Anthelmintic usage on the Reproductive Parameters in Captive reared Agoutis (Dasyprocta leporina) in Trinidad and Tobago, West Indies / Uso de anti-helmíntico nos parâmetros reprodutivos em cutias criadas em cativeiro (Dasyprocta leporina) em Trinidad e Tobago, Índias Ocidentais

The agouti (Dasyprocta leporina) is a rodent that is found in the Neo-tropical region. This animal is hunted for its meat but has recently been reared in captivity as a source of meat protein in rural communities. A 20-month experiment was carried out to evaluate the effect of an anthelmintic on the reproductive performance of the agouti (Dasyprocta leporina) reared in captivity. This experiment was conducted in the humid tropics of Trinidad and Tobago. Sixteen animals (15 females, 1 male) placed in each of the two treatment groups in a completely randomized study design. In treatment 1 (T1) animals were given subcutaneous injections of Endovet Ces® (Ivermectin/Praziquantel) at 0.2 mg/kg every three months. Treatment 2 (T2) was the negative control group where animals were not exposed to an anthelmintic. Reproductive data were collected at parturition which included birth weight, litter weight, litter size and gender of offspring. The results showed that there was no statistical difference (p > 0.05) between the treatment groups with respect to birth weight, litter weight, litter size and gender. However, agoutis that were dewormed had a higher birth weight (220.24 g vs 209.1 g) and litter weight (369.8 g vs 343 g). The same values were obtained for the litter size (1.7 vs 1.7) and animals that were dewormed had a higher female offspring to male offspring (2.41:1 vs 1.11:1). This experiment demonstrated that the use of an anthelmintic strategically in the management of captive reared agoutis had no statistical effect (p > 0.05) on the reproductive parameters. Therefore, these animals can be kept in captive conditions without being dewormed and produce efficiently with proper feeding and housing management.

A cutia (Dasyprocta leporina) é um roedor que se encontra na região neo-tropical. Esse animal é caçado por sua carne, mas recentemente foi criado em cativeiro como fonte de proteína de carne em comunidades rurais. Um experimento de 20 meses foi realizado para avaliar o efeito de um anti-helmíntico no desempenho reprodutivo de cutias (Dasyprocta leporina) criadas em cativeiro. Esse experimento foi conduzido nos trópicos úmidos de Trinidad e Tobago. Dezesseis animais (15 fêmeas, 1 macho) colocados em cada um dos dois grupos de tratamento em um desenho de estudo completamente randomizado. No tratamento 1 (T1) os animais receberam injeções subcutâneas de Endovet Ces® (Ivermectina / Praziquantel) na dose de 0,2 mg / kg a cada três meses. O tratamento 2 (T2) foi o grupo de controle negativo onde os animais não foram expostos a um anti-helmíntico. Os dados reprodutivos foram coletados no parto, incluindo peso ao nascer, peso da ninhada, tamanho da ninhada e sexo da prole. Os resultados mostraram que não houve diferença estatística (p > 0,05) entre os grupos de tratamento com relação ao peso ao nascer, peso da ninhada, tamanho da ninhada e sexo. No entanto, cutias desparasitadas tiveram maior peso ao nascer (220,24 g vs. 209,1 g) e peso da ninhada (369,8 g vs. 343 g). Os mesmos valores foram obtidos para o tamanho da ninhada (1,7 vs. 1,7) e os animais que foram desparasitados tiveram uma prole feminina maior do que a prole masculina (2,41: 1 vs. 1,11: 1). Esse experimento demonstrou que o uso de anti-helmíntico estrategicamente no manejo de cutias criadas em cativeiro não teve efeito estatístico (p > 0,05) sobre os parâmetros reprodutivos. Portanto, esses animais podem ser mantidos em cativeiro sem serem vermifugados e produzir de forma eficiente com alimentação adequada e manejo do alojamento.

Anthelmintic usage on the Reproductive Parameters in Captive reared Agoutis (Dasyprocta leporina) in Trinidad and Tobago, West Indies / Uso de anti-helmíntico nos parâmetros reprodutivos em cutias criadas em cativeiro (Dasyprocta leporina) em Trinidad e Tobago, Índias Ocidentais

The agouti (Dasyprocta leporina) is a rodent that is found in the Neo-tropical region. This animal is hunted for its meat but has recently been reared in captivity as a source of meat protein in rural communities. A 20-month experiment was carried out to evaluate the effect of an anthelmintic on the reproductive performance of the agouti (Dasyprocta leporina) reared in captivity. This experiment was conducted in the humid tropics of Trinidad and Tobago. Sixteen animals (15 females, 1 male) placed in each of the two treatment groups in a completely randomized study design. In treatment 1 (T1) animals were given subcutaneous injections of Endovet Ces® (Ivermectin/Praziquantel) at 0.2 mg/kg every three months. Treatment 2 (T2) was the negative control group where animals were not exposed to an anthelmintic. Reproductive data were collected at parturition which included birth weight, litter weight, litter size and gender of offspring. The results showed that there was no statistical difference (p > 0.05) between the treatment groups with respect to birth weight, litter weight, litter size and gender. However, agoutis that were dewormed had a higher birth weight (220.24 g vs 209.1 g) and litter weight (369.8 g vs 343 g). The same values were obtained for the litter size (1.7 vs 1.7) and animals that were dewormed had a higher female offspring to male offspring (2.41:1 vs 1.11:1). This experiment demonstrated that the use of an anthelmintic strategically in the management of captive reared agoutis had no statistical effect (p > 0.05) on the reproductive parameters. Therefore, these animals can be kept in captive conditions without being dewormed and produce efficiently with proper feeding and housing management.(AU)

