Mathematical models to predict the lamb weight at birth and at weaning reared in the tropical warm-climate pasture.

Our objective was to evaluate the productive parameters of ewes and their lambs in relation to ewe age and to develop models for predicting lamb weight at birth and weaning in a tropical warm-climate pasture. Individual data were collected from 273 ewes and 273 lambs, between 2013 and 2021. During this period all animals were kept on pastures of Brachiaria brizantha cv. Marandu All lambs in the experiments were supplemented in creep-feeding. A descriptive statistical analysis was performed using the PROC SUMMARY procedure in SAS (SAS University Edition, SAS Institute Inc. Cary, CA, USA). Pearson correlation coefficients between variables were estimated using the PROC CORR procedure in SAS (SAS University Edition, SAS Institute Inc. Cary, CA, USA). Model adjustments and variable selection were performed using PROC REG in SAS (SAS University Edition, SAS Institute Inc. Cary, CA, USA). The STEPWISE option and Mallow's C(p) were used to select the variables included in the equations. Outliers were identified by evaluating the studentized residuals based on the predicted values from the equations. Residual analysis was predicted by regression minus observed values and those that fell outside the range of -2.5 to 2.5 were removed. Several statistics were used to assess the predictability of the equations, including the coefficients of determination (r2) and mean standard error (RMSE). The average ewe age at lambing was 3.4 ± 1.7 years, with an average weight of 56.9 ± 8,9 kg and average body condition score (BCS) of 2,4 ± 0.8 points. The average ewe age at weaning was 51.1 ± 7.9, with average BCS of 1.8 ± 0.8 points. The average lamb at birthing was 3.9 ± 0.9 kg. The average lamb at weaning was 21.0 ± 4.9, with daily gain of 0.2 ± 0.1 kg/day and total gain of 17.1 ± 4.7 kg birth to weaning. The lamb produced by ewe at lambing was 5.3 ± 1.7 kg/ewe. The lamb weaned by ewe at weaning was 28.7 ± 10.8 kg/ewe. The ratios of lamb produced per ewe at birth and at weaning were 0.1 ± 0.03 and 0.6 ± 0.2, respectively. The lamb's birth weight showed a positive linear relationship with the age of the ewe, increasing by 115 g per year of age. The regression equations adjusted for ewe age had maximum points ranging from 4.2 to 5.2, occurring at average age of 4,7 years. The other characteristics showed a quadratic tendency. The results suggest the culling of ewes at five years of age to generate lambs with ideal weight at birth and at weaning raised in warm tropical pastures.

Prediction models of intake and productive performance of non-castrated Nellore cattle finished in the feedlot system under tropical conditions.

The objective of this study was to understand and predict the intake and performance of Nellore cattle finished in the feedlot. Individual data from 144 non-castrated male Nellore steers finished in the feedlot between the years 2016 and 2020 were used. Descriptive statistical analyses and Pearson's correlation were performed. The outliers were tested by evaluating the studentized residuals in relation to the values predicted by the equations. Residues that were outside the range of - 2.5 to 2.5 were removed. The goodness of fit of the developed equations was evaluated by the coefficients of determination (r2) and root mean square error (RMSE). The mean dry matter intake (DMI) was 10.2 kg/day, neutral detergent fiber intake (NDFI) was 3.4 kg/day, corresponding to 33.3% of DMI, crude protein intake (CPI) was 1.6 kg/day, and total digestible nutrient intake (TDNI) was 7.1 kg/day. The CPI to ADG ratio was 1.3 kg CPI/kg ADG and the TDNI to CPI ratio was 4.5 kg TDNI/kg CPI. The averages of productive performance were 1.3 kg/day for average daily gain (ADG), 152.6 kg for total weight gain (TWG), and 497.8 kg for final body weight (FBW) in average days in the confinement of 115.7 days. The intake measures correlated significantly with the performance measures, except for carcass yield and days in the feedlot. TWG had a high positive correlation with ADG (r = 0.84), while FBW had a positive correlation (r = 0.86) with hot carcass weight (HCW). Measures of intake, performance, and days in the feedlot can be used as predictors of DMI, FBW, HCW, TWG, and ADG. The prediction equations had satisfactory precision and accuracy for non-castrated Nellore cattle finished in feedlot systems under tropical conditions.

Sex and slaughter weight on carcass traits and non-carcass components of horses / Sexo e peso de abate sobre as características de carcaça e componentes não-carcaça de cavalos

The study evaluated the effect of sex and slaughter weight on carcass traits and non-carcass components of 1,489 horses (739 geldings and 750 females, classified into eight groups according to their weight). Data were analyzed under a completely randomized design. Geldings had a higher (P < 0.05) hot carcass yield (HCY) and cold carcass yield (CCY) than females; however, fat yellowness values (b*) were greater (P < 0.05) in females. Slaughter weight (SW) affected the carcass characteristics. Hot carcass weight (HCW), cold carcass weight (CCW), HCY, and CCY increased (P < 0.05) in accordance with slaughter weight, while cool loss percentage (CL%) was lower (P < 0.05) in horses weighing more than 300 kg. In addition, the non-carcass components decreased (P < 0.05) as the weight of the horses increased. In conclusion, sex and body weight are factors to consider in the production of equine meat since they affect carcass characteristics and non-carcass components.

