Effect of partially replacing corn with sugar cane molasses on blood parameters and composition of the M. longissimus thoracis of growing pigs / Efeito da substituição parcial do milho por melaço de cana-de-açúcar sobre parâmetros sanguíneos e a composição do músculo longissimus thoracis de suínos em crescimento

The effect of sugar cane molasses, as a partial replacement to corn in the diet, on blood parameters and composition of the M. longissimus thoracis (LT) in growing pigs was explored in this study. Twenty female pigs aged 63 days, and weighing 28.98 ± 3.56 kg, were randomly assigned to either the control or sugar cane molasses treatments. Molasses was included at the 3% level to partially replace corn in their diet. Blood samples were collected at the beginning and end of the experiments. The animals were slaughtered at 110 days of age after 47 days in the experiment, weighing 67.9 ± 5.58 kg, and an LT muscle sample was extracted and evaluated. Each animal was considered an experimental unit. The treatment had no effect on the length and area of the LT muscle. Backfat thickness was reduced when using the sugar cane molasses treatment (5.80 mm) compared to the control treatment (8.90 mm) (P < 0.05). Higher enzyme gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) levels were observed in animals of the control treatment (67.10 IU/L) compared to animals treated with the sugar cane molasses treatment (49.90 IU/L) (P < 0.05). Moreover, the proximal composition, fatty acid profile, and quality were not influenced by treatment. Sugar cane molasses, used as an energy source to partially replace corn in the diet of growing pigs at a level of 3%, reduced the backfat thickness of the pig carcass and improved the serum concentration of the enzyme gamma-glutamyl transferase in pigs.(AU)

Neste estudo foi explorado o efeito do melaço de cana-de-açúcar em substituição parcial ao milho na dieta sobre os parâmetros sanguíneos e a composição do músculo longissimus thoracis (LT) de suínos em crescimento. Vinte leitoas com 63 dias de idade, pesando 28,98 ± 3,56 kg foram aleatoriamente distribuídas nos tratamentos controle ou melaço de canade-açúcar. O melaço foi incluído ao nível de 3% em substituição parcial ao milho na dieta. Ao início e ao final do experimento foram coletadas amostras de sangue dos animais. Os animais foram abatidos aos 110 dias de idade após 47 dias de experimento pesando 67,9 ± 5,58 kg e uma amostra do músculo LT foi extraída e avaliada. Cada animal foi considerado uma unidade experimental. Não houve diferença entre os tratamentos sobre o comprimento e a área do músculo LT. A espessura de toucinho foi reduzida ao utilizar o tratamento melaço de cana-de-açúcar (5,80 mm) em relação ao tratamento controle (8,90 mm) (P < 0,05). Níveis mais elevados da enzima gama-glutamil transferase (GGT) foram observados nos animais do tratamento controle (67,10 UI/L) em comparação aos animais do tratamento melaço de cana-de-açucar (49,90 UI/L) (P < 0,05). A composição proximal e o perfil e qualidade dos ácidos graxos não foram influenciados pelo tratamento. O melaço de cana-de-açúcar utilizado como fonte energética em substituição parcial ao milho na dieta de suínos em crescimento ao nível de 3% reduziu a espessura de toucinho da carcaça de suínos e melhorou a concentração sérica da enzima gama-glutamil transferase de suínos.(AU)

Carcass characteristics and meat quality of lambs fed diets with different roughage: concentrate ratios supplemented with liquid residue of cassava

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of lambs fed two roughage: concentrate (R:C) ratios, with or without the liquid residue of cassava (LRC) on carcass traits and meat quantity. Forty lambs (19.5 ± 1.45 kg body weight), non-castrated, crossbred Santa Inês were distributed in a completely randomized 2 × 2 factorial design. There was no effect (p > 0.05) of the inclusion of LRC on the variables. The roughage:concentrate ratio of 40:60 promoted higher values for empty body weight, hot carcass weight, cold carcass weight, subcutaneous thickness fat, cooling loss, Longissimus muscle area, carcass morphometric measurements, and commercial cuts. Higher weight of leg, muscles, fat, bone and other tissues, as well as for the ratio muscle:fat, and muscle:bone was observed in lambs fed 40R:60C. For the meat chemical composition, there was the effect (p < 0.05) only for ether extract (EE) for lambs fed 40R:60C ratio. The redness (a*) of meat was greater (p < 0.05) for lambs fed 80R:20C. The other physicochemical characteristics were not influenced. The roughage:concentrate ratio of 40:60 improves the carcass traits and commercial cuts, but does not promote changes in meat quality, independent of supplementation with liquid residue of cassava.(AU)

Weaning and concentrate supplementation on the characteristics of carcass cuts and longissimus muscle of Suffolk lambs finished on pasture

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of weaning and concentrate supplementation on the characteristics of carcass cuts and longissimus muscle of Suffolk lambs finished on a Tifton 85 (Cynodon spp.) pasture. Weaning and concentrate supplementation strategies were evaluated in four finishing systems: i) non-weaned and non-supplemented lambs; ii) non-weaned lambs supplemented with concentrate in creep feeding; iii) weaned and non-supplemented lambs; and iv) weaned lambs supplemented with concentrate. In the systems with weaning, lambs were weaned at 46 ± 6 days of age. In the systems with supplementation, the concentrate was offered daily at 2% of lambs' body weight. Weaning led to a decrease, whereas supplementation led to an increase in carcass cut weights. Supplemented lambs had lower yields of neck and uncovered ribs, and higher yields of breast + flank and loin. The characteristics of loin eye and fat thickness over the longissimus muscle presented lower values in weaned lambs and higher values in supplemented lambs. Keeping lambs with their dams and offering concentrate supplementation until slaughter are strategies recommended to obtain heavier cuts with increased muscularity and fat content.(AU)

Performance and carcass characteristics of lambs fed diets supplemented with different levels of Saccharomyces cerevisiae