A cutia (Dasyprocta leporina) é um roedor que se encontra na região neo-tropical. Esse animal é caçado por sua carne, mas recentemente foi criado em cativeiro como fonte de proteína de carne em comunidades rurais. Um experimento de 20 meses foi realizado para avaliar o efeito de um anti-helmíntico no desempenho reprodutivo de cutias (Dasyprocta leporina) criadas em cativeiro. Esse experimento foi conduzido nos trópicos úmidos de Trinidad e Tobago. Dezesseis animais (15 fêmeas, 1 macho) colocados em cada um dos dois grupos de tratamento em um desenho de estudo completamente randomizado. No tratamento 1 (T1) os animais receberam injeções subcutâneas de Endovet Ces® (Ivermectina / Praziquantel) na dose de 0,2 mg / kg a cada três meses. O tratamento 2 (T2) foi o grupo de controle negativo onde os animais não foram expostos a um anti-helmíntico. Os dados reprodutivos foram coletados no parto, incluindo peso ao nascer, peso da ninhada, tamanho da ninhada e sexo da prole. Os resultados mostraram que não houve diferença estatística (p > 0,05) entre os grupos de tratamento com relação ao peso ao nascer, peso da ninhada, tamanho da ninhada e sexo. No entanto, cutias desparasitadas tiveram maior peso ao nascer (220,24 g vs. 209,1 g) e peso da ninhada (369,8 g vs. 343 g). Os mesmos valores foram obtidos para o tamanho da ninhada (1,7 vs. 1,7) e os animais que foram desparasitados tiveram uma prole feminina maior do que a prole masculina (2,41: 1 vs. 1,11: 1). Esse experimento demonstrou que o uso de anti-helmíntico estrategicamente no manejo de cutias criadas em cativeiro não teve efeito estatístico (p > 0,05) sobre os parâmetros reprodutivos. Portanto, esses animais podem ser mantidos em cativeiro sem serem vermifugados e produzir de forma eficiente com alimentação adequada e manejo do alojamento.(AU)

Clinical parameters and calf liveweight of Nellore breeders supplemented or not with phosphorus, during pregnancy and lactation - a case study / Parâmetros clínicos e peso de bezerros Nelore cujas matrizes foram suplementadas ou não com fósforo, durante a gestação e a lactação - estudo de caso

The aim of this case study was to evaluate the clinical and productive data of Nellore cows during pregnancy and lactation, supplemented or not with P. Ninety-five pregnant heifers were divided into two groups (G40 and G0). Until the date of calving animals from G40 received a mineral mixture composed of 224g of Na and 40g of P/kg, and G0 received only NaCl. After calving heifers were divided into four treatments: from G40, 28 first-calf cows continued to receive the mineral mixture containing 224g of Na and 40g of P/kg (group 40/40) and 12 started to receive only NaCl (group 40/0); from G0, 26 continued to receive only NaCl (group 0/0) and 15 started to receive a mixture containing 224g of Na and 40g of P/kg (group 0/40). In the second experimental phase, 205 multiparous cows were divided into two groups: G1 (40/40) consisting of 40 cows, receiving a mineral mixture containing 244g of Na and 40g/P per kg, during pregnancy and lactation, and group 2 (0/0) formed by 165 cows, which were supplemented only with NaCl. In both experiments, whether in pregnant or lactating breeders, there was not any sign of P deficiency or differences in calves LW at 120 and 210 days.

Este estudo avaliou os aspectos clínicos e produtivos de matrizes Nelore, suplementadas ou não com P. Noventa, e cinco nulíparas prenhes foram distribuídas em dois grupos (G40 e G0). Os animais do G40 receberam uma mistura mineral com 224g de Na e 40g de P/kg, até a data do parto, e o G0 recebeu apenas NaCl. Após o parto, as primíparas foram divididas em quatro grupos: do G40, 28 continuaram a receber mistura contendo 224g de Na e 40g de P/kg (grupo 40/40), e 12 passaram a receber apenas NaCl (grupo 40/0); do G0 26 continuaram recebendo apenas NaCl (grupo 0/0), e 15 passaram a ser suplementadas com a mistura contendo 224g de Na e 40g de P/kg (grupo 0/40). Na segunda fase experimental, 205 vacas foram divididas em dois grupos: G1 (40/40), composto por 40 vacas, suplementadas com a mistura mineral contendo 244g de Na e 40g de P/kg, durante a gestação e a lactação, e o G2 (0/0) foi formado por 165 vacas, as quais foram suplementadas apenas com NaCl, durante a gestação e a lactação. Em ambos os experimentos, seja nas matrizes em gestação ou naquelas em lactação, não houve qualquer sinal da deficiência de P, e isso se refletiu na ausência de diferenças nos pesos dos bezerros aos 120 e 210 dias.

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.