O estudo teve como objetivo avaliar o efeito do sexo e do peso ao abate sobre as características de carcaça e componentes não-carcaça de 1.489 cavalos (739 machos castrados e 750 fêmeas, classificados em oito grupos de acordo com o peso). Os dados foram analisados em um desenho inteiramente casualizado. Os semeadores apresentaram maior rendimento de carcaça quente (HCY) e fria (CCY) do que as fêmeas, porém o amarelecimento da gordura (b*) foi maior nas fêmeas. O peso ao abate (SW) afetou as características de carcaça. HCW, CCW, HCY e CCY aumentaram de acordo com o peso de abate, enquanto CL% foi menor em equinos com peso superior a 300 kg. Além disso, os componentes não-carcaça diminuíram com o aumento do peso dos cavalos. Em conclusão, sexo e peso corporal são fatores a serem considerados na produção de carne equina, uma vez que afetam as características da carcaça e seus componentes.

Sex and slaughter weight on carcass traits and non-carcass components of horses / Sexo e peso de abate sobre as características de carcaça e componentes não-carcaça de cavalos

ABSTRACT: The study evaluated the effect of sex and slaughter weight on carcass traits and non-carcass components of 1,489 horses (739 geldings and 750 females, classified into eight groups according to their weight). Data were analyzed under a completely randomized design. Geldings had a higher (P < 0.05) hot carcass yield (HCY) and cold carcass yield (CCY) than females; however, fat yellowness values (b*) were greater (P < 0.05) in females. Slaughter weight (SW) affected the carcass characteristics. Hot carcass weight (HCW), cold carcass weight (CCW), HCY, and CCY increased (P < 0.05) in accordance with slaughter weight, while cool loss percentage (CL%) was lower (P < 0.05) in horses weighing more than 300 kg. In addition, the non-carcass components decreased (P < 0.05) as the weight of the horses increased. In conclusion, sex and body weight are factors to consider in the production of equine meat since they affect carcass characteristics and non-carcass components.

RESUMO: O estudo teve como objetivo avaliar o efeito do sexo e do peso ao abate sobre as características de carcaça e componentes não-carcaça de 1.489 cavalos (739 machos castrados e 750 fêmeas, classificados em oito grupos de acordo com o peso). Os dados foram analisados em um desenho inteiramente casualizado. Os semeadores apresentaram maior rendimento de carcaça quente (HCY) e fria (CCY) do que as fêmeas, porém o amarelecimento da gordura (b*) foi maior nas fêmeas. O peso ao abate (SW) afetou as características de carcaça. HCW, CCW, HCY e CCY aumentaram de acordo com o peso de abate, enquanto CL% foi menor em equinos com peso superior a 300 kg. Além disso, os componentes não-carcaça diminuíram com o aumento do peso dos cavalos. Em conclusão, sexo e peso corporal são fatores a serem considerados na produção de carne equina, uma vez que afetam as características da carcaça e seus componentes.

Prediction of Carcass Traits of Santa Inês Lambs Finished in Tropical Pastures through Biometric Measurements.

The aim of this study was to predict carcass traits of Santa Inês lambs finished in tropical pastures by using biometric measurements. Data originated from two experiments involving 56 lambs (32 in experiment I and 24 in experiment II). In both experiments, the sheep were finished in that were finished in pastures of Panicum maximum and Brachiaria brizantha, experiment I being conducted in the rainy season and experiment II in the dry season. The following biometric measurements were recorded before slaughter: body length (BL), withers height (WH), rump height (RH), thorax width (TW), rump width (RW), chest width (CW), heart girth (HG), thigh circumference (TC), rump circumference (RC) and leg length (LL), in addition to live weight at slaughter (SW). After slaughter, hot carcass weight (HCW), cold carcass weight (CCW) and the weights of primal cuts (shoulder, neck, loin, leg and rib) were recorded. In the equations generated to predict SW, HCW and CCW, R2 ranged from 0.58 to 0.91 and the measurements of WH, TC, CW, HG and RW were the most relevant. In the equations developed to predict the weight of primal cuts, in turn, R2 ranged from 0.26 to 0.99. In these models, SW, BL, CW, TC, LL and HG explained most of the variation in the weight of primal cuts. Biometric measurements can be used to accurately and precisely predict HCW, CCW and the weight of primal cuts from the carcass of Santa Inês sheep finished in tropical pastures, since the equations presented R2 and correlation coefficient and agreement above 0.8.

Intake, digestibility, nitrogen balance and performance of crossbreed Boer goats fed with diets containing saltbush (Atriplex nummularia L.) and spineless cactus (Opuntia ficus-indica).

Saltbush and spineless cactus are adapted to arid and semiarid regions and used as an important forage resource in ruminants' diet. However, spineless cactus restricts production due to its low crude protein and NDF levels and high salt and oxalate contents, which can limit the digestibility and intake of dietary nutrients. Therefore, this experiment was conducted to evaluate the best ratio levels of saltbush associated with spineless cactus in diets for crossbreed Boer goats through ingestion, water balance, digestibility, nitrogen balance, growth and carcass weight. Twenty-four castrated crossbred Boer (Boer × Brazilian native) goats 6 months of age and average body weight of 20.28 kg were utilized. The animals were weighed and distributed in randomized blocks in four experimental diets with saltbush of 8.4, 18.8, 31.2 and 48.3%. The addition of saltbush hay promoted quadratic behaviour (P < 0.05) in intake of dry matter and nutrients. There was no effect (P < 0.05) from the addition of saltbush hay on the digestibility of organic matter, total carbohydrates, non-fibrous carbohydrates and neutral detergent fibre, whereas there was an increase in dry matter. The crude protein digestibility behaved quadratically (P = 0.06), where the maximum digestibility was obtained with the addition of 31.2% of hay. The balance and net nitrogen utilization presented a quadratic effect (P < 0.01). Saltbush in rations for goats presented promising results, the growth rate (0.15 kg/day) obtained in diet with a lower proportion of saltbush, would satisfy smallholders when considering that this species, associated with spineless cactus, may reduce the use of concentrate feeds; however, the diet with 31.2% of saltbush hay provided the biggest gain in body and carcass weight of the goats.

