Relationship Between Pre-Slaughter Factors and Major Causes of Carcass Condemnation in a Broiler Slaughterhouse under Federal Inspection

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between pre-slaughter factors and major causes of total or partial carcass condemnation in a broiler slaughterhouse under federal inspection. Data on total and partial carcass condemnations between 2018 and 2020 were collected from 10 broiler farms supplying a slaughterhouse located in northern Paraná State, Brazil. The total sample comprised 2,562,642 birds. The pre-slaughter factors analyzed were age at slaughter, stocking density, weight at slaughter, feed conversion, and mortality.Associations between causes of condemnation and pre-slaughter factors were analyzed using a generalized linear model with negative binomial distribution, a generalized linear model with quasi-Poisson distribution, and a generalized linear mixed model with Poisson distribution. Total carcass condemnations were mostly due to repugnant appearance (48.67%) and arthritis (26.56%), whereas partial carcass condemnations were mainly due to arthritis (31.02%), bruising (27.97%), and myopathies (15.18%). Mean age and stocking density were the pre-slaughter factors that most contributed to increasing total and partial condemnation rates, indicating that reducing stocking density and age at slaughter might be important strategies for minimizing economic losses associated with carcass condemnation.(AU)

The Effect of Space Allowance During Pre-Slaughter Transport of European Quail Breeders on Welfare, Carcass Traits and Meat Quality

The objective was to evaluate whether space allowance during pre-slaughter transport of European breeding quail affects welfare, carcass traits and meat quality. A total of 248 quails (body weight = 344.90 ± 2.09 g) were used. During pre-transport, the quails were fasted for 5 hours and 30 minutes. The poultry were caught and placed in plastic transport crates with an area of 0.40 m2. The treatments consisted of a different space allowance in each crate: 22, 28, 34 or 40 quails per crate. Immediately upon arrival at the slaughterhouse, the quails were stunned. During bleeding, blood samples were collected. The carcasses were individually weighed. The meat quality was measured. Data were analysed using the effects of space allowance during transport of quails and pickup truck as dependent variables. Death on arrival increased as the space allowance in transport crates decreased (p=0.08). Glucose and uric acid levels were not significantly different between groups (p≥0.14). The cold carcass weight presented the maximum value when the crates contained 31 quails (p=0.03). The meat pH, intensity of red, intensity of yellow and cooking losses were not different between groups (p≥0.12). The meat lightness value presented the maximum value when the crates contained 31 quails (p=0.04). In view of the above, the number of European breeding quails transported in crates must not exceed 30 animals.(AU)

Effects of animal type, handling, and transportation conditions on beef cattle temperament pre-slaughter / Efeito do tipo animal, manejo e condições de transporte no temperamento pré-abate de bovinos de corte

This study aimed to investigate the effects of animal type, on-farm handling, and transport conditions on temperament of beef cattle pre-slaughter. The study evaluated 4,061 cattle batches, averaging 49 animals, with a total of 199,026 cattle. Temperament was evaluated through a behavioral assessment carried out based on the temperament shown by cattle when approached by humans. One of three different temperament scores were assigned to each batch: calm, anxious, or excitable. Excitable temperament was reported in animals subjected to long transport time and distance and high loading density. The degree of carcass fatness was higher in calm animals, followed by anxious animals, with the excited temperament animals having the lowest carcass fatness degree. Older animals showed more excitable temperament, while younger animals showed calmer temperament. The excitable temperament was more evident in horned animals in relation to polled animals. Animal temperament was more reactive in batches with older cattle, low carcass fatness degree, and with more than 20% horned animals. Good handling and loading facilities and procedures at the farm contributed to adequate cattle temperament expression prior to slaughter.

O trabalho teve por objetivo avaliar a influência de variáveis relacionadas às condições de manejo e de transporte na expressão do temperamento pré-abate de bovinos de corte. Foram avaliados 4.061 lotes, com média de 49 animais, totalizando 199.026 bovinos. O temperamento foi avaliado por meio da expressão comportamental dos lotes diante da aproximação humana. Foram atribuídas três diferentes classificações de temperamento: "calmo", "ansioso" ou "excitável". Verificou-se temperamento excitável em animais submetidos a longos tempos de transporte, a grandes distâncias e à alta densidade de carga. O grau de gordura na carcaça foi mais elevado em animais "calmos", seguidos dos animais "ansiosos", e menor em animais de temperamento "excitado". Os animais com temperamento excitável eram mais velhos, e aqueles com temperamento calmo eram mais jovem. O temperamento excitável foi mais evidente em animais com a presença de chifres. O temperamento animal foi mais reativo em lotes de bovinos mais velhos, com baixo grau de gordura de carcaça e com mais de 20% de animais com presença de chifres. Boas instalações e condições apropriadas de manejo e de carregamento dos animais contribuem para a expressão adequada do temperamento dos bovinos no pré-abate.