The objective of this study was to evaluate the productive performance, apparent digestibility, and carcass and longissimus dorsi muscle characteristics of lambs fed diets supplemented with four levels of Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Thirty-two male Hampshire lambs (25.82±1.95 kg body weight) were distributed in four treatments: basal diet (20:80, forage:concentrate), and the inclusion of 0, 3, 5, and 10 g animal−1 d−1 Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The variables evaluated were dry matter intake, daily weight gain, feed conversion, apparent digestibility, dorsal fat thickness, longissimus dorsi muscle area, and physicochemical characteristics of carcass and muscle. We used a completely randomized design and orthogonal polynomials to test the linear and quadratic effects of the inclusion levels of the yeast. Saccharomyces cerevisiae showed a quadratic effect on lamb performance. Dry matter intake decreased with yeast in response to a better feed conversion and body weight gain; however, at the highest Saccharomyces cerevisiae dose, daily weight gain and final weight were lower than with the basal diet treatment. Saccharomyces cerevisiae did not affect apparent digestibility or carcass and muscle physicochemical characteristics. Supplementation with 3 and 5 g d−1 Saccharomyces cerevisiae improves productive performance of lambs fed high concentrate diets without affecting the physicochemical characteristics of the carcass or muscle.(AU)

Effect of growth and carcass traits on likelihood of early pregnancy in Nellore heifers raised at intensive nutritional plan

This study evaluated the influence of the quantitative traits measured by real-time ultrasound (adjusted longissimus muscle area [AdjLMA], adjusted rump fat thickness [AdjRFT], and adjusted marbling [AdjMAR]) as well as age at first breeding [AFB] and adjusted weight [AdjWeight], on the probability of occurrence of early pregnancy (EP) in 55 Nellore heifers, and also performed an economic analysis. All calves received supplementation in creep-feeding (ad libitum), and at weaning (average age= 210 ± 30 days; average weight= 241 ± 33 kg) until first breeding by artificial insemination (May to November) all heifers were managed in the same group (two paddocks of 25 ha each evenly covered with Urochloa Marandu Grass) and received protein-energy supplementation (1% of average BW per animal/day). The quantitative variables were collected immediately after timed artificial insemination (average age= 392 ± 27 days; average weight= 431.90 kg), and the pregnancy diagnosis was completed at 30 days following insemination. For economic analysis, two systems were compared (age at first breeding at 13 and 24 months). The greater adjusted weight on the first breeding increased the probability of occurrence of early pregnancy, while the greater adjusted longissimus muscle area reduced. In addition, intensive meat production systems provide greater economic return throughout cow-calf operation.(AU)

Selection indexes for Nellore production system in the Brazilian Pantanal

The objective was to develop selection indexes for Nellore cattle raised in full-cycle production system in the Brazilian Pantanal. The resulting offspring are retained as replacements or sold at two years of age. Preliminary analyses explored effects of scale on economic values (EV). However, given the available data, these effects were very small. Presented herein are results from a simulated system consisting of 5,000 cows with all animals maintained on pasture as is typical in Pantanal. The EV were determined by approximating the partial derivatives of the profit function, changing one trait at a time, by one unit, while keeping the other traits constant. Traits in the breeding objective were mature cow weight, direct and maternal weaning weight, postweaning average daily gain, subcutaneous fat depth, longissimus muscle area, and stayability. Economic values were calculated on the basis of number of animals (per head), number of animal units, and arroba of carcasss weight. Regardless of the basis, maternal weaning weight and subcutaneous fat depth made negligible contributions to the breeding objective. Proportions of variation in the breeding objectives (per head, per animal unit, per arroba) explained by cow weight, direct weaning weight, postweaning average daily gain, stayability, and longissimus muscle area were: 13, 13, 17; 6, 1, 5; 3, 3, 4; 67, 67, 61; and 11, 17, 13, respectively. These indexes may aid Nellore breeders in their selection decisions, thus facilitating the genetic progress and increased productivity and profitability of Pantanal herds.

Carcass traits, commercial cuts, tissue composition, intake, digestibility, and performance of Sindhi bulls subjected to feed restriction / Características da carcaça cortes comerciais, composição tecidual, consumo, digestibilidade e desempenho de touros Sindi submetidos à restrição alimentar

This study showed the effect of feed restriction on performance, nitrogen balance (NB), microbial protein synthesis, carcass traits and meat cut of the thirty-two Sindhi non-castrated males (296 ± 21.3 kg initial BW and 21 ± 1.5 months old). All bulls were distributed in a completely randomized design with four treatments (feed restriction levels) (0, 15, 30, and 45% in total dry matter -DM) and the data were subjected to analysis of variance and regression. Nutrient intake, NB, final BW, total gain, feeding efficiency, carcass gain, hot and cold carcass weight, subcutaneous fat thickness, commercial cuts and fat tissue decreased linearly (P 0.05) by feed restriction level. A linear increased on digestibility of DM, NDFap, total carbohydrates and on the proportion of muscle tissue, as well as quadratic increase on non-fibrous carbohydrates and bone tissue percentage with the restriction level imposed on bulls (P 0.05). The feed restriction did not affect (P>0.05) the digestibility of crude protein, synthesis and microbial efficiency, deposition efficiency, longissimus dorsi area and muscle + fat/bone ratio. The feed restriction reduced intake and consequently performance, carcass traits and meat cuts of Sindhi bulls; however, it promoted a reduction in the N excretion, which can be important if conducted a subsequent compensatory weight gain.(AU)

Este estudo mostrou o efeito da restrição alimentar no desempenho, balanço de nitrogênio, síntese microbiana de proteínas, característica da carcaça e corte de carne de 32 machos Sindi não castrados (296 ± 21,3 kg de peso corporal inicial e 21 ± 1,5 meses de idade). Todos os touros foram distribuídos em delineamento inteiramente casualizado, com quatro tratamentos (níveis de restrição alimentar) (0, 15, 30 e 45% no total de matéria seca - MS) e os dados foram submetidos à análise de variância e regressão. Consumo de nutrientes, balanço de nitrogênio, peso corporal final, ganho total, eficiência alimentar, ganho de carcaça, peso de carcaça quente e fria, espessura subcutânea de gordura, cortes comerciais e tecido adiposo diminuíram linearmente (P 0,05) com o nível de restrição alimentar. Houve aumento linear na digestibilidade do DM, FDNap, carboidratos totais e quantidade de tecido muscular, além de aumento quadrático de carboidratos não fibrosos e porcentagem de tecido ósseo com o nível de restrição imposto aos touros (P 0,05). A restrição alimentar não afetou (P>0,05) a digestibilidade da proteína bruta, balanço de N, síntese e eficiência microbiana, eficiência de deposição, área do longissimus dorsi e relação músculo + gordura / osso. A restrição alimentar reduziu a ingestão e, consequentemente, o desempenho, as características da carcaça e os cortes de carne de touros Sindi, porém promoveu redução na excreção de N, o que pode ser importante se for realizado um subsequente ganho compensatório.(AU)