Relationship between reproductive performance and meteorological variables in French Alpine goats in the northwestern part of Croatia

The study aimed to determine the relationship between reproductive performance, kidding distribution, and birth weight of French Alpine goats and meteorological variables in the northwestern part of Croatia throughout six consecutive years (from 2013 until 2018). During the study, French Alpine goats (n=948) on the 6 dairy goat farms, birthed 1025 goat kids after 893 successful matings (55 matings were unsuccessful) during six consecutive years. The average birth weight was 3.46±0.48 kg for females (n=478) and 3.71±0.51 kg for male kids (n=547). French Alpine does with single kids accounted for 85.89% (n=767), with twins 13.44% (n=120) and triplets 0.67% (n=6). The average litter size was 1.15, and the average parity was 2.95. The birth weight of goat kids in primiparous and pluriparous goats was not significantly different. Survival rate (until 1 month of age) was 93.66 % (n=960). French Alpine does fertility in northwestern Croatia, through six years was 94.18%. Seasonal kidding of French Alpine was distributed mostly on two seasons: winter (73.57%) and spring (24.52%) in the northwestern part of Croatia during six consecutive years 2013-2018. Observed differences in the kidding distribution per month during the years of observation were statistically significant (P = 0.018). The highest number of kidding was recorded in February in all years of observation. It can be concluded that there was not any relationship between monthly air temperature and precipitation amounts with tested reproductive performances in French Alpine dairy goats in the NW part of Croatia during the observed period.(AU)

Relationship between reproductive performance and meteorological variables in French Alpine goats in the northwestern part of Croatia

The study aimed to determine the relationship between reproductive performance, kidding distribution, and birth weight of French Alpine goats and meteorological variables in the northwestern part of Croatia throughout six consecutive years (from 2013 until 2018). During the study, French Alpine goats (n=948) on the 6 dairy goat farms, birthed 1025 goat kids after 893 successful matings (55 matings were unsuccessful) during six consecutive years. The average birth weight was 3.46±0.48 kg for females (n=478) and 3.71±0.51 kg for male kids (n=547). French Alpine does with single kids accounted for 85.89% (n=767), with twins 13.44% (n=120) and triplets 0.67% (n=6). The average litter size was 1.15, and the average parity was 2.95. The birth weight of goat kids in primiparous and pluriparous goats was not significantly different. Survival rate (until 1 month of age) was 93.66 % (n=960). French Alpine does fertility in northwestern Croatia, through six years was 94.18%. Seasonal kidding of French Alpine was distributed mostly on two seasons: winter (73.57%) and spring (24.52%) in the northwestern part of Croatia during six consecutive years 2013-2018. Observed differences in the kidding distribution per month during the years of observation were statistically significant (P = 0.018). The highest number of kidding was recorded in February in all years of observation. It can be concluded that there was not any relationship between monthly air temperature and precipitation amounts with tested reproductive performances in French Alpine dairy goats in the NW part of Croatia during the observed period.

Influence of gestation length, seasonality, and calf sex on birth weight and placental retention in crossbred dairy cows / Influência da duração da gestação, estação do ano, sexo e peso ao nascer do bezerro sobre a retenção placentária em vacas leiteiras mestiças

The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of gestation length, season at calving (autumn-winter vs. spring-summer) and calf sex on birth weight and incidence of retained placenta (RP) in crossbred lactating dairy cows. A total of 187 parturitions were evaluated in a commercial dairy farm at Alto Paranaiba region, Minas Gerais, Brazil. Cows that did not release the placental membranes within the first 12 hours after calf expulsion were diagnosed with RP. At birth, calf sex was registered, and birth weight was estimated by using a weighing tape. The incidence of RP was 36.89% (69/187). The mean birth weight of the calves (41.73 kg) did not differ among the calf sexes and seasons of the year at birth (P > 0.05), but the cows with below-average gestation lengths (274.4 days) calved lighter calves. Furthermore, the season of the year at calving and calf sex had no influence on RP incidence (P > 0.05), although a higher incidence of RP was observed in cows that had shorter gestation lengths (49.44%) and calves below-average birth weights (51.76%). In conclusion, cows with shorter gestation lengths produce lighter offspring and have a high predisposition to RP.

Objetivou-se avaliar a influência da duração da gestação, da estação do ano ao parto (outono-inverno vs. primavera-verão) e do sexo do bezerro sobre o peso ao nascimento, bem como os efeitos destas variáveis sobre a incidência de retenção de placenta (RP) em vacas leiteiras mestiças. Foram avaliados 187 partos em uma fazenda comercial leiteira na região do Alto Paranaíba, Minas Gerais, Brasil. Vacas que não liberaram os anexos placentários nas primeiras 12 horas após a expulsão do feto foram diagnosticadas com RP. Ao parto, o sexo da cria foi registrado e o peso ao nascer foi obtido por meio da fita de pesagem. A incidência de RP foi de 36,89% (69/187). O peso médio ao nascer dos bezerros (41,73 kg) não diferiu entre sexo e estação do ano ao nascimento (P > 0,05), porém vacas cuja gestação teve duração abaixo da média (274,4 dias) pariram bezerros mais leves. A estação do ano ao parto e o sexo da cria também não influenciaram a incidência de RP (P > 0,05), no entanto uma maior incidência de RP foi observada em vacas que apresentaram gestações de menor duração (49,44%) e cujas crias tiveram peso ao nascer abaixo da média (51,76%). Conclui-se que vacas com período de gestação curto comprometem o peso ao nascer dos bezerros e são mais susceptíveis à desenvolver retenção de placenta.