Crude glycerin in corn grain-based diets for dairy calves

The objective of this study was to evaluate performance, apparent digestibility, blood parameters, and quantitative characteristics of carcass and internal organs of crossbred dairy calves fed different levels of crude glycerin in corn grain-based diets. Twenty-four calves of three months of age and average initial weight of 95.5±11.8 kg were used. The experimental design was completely randomized with four treatments (0, 80, 160, and 240 g kg−1 of crude glycerin of DM of diets). The calves were fed in feedlot until six months of age (195.68±2.38 kg of BW). Dry matter (4.14, 4.11, 3.80, and 3.49 kg day−1) and apparent digestible energy intake (0.43, 0.41, 0.37, and 0.35 MJ kg−1 BW) decreased with increasing levels of glycerin in the diets. There was no effect on the apparent digestibility of nutrients, average daily gain, feed efficiency, carcass characteristics, and blood parameters. The diets did not influence the weights [g kg−1 of empty body weight (EBW)] of lungs, heart, kidneys, liver, omasum, abomasum, and large intestine. The reticulorumen weight (g kg−1 EBW) increased, whereas the small intestine weight decreased with increased levels of glycerin in the diets. The area, height, and width of the rumen papillae were not changed with increasing levels of glycerin. The rumen wall thickness increased with increasing levels of glycerin in the diets. The inclusion up to 240 g kg−1 DM of crude glycerin of in corn grain-based diets for the production of dairy calves does not alter animal performance, carcass characteristics, and weights of internal organs.(AU)

Animal performance, carcass traits and meat quality of F1 Angus-Nellore steers and heifers slaughtered in feedlot with a similar carcass finishing / Desempenho animal, características de carcaça e qualidade da carne de novilhos e novilhas F1 Angus-Nelore abatidos em confinamento com similar grau de acabamento

The objective of this study was to evaluate the animal performance, carcass characteristics and meat quality of F1 Angus-Nellore steers and heifers, feedlot finished with high degree of subcutaneous fat deposition. The experimental design was completely randomized, with two treatments (steers and heifers) and 11 replicates (animals). Twenty-two bovines with initial age of 18 months of age, 11 steers and 11 heifers, with initial body weight of, respectively, 354.86±43,66 and 353.82±39,80 kg were used. The animals were finished in confinement (114 days) with a diet containing 200 g kg-1 of corn silage and 800 g kg-1 of concentrate composed mainly of corn grain and soybean meal. The dry matter intake (9.42 vs. 9.24 kg day-1), mean daily weight gain (1.44 vs. 1.38 kg day-1), feed conversion (6.49 vs. 7.05 kg of dry matter kg-1 of weight gain), hot carcass weight (284.62 vs. 268.16 kg) and the subcutaneous fat thickness (12.09 vs. 13.05 mm) were similar between steers and heifers (respectively). The hot carcass yield was higher (P < 0.05) for steers (58.14 vs. 55.53%). The steers presented a higher proportion of the forequarter (39.26 vs. 37.53%), while heifers had a higher proportion of pistol cut (49.87 vs. 48.85%). The meat of steers showed darker color (P < 0.05). The shear force of the meat and marbling score did not differ between sexual conditions, with mean values of 5.43 kgf cm-2 and 10.14 points (median), respectively. Except for the proportion of primary cuts, carcass yield and meat color, F1 Angus-Nellore heifers present similar animal performance, carcass and meat characteristics in relation to steers, feedlot finished with high degree of subcutaneous fat deposition.

Objetivou-se avaliar o desempenho animal, as características de carcaça e a qualidade da carne de novilhos e novilhas F1 Angus-Nelore terminados em confinamento com similar grau de acabamento de carcaça. O delineamento experimental foi o inteiramente casualizado, com dois tratamentos (novilhos e novilhas) e 11 repetições (animais). Foram utilizados 22 bovinos com 18 meses de idade inicial, 11 novilhos e 11 novilhas, com peso corporal inicial de 354,86±43,66 e 353,82±39,80 kg, respectivamente. Os animais foram terminados em confinamento (114 dias) com dieta contendo 200 g kg-1 de silagem de milho e 800 g kg-1 de concentrado composto principalmente por grão de milho moído e farelo de soja. O consumo de matéria seca (9,42 vs. 9,24 kg dia-1), o ganho de peso médio diário (1,44 vs. 1,38 kg dia-1), a conversão alimentar (6,49 vs. 7,05 kg de matéria seca kg-1 de ganho de peso), o peso de carcaça quente (284,62 vs. 268,16 kg) e a espessura de gordura subcutânea (12,09 vs. 13,05 mm) foram similares entre novilhos e novilhas (respectivamente). O rendimento de carcaça quente foi maior (P < 0,05) nos novilhos (58,14 vs. 55,53%). Os novilhos apresentaram maior proporção de dianteiro (39,26 vs. 37,53%), enquanto as novilhas apresentaram maior proporção do traseiro especial (49,87 vs. 48,85%). A carne dos novilhos apresentou coloração mais escura (P < 0,05). A força de cisalhamento da carne e o marmoreio não diferiram entre as condições sexuais, com valores médios de, 5,43 kgf cm-2 e 10,14 pontos (mediano), respectivamente. Exceto em relação à proporção dos cortes primários, rendimento de carcaça e cor da carne, novilhas jovens F1 Angus-Nelore apresentam similar desempenho animal, características de carcaça e de carne em relação aos novilhos abatidos com similar grau de acabamento.

