiological stage were submitted to different breeding systems, resembling farming strategies adopted in several developing countries of South America. The effect of physiological stages on the quality of meat was accessed using 16 variables measured in the longissimus thoracis et lumborum (LM) and the semimembranosus (SM) muscles. The variables were related to brightness, color, physical aspects, soluble and total collagen as well as chemical traits. The physiological stage was defined as a classification variable in order to proceed ANOVA tests and comparison of means (P<0.05). Multivariate analysis was used to identify patterns of similarity and differentiation between samples of different physiological stages (a, b, c). The results revealed that meat quality varies according to different physiological stages, especially between lambs (a) and cull ewes (c). As a consequence, the physiological stage at slaughter should be taken into consideration to cote the quality of meat from indigenous sheep raised in tropical regions. The results contribute towards sensorial evaluation and the characterization of potential food products derived from indigenous sheep bred under tropical climate in developing countries.

Testicular biometric in Pantaneiros ovine fed with increasing levels of crude glycerin in the diet / Biometria testicular de ovinos Pantaneiros alimentados com níveis crescentes de glicerina bruta na dieta

Objective to evaluate the effect of the inclusion of levels of crude Glycerin in the feeding of lambs in the biometric characteristics and testicular histological. 24 lambs were neutered, not confined with 93.79 ± 5.73 days of age and body weight of 20.22 ± 2.84 kg. The treatments tested were: 0; 2.5; 5.0 and 7.5% of crude Glycerin injection in dry matter of diet in place of maize. The animals were slaughtered using the criteria in body condition score of 2.5 to 3.5 on a scale ranging from 1 to 5, and the variables evaluated were the initial weight, final weight, hot carcass weight, fat cover thickness, body condition, and the biometric parameters: testicular weight, scrotal perimeter in the scrotum, testicle weight left and right volume of right and left testicle, testicular testicular length width, seminiferous tubule diameter and height of germinal epithelium. There was no significant influence of crude Glycerin levels on any of the variables analyzed, also there was no correlation between the features assessed with body condition. Positive correlations were observed between hot carcass weight and fat thickness(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar o efeito da inclusão de níveis de glicerina bruta na alimentação de cordeiros  nas características biométricas e histológicas testiculares. Foram utilizados 24 cordeiros não castrados, confinados com 93,79 ± 5,73 dias de idade e peso corporal de 20,22±2,84kg. Os tratamentos testados foram: 0; 2,5; 5,0 e 7,5% de inclusão de glicerina bruta na matéria seca da dieta em substituição ao milho. Os animais foram abatidos usando a condição corporal como critério em escore de 2,5 a 3,5, em uma escala que varia de 1 a 5, sendo que as variáveis avaliadas foram o peso inicial, peso final, peso de carcaça quente, espessura de gordura de cobertura, condição corporal, e os parâmetros biométricos testiculares: perímetro escrotal, peso testicular no escroto, peso dos testículos direito e esquerdo, volume dos testículos direito e esquerdo, largura testicular, comprimento testicular, diâmetro de túbulo seminífero e altura de epitélio germinativo. Não houve influência significativa dos níveis de glicerina bruta sobre nenhuma das variáveis analisadas, também não houve correlação entre as características avaliadas com a condição corporal. Foram observadas correlações positivas entre o peso de carcaça quente e espessura de gordura de cobertura ( r = 0,57, p 0,05). Houve correlação positiva(AU)

Supplementation with probiotics and amino acids in the development of beef cattle: identity model study / Suplementação com probióticos e aminoácidos no desempenho de novilhos de corte: estudo de identidade de modelos