Spatial variability of the occurrence of lesions on cattle carcasses in association with pre-slaughter factors in the forest-savannah transition zone

This study mapped cattle carcass lesions and associated the isoline maps with the occurrence factors of these lesions. Isoline maps were drawn by common kriging. The associated occurrence factors were the layout of the boards in the crowding tub (CT), characteristics of the hauling truck (general state and the presence of loose and/or sharp boards), broken boards in the corral (BBC), type of road covered (TRC), and animal falls upon unloading at the slaughterhouse (FAUS). The BBC showed a higher number of carcass lesions in the rib region. The data on FAUS and deterioration of hauling trucks fit an exponential model, with more carcass lesions in the rib and hindquarters, and plate regions, respectively. The data on spaced boards in the CT and TRC (mixed) showed greater carcass lesions in the rib region. Therefore, this method provides important information about the spatial distribution of lesions in bovine carcasses, and the drawing sheet used is adequate to represent such lesions.(AU)

Bem-estar dos organismos aquáticos e protocolos de avaliação para aquicultura / Welfare of aquatic organisms and assessment protocols for aquaculture

Peixes, anfíbios, répteis, moluscos cefalópodes e crustáceos decápodes são sencientes, e por isso, procedimentos de cultivo e de abate desses animais precisam atender aos critérios de bem-estar. Protocolos de bem-estar têm sido propostos para espécies da aquicultura de relevância econômica trançando novos rumos para atividade, mas infelizmente na maioria das propriedades brasileiras, não são adotados. Nesta revisão, contém informações sobre o cenário atual e os métodos de avaliação de bem-estar dos organismos aquáticos disponíveis na literatura científica, a fim de contribuir para a implantação de métodos, processos e estruturas que garantam o bom estado fisiológico e comportamental durante a vida e morte dos animais em cativeiro. Os dados disponíveis indicam que o estresse, a sanidade, as condições nutricionais e os métodos de insensibilização são os principais indicadores de bem-estar na aquicultura. Portanto, é imprescindível garantir estruturas adequadas ao sistema de produção, protocolos de vacinação, dietas balanceadas compostas principalmente por fontes protéicas de qualidade, depuração pré-abate e métodos de insensibilização que levam à perda de consciência imediata.

Fish, amphibians, reptiles, cephalopod molluscs and decapod crustaceans are sentient, so these animals' cultivation and slaughter procedures must meet welfare criteria. Welfare protocols have been proposed for aquaculture species of economic relevance, tracing new directions for the activity, but unfortunately, in most Brazilian properties, they are not adopted. This review contains information about the current scenario and the methods of evaluating the welfare of aquatic organisms available in the scientific literature to contribute to the implementation of methods, processes and structures that ensure a good physiological and behavioral state during the life and death of the animals in captivity. Available data indicate that stress, health, nutritional conditions and stunning methods are the main indicators of welfare in aquaculture. Therefore, ensuring adequate structures for the production system, vaccination protocols, balanced diets composed mainly of quality protein sources, pre-slaughter purification, and stunning methods that lead to immediate loss of consciousness is essential.

Feasibility of pre-scrotal castration approach in boars: 30 cases / Viabilidade da castração de cachaços por abordagem pré-escrotal: 30 casos

ABSTRACT: Since the first reports of boar castration, the anesthesia, surgery, and especially the restraint for surgical wound management of large and strong boars may be challenging. Most frequent complications include hemorrhage, excessive edema, infection, abscess, scirrhous cord, inguinal hernia, seroma, hematoma, and death. In order to diminish those complications, we hypothesized that the pre-scrotal approach would be a successful method for orchiectomy in boars and that the complication rate would be low, facilitating post-surgical handling on the commercial swine breeding farms by the owners or handlers. Therefore, the present study aimed to describe our experience performing castration in boars using a pre-scrotal approach on farm-setting. Thirty commercial-breed male boars (weighing 255-410kg) were submitted to dissociative anesthesia protocol and local anesthesia. An 8-10cm skin incision was made cranially to the hemiscrotum, and subcutaneous tissue was bluntly dissected, reaching the tunica dartos, fascia, and vaginal tunica. Mesorchium was bluntly dissected to separate, and a double size-0 transfixion ligature was placed around the spermatic cord that was sharply transected. The procedure was repeated on the contralateral testis using the same skin incision. Short-term complication was restricted to mild scrotal edema in 12 (40%) boars. No wound exudate, surgical site infection or death related to the surgery was recorded. On the long-term follow-up (≥4 months' post-surgery), all owners stated that the boar was subsequently used as intended (slaughter after the proper boar taint withdrawal time) and their satisfaction with the low degree of difficulty in handling the post-operative care. Herein, the overall complication rate was considered low, the mortality rate was zero, and the pre-scrotal castration approach was successfully performed in all boars. These features confirm the technique as a safe procedure for orchiectomy in boars. Additionally, abolishing the daily dressing of surgical wounds required in open castration techniques, especially when surgical site infection occurs, may provide better welfare for the boars.

RESUMO: Desde os primeiros relatos de castração de cachaços, a anestesia, a cirurgia, e, principalmente, a contenção para manejo de feridas cirúrgicas de cachaços grandes e fortes podem ser desafiadoras. As complicações mais frequentes incluem hemorragia, edema excessivo, infecção, abscesso, funiculite, hérnia inguinal, seroma, hematoma e morte. A fim de diminuir tais complicações, levantamos a hipótese de que a abordagem pré-escrotal seria um método bem-sucedido para orquiectomia em cachaços e que a taxa de complicações seria baixa, facilitando o manejo pós-cirúrgico pelos proprietários ou tratadores. Portanto, o presente estudo objetivou descrever nossa experiência na castração de cachaços por abordagem pré-escrotal nas granjas comerciais de suínos. Trinta cachaços machos de raças comerciais (variação de peso de 255-410kg) foram submetidos ao protocolo de anestesia dissociativa e anestesia local. Uma incisão cutânea de 8 a 10cm foi feita cranialmente ao hemiscroto, e o tecido subcutâneo divulsionado de forma romba atingindo a túnica dartos, fáscia e túnica vaginal. O mesórquio foi separado por divulsão, e, uma ligadura de transfixação dupla com fio 0 realizada ao redor do cordão espermático, que foi seccionado. O procedimento foi repetido no testículo contralateral usando a mesma incisão na pele. A complicação de curto prazo foi restrita a leve edema escrotal em 12 (40%) cachaços. Nenhuma infecção incisional, exsudato ou morte relacionada à cirurgia foi registrada. No acompanhamento a longo prazo (≥4 meses pós-cirúrgico), todos os proprietários afirmaram que o cachaço foi posteriormente utilizado como pretendido (abate após o tempo adequado de retirada do odor de macho inteiro), e sua satisfação com o baixo grau de dificuldade nos cuidados pós-operatórios. Aqui, a taxa geral de complicações foi considerada baixa, a taxa de mortalidade foi zero e a castração por abordagem pré-escrotal foi realizada com sucesso em todos os cachaços. Essas características confirmam a técnica como um procedimento seguro para orquiectomia em cachaços. Além disso, a abolição do curativo diário das feridas cirúrgicas exigido nas técnicas de castração aberta, principalmente quando ocorre infecção, pode proporcionar melhor bem-estar aos cachaços.