Influence of gestation length, seasonality, and calf sex on birth weight and placental retention in crossbred dairy cows / Influência da duração da gestação, estação do ano, sexo e peso ao nascer do bezerro sobre a retenção placentária em vacas leiteiras mestiças

The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of gestation length, season at calving (autumn-winter vs. spring-summer) and calf sex on birth weight and incidence of retained placenta (RP) in crossbred lactating dairy cows. A total of 187 parturitions were evaluated in a commercial dairy farm at Alto Paranaiba region, Minas Gerais, Brazil. Cows that did not release the placental membranes within the first 12 hours after calf expulsion were diagnosed with RP. At birth, calf sex was registered, and birth weight was estimated by using a weighing tape. The incidence of RP was 36.89% (69/187). The mean birth weight of the calves (41.73 kg) did not differ among the calf sexes and seasons of the year at birth (P > 0.05), but the cows with below-average gestation lengths (274.4 days) calved lighter calves. Furthermore, the season of the year at calving and calf sex had no influence on RP incidence (P > 0.05), although a higher incidence of RP was observed in cows that had shorter gestation lengths (49.44%) and calves below-average birth weights (51.76%). In conclusion, cows with shorter gestation lengths produce lighter offspring and have a high predisposition to RP.(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar a influência da duração da gestação, da estação do ano ao parto (outono-inverno vs. primavera-verão) e do sexo do bezerro sobre o peso ao nascimento, bem como os efeitos destas variáveis sobre a incidência de retenção de placenta (RP) em vacas leiteiras mestiças. Foram avaliados 187 partos em uma fazenda comercial leiteira na região do Alto Paranaíba, Minas Gerais, Brasil. Vacas que não liberaram os anexos placentários nas primeiras 12 horas após a expulsão do feto foram diagnosticadas com RP. Ao parto, o sexo da cria foi registrado e o peso ao nascer foi obtido por meio da fita de pesagem. A incidência de RP foi de 36,89% (69/187). O peso médio ao nascer dos bezerros (41,73 kg) não diferiu entre sexo e estação do ano ao nascimento (P > 0,05), porém vacas cuja gestação teve duração abaixo da média (274,4 dias) pariram bezerros mais leves. A estação do ano ao parto e o sexo da cria também não influenciaram a incidência de RP (P > 0,05), no entanto uma maior incidência de RP foi observada em vacas que apresentaram gestações de menor duração (49,44%) e cujas crias tiveram peso ao nascer abaixo da média (51,76%). Conclui-se que vacas com período de gestação curto comprometem o peso ao nascer dos bezerros e são mais susceptíveis à desenvolver retenção de placenta.(AU)

Relationship between fetal biometric assessment by ultrasonography and neonatal lamb vitality, birth weight and growth

Ultrasonographic examination of pregnant ewes can enable the identification of perinatal abnormalities and establish prenatal assistance responsible for minimizing morbidity and perinatal mortality. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the feasibility of a fetal biometric analysis by ultrasonography to predict neonatal vitality and lamb growth during the first month of life. A longitudinal study was conducted with 13 healthy ewes, subjected to ultrasonographic examination every 15 days from 60th day of pregnancy until lambing, evaluating thoracic diameter, abdominal diameter, biparietal diameter, humerus, femur and placentome length. At birth, 22 lambs were assessed through Apgar score at 5 minutes and after 1 hour. Measurement of body weight was also carried out immediately at birth and weekly during 30 days after birth. Thoracic diameter showed a significant increase between 91-105 days and 121-135 days. Conversely, abdominal diameter had a progressive growth until 106-120 days, and then, a steady development was observed. Biparietal diameter showed progressive growth only towards days 91 and 105. For the humerus length, we verified a significant increase between 106-120 days and 121-135 days, remaining unaltered onwards; while femur length continued to grow until lambing. The linear regression analysis between birth weight and biparietal diameter at 60-75 days was high (R2=0.96; P<0.0001; coefficient of variability of 3.3%). In conclusion, ultrasonographic analysis of fetal biparietal diameter at mid-pregnancy can be used as a predictor of lamb weight at birth. Moreover, assessment of femur length at final pregnancy can be employed for fetal and neonatal development estimation.

Relationship between fetal biometric assessment by ultrasonography and neonatal lamb vitality, birth weight and growth

Ultrasonographic examination of pregnant ewes can enable the identification of perinatal abnormalities and establish prenatal assistance responsible for minimizing morbidity and perinatal mortality. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the feasibility of a fetal biometric analysis by ultrasonography to predict neonatal vitality and lamb growth during the first month of life. A longitudinal study was conducted with 13 healthy ewes, subjected to ultrasonographic examination every 15 days from 60th day of pregnancy until lambing, evaluating thoracic diameter, abdominal diameter, biparietal diameter, humerus, femur and placentome length. At birth, 22 lambs were assessed through Apgar score at 5 minutes and after 1 hour. Measurement of body weight was also carried out immediately at birth and weekly during 30 days after birth. Thoracic diameter showed a significant increase between 91-105 days and 121-135 days. Conversely, abdominal diameter had a progressive growth until 106-120 days, and then, a steady development was observed. Biparietal diameter showed progressive growth only towards days 91 and 105. For the humerus length, we verified a significant increase between 106-120 days and 121-135 days, remaining unaltered onwards; while femur length continued to grow until lambing. The linear regression analysis between birth weight and biparietal diameter at 60-75 days was high (R2=0.96; P<0.0001; coefficient of variability of 3.3%). In conclusion, ultrasonographic analysis of fetal biparietal diameter at mid-pregnancy can be used as a predictor of lamb weight at birth. Moreover, assessment of femur length at final pregnancy can be employed for fetal and neonatal development estimation.(AU)