The goal of this study was to analyze the weight gain of calves supplemented with probiotics and amino acids, through model identity analysis. There were utilized 64 catrated Canchin and Canchin x Nelore calves at 24 ± 1,8 months of age and initial average weight of 395,4 ± 10,5 Kg. The calves were kept on continuous grazing system in a Brachiária brizantha pasture. Four treatments were evaluated: witnesses (test); probiotic liquid (ProbL); probiotic liquid plus amino acids powder (ProbL+AAsPó); and probiotic liquid plus injectable amino acids, in a randomized experimental design with 16 animals by each treatment. The treatments, in turn, were compared trough identity model test, on R software.  In order to represent the daily average weight gain over time, the logistic model with three parameters (L3p) was selected. The parameters estimates of the model were significant in every treatment, with high coefficient of determination (R2) and low root mean square error (RMSE). There was not significant difference between the models for the treatments, based on the identity model test. Therefore, there was no difference in weight gain by probiotics and/or amino acids utilization.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o ganho de peso de novilhos suplementados com probióticos e aminoácidos, por meio da análise de identidade de modelos. Foram utilizados 64 novilhos castrados da raça Canchim e cruzados Canchim x Nelore com 24 ± 1,8 meses de idade e peso corpóreo inicial de 395,4 ± 10,5 kg, mantidos em pastagem de Brachiaria brizantha em sistema de pastejo contínuo. Foram testados quatro tratamentos: Testemunha (Test); Probiótico líquido (ProbL); Probiótico líquido mais aminoácidos em pó (ProbL+AAsPó); e Probiótico líquido mais aminoácido injetável (ProbL+AAsInj), em um delineamento experimental inteiramente casualizado com 16 animais por tratamento. Os tratamentos foram comparados através do Teste de Identidade de Modelos, utilizando o software R. O modelo logístico de três parâmetros (L3p) foi o selecionado para representar o ganho de peso médio diário em função do tempo. As estimativas dos parâmetros do modelo foram significativas em todos os tratamentos, apresentando coeficiente de determinação (R2) elevado e raiz quadrada do erro quadrático médio (RMSE) baixa. De acordo com o teste de identidade de modelos não houve diferença significativa entre os modelos para os tratamentos utilizados, não havendo diferença no ganho de peso dos animais com a utilização de probióticos e/ou de aminoácidos.(AU)

Testicular biometric in Pantaneiros ovine fed with increasing levels of crude glycerin in the diet / Biometria testicular de ovinos Pantaneiros alimentados com níveis crescentes de glicerina bruta na dieta

Objective to evaluate the effect of the inclusion of levels of crude Glycerin in the feeding of lambs in the biometric characteristics and testicular histological. 24 lambs were neutered, not confined with 93.79 ± 5.73 days of age and body weight of 20.22 ± 2.84 kg. The treatments tested were: 0; 2.5; 5.0 and 7.5% of crude Glycerin injection in dry matter of diet in place of maize. The animals were slaughtered using the criteria in body condition score of 2.5 to 3.5 on a scale ranging from 1 to 5, and the variables evaluated were the initial weight, final weight, hot carcass weight, fat cover thickness, body condition, and the biometric parameters: testicular weight, scrotal perimeter in the scrotum, testicle weight left and right volume of right and left testicle, testicular testicular length width, seminiferous tubule diameter and height of germinal epithelium. There was no significant influence of crude Glycerin levels on any of the variables analyzed, also there was no correlation between the features assessed with body condition. Positive correlations were observed between hot carcass weight and fat thickness

Objetivou-se avaliar o efeito da inclusão de níveis de glicerina bruta na alimentação de cordeiros  nas características biométricas e histológicas testiculares. Foram utilizados 24 cordeiros não castrados, confinados com 93,79 ± 5,73 dias de idade e peso corporal de 20,22±2,84kg. Os tratamentos testados foram: 0; 2,5; 5,0 e 7,5% de inclusão de glicerina bruta na matéria seca da dieta em substituição ao milho. Os animais foram abatidos usando a condição corporal como critério em escore de 2,5 a 3,5, em uma escala que varia de 1 a 5, sendo que as variáveis avaliadas foram o peso inicial, peso final, peso de carcaça quente, espessura de gordura de cobertura, condição corporal, e os parâmetros biométricos testiculares: perímetro escrotal, peso testicular no escroto, peso dos testículos direito e esquerdo, volume dos testículos direito e esquerdo, largura testicular, comprimento testicular, diâmetro de túbulo seminífero e altura de epitélio germinativo. Não houve influência significativa dos níveis de glicerina bruta sobre nenhuma das variáveis analisadas, também não houve correlação entre as características avaliadas com a condição corporal. Foram observadas correlações positivas entre o peso de carcaça quente e espessura de gordura de cobertura ( r = 0,57, p 0,05). Houve correlação positiva

Supplementation with probiotics and amino acids in the development of beef cattle: identity model study / Suplementação com probióticos e aminoácidos no desempenho de novilhos de corte: estudo de identidade de modelos

The goal of this study was to analyze the weight gain of calves supplemented with probiotics and amino acids, through model identity analysis. There were utilized 64 catrated Canchin and Canchin x Nelore calves at 24 ± 1,8 months of age and initial average weight of 395,4 ± 10,5 Kg. The calves were kept on continuous grazing system in a Brachiária brizantha pasture. Four treatments were evaluated: witnesses (test); probiotic liquid (ProbL); probiotic liquid plus amino acids powder (ProbL+AAsPó); and probiotic liquid plus injectable amino acids, in a randomized experimental design with 16 animals by each treatment. The treatments, in turn, were compared trough identity model test, on R software.  In order to represent the daily average weight gain over time, the logistic model with three parameters (L3p) was selected. The parameters estimates of the model were significant in every treatment, with high coefficient of determination (R2) and low root mean square error (RMSE). There was not significant difference between the models for the treatments, based on the identity model test. Therefore, there was no difference in weight gain by probiotics and/or amino acids utilization.