Perfil profissional e técnico dos fiscais de inspeção sanitária do RS relacionado à cisticercose bovina / Professional and technical profile health inspection inpectors in RS related to bovine cysticercosis

A cisticercose bovina é responsável por elevados prejuízos na cadeia produtiva da carne, estando relacionada a uma das principais enfermidades transmitidas por alimentos. O objetivo deste trabalho é conhecer o perfil de Médicos Veterinários atuantes no sistema de inspeção oficial sobre questões ligadas à inspeção sanitária de carcaças bovinas e ao complexo teníase-cisticercose, bem como a sua interpretação da legislação (Decreto n o 9013/2017) relacionada à cisticercose. No período de junho a julho de 2020 foi realizado um levantamento sob forma de questionário a médicos veterinários que trabalhavam na inspeção do Estado do Rio Grande do Sul sobre questões ligadas a carcaças bovinas e ao complexo teníasecisticercose. Foram entrevistados 58 médicos veterinários que atuam no Sistema de Inspeção Estadual (SIE), em relação à legislação. Desses, 46,55% não consideram a legislação aplicada aos casos de cisticercose clara e de fácil interpretação. Sobre a rotina de inspeção, 25% não realizam treinamento de reciclagem e 6,90% dos fiscais não monitoram as atividades dos seus auxiliares durante a rotina de inspeção dos sítios pré-determinados. Sobre o método de inspeção, 70,69% afirmam ser insuficiente a pesquisa de cisticercos realizada na linha de abate para garantir a sanidade da carcaça. A decisão de liberar a carcaça com apenas um cisticerco calcificado após inspeção completa é considerada errada por 55,17%. De acordo com a interpretação dos Médicos Veterinários, observou-se que a legislação vigente deve ser questionada e que os estudos contribuem para uma melhora da qualidade do sistema de Inspeção Estadual nos produtos de origem animal.(AU)

Bovine cysticercosis is responsible for high losses in the meat production chain, being related to one of the main diseases transmitted by food. The objective of this work is to know the profile of Veterinarians in the official inspection system on issues related to the health notification of bovine carcasses and the taeniasis-cysticercosis complex and their interpretation of the legislation (Decree No. 9013/2017) related to cysticercosis. From June to July 2020, a survey was carried out in the form of care for veterinarians who attended surveillance in the State of Rio Grande do Sul on issues related to bovine carcasses and the taeniasis-cysticercosis complex. There were 58 veterinarians who work in the State Inspection System (SIE), in relation to legislation, 46.55% of doctors do not consider the legislation applied to cases of cysticercosis clear and easy to interpret. About the maintenance routine, 25% did not call for refresher training and 6.90% of the inspectors do not monitor the activities of their assistants during the maintenance routine of the predetermined sites. Regarding the method of protection, 70.69% claim that the survey of cysticerci carried out on the slaughter line is insufficient to guarantee the health of the carcass. The decision to release the carcass with only one calcified cysticercus after complete verification is considered wrong by 55.17%. According to the interpretation of the Veterinarians, it was observed that the current legislation must be questioned and that the studies obeyed to improve the quality of the State Inspection system in products of animal origin.(AU)

Stress indicators in cattle submitted to different pre-slaughter rest times / Indicadores de estresse em bovinos submetidos a diferentes tempos de descanso no pré-abate

The objective of this study was to determine the effect of pre-slaughter time about some blood constituents used as stress indicators in the evaluation of animal welfare in cattle. In the practice of ethology, animal welfare is assessed through physiological and behavioral indicators. For the determination of serum biomarkers of animal stress, a total of 180 animals was used, divided into two major groups according to the time of pre-slaughter. In the acceptable group, the animals had a pre-slaughter time up to 24 hours and in the not acceptable group the pre-slaughter time was greater than 24 h. These two groups were split up into three animal categories (males, females and castrated males). In this study, 30 samples were collected from each animal category of the two groups, acceptable and not acceptable, totaling 180 samples. Samples were separated for analysis of muscle enzymes creatine kinase and lactate dehydrogenase (CK and LDH), glucose and cortisol. Physiological values, regardless of the animal category and pre-slaughter time, were higher than the normal values of reference, expressing the prior management effect on animal welfare. The data clearly show a need to update and adapt the entire production chain to animal welfare practices, with the objective of producing competitive quality meat in the world market.(AU)