Animal performance, carcass traits and meat quality of F1 Angus-Nellore steers and heifers slaughtered in feedlot with a similar carcass finishing / Desempenho animal, características de carcaça e qualidade da carne de novilhos e novilhas F1 Angus-Nelore abatidos em confinamento com similar grau de acabamento

The objective of this study was to evaluate the animal performance, carcass characteristics and meat quality of F1 Angus-Nellore steers and heifers, feedlot finished with high degree of subcutaneous fat deposition. The experimental design was completely randomized, with two treatments (steers and heifers) and 11 replicates (animals). Twenty-two bovines with initial age of 18 months of age, 11 steers and 11 heifers, with initial body weight of, respectively, 354.86±43,66 and 353.82±39,80 kg were used. The animals were finished in confinement (114 days) with a diet containing 200 g kg-1 of corn silage and 800 g kg-1 of concentrate composed mainly of corn grain and soybean meal. The dry matter intake (9.42 vs. 9.24 kg day-1), mean daily weight gain (1.44 vs. 1.38 kg day-1), feed conversion (6.49 vs. 7.05 kg of dry matter kg-1 of weight gain), hot carcass weight (284.62 vs. 268.16 kg) and the subcutaneous fat thickness (12.09 vs. 13.05 mm) were similar between steers and heifers (respectively). The hot carcass yield was higher (P < 0.05) for steers (58.14 vs. 55.53%). The steers presented a higher proportion of the forequarter (39.26 vs. 37.53%), while heifers had a higher proportion of pistol cut (49.87 vs. 48.85%). The meat of steers showed darker color (P < 0.05). The shear force of the meat and marbling score did not differ between sexual conditions, with mean values of 5.43 kgf cm-2 and 10.14 points (median), respectively. Except for the proportion of primary cuts, carcass yield and meat color, F1 Angus-Nellore heifers present similar animal performance, carcass and meat characteristics in relation to steers, feedlot finished with high degree of subcutaneous fat deposition.(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar o desempenho animal, as características de carcaça e a qualidade da carne de novilhos e novilhas F1 Angus-Nelore terminados em confinamento com similar grau de acabamento de carcaça. O delineamento experimental foi o inteiramente casualizado, com dois tratamentos (novilhos e novilhas) e 11 repetições (animais). Foram utilizados 22 bovinos com 18 meses de idade inicial, 11 novilhos e 11 novilhas, com peso corporal inicial de 354,86±43,66 e 353,82±39,80 kg, respectivamente. Os animais foram terminados em confinamento (114 dias) com dieta contendo 200 g kg-1 de silagem de milho e 800 g kg-1 de concentrado composto principalmente por grão de milho moído e farelo de soja. O consumo de matéria seca (9,42 vs. 9,24 kg dia-1), o ganho de peso médio diário (1,44 vs. 1,38 kg dia-1), a conversão alimentar (6,49 vs. 7,05 kg de matéria seca kg-1 de ganho de peso), o peso de carcaça quente (284,62 vs. 268,16 kg) e a espessura de gordura subcutânea (12,09 vs. 13,05 mm) foram similares entre novilhos e novilhas (respectivamente). O rendimento de carcaça quente foi maior (P < 0,05) nos novilhos (58,14 vs. 55,53%). Os novilhos apresentaram maior proporção de dianteiro (39,26 vs. 37,53%), enquanto as novilhas apresentaram maior proporção do traseiro especial (49,87 vs. 48,85%). A carne dos novilhos apresentou coloração mais escura (P < 0,05). A força de cisalhamento da carne e o marmoreio não diferiram entre as condições sexuais, com valores médios de, 5,43 kgf cm-2 e 10,14 pontos (mediano), respectivamente. Exceto em relação à proporção dos cortes primários, rendimento de carcaça e cor da carne, novilhas jovens F1 Angus-Nelore apresentam similar desempenho animal, características de carcaça e de carne em relação aos novilhos abatidos com similar grau de acabamento.(AU)

Desempeño productivo y desarrollo ruminal en cabritos de tambo alimentados con diferentes dietas y faenados a distintas edades / Productive performance and ruminal development in dairy kids fed with different diets and slaughtered at different ages

El objetivo del presente trabajo fue evaluar el desempeño productivo y desarrollo ruminal de cabritos Saanen alimentados con alfalfa y/o grano (Alf, Alf + Gr, Gr) y faenados a distintas edades (50, 60 y 70 días). Se evaluó: ganancia diaria de peso vivo (GDPV), peso a faena (PF), peso de la canal caliente (PCC), rendimiento a faena (RF), peso de los estómagos y el largo de las pailas (LP). El diseño fue DCA con arreglo factorial y para la comparación de medias se utilizó LSD (p=0,05). Los animales fueron asignados al azar dentro de los tratamientos: Alf 50 (n=3), Alf 60 (n=4), Alf 70 (n=3), Gr 50 (n=3), Gr 60 (n=4), Gr 70 (n=3), Alf+Gr 50 (n=3), Alf+Gr 60 (n=4), Alf+Gr 70 (n=3). Los datos fueron analizados mediante ANOVA de Infostat 2018. No se detectó interacción entre dieta y edad de faena para ninguno de los parámetros. En cuanto a la dieta, los animales que consumieron Alf y Alf + Gr presentaron mayores GDPV (p= 0,0022). El PF fue superior para el grupo Alf+Gr respecto al Gr (p=0,0352). Similar fue lo relevado para el PCC (p=0,0298). El RF fue mayor para el grupo Gr respecto a las otras dietas (p <0,0001). La edad a faena impactó en el PF y PCC resultando superior en los animales faenados con 70 días, (p= 0,0002 y p= 0,0008 respectivamente), mientras que aquellos sacrificados a los 50 días presentaron el mayor RF (p=0,0413). El peso del rumen fue superior para el grupo 70 vs. 50 y 60 días (p=0,0410). El LP fue similar para todos los tratamientos. Se puede concluir que para las condiciones del presente ensayo tanto la dieta suministrada como la edad a faena afectaron el desempeño productivo de los animales.