Evaluation of piglet birth weight on growth performance and qualitative and quantitative characteristics of carcasses of immunocastrated pigs

The objective of this study was to determine the effect of birth weight on growth performance, carcass characteristics, and meat quality of immunocastrated male pigs. Seventy-two boars were assigned to three birth weight categories (BiW): light BiW pigs (LP: 0.98±0.083 kg BW; n = 24), normal BiW pigs (NP: 1.42±0.067 kg BW; n = 24), and heavy BiW pigs (HP: 1.85±0.096 kg BW; n = 24). For treatment design, we considered a weight range of two standard deviations (SD) in relation to the average population body weight (from 0.785 to 2.155 kg BW−1 ). The animals were housed in six pens with 12 animals per pen, with ad libitum access to water and feed throughout the study. In the growing and finishing phases, pigs were immunocastrated with two doses of vaccine at 112 and 161 days of age. The three BiW categories were different up to departure from the nursery (70 days). After this period, there was no difference between NP and HP in terms of BiW. Measurements showed that a low BiW reduced the loin eye area (9.4%), longissimus thoracis muscle depth (7.6%), and meat:fat ratio (21.6%). Backfat thickness (21.5%) and fat area (11.8%) were higher in LP as compared with the NP and HP categories. Light BiW pigs presented a lower weight steak (7.0%) and belly + rib (8.6%) compared with NP and HP, but did not differ within the LP group. Light BiW pigs required a greater lodging time (14 days), generating higher accumulated feed intake to reach the same slaughter BiW as the other categories. Growth performance and carcass characteristics are influenced by the birth weight (BiW) category. Light BiW pigs require more time and feed intake to reach the same slaughter weight. Birth weight has positive effects on meat quality and weight of commercial cuts.

Effects of replacing Tifton-85 hay by cactus pear (Opuntia stricta Haw) on the carcass traits and meat quality of crossbred Santa Inês lambs / Efeitos da substituição do feno de Tifton-85 por palma forrageira (Opuntia stricta Haw) nas características de carcaça e qualidade da carne de cordeiros mestiços Santa Inês

The objective of this study was to evaluate the carcass traits of crossbred Santa Inês lambs fed with increasing levels (0, 300, 600, and 900 g kg-1 on a dry matter basis) of cactus pear cv Mexican elephant ear (Opuntia stricta Haw) as a replacement for Tifton-85 hay. Forty-eight male lambs (noncastrated), averaging 21.0 ± 2.93 kg body weight (BW) at the beginning of the study, were used in this trial. Replacement levels of Tifton hay by cactus pear affected the hot carcass and cold carcass weights and the carcass compactness index linearly (P < 0.05), but did not influence the yield of hot carcass and cold carcass, the loin eye area, conformation, finishing, and subcutaneous fat thickness, the yield of commercial cuts and tissue composition of the leg (P > 0.05). The averages of tissue components yields were: muscle 64.94%, bone 16.92%, fat 14.92%, and other tissues 2.71%. There was also no effect (P>0.05) of treatments on other measurements in Longissimus dorsi. However, there was an increasing linear effect on ether extract content (P P<0.05). ). It can be concluded that the Mexican Elephant Ear cactus pear can be used to feed finishing lambs, replacing up to 900 g kg-1 of the dry matter of the roughage, with a consequent increase in carcass weight, loin, shoulder, and leg, as well as, in the percentage of ether extract of the meat. However, it does not alter the other carcass traits and physical-chemical characteristics of the meat.(AU)

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar as características de carcaça de ovinos mestiços Santa Inês alimentados com níveis crescentes (0, 300, 600 e 900 g kg-1 na matéria seca) de palma forrageira cv. Orelha de elefante Mexicana (Opuntia stricta Haw) como substituto para o feno de Tifton-85. Quarenta e oito cordeiros machos (não castrados), com média de 21,0 ± 2,93 kg de peso corporal (PC) no início do estudo, foram usados neste ensaio. Os níveis de substituição do feno de Tifton pela palma forrageira afetaram os pesos da carcaça quente e fria e o índice de compacidade da carcaça linearmente, mas não influenciaram o rendimento da carcaça quente e da carcaça fria, área de olho de lombo, conformação, acabamento, espessura de gordura subcutânea, rendimento dos cortes comerciais e composição do tecido da perna. As médias de rendimentos dos componentes do tecido foram: músculo 64,94%, osso 16,92%, gordura 14,92% e outros tecidos 2,71%. Também não houve efeito dos tratamentos nas outras medições no Longissimus dorsi. No entanto, houve um efeito linear crescente no teor de extrato etéreo. Pode-se concluir que a palma forrageira orelha de elefante mexicana pode ser utilizada na alimentação de cordeiros em fase de terminação, substituindo até 90% da matéria seca do volumoso, com consequente aumento do peso de carcaça, lombo, paleta e perna, bem como, na porcentagem de extrato etéreo da carne. No entanto, não altera as demais características de carcaça e as características físico-químicas da carne.(AU)

Sample size and prediction of weight and yield of individual cuts from Braford steers pistol hindquarters

Two hundred seventeen grass-finished Braford steers were assessed by ultrasonic scanning and subsequently harvested with their pistol hindquarters fabricated into boneless wholesale cuts. The Longissimus thoracis muscle area and subcutaneous fat depths were measured. The objectives of this study were: 1) to develop prediction equations for weights of the pistol hindquarter and high-value commercial cuts, and 2) to estimate sample size needed for experiments comparing pistol hindquarter retail product weight using either physically or ultrasonically measured carcass traits. Carcass measurements explained 44 % to 94 % of the variation in weights of individual cuts, whereas, measurements that were made using ultrasound explained 42 % to 90 % of the variation in the weights. Models used to predict the weight of pistol hindquarter retail product with carcass measures and ultrasound measures showed high coefficient of determination (R 2 = 0.92 and 0.97, respectively). Whether based on carcass or ultrasound measures, models used to estimate weight percentage of fat trimmed from the pistol hindquarter had lack of fit. In general, models for individual cuts weights that used traits measured with ultrasound as independent variables approached the accuracy of models using carcass traits. Thus, only slightly greater samples sizes were required to have equivalent power to detect differences in retail product weights using ultrasound measures. For experiments of equivalent power, differences in the number of animals required may be offset by avoiding costs for slaughter and fabrication.