O objetivo do estudo foi avaliar o efeito do tempo de pré-abate sobre alguns constituintes sanguíneos utilizados como indicadores de estresse na avaliação do bem-estar animal em bovinos. Na prática da etologia, o bem-estar animal é avaliado por meio de indicadores fisiológicos e comportamentais. Para a determinação sérica de biomarcadores de estresse animal utilizaram-se 180 animais, divididos em dois grupos de acordo com o tempo de pré-abate: até 24 horas ou acima de 24 horas. Esses dois grupos subdividiram-se em três categorias animais (machos não-castrados, machos castrados ou fêmeas). Foram coletadas 30 amostras de cada categoria animal nos dois grupos, totalizando 180 amostras. Foram separadas amostras para análise de enzimas musculares creatina quinase e lactato desidrogenase (CK e LDH), glicose e cortisol. Os valores fisiológicos, independentemente da categoria animal e do tempo de pré-abate, foram superiores aos valores de referência, expressando o efeito do manejo prévio sobre o bem-estar dos animais. Os dados evidenciam claramente a necessidade de atualização e adequação de toda a cadeia produtiva às práticas de bem-estar animal, com o objetivo de produzir carne de qualidade competitiva no mercado mundial.(AU)

Economic loss from the main causes of whole bovine carcass condemnation in slaughterhouses supervised by the Federal Inspection Service in São Paulo state from 2010 to 2019

The objective of this study was to analyze and determine the economic loss from the main causes of whole bovine carcass condemnation in slaughterhouses thatare inspected by the Federal Inspection Service in the state of São Paulo for the period from 2010 to 2019. Economic loss was calculated from multiplication of the number of whole carcasses condemned by the mean yield of meat per carcass and the mean annual price of beef. The monetary values were updated to the year 2019, using the IGP-DI [General Price Index]. The results indicated an economic loss of R$ 4.06 billion from the whole condemnation of bovine carcasses and the main causes were contamination (R$ 1.73 billion), abscess (R$ 283.20 million), urinary cyst (R$ 194.14 million), emphysema (R$ 107.00 million) and nephritis (R$ 107.52 million). The main factors associated with the whole condemnation of bovine carcasses are failures in the pre-slaughter management and in the slaughter stages, as well as nutritional disorders. Consequently, to minimize such losses in beef production in São Paulo state it is recommended to adopt good production practices and train slaughterhouse employees.(AU)

Immunocastrated female pigs' social and feeding behaviour

- This study compared the social and feeding behaviour of immunocastrated female pigs using different immunocastration protocols. We used seventy-two gilts from industrial crossbreeding (Agroceres × Topigs) at 15 weeks of age. The pigs were distributed in a randomised design with three treatments. The second dose of the immunocastration vaccine was applied in two groups, six weeks before slaughter (I6) and four weeks before slaughter (I4). A non-immunised group (NI) was used for comparison. Due to the divergence in the time of immunisation between the two groups, an individual comparison of each immunocastrated group with the control group (NI vs. I6 and NI vs. I4) was performed. Social behaviour was analysed through the collection of images by a monitoring camera, and the analysis period was from 6:00 to 18:00 h, with behaviour observed every ten minutes. Feeding behaviour data were collected by the automated FIRE® system. Anti-GnRH immunisation and the different protocols of application did not influence most social and feeding behaviours.(AU)

Insensibilização e a qualidade da carne suína: Revisão bibliográfica / Stunning and pork meat quality: Bibliographic review

Produtos de origem animal destinados ao consumo humano vêm apresentando uma notoriedade quanto a biossegurança, rastreabilidade, qualidade, higiene e bem-estar animal frente aos consumidores. Após a terminação do suíno na granja, as etapas de pré-abate e abate, refletiram diretamente no produto final, consequentemente nos lucros obtidos pela empresa. Este trabalho tem por objetivo explicar como devem ser empregados os dois principais métodos de insensibilização aplicados na suinocultura e os efeitos na carcaça quanto a utilização dos mesmos. Demostrando desta forma, que ambos os sistemas são eficazes quanto ao bem- estar e a qualidade do produto final, desde que sejam adequadamente administrados.(AU)

Products of animal origin destined for human consumption have been presenting a notoriety regarding biosecurity, traceability, quality, hygiene and animal welfare to consumers. After finishing the pigs on the farm, the preslaughter and slaughter stages reflect directly on the final product, and consequently on the profits obtained by the company. This paper aims to explain how the two main stunning methods used in pig farming should be used and the effects on the carcass when using them. Thus, demonstrating that both systems are effective in terms of welfare and quality of the final product as long as they are properly managed.(AU)