The aim of this work was to evaluate performance and ruminal development of dairy kids fed with different diets (alfalfa and / or grains: Alf, Alf + Gr, Gr) and slaughtered at different ages (50, 60 and 70 days of life). Parameters evaluated were: daily live weight gain (GDPV), slaughter weight (PF), hot carcass weight (PCC), slaughter yield (RF), stomach weight and ruminal papillae length (LP). Animals were assigned by random in the treatments: Alf 50 (n=3), Alf 60 (n=4), Alf 70 (n=3), Gr 50 (n=3), Gr 60 (n=4), Gr 70 (n=3), Alf+Gr 50 (n=3), Alf+Gr 60 (n=4), Alf+Gr 70 (n=3). Data were analyzed with linear mixed model according to a repeated measures design by ANOVA of Infostat 2018 program. Means multiple comparisons were evaluated by LSD-Fisher test (P = 0.05). No interaction was detected for diet and slaughter age. Regarding diet, animals that consumed Alf and Alf + Gr presented higher GDPV (p = 0.0022). FP and PCC were higher for Alf + Gr than for Gr group (p = 0.0352 and p = 0.0298). RF was higher for the Gr group than for the others (p <0.0001). Age at slaughter affected PF and PCC, animals with 70 days had the highest values (p= 0.0002 and p= 0,0008). 50 days old kids had the maximum RF (p=0.0413). Rumen weight was higher for group 70 compared with groups 60 and 50 (p=0.0410). LP was similar for all treatments. It is possible to conclude that diet and age affected the productive performance of animals.

Características de carcaça e carne de novilhos Aberdeen Angus submetidos à castração cirúrgica ou imunológica / Carcass characteristics and meat of Aberdeen Angus steers submitted to surgical or immunological castration

Objetivou-se avaliar as características de carcaça e carne de novilhos Aberdeen Angus castrados cirurgicamente em duas idades ou imunocastrados com dois protocolos. Foram utilizados 48 bezerros, monitorados a partir do nascimento e desmamados, com idade e peso médio inicial de seis meses e de 160±16,54kg, respectivamente. Os animais foram distribuídos aleatoriamente nos seguintes tratamentos: castração cirúrgica ao nascer; castração cirúrgica ao desmame; imunocastração com três doses da vacina Bopriva® e imunocastração com quatro doses da vacina Bopriva®. O delineamento experimental utilizado foi o inteiramente ao acaso. Novilhos imunocastrados com três doses apresentaram maior quebra ao resfriamento e menor espessura de gordura ajustada para 100kg de carcaça fria que castrados cirurgicamente ao nascer (P<0,05). A imunocastração com três doses proporcionou incremento na participação de músculo, em relação às castrações cirúrgicas, mas reduziu a gordura em relação à castração cirúrgica ao nascimento (P<0,05). A relação músculo:osso foi superior nos imunocastrados com três doses em relação a castrados cirurgicamente no desmame (P<0,05). Apesar de variações na participação tecidual na carcaça, a castração imunológica mostrou-se viável em substituição à castração cirúrgica, não alterando os padrões qualitativos da carne.(AU)

The objective of this study was to evaluate the carcass and meat characteristics of Aberdeen Angus steers surgically castrated at two ages or immunocastrated with two protocols. Forty-eight calves we used, monitored from birth and weaned, with age and initial mean weight of six months and 160±16.54kg, respectively. The animals were randomly assigned to the following treatments: surgical castration at birth; surgical castration at weaning; immunocastration with three doses of the Bopriva ® vaccine and immunocastration with four doses of the Bopriva ® vaccine. The experimental design was completely randomized. Immunocastrated steers with three doses had a greater cooling break and lower fat thickness adjusted for 100kg of cold carcass than surgically castrated at birth (P< 0.05). Immunocastration with three doses provided an increase in muscle participation in relation to surgical castration but reduced fat in relation to surgical castration at birth (P< 0.05). The muscle:bone ratio was higher in the immunocastrated with three doses compared to surgically castrated at weaning (P< 0.05). Despite variations in tissue involvement in the carcass, the immunological castration proved to be viable to replace surgical castration, not changing the quality of the meat standards.(AU)

Características de carcaça e carne de novilhos Aberdeen Angus submetidos à castração cirúrgica ou imunológica / Carcass characteristics and meat of Aberdeen Angus steers submitted to surgical or immunological castration

Objetivou-se avaliar as características de carcaça e carne de novilhos Aberdeen Angus castrados cirurgicamente em duas idades ou imunocastrados com dois protocolos. Foram utilizados 48 bezerros, monitorados a partir do nascimento e desmamados, com idade e peso médio inicial de seis meses e de 160±16,54kg, respectivamente. Os animais foram distribuídos aleatoriamente nos seguintes tratamentos: castração cirúrgica ao nascer; castração cirúrgica ao desmame; imunocastração com três doses da vacina Bopriva® e imunocastração com quatro doses da vacina Bopriva®. O delineamento experimental utilizado foi o inteiramente ao acaso. Novilhos imunocastrados com três doses apresentaram maior quebra ao resfriamento e menor espessura de gordura ajustada para 100kg de carcaça fria que castrados cirurgicamente ao nascer (P<0,05). A imunocastração com três doses proporcionou incremento na participação de músculo, em relação às castrações cirúrgicas, mas reduziu a gordura em relação à castração cirúrgica ao nascimento (P<0,05). A relação músculo:osso foi superior nos imunocastrados com três doses em relação a castrados cirurgicamente no desmame (P<0,05). Apesar de variações na participação tecidual na carcaça, a castração imunológica mostrou-se viável em substituição à castração cirúrgica, não alterando os padrões qualitativos da carne.(AU)