Sample size and prediction of weight and yield of individual cuts from Braford steers pistol hindquarters

Two hundred seventeen grass-finished Braford steers were assessed by ultrasonic scanning and subsequently harvested with their pistol hindquarters fabricated into boneless wholesale cuts. The Longissimus thoracis muscle area and subcutaneous fat depths were measured. The objectives of this study were: 1) to develop prediction equations for weights of the pistol hindquarter and high-value commercial cuts, and 2) to estimate sample size needed for experiments comparing pistol hindquarter retail product weight using either physically or ultrasonically measured carcass traits. Carcass measurements explained 44 % to 94 % of the variation in weights of individual cuts, whereas, measurements that were made using ultrasound explained 42 % to 90 % of the variation in the weights. Models used to predict the weight of pistol hindquarter retail product with carcass measures and ultrasound measures showed high coefficient of determination (R 2 = 0.92 and 0.97, respectively). Whether based on carcass or ultrasound measures, models used to estimate weight percentage of fat trimmed from the pistol hindquarter had lack of fit. In general, models for individual cuts weights that used traits measured with ultrasound as independent variables approached the accuracy of models using carcass traits. Thus, only slightly greater samples sizes were required to have equivalent power to detect differences in retail product weights using ultrasound measures. For experiments of equivalent power, differences in the number of animals required may be offset by avoiding costs for slaughter and fabrication.(AU)

Brazilian red pepper leaves essential oil (Schinus terebinthifolius) in diets for feedlot lambs / Óleo essencial das folhas de aroeira (Schinus terebinthifolius) em dietas para cordeiros confinados

Essential oil (EO) from Brazilian red pepper leaves contains antimicrobial compounds that control Gram-positive bacteria in the rumen content, improving the efficiency of ruminal fermentation. The objectives of the present study were to evaluate the effects of the Brazilian red pepper leaves EO (Schinus terebinthifolius) as a substitute for monensin on performance, occurrence of coccidiosis by Eimeria ssp., carcass characteristics and meat composition of feedlot lambs. Forty-four lambs, 16 males (12 ½ Dorper × ½ Santa Inês and 4 Santa Inês) and 28 females (16 ½ Dorper × ½ Santa Inês and 12 Santa Inês), with 21.4 ± 1.05 kg of initial body weight (BW), were used in a randomized complete block design. The experiment lasted 56 days, divided into 2 periods of 28 days each. The treatments were defined by the inclusion of 8 ppm of monensin (MON), and the doses 0.14% (14EO), 0.28% (28EO) and 0.42% (42EO) of red pepper leaves essential oil (EO). At the end of 56 days, 32 lambs were slaughtered for the measurement of carcass parameters and meat composition. There was no interaction among treatments and periods for average daily gain (ADG), dry matter intake (DMI), feed efficiency (FE) and oocyst of Eimeria ssp. in feces. The treatments did not affect the ADG, DMI and FE; however, the monensin inclusion decreased the oocyst of Eimeria ssp. (P = 0.01). There was a tendency (P = 0.06) of increase in hot carcass yield for lambs fed 28EO compared to 14EO. In addition, the cold carcass yield was higher (P = 0.02) in the animals fed 28EO and 42EO. The subcutaneous fat thickness was not affected by the experimental diets; however, there was a tendency for lambs from 28EO and 42EO treatments to present higher body wall thickness (P = 0.07) and Longissimus muscle area (P = 0.07) when compared to MON. The higher doses of red pepper leaves EO increased the percentage of crude protein (P < 0.01) and mineral matter (P = 0.02) in the chemical composition of meat. Although the performance of lambs did not change, the inclusion of 0.28 and 0.42% red pepper leaves EO improve the carcass characteristics and change the meat composition, demonstrating the potential of the use of this additive in confined lamb diets. However, the monensin has greater potential to control coccidiosis in feedlot lambs compared with red pepper leaves EO.(AU)

O óleo essencial das folhas da aroeira possui compostos antimicrobianos que controlam a população de bactérias gram-positivas presentes no conteúdo ruminal, melhorando a eficiência do processo de fermentação. Os objetivos do presente estudo foram avaliar os efeitos do óleo essencial das folhas da aroeira (Schinus terebinthifolius) em substituição a monensina sobre o desempenho, ocorrência de coccidiose por Eimeria ssp., características de carcaça e da carne de cordeiros confinados. Quarenta e quatro cordeiros, 16 machos (12 ½ Dorper × ½ Santa Inês e 4 Santa Inês) e 28 fêmeas (16 ½ Dorper × ½ Santa Inês e 12 Santa Inês), com 21,4 ± 1,05 kg de peso inicial, foram utilizados em delineamento de blocos completos ao acaso. O experimento teve duração de 56 dias, divididos em 2 períodos de 28 dias cada. Os tratamentos foram definidos pela inclusão de 8 ppm de monensina sódica (MON) e as doses 0,14% (14OE), 0,28% (28OE) e 0,42% (42OE) do óleo essencial (OE) das folhas da aroeira. Ao final dos 56 dias, 32 animais foram abatidos para a mensuração dos parâmetros de carcaça e análise química da carne. Não houve interação entre tratamento e período experimental para ganho médio diário (GMD), consumo de matéria seca (CMS), eficiência alimentar (EA) e ocorrência de coccidiose. Não houve efeito das dietas experimentais sobre GMD, CMS e EA, entretanto, a inclusão de monensina reduziu o número de oocistos de Eimeria ssp. (P = 0,01). Houve tendência de aumento no rendimento de carcaça quente (P = 0,06) para os cordeiros alimentados com 28OE comparados com o tratamento 14OE. Além disso, o rendimento de carcaça fria foi maior (P = 0,02) para os animais alimentados com 28OE e 42OE. A espessura de gordura subcutânea não foi afetada pelas dietas experimentais, entretanto, houve tendência dos cordeiros dos tratamentos 28OE e 42OE apresentarem maior espessura de parede corporal (P = 0,07) e área de olho de lombo (P = 0,07) quando comparados a MON. As maiores doses de OE das folhas de aroeira aumentaram a porcentagem de proteína bruta (P < 0,01) e matéria mineral (P = 0,02) na composição química da carne dos cordeiros. Apesar de não alterar o desempenho dos cordeiros, a inclusão de 0,28 e 0,42% de OE das folhas de aroeira foi capaz de alterar as características de carcaça e composição química da carne, demonstrando o potencial de utilização desse aditivo em dietas para cordeiros confinados. Entretanto, a monensina possui maior capacidade de controlar a coccidiose em cordeiros confinados quando comparado ao OE das folhas da aroeira.(AU)