Association between gestation length and lactation performance, lactation curve, calf birth weight and dystocia in Holstein dairy cows in Iran

In this study, 252,798 lactations on 108,077 cows in 433 herds were used to determine the association between gestation length (GL) and lactation performance, lactation curve, calf birth weight and dystocia in Holstein dairy cows in Iran. The GL averaged 278.1 ± 5.41 d, was categorized as short (SGL; at 1 SD below the population mean), average (AGL; the population mean ± 1 SD), or long (LGL; at least 1 SD above the population mean). Factors including parity, calf gender and calving season were associated with the GL. Primiparous cows with SGL had less lactation performance than those with longer GL; however, there was no difference between those with AGL and LGL. Multiparous cows with longer GL always had more partial and 305-d lactation performance. Primiparous cows with SGL produced less milk at the beginning of lactation and at the peak than those with AGL or LGL; inverse trends were found for lactation persistency, upward and downward slopes of the lactation curve. Within multiparous, a direct relationship was found between GL and the peak yield, where cows with longer GL always produced more milk at the peak. Multiparous cows with SGL produced less milk at the beginning of lactation, reached their peaks later, had higher lactation persistency and showed a lower upward slope of lactation curve than those with AGL or LGL. There was a direct relationship between GL and calf birth weight, where cows with longer GL had calves with more weight at the birth. Within primiparous, cows with SGL had the lowest and those with LGL had the highest rate of dystocia. However, multiparous cows with AGL had a lower rate of dystocia than those with SGL or LGL. Although there was a direct relationship between GL and lactation performance, intermediate GL seems optimal when considering dystocia.(AU)

Association between gestation length and lactation performance, lactation curve, calf birth weight and dystocia in Holstein dairy cows in Iran

In this study, 252,798 lactations on 108,077 cows in 433 herds were used to determine the association between gestation length (GL) and lactation performance, lactation curve, calf birth weight and dystocia in Holstein dairy cows in Iran. The GL averaged 278.1 ± 5.41 d, was categorized as short (SGL; at 1 SD below the population mean), average (AGL; the population mean ± 1 SD), or long (LGL; at least 1 SD above the population mean). Factors including parity, calf gender and calving season were associated with the GL. Primiparous cows with SGL had less lactation performance than those with longer GL; however, there was no difference between those with AGL and LGL. Multiparous cows with longer GL always had more partial and 305-d lactation performance. Primiparous cows with SGL produced less milk at the beginning of lactation and at the peak than those with AGL or LGL; inverse trends were found for lactation persistency, upward and downward slopes of the lactation curve. Within multiparous, a direct relationship was found between GL and the peak yield, where cows with longer GL always produced more milk at the peak. Multiparous cows with SGL produced less milk at the beginning of lactation, reached their peaks later, had higher lactation persistency and showed a lower upward slope of lactation curve than those with AGL or LGL. There was a direct relationship between GL and calf birth weight, where cows with longer GL had calves with more weight at the birth. Within primiparous, cows with SGL had the lowest and those with LGL had the highest rate of dystocia. However, multiparous cows with AGL had a lower rate of dystocia than those with SGL or LGL. Although there was a direct relationship between GL and lactation performance, intermediate GL seems optimal when considering dystocia.

Impact of birth weight and daily weight gain during suckling on the weight gain of weaning piglets / Impacto do peso ao nascimento e ganho de peso na maternidade sobre o ganho de peso dos leitões na creche