The objective of this study was to evaluate the carcass and meat characteristics of Aberdeen Angus steers surgically castrated at two ages or immunocastrated with two protocols. Forty-eight calves we used, monitored from birth and weaned, with age and initial mean weight of six months and 160±16.54kg, respectively. The animals were randomly assigned to the following treatments: surgical castration at birth; surgical castration at weaning; immunocastration with three doses of the Bopriva ® vaccine and immunocastration with four doses of the Bopriva ® vaccine. The experimental design was completely randomized. Immunocastrated steers with three doses had a greater cooling break and lower fat thickness adjusted for 100kg of cold carcass than surgically castrated at birth (P< 0.05). Immunocastration with three doses provided an increase in muscle participation in relation to surgical castration but reduced fat in relation to surgical castration at birth (P< 0.05). The muscle:bone ratio was higher in the immunocastrated with three doses compared to surgically castrated at weaning (P< 0.05). Despite variations in tissue involvement in the carcass, the immunological castration proved to be viable to replace surgical castration, not changing the quality of the meat standards.(AU)

Performance, ingestive behavior and carcass traits of lambs fed rations containing soybean cake

The aim of this study was to evaluate the performance, ingestive behavior and carcass traits of crossbred Dorper x Santa Inês lambs fed rations containing soybean cake. Twenty-four lambs (4 months of age and 24.3 ± 3.1 kg BW) were used in a completely randomized design with four treatments and six replicates. Treatments were the inclusion of 50, 100 or 150 g kg-1 of soybean cake in the ration, on a DM basis, and a control diet without this ingredient. Rations were offered ad libitum for 75 days and the lambs were slaughtered at 35 to 40 kg BW. Dry matter intake reduced linearly and the average daily gain had a quadratic response to the soybean cake levels, also decreasing with the addition of this ingredient. The time spent feeding increased and the idle time decreased linearly with the soybean cake levels, whereas the time spent in rumination was not affected. Hot and cold carcass weights decreased linearly with the addition of this ingredient. The addition of 50 to 150 g kg DM-1 of soybean cake to the ration for lambs is not recommended due to reduced animal performance, which may compromise the profitability of sheep farmers.

Performance, ingestive behavior and carcass traits of lambs fed rations containing soybean cake

The aim of this study was to evaluate the performance, ingestive behavior and carcass traits of crossbred Dorper x Santa Inês lambs fed rations containing soybean cake. Twenty-four lambs (4 months of age and 24.3 ± 3.1 kg BW) were used in a completely randomized design with four treatments and six replicates. Treatments were the inclusion of 50, 100 or 150 g kg-1 of soybean cake in the ration, on a DM basis, and a control diet without this ingredient. Rations were offered ad libitum for 75 days and the lambs were slaughtered at 35 to 40 kg BW. Dry matter intake reduced linearly and the average daily gain had a quadratic response to the soybean cake levels, also decreasing with the addition of this ingredient. The time spent feeding increased and the idle time decreased linearly with the soybean cake levels, whereas the time spent in rumination was not affected. Hot and cold carcass weights decreased linearly with the addition of this ingredient. The addition of 50 to 150 g kg DM-1 of soybean cake to the ration for lambs is not recommended due to reduced animal performance, which may compromise the profitability of sheep farmers.(AU)

Carcass characteristics and non-carcass components of young ½ Purunã x ½ Canchim bulls fed rations with three concentrate contents / Características de carcaça e componentes não-carcaça de tourinhos ½ Purunã x ½ Canchim alimentados com rações contendo três teores de concentrado

Improving the quality and energy content of rations increases performance in feedlot cattle, resulting in higher weight at slaughter, better carcass quality and a higher yield of non-carcass components. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of increasing concentrate content in the ration on the carcass traits and weight of non-carcass components of young bulls finished in a feedlot. Eighteen young crossbred ½ Purunã x ½ Canchim bulls were used, with an average body weight (BW) of 278 kg and 12 months of age at the start of the experiment. The experimental design was completely randomized with three treatments and six replicates, where the treatments were the contents of 0.71, 0.97 and 1.24% BW day-1 of concentrate in the ration, on a dry matter (DM) basis. Corn silage was used as roughage and was provided ad libitum during the experiment. The young bulls were kept in the feedlot for 168 days and slaughtered at 17 months of age. There was a linear effect of concentrate content on the slaughter weight (SW) and hot carcass weight (HCW), which increased from 433 to 485 kg and from 248 to 280 kg between 0.71 and 1.24% BW in DM day-1 of concentrate. This represented an increase of 9.87 kg in SW and 6.16 kg in HCW for each 0.10% BW in DM day-1 of concentrate added to the ration. The hot carcass yield, rib eye area, subcutaneous fat thickness and the proportions of bone, muscle and fat in the carcass were not affected by the concentrate content and showed mean values of 57.3%, 79.6 cm2, 3.20 mm, 14.88%, 65.21% and 20.67%, respectively. There was a linear effect of concentrate content on the carcass temperature after cooling, which increased from 8.1 to 9.0 oC between 0.71 and 1.24% BW in DM day-1 of concentrate. An increase of 0.16 oC in the post-cooling carcass temperature for each 0.10% BW in DM day-1 of concentrate added to the ration was observed.(AU)