Brazilian red pepper leaves essential oil (Schinus terebinthifolius) in diets for feedlot lambs / Óleo essencial das folhas de aroeira (Schinus terebinthifolius) em dietas para cordeiros confinados

Essential oil (EO) from Brazilian red pepper leaves contains antimicrobial compounds that control Gram-positive bacteria in the rumen content, improving the efficiency of ruminal fermentation. The objectives of the present study were to evaluate the effects of the Brazilian red pepper leaves EO (Schinus terebinthifolius) as a substitute for monensin on performance, occurrence of coccidiosis by Eimeria ssp., carcass characteristics and meat composition of feedlot lambs. Forty-four lambs, 16 males (12 ½ Dorper × ½ Santa Inês and 4 Santa Inês) and 28 females (16 ½ Dorper × ½ Santa Inês and 12 Santa Inês), with 21.4 ± 1.05 kg of initial body weight (BW), were used in a randomized complete block design. The experiment lasted 56 days, divided into 2 periods of 28 days each. The treatments were defined by the inclusion of 8 ppm of monensin (MON), and the doses 0.14% (14EO), 0.28% (28EO) and 0.42% (42EO) of red pepper leaves essential oil (EO). At the end of 56 days, 32 lambs were slaughtered for the measurement of carcass parameters and meat composition. There was no interaction among treatments and periods for average daily gain (ADG), dry matter intake (DMI), feed efficiency (FE) and oocyst of Eimeria ssp. in feces. The treatments did not affect the ADG, DMI and FE; however, the monensin inclusion decreased the oocyst of Eimeria ssp. (P = 0.01). There was a tendency (P = 0.06) of increase in hot carcass yield for lambs fed 28EO compared to 14EO. In addition, the cold carcass yield was higher (P = 0.02) in the animals fed 28EO and 42EO. The subcutaneous fat thickness was not affected by the experimental diets; however, there was a tendency for lambs from 28EO and 42EO treatments to present higher body wall thickness (P = 0.07) and Longissimus muscle area (P = 0.07) when compared to MON. The higher doses of red pepper leaves EO increased the percentage of crude protein (P < 0.01) and mineral matter (P = 0.02) in the chemical composition of meat. Although the performance of lambs did not change, the inclusion of 0.28 and 0.42% red pepper leaves EO improve the carcass characteristics and change the meat composition, demonstrating the potential of the use of this additive in confined lamb diets. However, the monensin has greater potential to control coccidiosis in feedlot lambs compared with red pepper leaves EO.(AU)

O óleo essencial das folhas da aroeira possui compostos antimicrobianos que controlam a população de bactérias gram-positivas presentes no conteúdo ruminal, melhorando a eficiência do processo de fermentação. Os objetivos do presente estudo foram avaliar os efeitos do óleo essencial das folhas da aroeira (Schinus terebinthifolius) em substituição a monensina sobre o desempenho, ocorrência de coccidiose por Eimeria ssp., características de carcaça e da carne de cordeiros confinados. Quarenta e quatro cordeiros, 16 machos (12 ½ Dorper × ½ Santa Inês e 4 Santa Inês) e 28 fêmeas (16 ½ Dorper × ½ Santa Inês e 12 Santa Inês), com 21,4 ± 1,05 kg de peso inicial, foram utilizados em delineamento de blocos completos ao acaso. O experimento teve duração de 56 dias, divididos em 2 períodos de 28 dias cada. Os tratamentos foram definidos pela inclusão de 8 ppm de monensina sódica (MON) e as doses 0,14% (14OE), 0,28% (28OE) e 0,42% (42OE) do óleo essencial (OE) das folhas da aroeira. Ao final dos 56 dias, 32 animais foram abatidos para a mensuração dos parâmetros de carcaça e análise química da carne. Não houve interação entre tratamento e período experimental para ganho médio diário (GMD), consumo de matéria seca (CMS), eficiência alimentar (EA) e ocorrência de coccidiose. Não houve efeito das dietas experimentais sobre GMD, CMS e EA, entretanto, a inclusão de monensina reduziu o número de oocistos de Eimeria ssp. (P = 0,01). Houve tendência de aumento no rendimento de carcaça quente (P = 0,06) para os cordeiros alimentados com 28OE comparados com o tratamento 14OE. Além disso, o rendimento de carcaça fria foi maior (P = 0,02) para os animais alimentados com 28OE e 42OE. A espessura de gordura subcutânea não foi afetada pelas dietas experimentais, entretanto, houve tendência dos cordeiros dos tratamentos 28OE e 42OE apresentarem maior espessura de parede corporal (P = 0,07) e área de olho de lombo (P = 0,07) quando comparados a MON. As maiores doses de OE das folhas de aroeira aumentaram a porcentagem de proteína bruta (P < 0,01) e matéria mineral (P = 0,02) na composição química da carne dos cordeiros. Apesar de não alterar o desempenho dos cordeiros, a inclusão de 0,28 e 0,42% de OE das folhas de aroeira foi capaz de alterar as características de carcaça e composição química da carne, demonstrando o potencial de utilização desse aditivo em dietas para cordeiros confinados. Entretanto, a monensina possui maior capacidade de controlar a coccidiose em cordeiros confinados quando comparado ao OE das folhas da aroeira.(AU)