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o ganho de peso de novilhos suplementados com probióticos e aminoácidos, por meio da análise de identidade de modelos. Foram utilizados 64 novilhos castrados da raça Canchim e cruzados Canchim x Nelore com 24 ± 1,8 meses de idade e peso corpóreo inicial de 395,4 ± 10,5 kg, mantidos em pastagem de Brachiaria brizantha em sistema de pastejo contínuo. Foram testados quatro tratamentos: Testemunha (Test); Probiótico líquido (ProbL); Probiótico líquido mais aminoácidos em pó (ProbL+AAsPó); e Probiótico líquido mais aminoácido injetável (ProbL+AAsInj), em um delineamento experimental inteiramente casualizado com 16 animais por tratamento. Os tratamentos foram comparados através do Teste de Identidade de Modelos, utilizando o software R. O modelo logístico de três parâmetros (L3p) foi o selecionado para representar o ganho de peso médio diário em função do tempo. As estimativas dos parâmetros do modelo foram significativas em todos os tratamentos, apresentando coeficiente de determinação (R2) elevado e raiz quadrada do erro quadrático médio (RMSE) baixa. De acordo com o teste de identidade de modelos não houve diferença significativa entre os modelos para os tratamentos utilizados, não havendo diferença no ganho de peso dos animais com a utilização de probióticos e/ou de aminoácidos.

Feeding behavior of Pantaneiras heifers kept in feedlot / Comportamento ingestivo de novilhas Pantaneiras mantidas em regime de confinamento

The objective this work was to evaluate the intake and physiological behavior of heifers of the Pantaneira (Bos Taurus taurus) breed, feedlot and fed with different types of hay and concentrate, in a ratio in dry matter of 60:40 %, respectively. Fifteen animals, with an average initial weight of 298 kg and 30 months of age, were distributed through completely randomized design in three batches, with five replicates. The hays were: hay of Brachiaria brizantha cv. Piata, hay of Panicum maximum cv. Massai, and hay of leguminous Stylosantes capitata/macrocephalacv. Campo Grande. All diets had similar energy and protein content of 63.3% Total Digestible Nutrients (TDN) and 12.5% Crude Protein (CP) and were fed twice a day, ad libitum. The observations of ingestive behavior and physiology were made in three batteries of 48 hours each, an interval of 28 days, totaling 144 hours. The data were interpreted by analysis of variance and Tukey test. There werent influences of forage in feeding times, rumination, sleeping and interacting; efficiencies in feeding and rumination, water intake and excretion in urine and feaces, and all variables are statistically similar. Therefore, the use of either type of hay in the diet is recommended Pantaneiras heifers.(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar o comportamento ingestivo de novilhas da raça Pantaneira (Bos taurus taurus) confinadas e alimentadas com diferentes tipos de feno e ração concentrada, com uma relação na matéria seca de 60:40%, respectivamente. Quinze animais, com peso médio inicial de 298kg e idade de 30 meses, foram distribuídos em um delineamento inteiramente casualizado, em três lotes, com cinco repetições. Os fenos utilizados foram: feno deBrachiaria brizantha cv. Piatã, feno de Panicum maximum cv. Massai, e feno de Stylosantes capitata/macrocephala cv. Campo Grande. Todas as dietas possuíam teores energéticos e proteicos semelhantes, de 63,3% de nutrientes digestíveis totais (NDT) e 12,5% de proteína bruta (PB), e eram fornecidas duas vezes ao dia, à vontade. As observações de comportamento ingestivo foram efetuadas em três baterias de 48 horas cada, em intervalos de 28 dias, totalizando 144 horas. Os dados foram interpretados por meio de análise de variância e teste de Tukey. Não foram observadas influências das forrageiras nos tempos de alimentação, ruminação, ócio, interagindo e dormindo, tampouco nas eficiências de alimentação e de ruminação, na ingestão de água e nas excreções de urina e fezes, sendo todas as variáveis estatisticamente iguais. A utilização de qualquer um dos tipos de feno na dieta de novilhas Pantaneiras é recomendada.(AU)