Uteropexy in sheep as potential method for prevention of uterine torsion

Background: Uterine torsion is one of many causes of dystocia in sheep. Failure in performing of wright-time diagnostic procedures and treatment by certain obstetric procedures, can result with death of both fetus and ewe. There is sufficient knowledge about risk factors which could contribute to the occurrence of uterine torsion in sheep, but there is insufficient knowledge about measures for prevention of uterine torsion. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of performing incorporative uteropexy as potential method for prevention of uterine torsion. Cases: This research was part of the experimental research of changes in the anterior presentation in sheep fetuses due to their ventro-sacral position in the 2nd half of gestation. At the same sheep farm where afore mentioned research was conducted, the farmer has reported the death of 3 pregnant ewes. In all of 3 animals, torsion of the uterus was diagnosed by patho-anatomical examination. This study was conducted on 6 ewes. All of the animals were in the period around the 100th day of pregnancy at the time of clinical examination. The exact day of pregnancy was not determinated because of free mating in the herd. Confirmation of pregnancy in all of 6 ewes was performed by ultrasound examination. Uniparous pregnancy was found in all of 6 ewes. The entire surgical procedures were performed in the field conditions. Laparotomy was performed in the animals positioned in the left lateral recumbency. Surgical procedure of incorporative uteropexy was performed during the closure of muscle layers of abdominal wall. In need for experimental research of changes in the anterior presentation in sheep fetuses due to their ventro-sacral position in the 2nd half of gestation, 14 days after surgical procedures were conducted, all of sheep were positioned by assistants into a sitting position so that their trunks were vertical to the ground and kept in that position for 2 min. Ultrasound examination of surgical place of uteropexy confirmed that, in all of animals, uteruses were in place of surgical procedures. All of 6 ewes included in this study lambed naturally. One of 6 sheep was sent for economic exploitation on the 14th day after lambing. At the slaughter line, the abdominal wall was evaluated at the site where the incorporative uteropexy was performed. Patho-anatomical examination revealed tissue adhesions at the junction of the uterine horn with the abdominal wall. Discussion: Postsurgical tissue adhesions develop during normal healing process of tissue. According to our knowledge, previous studies do not mention effective measures that could contribute to the prevention of uterine torsion in sheep, but attention is focused on prompt diagnosis and treatment of the disease. According to the results of this study, postsurgical tissue adhesions were developed and confirmed by patho-anatomical examination in 1 sheep. Other 5 sheep were not economically exploited or sacrificed, and no studies were performed to establish the presence of postsurgical tissue adhesions. In conclusion, it could be said that incorporative uteropexy could be considered as preventive procedure in order to avoid the development of uterine torsion in ewes which have shown a history of this pathology, but also in ewes with identified risk factors for the disease. In future studies, it is necessary to identify more parameters which will contribute to identification of sheep which have high risk factors to obtain the torsion of uterus. Also, it is necessary to use non-invasive methods of clinical diagnostics, primary ultrasound diagnostic, to evaluate the area of incorporative uteropexy in order to assess newly formed tissue adhesions as well as to assess the vitality of fetus. It is necessary to follow the lambing process of ewes with incorporated uterus, and to provide medical assistance to the animals if complications occur during the lambing time.

Scrotal hemangiosarcoma in a Large White boar / Hemangiossarcoma na bolsa escrotal de um reprodutor Large White

Tumors are rarely diagnosed in swine specie because of the short lifespan of production animals. Normally, these tumors do not present any clinical signs and are often detected at the time of slaughter. A 2-year-old Large White boar, used in the reproductive management of a farm and without a history of pre-existing problems, was examined for skin lesions on the scrotum. Samples were collected from skin segments containing lesions for histopathological and immunohistochemical diagnosis. Microscopically, the nodes in the scrotum pouch consisted of poorly demarcated, highly cellular, expansile, and multifocally invasive neoplasms, composed of immature endotheliocytes organized into neovascular formations. The tumor cells were pleomorphic, slightly oval to spindle-shaped, with eosinophilic cytoplasm and hyperchromatic nuclei with one to three nucleoli. All the nodules analyzed were compatible with hemangiosarcoma. After immunohistochemical evaluation, for the quantification of tissue angiogenesis the neoplastic cells immunoexpressed the CD31 monoclonal antibodies and factor VIII, through the identification of proteins expressed on the surface of endothelial cells. The Ki67 cell proliferation marker was positive in approximately 10% of the neoplastic cells, demonstrating a high degree of malignancy. Hemangiosarcoma in swine species has already been identified in several organs and tissues; however, to date, no study has demonstrated the diagnosis of this condition on the skin of the scrotum, as reported in this study. Therefore, it is expected that this report will contribute to the knowledge of the frequency of neoplasms in swine species.

Na espécie suína os tumores são pouco diagnosticados devido a curta vida útil dos animais de produção. Normalmente não causam sinais clínicos, sendo, muitas vezes, encontrados no momento do abate. Um reprodutor com dois anos de idade, da raça Large White, utilizado no manejo reprodutivo de uma granja, sem histórico de problemas pré-existentes, foi examinado em função de lesões na pele da bolsa escrotal. Foram coletadas amostras de segmentos de pele contendo lesões para o diagnóstico histopatológico e imunohistoquímico. Microscopicamente os nodos em bolsa escrotal consistiam em neoplasias mal demarcadas, altamente celulares, expansivas e multifocalmente invasivas composta por endoteliócitos imaturos organizados em formações neovasculares. As células tumorais eram pleomórficas, levemente ovais a fusiformes com citoplasma eosinofílico e núcleos hipercromáticos e com um a três nucléolos. Todos os nódulos analisados foram compatíveis com hemangiossarcoma. Para a quantificação da angiogênese tecidual, após a avaliação imunohistoquímica, as células neoplásicas imunoexpressaram os anticorpos monoclonais CD31 e Fator VIII, através da identificação de proteínas expressas na superfície das células endoteliais. Observou-se o marcador de proliferação celular Ki67 positivo em aproximadamente 10% das células neoplásicas, demonstrando um alto grau de malignidade. O hemangiossarcoma na espécie suína já foi identificado em vários órgãos e tecidos, mas, até o momento, nenhum trabalho demonstrou o diagnóstico na pele da bolsa escrotal, como reportado, ineditamente, neste estudo. Face o exposto, espera-se que este relato contribua para a frequência de neoplasias encontradas na espécie suína.