This study evaluated the effect of birth weight and weight gain during the suckling phase on the piglet daily weight gain during the nursery phase (21-61 days of age). Piglets (n= 534) derived from 55 first-parity sows were weighed at birth, weaning, and end of the nursery phase. The data were analyzed according to a completely randomized experimental design, with three classes of birth weight (BW) and two classes of weight gain during the suckling phase (SDWG). High BW and low SDWG piglets were 0.2kg lighter at weaning than low BW and high SDWG animals (P< 0.05). However, at the end of the nursery phase, this situation was inverted, with high BW and low SDWG piglets 2.20kg heavier (P< 0.05). Low BW and high SDWG piglets were heavier at weaning and at the end of the nursery phase than low BW and low SDWG piglets (P< 0.05). At the same time, intermediate and high BW and low and high SDWG piglets presented body weight differences at weaning (P< 0.05), but not at the end of the nursery phase (P< 0.05). Piglets with 1.25 to 2.30kg BW and low weight gain during suckling presented a partial compensatory growth during the nursery phase.(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar o efeito do peso dos leitões ao nascimento e do seu ganho de peso na maternidade sobre seu desempenho na fase de creche (21-61 dias de idade). Quinhentos e trinta e quatro leitões, provenientes de 55 primíparas, foram pesados ao nascimento, no desmame e na saída da creche. Os animais foram distribuídos em um delineamento inteiramente ao acaso, em três classes de peso ao nascimento (PN) e duas classes de ganho de peso diário (GPD) na maternidade. Os animais com alto PN e baixo GPD na maternidade desmamaram 0,2kg mais leves que os animais com baixo PN e alto GPD na maternidade (P<0,05). Porém, os animais com alto PN e baixo GPD na maternidade saíram da creche 2,10kg mais pesados (P<0,05). A diferença aos 21 dias entre os dois tratamentos (alto e baixo GPD) com animais de baixo PN foi de 1,18kg e passou para 2,20kg ao final da creche (P<0,05). No caso dos animais com médio e alto PN, a diferença ao desmame era de 1,14 e 1,26kg e passou para 0,90 e 0,70kg na saída da creche (P<0,05), respectivamente. Leitões com peso ao nascimento entre 1,25 e 2,30kg, com baixo ganho de peso diário na maternidade, apresentaram efeito compensatório parcial no ganho de peso diário durante a creche.(AU)

Impact of birth weight and daily weight gain during suckling on the weight gain of weaning piglets / Impacto do peso ao nascimento e ganho de peso na maternidade sobre o ganho de peso dos leitões na creche

This study evaluated the effect of birth weight and weight gain during the suckling phase on the piglet daily weight gain during the nursery phase (21-61 days of age). Piglets (n= 534) derived from 55 first-parity sows were weighed at birth, weaning, and end of the nursery phase. The data were analyzed according to a completely randomized experimental design, with three classes of birth weight (BW) and two classes of weight gain during the suckling phase (SDWG). High BW and low SDWG piglets were 0.2kg lighter at weaning than low BW and high SDWG animals (P< 0.05). However, at the end of the nursery phase, this situation was inverted, with high BW and low SDWG piglets 2.20kg heavier (P< 0.05). Low BW and high SDWG piglets were heavier at weaning and at the end of the nursery phase than low BW and low SDWG piglets (P< 0.05). At the same time, intermediate and high BW and low and high SDWG piglets presented body weight differences at weaning (P< 0.05), but not at the end of the nursery phase (P< 0.05). Piglets with 1.25 to 2.30kg BW and low weight gain during suckling presented a partial compensatory growth during the nursery phase.(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar o efeito do peso dos leitões ao nascimento e do seu ganho de peso na maternidade sobre seu desempenho na fase de creche (21-61 dias de idade). Quinhentos e trinta e quatro leitões, provenientes de 55 primíparas, foram pesados ao nascimento, no desmame e na saída da creche. Os animais foram distribuídos em um delineamento inteiramente ao acaso, em três classes de peso ao nascimento (PN) e duas classes de ganho de peso diário (GPD) na maternidade. Os animais com alto PN e baixo GPD na maternidade desmamaram 0,2kg mais leves que os animais com baixo PN e alto GPD na maternidade (P<0,05). Porém, os animais com alto PN e baixo GPD na maternidade saíram da creche 2,10kg mais pesados (P<0,05). A diferença aos 21 dias entre os dois tratamentos (alto e baixo GPD) com animais de baixo PN foi de 1,18kg e passou para 2,20kg ao final da creche (P<0,05). No caso dos animais com médio e alto PN, a diferença ao desmame era de 1,14 e 1,26kg e passou para 0,90 e 0,70kg na saída da creche (P<0,05), respectivamente. Leitões com peso ao nascimento entre 1,25 e 2,30kg, com baixo ganho de peso diário na maternidade, apresentaram efeito compensatório parcial no ganho de peso diário durante a creche.(AU)

Different corporal structures determining the effective production of Red Angus primiparous cows at 24 months of age / Diferentes estruturas corporais na produtividade efetiva de vacas primíparas aos 24 meses de idade