Correção de medida ultrassonográfica de carcaça em coelhos usando modelo linear misto com covariáveis / Correction ultrasonographic measurement of carcass in rabbits using mixed linear Model with covariates

Objetivou-se avaliar a correção da medida ultrassonográfica da área do músculo Longissimus dorsi, em coelhos da raça Nova Zelândia, pela análise de covariância usando modelos mistos. Foram realizadas análises em delineamento em blocos completos ao acaso, com cinco tratamentos (operadores) e seis blocos (animais), considerando na análise: a inexistência de covariáveis; a covariável comprimento de olho de lombo; a covariável profundidade de olho de lombo; e as duas covariáveis juntas. Como os animais são uma amostra aleatória, o efeito de bloco foi considerado como aleatório. Consideraram-se as covariáveis como medidas com efeito fixo sem erro, independentemente do tratamento e do comportamento linear. As estatísticas de critério de decisão CV%, R ² e R ¯ ² evidenciaram relação direta entre si e podem ser consideradas para avaliar a precisão experimental em ensaios com avaliação de carcaças. Os valores das estatísticas AIC, BIC e AICC apresentam coerência com a interpretação dos critérios de decisão e indicam que o modelo com duas covariáveis proporciona resultados acurados. A inclusão das covariáveis complementa o controle de local com melhoria na precisão do experimento. A utilização das medidas ultrassonográficas de profundidade e comprimento corrige a média da área do músculo Longissimus dorsi avaliado por diferentes operadores.(AU)

The objective of this study was to evaluate the correction ultrasonographic measurement of area the Longissimus dorsi muscle in New Zealand rabbits by covariance analysis using mixed linear models. The analyzes were performed in randomized block design with 5 treatments (operators) and 6 blocks (animals), considering in the analysis: absence of covariates; rib eye length as covariate; rib eye depth as covariate; the two covariates together. As the animals are a random sample, the block effect was considered to be random. The covariates were considered as measures of fixed effect without error, independent of treatment and linear comportment. The decision criterion statistics CV%, R², and R ¯ ²showed a direct relationship between them and can be taken into consideration to evaluate the experimental accuracy in tests with carcass evaluation. The AIC, BIC, and AICC statistics are consistent with the interpretation of the decision criteria and indicate that the two covariates in model provides accurate results. The inclusion of covariates complements the local control to improve the accuracy of the experiment. The use of ultrasound measurements of depth and length corrects the mean area of the Longissimus dorsi muscle evaluated by different operators.(AU)

Correção de medida ultrassonográfica de carcaça em coelhos usando modelo linear misto com covariáveis / Correction ultrasonographic measurement of carcass in rabbits using mixed linear Model with covariates

Objetivou-se avaliar a correção da medida ultrassonográfica da área do músculo Longissimus dorsi, em coelhos da raça Nova Zelândia, pela análise de covariância usando modelos mistos. Foram realizadas análises em delineamento em blocos completos ao acaso, com cinco tratamentos (operadores) e seis blocos (animais), considerando na análise: a inexistência de covariáveis; a covariável comprimento de olho de lombo; a covariável profundidade de olho de lombo; e as duas covariáveis juntas. Como os animais são uma amostra aleatória, o efeito de bloco foi considerado como aleatório. Consideraram-se as covariáveis como medidas com efeito fixo sem erro, independentemente do tratamento e do comportamento linear. As estatísticas de critério de decisão CV%, R ² e R ¯ ² evidenciaram relação direta entre si e podem ser consideradas para avaliar a precisão experimental em ensaios com avaliação de carcaças. Os valores das estatísticas AIC, BIC e AICC apresentam coerência com a interpretação dos critérios de decisão e indicam que o modelo com duas covariáveis proporciona resultados acurados. A inclusão das covariáveis complementa o controle de local com melhoria na precisão do experimento. A utilização das medidas ultrassonográficas de profundidade e comprimento corrige a média da área do músculo Longissimus dorsi avaliado por diferentes operadores.(AU)

The objective of this study was to evaluate the correction ultrasonographic measurement of area the Longissimus dorsi muscle in New Zealand rabbits by covariance analysis using mixed linear models. The analyzes were performed in randomized block design with 5 treatments (operators) and 6 blocks (animals), considering in the analysis: absence of covariates; rib eye length as covariate; rib eye depth as covariate; the two covariates together. As the animals are a random sample, the block effect was considered to be random. The covariates were considered as measures of fixed effect without error, independent of treatment and linear comportment. The decision criterion statistics CV%, R², and R ¯ ²showed a direct relationship between them and can be taken into consideration to evaluate the experimental accuracy in tests with carcass evaluation. The AIC, BIC, and AICC statistics are consistent with the interpretation of the decision criteria and indicate that the two covariates in model provides accurate results. The inclusion of covariates complements the local control to improve the accuracy of the experiment. The use of ultrasound measurements of depth and length corrects the mean area of the Longissimus dorsi muscle evaluated by different operators.(AU)

Carcass traits and meat quality of steers on pasture submitted to different dietary supplementation / Características de carcaça e qualidade de carne de novilhos submetidos a diferentes estratégias de suplementação

This study aimed at evaluating carcass traits and meat quality of Nellore steers on pasture submitted to different dietary supplementation strategies. The 32 Nellore animals tested (8 ± 0.6 months) were raised under rotational grazing on Brachiaria brizantha cv. Piatã (syn. Urochloa brizantha cv. Piatã) pasture and distributed in four treatments: supply of mineral salt ad libitum in the growth and finishing phases (MSGF); concentrate supplementation only during the growth phase (CG); concentrate supplementation only during the finishing phase (CF) and concentrate supplementation the growth and finishing phases (CGF). The concentrated supplement was supplied at 0.5% of body weight and mineral ad libitum. The steers were slaughtered when more than 50% of the lot of each treatment reached 450 kg body weight. The mean the hot and cold carcass weight and subcutaneous fat thickness did not differ between treatments (P > 0.05). The calves the treatment CF and CGF showed a larger rib-eye area and higher ether extract levels in the Longissimus dorsi muscle than in MSGF and CG (P 0.05). The use of feeding strategies on pasture with concentrate supplementation in the growth and finishing phases of Nellore cattle anticipates slaughter in 92 days and produces carcasses and meat with satisfactory traits.