Testicular morphometry as a tool to evaluate the efficiency of immunocastration in lambs

This study aimed to evaluate the efficiency of immunocastration in lambs using testicular morphometry. Thirty lambs were randomly divided into two treatments (subcutaneous administration of 1.0 mL and 0.5 mL of an anti-GnRH vaccine) and a control group (1.0 mL saline solution). The animals were vaccinated at four months of age, received a second dose 30 days later, and were slaughtered 90 days after the first vaccine dose. After slaughter, testicles were collected, and samples were removed for histological processing and evaluation of testicular morphometric parameters. Analysis of variance, Tukey's test, and Kruskal-Wallis test were performed, with a 5% level of significance. There was a reduction in testicular weight, gonadosomatic index, seminiferous tubule diameter, germinal epithelium height, leydigosomatic index, and total tubule length. The total length per testicular gram increased in the immunocastrated group. Intrinsic spermatogenesis yield, Sertoli cell indices, and estimates of sperm and Sertoli cell production were reduced in the immunized groups (P < 0.05). The anti-GnRH vaccine in lambs at doses of 1.0 mL and 0.5 mL is sufficient to promote immunocastration, verified through severe changes in testicular morphometry from animals.(AU)

Manejo pré-abate de bovinos e ocorrência de contusões na carcaça / Pre-slaughter handling of cattle and occurrence of bruising in carcass

Uma carne de qualidade está intrinsecamente relacionada ao bem-estar animal que, por sua vez, depende de um manejo adequado que minimize o estresse durante as várias etapas de pré-abate. O presente trabalho teve como objetivo acompanhar o manejo de bovinos antes do embarque na fazenda até o momento do abate e verificar a ocorrência de hematomas e contusões nas carcaças desses animais. O estudo foi realizado em uma fazenda situada no município de Miranda, no estado de Mato Grosso do Sul (MS) e em um abatedouro frigorífico sob Inspeção Federal localizado no município de Anastácio-MS. Durante o período de agosto a outubro de 2017, realizou-se o acompanhamento de bovinos Nelore castrados, de um mesmo lote, desde o embarque dos animais na fazenda até o momento do abate. Dos 100 animais abatidos, 52 (52%) apresentaram hematomas na carcaça. A ocorrência de hematomas nas meias carcaças foi maior no quarto traseiro (66,19%) em comparação com o quarto dianteiro (33,81%). No quarto traseiro foram encontradas lesões na região do vazio e na região do quarto. Quanto ao quarto dianteiro, foram encontradas lesões na região da costela e na região da tábua do pescoço. A implementação do conceito de bem-estar nas práticas de manejo pré-abate e nas instalações da propriedade são necessárias, assegurando a qualidade de vida dos animais, minimizando perdas por lesões e obtendo uma carne de boa qualidade microbiológica, físico-química e sensorial.

Quality meat is intrinsically related to animal welfare, which in turn depends on proper management that minimizes stress during the various pre-slaughter stages. Thus, the central objective of the present study was to follow the cattle before shipment for slaughter and to verify the occurrence of hematomas and bruises on the carcasses of these animals. The study was conducted in a farm located in Miranda, in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul (MS), and in a slaughterhouse under Federal Inspection in Anastácio-MS. Of the 100 slaughtered animals, 52 (52%) showed bruising on the carcass. The occurrence of hematomas in the half carcasses was higher in the hindquarter (66,19%) compared to the forequarter (33,81%). In the hindquarter, lesions were found in the region of the flank and in the region of the quarter. As for the forequarter, injuries were found in the rib region and in the neck board region. There is a need to implement the concept of welfare within the pre-slaughter handling practices and farm facilities, ensuring the quality of life of the animals, minimizing losses from injuries, and obtaining a meat of good microbiological, physicochemical, and visual quality.

Manejo pré-abate de bovinos e ocorrência de contusões na carcaça / Pre-slaughter handling of cattle and occurrence of bruising in carcass

Uma carne de qualidade está intrinsecamente relacionada ao bem-estar animal que, por sua vez, depende de um manejo adequado que minimize o estresse durante as várias etapas de pré-abate. O presente trabalho teve como objetivo acompanhar o manejo de bovinos antes do embarque na fazenda até o momento do abate e verificar a ocorrência de hematomas e contusões nas carcaças desses animais. O estudo foi realizado em uma fazenda situada no município de Miranda, no estado de Mato Grosso do Sul (MS) e em um abatedouro frigorífico sob Inspeção Federal localizado no município de Anastácio-MS. Durante o período de agosto a outubro de 2017, realizou-se o acompanhamento de bovinos Nelore castrados, de um mesmo lote, desde o embarque dos animais na fazenda até o momento do abate. Dos 100 animais abatidos, 52 (52%) apresentaram hematomas na carcaça. A ocorrência de hematomas nas meias carcaças foi maior no quarto traseiro (66,19%) em comparação com o quarto dianteiro (33,81%). No quarto traseiro foram encontradas lesões na região do vazio e na região do quarto. Quanto ao quarto dianteiro, foram encontradas lesões na região da costela e na região da tábua do pescoço. A implementação do conceito de bem-estar nas práticas de manejo pré-abate e nas instalações da propriedade são necessárias, assegurando a qualidade de vida dos animais, minimizando perdas por lesões e obtendo uma carne de boa qualidade microbiológica, físico-química e sensorial.(AU)

Quality meat is intrinsically related to animal welfare, which in turn depends on proper management that minimizes stress during the various pre-slaughter stages. Thus, the central objective of the present study was to follow the cattle before shipment for slaughter and to verify the occurrence of hematomas and bruises on the carcasses of these animals. The study was conducted in a farm located in Miranda, in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul (MS), and in a slaughterhouse under Federal Inspection in Anastácio-MS. Of the 100 slaughtered animals, 52 (52%) showed bruising on the carcass. The occurrence of hematomas in the half carcasses was higher in the hindquarter (66,19%) compared to the forequarter (33,81%). In the hindquarter, lesions were found in the region of the flank and in the region of the quarter. As for the forequarter, injuries were found in the rib region and in the neck board region. There is a need to implement the concept of welfare within the pre-slaughter handling practices and farm facilities, ensuring the quality of life of the animals, minimizing losses from injuries, and obtaining a meat of good microbiological, physicochemical, and visual quality.(AU)