The objective was to evaluate the production and efficiency of 24-month-old Red Angus primiparous cows of different weights at weaning and repetition of pregnancy. Before calving, the females were managed in natural prairies and fed sweet clover (Lotus corniculatus) and ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam.), with loads of 315 and 501 kg ha-¹, respectively. Females were divided into groups according to the average birth weight into light 346.15 ± 3.39 kg; moderate 381.95 ± 2.99 kg; and heavy 412.63 ± 3.33 kg weights. The indicators evaluated were: primiparous weights and body conditions at calving and weaning, daily average and total gains, fixed-time artificial insemination (FTAI), and accumulation. Calves at birth and weaning had their daily average and total weights evaluated. In terms of production, the daily average and total gains per pair and effective herd production (EHP) of the weight groups were measured. At weaning, morphometric measures, viz. croup height and thoracic perimeter had a linear relationship increasing with the weight at calving. In FTAI and cumulative pregnancy, the groups of light and moderate cows were more efficient than the heavy group cows, with values of 81.25%, 75.00%, and 55.56%, respectively. The EHP differed between the groups with values of 37.07 ± 1.71, 28.13 ± 1.50, and 19.99 ± 1.68 kg, for light, moderate, and heavy, respectively. Light cows were 31.8% and 85.4% higher in effective production than moderate and heavy cows, respectively. Knowledge of the production system is important for enhancing breeding efficiency. The improvement in productive performance is related to the adequacy of metrices used in the production system.(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar a produção e eficiência de vacas Red Angus primíparas aos 24 meses de diferentes pesos do parto a desmama e a repetição de cria. Antes do parto as fêmeas foram manejadas em pastagens naturais e após em pastagens de cornichão (Lotus corniculatus) e azevém (Lolium multiflorum Lam.) com cargas de 315 e 501 kg ha-¹, respectivamente. As fêmeas foram divididas em grupos de acordo com o peso médio ao parto em leves 346,15±3,39 kg; moderadas 381,95±2,99 kg e pesadas 412,63±3,33 kg. Os indicadores avaliados foram: nas primíparas pesos e condições corporais ao parto e ao desmame, ganhos médios diários e totais, prenhez da inseminação artificial em tempo fixo (IATF) e acumulada. Nos bezerros foram avaliados pesos ao nascimento e a desmama, ganhos médios diários e totais. Da produção mediram-se os ganhos médios diários e totais do par e a produtividade efetiva de rebanho (PER) dos grupos de pesod. Ao desmame as medidas morfométricas de altura de garupa e perímetro torácico tiveram comportamento linear aumentando com os pesos ao parto das vacas. Na prenhez da IATF e acumulada, os grupos das vacas leves e moderadas se mostraram mais eficientes do que as Pesadas com valores de 81,25, 75,00 e 55,56%, respectivamente. A PER diferiu entre os grupos com valores de 37,07±1,71, 28,13±1,50 e 19,99±1,68 kg, para leves, moderadas e pesadas, respectivamente. As vacas leves foram 31,8 e 85,4% superiores na produtividade efetivado que as moderadas e pesadas, respectivamente. O conhecimento do sistema de produção é importante para elevar a eficiência da cria. A melhora no desempenho produtivo está ligada a adequação do tamanho das matrizes para o sistema produtivo.(AU)

Efeito do tamanho da leitegada sobre a variação dos pesos ao nascer e ao desmame em leitões da raça Landrace / Effect of litter size on the variation in birth and weaning weights of Landrace piglets

Objetivou-se avaliar o efeito da classe de tamanho de leitegada ao nascer sobre a variação do peso ao nascer e ao desmame e sobre a taxa de sobrevivência dos leitões do nascimento ao desmame. Para isso usou-se informações de peso individual ao nascer e ao desmame de leitões de um banco de dados de 295 leitegadas de suínos da raça Landrace, nascidos entre 2000 e 2010, em uma granja de suínos do oeste do estado do Paraná. As leitegadas foram classificadas pelo número total de leitões nascidos em pequenas (até 7 leitões), médias (8 a 13 leitões) e grandes (14 e mais leitões). Os dados foram analisados considerando-se os efeitos de ano de acasalamento das porcas e classe de tamanho de leitegada ao nascer. Correlações entre as características de peso médio e variância do peso e tamanho da leitegada foram maiores nas leitegadas médias e grandes. Classe de tamanho da leitegada influenciou significativamente peso médio ao nascer e ao desmame dos leitões e variância do peso ao nascer. Leitões de leitegadas médias e grandes pesaram menos, apresentaram maior variação do peso ao nascer e menor taxa de sobrevivência até o desmame do que leitões de leitegadas pequenas...

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of the size class of the litter at birth on the variation in birth and weaning weights and on the survival rate of piglets from birth to weaning. For this purpose, records of individual weight at birth and weaning of piglets obtained from a database of 295 Landrace litters born between 2000 and 2010 on a pig farm in the western region of the State of Paraná were used. The litters were classified as small (up to 7 piglets), medium (8 to 13 piglets), and large (> 14 piglets) according to the total number of piglets born. The data were analyzed considering the effects of the year of sow mating and size class of the litter at birth. The correlations between mean weight and variance in litter weight and size were higher for medium and large litters. The size class of the litter significantly influenced the mean weight of piglets at birth and weaning and the variance in birth weight. Piglets born in medium and large litters weighed less and exhibited greater birth weight variation and a lower survival rate until weaning than piglets born in small litters...

Efeito do tamanho da leitegada sobre a variação dos pesos ao nascer e ao desmame em leitões da raça Landrace / Effect of litter size on the variation in birth and weaning weights of Landrace piglets

Objetivou-se avaliar o efeito da classe de tamanho de leitegada ao nascer sobre a variação do peso ao nascer e ao desmame e sobre a taxa de sobrevivência dos leitões do nascimento ao desmame. Para isso usou-se informações de peso individual ao nascer e ao desmame de leitões de um banco de dados de 295 leitegadas de suínos da raça Landrace, nascidos entre 2000 e 2010, em uma granja de suínos do oeste do estado do Paraná. As leitegadas foram classificadas pelo número total de leitões nascidos em pequenas (até 7 leitões), médias (8 a 13 leitões) e grandes (14 e mais leitões). Os dados foram analisados considerando-se os efeitos de ano de acasalamento das porcas e classe de tamanho de leitegada ao nascer. Correlações entre as características de peso médio e variância do peso e tamanho da leitegada foram maiores nas leitegadas médias e grandes. Classe de tamanho da leitegada influenciou significativamente peso médio ao nascer e ao desmame dos leitões e variância do peso ao nascer. Leitões de leitegadas médias e grandes pesaram menos, apresentaram maior variação do peso ao nascer e menor taxa de sobrevivência até o desmame do que leitões de leitegadas pequenas...(AU)