A melhoria da qualidade e do aporte energético da ração proporciona alto desempenho aos bovinos confinados, resultando em elevado peso ao abate, melhor qualidade da carcaça e alto rendimento dos componentes não-carcaça. Objetivou-se com este estudo avaliar a influência do aumento do teor de concentrado da ração nas características de carcaça e no peso de componentes não-carcaça de tourinhos terminados em confinamento. Foram utilizados 18 tourinhos mestiços ½ Purunã x ½ Canchim, que iniciaram o experimento com 278 kg de peso corporal (PC) e 12 meses de idade, em média. O delineamento experimental foi inteiramente casualizado com três tratamentos e seis repetições, em que os tratamentos foram os teores de 0,71; 0,97 e 1,24% PC dia-1 de concentrado na ração, em base de matéria seca (MS). A silagem de milho foi utilizada como volumoso e fornecida à vontade durante o experimento. Os animais permaneceram confinados por 168 dias e foram abatidos com 17 meses de idade. Houve efeito linear dos teores de concentrado no peso ao abate (PA) e no peso de carcaça quente (PCQ), que aumentaram de 433 para 485 kg, e de 248 para 280 kg entre os teores de 0,71 e 1,24% PC em MS dia-1 de concentrado. Isso correspondeu ao aumento de 9,87 kg no PA e de 6,16 kg no PCQ dos tourinhos a cada 0,10% PC em MS dia-1 de concentrado adicionado à ração. O rendimento de carcaça quente, a área de olho de lombo, a espessura de gordura subcutânea e as proporções de osso, músculo e gordura da carcaça não foram influenciados pelos teores de concentrado, apresentando valores médios de 57,3%, 79,6 cm2, 3,20 mm, 14,88%, 65,21% e 20,67%, respectivamente. Houve efeito linear dos teores de concentrado na temperatura da carcaça após o resfriamento, que aumentou de 8,1 para 9,0 ºC entre os teores de 0,71 e 1,24% PC em MS dia-1 de concentrado.(AU)

Analysis of variables affecting carcass weight of white turkeys by regression analysis based on factor analysis scores and ridge regression

In this study, the influence of carcass parts weights (thigh, breast, wing, back weight, gizzard, heart, and feet) on whole carcass weight of white turkeys (Big-6) was analyzed by regression analysis based on ridge regression and factor analysis scores. For this purpose, a total of 30 turkey carcasses of 15 males and 15 females with 17 weeks of age, were used. To determine the carcass weight (CW), thigh weight (TW), breast weight (BRW), wing weight (WW), back weight (BW), gizzard weight (GW), heart weight (HW), and feet weight (FW) were used. In the ridge regression model, since the Variance Inflation Factor (VIF) values of the variables were less than 10, the multicollinearity problem was eliminated. Furthermore, R2=0.988 was obtained in the ridge regression model. Since the eigenvalues of the two variables predicted by factor analysis scores were greater than 1, the model can be explained by two factors. The variance explained by two factors constitutes 88.80% of the total variance. The regression equation was statistically significant (p<0.01). In the regression equation, two factors obtained by using factor analysis scores were independent variables and standardized carcass weight was considered as dependent variable. In the regression model created by factor analysis scores, the Variance Inflation Factor values were 1 and R2=0.966. Both regression models were found to be suitable for predicting carcass weight of turkeys. However, the ridge regression method, which presented higher R2 value, has been shown to better explain the carcass weight.(AU)

Analysis of variables affecting carcass weight of white turkeys by regression analysis based on factor analysis scores and ridge regression

In this study, the influence of carcass parts weights (thigh, breast, wing, back weight, gizzard, heart, and feet) on whole carcass weight of white turkeys (Big-6) was analyzed by regression analysis based on ridge regression and factor analysis scores. For this purpose, a total of 30 turkey carcasses of 15 males and 15 females with 17 weeks of age, were used. To determine the carcass weight (CW), thigh weight (TW), breast weight (BRW), wing weight (WW), back weight (BW), gizzard weight (GW), heart weight (HW), and feet weight (FW) were used. In the ridge regression model, since the Variance Inflation Factor (VIF) values of the variables were less than 10, the multicollinearity problem was eliminated. Furthermore, R2=0.988 was obtained in the ridge regression model. Since the eigenvalues of the two variables predicted by factor analysis scores were greater than 1, the model can be explained by two factors. The variance explained by two factors constitutes 88.80% of the total variance. The regression equation was statistically significant (p<0.01). In the regression equation, two factors obtained by using factor analysis scores were independent variables and standardized carcass weight was considered as dependent variable. In the regression model created by factor analysis scores, the Variance Inflation Factor values were 1 and R2=0.966. Both regression models were found to be suitable for predicting carcass weight of turkeys. However, the ridge regression method, which presented higher R2 value, has been shown to better explain the carcass weight.

Carcass characteristics and non-carcass components of young ½ Purunã x ½ Canchim bulls fed rations with three concentrate contents / Características de carcaça e componentes não-carcaça de tourinhos ½ Purunã x ½ Canchim alimentados com rações contendo três teores de concentrado