Time series evaluation of ascitic syndrome condemnation at poultry abattoirs under Federal Inspection Service of Brazil (2010-2019)

ABSTRACT: Over the last decade, Brazil registered a 10.56% increase in the number of poultry slaughtered in establishments registered under the Serviço de Inspeção Federal (SIF - Federal Inspection Service), as a result of technological advances in management, health and genetics applied to national aviculture. At slaughter, during post-mortem inspection, carcasses can be totally or partially condemned for various reasons, including ascitic syndrome. This syndrome has economic implications for the industry, in addition to being a problem for the health and welfare of poultry. The objective of this work was to evaluate the historical series (2010-2019) of partial and total condemnations of poultry carcasses due to ascitic syndrome in slaughterhouses registered under the SIF and located in the main poultry-producing states. Through official data, the condemnation occurrence index (COI) and the adjusted seasonal index (ASI) were calculated. The condemnation rate was 1,140 carcasses condemned, totally or partially, for ascitic syndrome for every 1,000,000 poultry slaughtered. The smallest and largest COIs were found in São Paulo (February 2010) and in Goiás (January 2017), respectively. The occurrence of condemnations for this syndrome was cyclical throughout the historical series, showing peaks of condemnation in all years evaluated, with the highest ASIs in July, August and September, and with rates varying between 1.24 and 1.54 in these months. Considering the period of pre-slaughter housing, the highest ASIs coincide with the coldest period of the year (May to August) for all analyzed states. The results show that ascitic syndrome is a growing problem in Brazil, with greater occurrence during the coldest months of the year, having a negative impact on animal health and the profitability of producers and industries in the poultry production chain.

RESUMO: O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a série histórica (2010-2019) de condenações parciais e totais de carcaças de aves por síndrome ascítica em abatedouros registrados no SIF localizados nos principais estados produtores de carne de frango. Através de dados oficiais, foram calculados o índice de ocorrência de condenações (IOC) e o índice de sazonalidade ajustado (ISA). A taxa de condenação foi de 1.140 carcaças condenadas total ou parcialmente por síndrome ascítica a cada 1.000.000 de aves abatidas. O menor e maior IOCs foram encontrados em São Paulo (fevereiro/2010) e em Goiás (janeiro/2017), respectivamente. A ocorrência de condenações por esta síndrome teve comportamento cíclico ao longo da série histórica, apresentando picos de condenação em todos os anos avaliados, sendo os maiores ISAs encontrados nos meses de julho, agosto e setembro, com índices variando entre 1,24 e 1,54 nestes meses. Considerando o período de alojamento pré-abate, os maiores valores de ISAs coincidiram com o período mais frio do ano (Maio a Agosto) para todos os estados analisados. Os resultados mostram que síndrome ascítica é um problema crescente no Brasil, com maior ocorrência durante os meses frios do ano, impactando negativamente a saúde dos animais e a lucratividade dos produtores e indústrias da cadeia produtiva de frango de corte.

Influence of different periods of pre-slaughter fasting on microbiological quality of bullfrog carcasses (Lithobates catesbeianus) / [Influência de diferentes períodos de jejum pré-abate na qualidade microbiológica de carcaças de rã-touro (Lithobates catesbeianus)]

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of different periods of pre-slaughter fasting (F1: 2 to 24 hours and F2: 48 to 72 hours) on the counts of hygiene indicator microorganisms and the presence of Salmonella spp. in carcasses of bullfrogs. Two different stages of the slaughter process were analyzed: after bleeding (A) and after the final carcasses cleaning (B). Samples from each fasting period were analyzed to count hygiene indicator microorganisms (n=30) and Salmonella spp. (n=140). For aerobic mesophilic microorganisms, the variation in fasting periods caused a reduction of 0.69 log10 CFU / g (P<0.05) in F2 when compared to F1 at point B of the slaughter. Coliforms at 35º C and Escherichia coli showed no differences (P >0.05) between the fasting analyzed periods. Considering the presence of E. coli, it was observed that F2 resulted in a reduction of 30% (P<0.05) positivity on point B. For Salmonella spp., the results showed that F2 contributed to an 11.5% reduction in the presence of this bacteria at point B. (P<0.05). Therefore, it is concluded that 48 to 72 hours of pre-slaughter fasting resulted in a positive impact on the microbiological quality of bullfrog carcasses.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a influência de diferentes períodos de jejum pré-abate (F1: duas a 24 horas e F2: 48 a 72 horas) nas contagens de micro-organismos indicadores de higiene e na presença de Salmonella spp. em carcaças de rãs-touro. Foram analisadas duas etapas do processo de abate: após a sangria (A) e após a toalete final da carcaça (B). As amostras de cada período de jejum foram utilizadas para contagem de indicadores de higiene (n = 30) e Salmonella spp. (n = 140). Para aeróbios mesófilos, a variação no tempo de jejum causou uma redução de 0,69 log10 UFC/g (P<0,05) em F2 quando comparado a F1 na etapa B do abate. Os coliformes a 35ºC e Escherichia coli não apresentaram diferenças (P>0,05) entre os dois períodos de jejum analisados. Considerando a presença de E. coli, F2 resultou em uma redução de 30% (P<0,05) de positividade na etapa B. Para Salmonella spp., os resultados mostraram que F2 contribuiu para uma redução de 11,5% na presença desse micro-organismo na etapa B. Portanto, conclui-se que 48 a 72 horas de jejum pré-abate tiveram um impacto positivo na qualidade microbiológica das carcaças de rã-touro.(AU)