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of the size class of the litter at birth on the variation in birth and weaning weights and on the survival rate of piglets from birth to weaning. For this purpose, records of individual weight at birth and weaning of piglets obtained from a database of 295 Landrace litters born between 2000 and 2010 on a pig farm in the western region of the State of Paraná were used. The litters were classified as small (up to 7 piglets), medium (8 to 13 piglets), and large (> 14 piglets) according to the total number of piglets born. The data were analyzed considering the effects of the year of sow mating and size class of the litter at birth. The correlations between mean weight and variance in litter weight and size were higher for medium and large litters. The size class of the litter significantly influenced the mean weight of piglets at birth and weaning and the variance in birth weight. Piglets born in medium and large litters weighed less and exhibited greater birth weight variation and a lower survival rate until weaning than piglets born in small litters...(AU)

Effect of calf birth weight on milk production of Holstein dairy cattle in desert climate

The hypothesis in this study was that calf birth weight (CBW) would effect on cow"s milk production. Data were collected from two commercial dairy milking 15,000 Holsteins in central region of Iran from 2006 to 2012. Animals were enrolled at parturition until 7,737 calvings were available for analysis. Data consisted of on-farm measurements of calf birth weight and milk production, and data were analyzed using a multivariable regression model. Independent variables were parity, herd-year-season, calving interval, calving age, retained placenta, days open, dry period length, days in milk, linear and quadratic CBW. The mean CBW was 40.84 ± 4.9 kg (SD) with a range of 20 to 60 kg. There was a trend for milk305 based on calf birth weight, i.e., the amount of milk305 of dam was significantly dependent on that weight of calf was born (P 0.01). Cows with CBW between 20 and 25 kg had the lowest of milk production. By increasing of CBW range up to 40 and 45 kg, the trend of milk production increased and then decreasing trend observed. In conclusion, calf birth weight could be considered as an important trait in dairy cattle breeding programs.(AU)

Effect of calf birth weight on milk production of Holstein dairy cattle in desert climate

The hypothesis in this study was that calf birth weight (CBW) would effect on cow"s milk production. Data were collected from two commercial dairy milking 15,000 Holsteins in central region of Iran from 2006 to 2012. Animals were enrolled at parturition until 7,737 calvings were available for analysis. Data consisted of on-farm measurements of calf birth weight and milk production, and data were analyzed using a multivariable regression model. Independent variables were parity, herd-year-season, calving interval, calving age, retained placenta, days open, dry period length, days in milk, linear and quadratic CBW. The mean CBW was 40.84 ± 4.9 kg (SD) with a range of 20 to 60 kg. There was a trend for milk305 based on calf birth weight, i.e., the amount of milk305 of dam was significantly dependent on that weight of calf was born (P 0.01). Cows with CBW between 20 and 25 kg had the lowest of milk production. By increasing of CBW range up to 40 and 45 kg, the trend of milk production increased and then decreasing trend observed. In conclusion, calf birth weight could be considered as an important trait in dairy cattle breeding programs.

Efeito de sexo e tipo de parto sobre o peso ao nascer de caprinos mestiços Anglo Nubiana / Effect of sex and type of birth on the birth weight of crossbred goats Anglo Nubian

The objective was to estimate the influence of sex, type of birth, month and year of birth on the birth weight feature of Anglo Nubian crossbred goats in the Lower ParnaíbaMaranhão region. Weights were used for Anglo-Nubian goats ½ + SPRD ½ animals 235 belonging to the database of União Farm, born between the years 2007 and 2010. Statistical analysis was performed using the method of least squares and chi-square of contingency tests with a statistical model containing a source of variation in the fixed effects of sex, month and year of birth of lamb, parturition type (single and double) and random error. Means and standard error of birth weight of goats was 2.75 ± 0.71 kg. There was a significant effect of sex, birth month and year of birth on birth weight of goats, while the parturition type (single or double) had no influence on this characteristic and no association with environmental effects.

Objetivou-se estimar a influência dos efeitos de sexo, tipo de parto, mês e ano de nascimento sobre a característica de peso ao nascer de caprinos mestiços Anglo Nubiana na região do Baixo Parnaíba Maranhense. Foram utilizados dados de pesagens de 235 cabritos ½ Anglo Nubiana + ½ SPRD, pertencente ao banco de dados da Fazenda União, nascidos entre os anos de 2007 e 2010. As análises estatísticas foram realizadas utilizando-se o método dos quadrados mínimos e teste de qui-quadrado de contingência. O modelo estatístico continha como fonte de variação os efeitos fixos de sexo, mês e ano de nascimento do cabrito, tipo de parto (simples e duplo) e o erro aleatório. As médias e erro-padrão do peso ao nascer dos caprinos avaliados foram 2,75 ± 0,71 kg. Verificou-se efeito significativo do sexo, mês e ano de nascimento sobre o peso ao nascer dos cabritos, enquanto que o tipo de parto (simples ou duplo) não apresentou influência sobre essa característica e não houve associação com os efeitos de meio.