Objetivou-se avaliar as características de carcaça e qualidade de carne de novilhos Nelore submetidos à diferentes estratégias de suplementação à pasto. Foram utilizados 32 bezerros Nelore (idade inicial de 8 ± 0,6 meses) mantidos em pastagem Brachiaria brizantha cv. Piatã (syn. Urochloa brizantha cv. Piatã) manejados em sistema rotacionado e distribuídos em quatro tratamentos: suplementação com sal mineral durante a recria e terminação (MSGF), suplementação com concentrado somente na fase de recria (CG), suplementação com concentrado somente na fase de terminação (CF) e suplementação concentrada durante a recria e terminação (CGF). O suplemento concentrado foi fornecido a 0,5% do peso corporal e o mineral ad libitum. Os animais foram abatidos quando mais de 50% do lote de cada tratamento atingiu 450 kg de peso corporal. Não foram observadas diferenças significativas entre as médias de peso da carcaça quente e fria e a espessura de gordura subcutânea de novilhos entre os tratamentos (P > 0,05). Os animais do tratamento CF e CGF apresentaram maior área de olho de lombo e maior teor de extrato etéreo no músculo Longissimus dorsi do que os tratamentos MSGF e CG (P 0,05). O uso de estratégias de suplementação concentrada na fase de recria e terminação para novilhos Nelore criados à pasto pode antecipar o abate em até 92 dias, melhorar a composição física da carcaça e carne e garantir a produção de carcaças com características satisfatórias.

Carcass traits and meat quality of steers on pasture submitted to different dietary supplementation / Características de carcaça e qualidade de carne de novilhos submetidos a diferentes estratégias de suplementação

This study aimed at evaluating carcass traits and meat quality of Nellore steers on pasture submitted to different dietary supplementation strategies. The 32 Nellore animals tested (8 ± 0.6 months) were raised under rotational grazing on Brachiaria brizantha cv. Piatã (syn. Urochloa brizantha cv. Piatã) pasture and distributed in four treatments: supply of mineral salt ad libitum in the growth and finishing phases (MSGF); concentrate supplementation only during the growth phase (CG); concentrate supplementation only during the finishing phase (CF) and concentrate supplementation the growth and finishing phases (CGF). The concentrated supplement was supplied at 0.5% of body weight and mineral ad libitum. The steers were slaughtered when more than 50% of the lot of each treatment reached 450 kg body weight. The mean the hot and cold carcass weight and subcutaneous fat thickness did not differ between treatments (P > 0.05). The calves the treatment CF and CGF showed a larger rib-eye area and higher ether extract levels in the Longissimus dorsi muscle than in MSGF and CG (P < 0.05). Mean shearing force was similar between treatments (P > 0.05). The use of feeding strategies on pasture with concentrate supplementation in the growth and finishing phases of Nellore cattle anticipates slaughter in 92 days and produces carcasses and meat with satisfactory traits.(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar as características de carcaça e qualidade de carne de novilhos Nelore submetidos à diferentes estratégias de suplementação à pasto. Foram utilizados 32 bezerros Nelore (idade inicial de 8 ± 0,6 meses) mantidos em pastagem Brachiaria brizantha cv. Piatã (syn. Urochloa brizantha cv. Piatã) manejados em sistema rotacionado e distribuídos em quatro tratamentos: suplementação com sal mineral durante a recria e terminação (MSGF), suplementação com concentrado somente na fase de recria (CG), suplementação com concentrado somente na fase de terminação (CF) e suplementação concentrada durante a recria e terminação (CGF). O suplemento concentrado foi fornecido a 0,5% do peso corporal e o mineral ad libitum. Os animais foram abatidos quando mais de 50% do lote de cada tratamento atingiu 450 kg de peso corporal. Não foram observadas diferenças significativas entre as médias de peso da carcaça quente e fria e a espessura de gordura subcutânea de novilhos entre os tratamentos (P > 0,05). Os animais do tratamento CF e CGF apresentaram maior área de olho de lombo e maior teor de extrato etéreo no músculo Longissimus dorsi do que os tratamentos MSGF e CG (P < 0,05). As médias de força de cisalhamento foram similares entre os tratamentos (P > 0,05). O uso de estratégias de suplementação concentrada na fase de recria e terminação para novilhos Nelore criados à pasto pode antecipar o abate em até 92 dias, melhorar a composição física da carcaça e carne e garantir a produção de carcaças com características satisfatórias.(AU)

Toughness in Santa Inês lamb meat has negative impact on consumer evaluation / Dureza na carne de cordeiros Santa Inês tem impacto negativo na avaliação do consumidor

Meat tenderness is a major attribute for consumers worldwide. However, few studies investigate the importance of lamb meat tenderness for Brazilian consumers. This study assessed consumers evaluation of lamb meat with high shear forces. Eight lambs were slaughtered at 32.5±2.5kg of live weight and 5 to 6 months of age. The Longissimus dorsi muscle from both half carcasses was randomly assigned to four different postmortem processes: Tough Meat (TM), obtained by cold shortening, Fresh Meat (FM), Aging for 3 (A3) and 7 (A7) days postmortem . The variables measured were the sarcomere length, shear force (WBSF) and myofibrillar fragmentation index. We also applied the sensory analysis using affective acceptance tests with hedonic scale of nine points to measure texture, juiciness and overall quality of the meat. The postmortem processing for TM resulted in shorter sarcomere and greater shear values (p <0.05) compared to all other samples, while FM, A3 and A7, did not differ between the samples. Myofibrillar fragmentation was greater for A7 compared to TM (p <0.05), while FM and A3 showed intermediate values that did not differ between the treatments. In the sensory analysis, TM samples received significantly lower scores (p <0.01) for all attributes compared to other treatments and the attributes were not different between the post rigor processes. Consumers identified and evaluated negatively the meat samples with high WBSF. However, further studies are needed to elucidate the impact of smaller differences in WBSF, at intermediate values, on consumers evaluation.(AU)