Evaluation of reactivity and stunning efficiency in cattle before and after slaughterhouse staff training / Avaliação da reatividade e insensibilização em bovinos antes e após o treinamento de funcionários em abatedouro frigorífico

The study aimed to evaluate the reactivity, as well as the efficacy of stunning in cattle before and after staff training at the slaughterhouse. For reactivity evaluation, vocalization, slips, falls, use of shockers and presence of lying animal were observed for handling in the corridor, bathing station and at the end of raceway in front of the stunning box. For stunning evaluation, shots applied to each animal to complete stunning and the distance between the shot site and the correct position for stunning were measured. Through mapping the main deficiencies and failures in each handling region, a training was elaborated focused on adoption of correct handling practices. After the informational lecture, data was collected again using the same procedures and in the same handling regions. After training, the quantification of all handling variables was considerably lower in the three regions of the pre-slaughter course, and there was a significant reduction in the bathing station and at the end of raceway in front of the stunning box (P<0.05). In addition, there was a significant increase in stunning performed at the correct shooting position and within 2 cm of the target (P<0.001), as well as reduction of shots applied outside of 3 cm (P<0.001). The number of shots required for complete stunning also decreased (P<0.05). Staff training was extremely efficient in reducing harmful variables to animal welfare and in increasing good practices in pre-slaughter handling.

O trabalho teve por objetivo avaliar a reatividade e aferir a eficiência de insensibilização em bovinos antes e após o treinamento de funcionários em abatedouro frigorífico. Foi observado o manejo no corredor, chuveiro e brete, sendo analisado: vocalização, escorregão, queda, uso de choque e presença de animal deitado. Foram quantificados os disparos necessários para que houvesse o atordoamento de cada animal e mensuração da distância compreendida entre o ponto do disparo efetuado e o local ideal para insensibilização. Através do mapeamento das principais deficiências e falhas de manejo em cada região, foi elaborada uma palestra com foco na adoção de manejos e práticas ideais no pré-abate. Após a palestra informativa, efetuou-se novamente a coleta de dados. Após o treinamento a quantificação de todas as variáveis de manejo foi consideravelmente inferior nas três regiões do percurso pré-abate, e houve redução nas regiões chuveiro e brete (P<0,05). Além disso, houve aumento na insensibilização efetuada no ponto ideal à até 2 cm da mesma (P<0,001), bem como redução de disparos efetuados acima de 3 cm de distância (P<0,001). A quantidade de disparos necessários para completo atordoamento também apresentou redução (P<0,005). O treinamento aos funcionários foi extremamente eficiente na redução de variáveis prejudicais ao bem-estar animal e no incremento de boas práticas no manejo pré-abate.

Evaluation of reactivity and stunning efficiency in cattle before and after slaughterhouse staff training / Avaliação da reatividade e insensibilização em bovinos antes e após o treinamento de funcionários em abatedouro frigorífico

The study aimed to evaluate the reactivity, as well as the efficacy of stunning in cattle before and after staff training at the slaughterhouse. For reactivity evaluation, vocalization, slips, falls, use of shockers and presence of lying animal were observed for handling in the corridor, bathing station and at the end of raceway in front of the stunning box. For stunning evaluation, shots applied to each animal to complete stunning and the distance between the shot site and the correct position for stunning were measured. Through mapping the main deficiencies and failures in each handling region, a training was elaborated focused on adoption of correct handling practices. After the informational lecture, data was collected again using the same procedures and in the same handling regions. After training, the quantification of all handling variables was considerably lower in the three regions of the pre-slaughter course, and there was a significant reduction in the bathing station and at the end of raceway in front of the stunning box (P<0.05). In addition, there was a significant increase in stunning performed at the correct shooting position and within 2 cm of the target (P<0.001), as well as reduction of shots applied outside of 3 cm (P<0.001). The number of shots required for complete stunning also decreased (P<0.05). Staff training was extremely efficient in reducing harmful variables to animal welfare and in increasing good practices in pre-slaughter handling.(AU)

O trabalho teve por objetivo avaliar a reatividade e aferir a eficiência de insensibilização em bovinos antes e após o treinamento de funcionários em abatedouro frigorífico. Foi observado o manejo no corredor, chuveiro e brete, sendo analisado: vocalização, escorregão, queda, uso de choque e presença de animal deitado. Foram quantificados os disparos necessários para que houvesse o atordoamento de cada animal e mensuração da distância compreendida entre o ponto do disparo efetuado e o local ideal para insensibilização. Através do mapeamento das principais deficiências e falhas de manejo em cada região, foi elaborada uma palestra com foco na adoção de manejos e práticas ideais no pré-abate. Após a palestra informativa, efetuou-se novamente a coleta de dados. Após o treinamento a quantificação de todas as variáveis de manejo foi consideravelmente inferior nas três regiões do percurso pré-abate, e houve redução nas regiões chuveiro e brete (P<0,05). Além disso, houve aumento na insensibilização efetuada no ponto ideal à até 2 cm da mesma (P<0,001), bem como redução de disparos efetuados acima de 3 cm de distância (P<0,001). A quantidade de disparos necessários para completo atordoamento também apresentou redução (P<0,005). O treinamento aos funcionários foi extremamente eficiente na redução de variáveis prejudicais ao bem-estar animal e no incremento de boas práticas no manejo pré-abate.(AU)