Improving the quality and energy content of rations increases performance in feedlot cattle, resulting in higher weight at slaughter, better carcass quality and a higher yield of non-carcass components. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of increasing concentrate content in the ration on the carcass traits and weight of non-carcass components of young bulls finished in a feedlot. Eighteen young crossbred ½ Purunã x ½ Canchim bulls were used, with an average body weight (BW) of 278 kg and 12 months of age at the start of the experiment. The experimental design was completely randomized with three treatments and six replicates, where the treatments were the contents of 0.71, 0.97 and 1.24% BW day-1 of concentrate in the ration, on a dry matter (DM) basis. Corn silage was used as roughage and was provided ad libitum during the experiment. The young bulls were kept in the feedlot for 168 days and slaughtered at 17 months of age. There was a linear effect of concentrate content on the slaughter weight (SW) and hot carcass weight (HCW), which increased from 433 to 485 kg and from 248 to 280 kg between 0.71 and 1.24% BW in DM day-1 of concentrate. This represented an increase of 9.87 kg in SW and 6.16 kg in HCW for each 0.10% BW in DM day-1 of concentrate added to the ration. The hot carcass yield, rib eye area, subcutaneous fat thickness and the proportions of bone, muscle and fat in the carcass were not affected by the concentrate content and showed mean values of 57.3%, 79.6 cm2, 3.20 mm, 14.88%, 65.21% and 20.67%, respectively. There was a linear effect of concentrate content on the carcass temperature after cooling, which increased from 8.1 to 9.0 oC between 0.71 and 1.24% BW in DM day-1 of concentrate. An increase of 0.16 oC in the post-cooling carcass temperature for each 0.10% BW in DM day-1 of concentrate added to the ration was observed.

A melhoria da qualidade e do aporte energético da ração proporciona alto desempenho aos bovinos confinados, resultando em elevado peso ao abate, melhor qualidade da carcaça e alto rendimento dos componentes não-carcaça. Objetivou-se com este estudo avaliar a influência do aumento do teor de concentrado da ração nas características de carcaça e no peso de componentes não-carcaça de tourinhos terminados em confinamento. Foram utilizados 18 tourinhos mestiços ½ Purunã x ½ Canchim, que iniciaram o experimento com 278 kg de peso corporal (PC) e 12 meses de idade, em média. O delineamento experimental foi inteiramente casualizado com três tratamentos e seis repetições, em que os tratamentos foram os teores de 0,71; 0,97 e 1,24% PC dia-1 de concentrado na ração, em base de matéria seca (MS). A silagem de milho foi utilizada como volumoso e fornecida à vontade durante o experimento. Os animais permaneceram confinados por 168 dias e foram abatidos com 17 meses de idade. Houve efeito linear dos teores de concentrado no peso ao abate (PA) e no peso de carcaça quente (PCQ), que aumentaram de 433 para 485 kg, e de 248 para 280 kg entre os teores de 0,71 e 1,24% PC em MS dia-1 de concentrado. Isso correspondeu ao aumento de 9,87 kg no PA e de 6,16 kg no PCQ dos tourinhos a cada 0,10% PC em MS dia-1 de concentrado adicionado à ração. O rendimento de carcaça quente, a área de olho de lombo, a espessura de gordura subcutânea e as proporções de osso, músculo e gordura da carcaça não foram influenciados pelos teores de concentrado, apresentando valores médios de 57,3%, 79,6 cm2, 3,20 mm, 14,88%, 65,21% e 20,67%, respectivamente. Houve efeito linear dos teores de concentrado na temperatura da carcaça após o resfriamento, que aumentou de 8,1 para 9,0 ºC entre os teores de 0,71 e 1,24% PC em MS dia-1 de concentrado.

Dry matter intake, performance and carcass characteristics of hair sheep reared under different grazing systems

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of three different grazing systems: isolated, alternate and simultaneous, on feed intake, performance and carcass characteristics of sheep. About 5.2 ha area of Tanzania grass (Panicum maximun Jacq cultivate Tanzania) was divided into 13 paddocks. This area was used as a stocking rate of two animal units per ha for 7 days occupation and 21 days rest. A total number of 58 animals were used consisting of 12 heifers and 30 Santa Ines lambs with the addition of 16 adult ewes that were used to stabilize grazing pressure in the isolated system. The sheep were fed on 200 g per head per day of concentrate and cattle 2 kg per head per day. The parameters determined were the following: weekly weight (WW), total live weight gain (LWG) and mean daily weight gain (MDW). Also dry matter intake was estimated 84 days after the start of the experiment using external indicators (Purified and Enriched Lignin) in addition to carcass traits and composition which were also estimated. The result obtained for carcass composition revealed that the muscle:bone ratio and bone percentage were better in the alternate system. Moreover, the simultaneous and isolated systems showed higher lamb performance than the alternate system, while there was no effect on dry matter intake. Furthermore, there was no difference of the different systems on carcass traits and feed intake of sheep. Nevertheless, the simultaneous grazing system showed better sheep performance than the alternate grazing system.

Dry matter intake, performance and carcass characteristics of hair sheep reared under different grazing systems

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of three different grazing systems: isolated, alternate and simultaneous, on feed intake, performance and carcass characteristics of sheep. About 5.2 ha area of Tanzania grass (Panicum maximun Jacq cultivate Tanzania) was divided into 13 paddocks. This area was used as a stocking rate of two animal units (AU) per ha for 7 days occupation and 21 days rest. A total number of 58 animals were used consisting of 12 heifers and 30 Santa Ines lambs with the addition of 16 adult ewes that were used to stabilize grazing pressure in the isolated system. The sheep were fed on 200 g per head per day of concentrate and cattle 2 kg per head per day. The parameters determined were the following: weekly weight (WW), total live weight gain (LWG) and mean daily weight gain (MDW). Also dry matter intake was estimated 84 days after the start of the experiment using external indicators (Purified and Enriched Lignin) in addition to carcass traits and composition which were also estimated. The result obtained for carcass composition revealed that the muscle:bone ratio and bone percentage were better in the alternate system. Moreover, the simultaneous and isolated systems showed higher lamb performance than the alternate system, while there was no effect on dry matter intake. Furthermore, there was no difference of the different systems on carcass traits and feed intake of sheep. Nevertheless, the simultaneous grazing system showed better sheep performance than the alternate grazing system.(AU)