A maciez da carne é um atributo importante para os consumidores do mundo todo. Porém, ainda faltam estudos sobre sua importância na área de carne de cordeiro para consumidores brasileiros. O objetivo do estudo foi verificar a avaliação dos consumidores em relação à carne de cordeiro com força de cisalhamento elevada. Oito cordeiros foram abatidos com 32,5 ± 2,5kg de peso vivo e 5 a 6 meses de idade. O músculo Longissimus dorsi das meias carcaças foi distribuído aleatoriamente em quatro diferentes processamentos postmortem: Carne Endurecida (CE), obtido pelo encurtamento pelo frio, Carne Fresca (CF), maturada por 3 (M3) e 7 (M7) dias postmortem . As variáveis ​​medidas foram comprimento do sarcômero, força de cisalhamento (FC), índice de fragmentação miofibrilar (IFM)e testes sensoriais de aceitação afetiva com escala hedônica de nove pontos para textura, suculência e qualidade global. O processamento postmortem para CE resultou em menor sarcômero e maiores valores de FC (p <0,05) em comparação com outras amostras, enquanto estas não diferiram entre si. O IFM foi maior para M7 em relação à CE (p <0,05), enquanto CF e M3 apresentaram valores intermediários que não diferiram. Noteste sensorial, as amostras de CE receberam escores menores (p <0,01) para todos os atributos comparados aos demais tratamentos, que não diferiram entre si. Os consumidores avaliaram negativamente a carne que apresentou alta FC. Porém, estudos devem ser realizados para elucidar o impacto de diferenças menores, em faixas intermediárias de FC, na avaliação do consumidor.(AU)

Toughness in Santa Inês lamb meat has negative impact on consumer evaluation / Dureza na carne de cordeiros Santa Inês tem impacto negativo na avaliação do consumidor

Meat tenderness is a major attribute for consumers worldwide. However, few studies investigate the importance of lamb meat tenderness for Brazilian consumers. This study assessed consumers’ evaluation of lamb meat with high shear forces. Eight lambs were slaughtered at 32.5±2.5kg of live weight and 5 to 6 months of age. The Longissimus dorsi muscle from both half carcasses was randomly assigned to four different postmortem processes: Tough Meat (TM), obtained by cold shortening, Fresh Meat (FM), Aging for 3 (A3) and 7 (A7) days postmortem . The variables measured were the sarcomere length, shear force (WBSF) and myofibrillar fragmentation index. We also applied the sensory analysis using affective acceptance tests with hedonic scale of nine points to measure texture, juiciness and overall quality of the meat. The postmortem processing for TM resulted in shorter sarcomere and greater shear values (p <0.05) compared to all other samples, while FM, A3 and A7, did not differ between the samples. Myofibrillar fragmentation was greater for A7 compared to TM (p <0.05), while FM and A3 showed intermediate values that did not differ between the treatments. In the sensory analysis, TM samples received significantly lower scores (p <0.01) for all attributes compared to other treatments and the attributes were not different between the post rigor processes. Consumers identified and evaluated negatively the meat samples with high WBSF. However, further studies are needed to elucidate the impact of smaller differences in WBSF, at intermediate values, on consumers’ evaluation.

A maciez da carne é um atributo importante para os consumidores do mundo todo. Porém, ainda faltam estudos sobre sua importância na área de carne de cordeiro para consumidores brasileiros. O objetivo do estudo foi verificar a avaliação dos consumidores em relação à carne de cordeiro com força de cisalhamento elevada. Oito cordeiros foram abatidos com 32,5 ± 2,5kg de peso vivo e 5 a 6 meses de idade. O músculo Longissimus dorsi das meias carcaças foi distribuído aleatoriamente em quatro diferentes processamentos postmortem: Carne Endurecida (CE), obtido pelo encurtamento pelo frio, Carne Fresca (CF), maturada por 3 (M3) e 7 (M7) dias postmortem . As variáveis ​​medidas foram comprimento do sarcômero, força de cisalhamento (FC), índice de fragmentação miofibrilar (IFM)e testes sensoriais de aceitação afetiva com escala hedônica de nove pontos para textura, suculência e qualidade global. O processamento postmortem para CE resultou em menor sarcômero e maiores valores de FC (p <0,05) em comparação com outras amostras, enquanto estas não diferiram entre si. O IFM foi maior para M7 em relação à CE (p <0,05), enquanto CF e M3 apresentaram valores intermediários que não diferiram. Noteste sensorial, as amostras de CE receberam escores menores (p <0,01) para todos os atributos comparados aos demais tratamentos, que não diferiram entre si. Os consumidores avaliaram negativamente a carne que apresentou alta FC. Porém, estudos devem ser realizados para elucidar o impacto de diferenças menores, em faixas intermediárias de FC, na avaliação do consumidor.

Avaliação comparativa de metodologias para determinação da area de olho de lombo e gordura em suínos e bovinos / Comparative evaluation of methodologies for longissimus dorsi muscle area and fat area in swine and bovine

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar três metodologias de análise de área de olho de lombo (AOL), relacionado ao músculo Longissimus dorsi em suínos e bovinos e, a área de gordura subcutânea (AG) em suínos, a fim de determinar variações em relação ao uso destas técnicas. Foram utilizados os métodos de régua quadriculada, papel milimetrado e análise de imagens digitalizadas através do Software ImageJ. Os resultados mostraram que não houve diferença significativa entre eles (p>0,05), independente das espécies avaliadas e estruturas. Assim, para escolha do método a ser utilizado para estas avaliações, deve-se considerar a praticidade, disponibilidade de recurso e tempo de realização. Conclui-se que os três métodos apresentam boa predição para determinação de AOL e AG para bovinos e suínos.(AU)