Empty Carcass Weight Research Articles

Improving the productive performance of broiler chickens fed on diets containing the mixture "Toxbond Forte

The study is conducted in Kosar's company experimental fields / Erbil to study the improvement of the carcass characteristics of broiler chickens, specifically those feeding on diets including "Toxbond Forte". The experiment lasted for 35 days and used 120 unsexed one day old chicks from Rose 308 type with an average of 42 ± 3 g per chick. The chicks were randomly classified into five treatments with three replications; each treatment had eight birds / replicate). The first treatment (T1) is called the control treatment in which the feed was without any addition, the second treatment (T2) included the addition of the compound with an average of 0.5 g / kg of feed, the third treatment (T3) included the addition of the mixture with a percentage higher than the second one, i.e. with a rate of 1 g / kg of feed, the fourth treatment (T4) included the rate of 1.5 g / kg of feed, and last treatment (T5) had the percentage of 2 g / kg of feed addition to the mixture. Results have shown that there are no big differences (p ≤ 0.05) in the relative weight of the main segments (chest and thigh piece), while the relative weight of the drumstick is significantly higher than the other treatments. Moreover, no differences have been seen for the secondary cuts, internal viscera and empty carcass weight, (p ≤ 0.05). Finally, the study has noted a significant difference (p ≤ 0.05) in the percentage of the net weight.

Effect of reciprocal crossing Koekoek and Sasso chickens on growth performance, feed efficiency, carcass yield, mortality rate, and genetic components

Reciprocal crosses of Koekoek and Sasso chickens were evaluated for growth performance, feed efficiency, carcass yield, mortality rate, and genetic components using 60 randomly selected 8-wk-cockerels (15 from each mating group) at Jimma University poultry farm. Data were measured for initial and final body weight, feed intake, daily weight gain, and feed conversion ratio. At the end of the study, following a 4-h fasting period, chickens were weighed, humanely slaughtered, and dressed. Carcass weight, dressing percentage and amount and percentage of abdominal fat were determined. Mortality was recorded. Genetic components were calculated. The collected data were analyzed using the General Linear Models (GLM) procedure of the Statistical Analysis System other than mortality rate and genetic components. Mortality rate and genetic components were analyzed using GLIMMIX Procedure of SAS version 9.4. The study revealed that the cross of Koekoek (cockerel) × Sasso (pullet) (KS) performed significantly (P < 0.05) better than the cross of Sasso (cockerel) × Koekoek (pullet) (SK) for final body weight (2615 g vs. 2208 g), feed intake (133 g vs. 93.3 g), daily weight gain (23.7 g vs.18.3 g), empty carcass weight (2006 g vs. 1604 g), and dressing percentage (77.1 g vs. 72.6 g). Further, the KS group survived significantly (P < 0.05) better than SK with the lowest mortality rate during the experimental period (0.004 vs. 0.009). KS has performed positively and highly in heterosis percentage (H %) for all parameters while SK has performed negatively for former traits. Thus, the crossing of Koekoek cockerels with Sasso pullets should be preferred to its reciprocal cross to obtain higher levels of heterosis for growth performance, feed efficiency, and carcass yield.

Quantitative carcass characteristics and quality of shoulder and loin of crossbred goat kids receiving diets with live yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae var. boulardii)

The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of live yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae var. boulardii) on the quantitative and qualitative characteristics of the shoulder and loin of Boer x Saanen crossbred goat kids. Twenty-seven carcasses were used, 13 females and 14 uncastrated males with an average age of 192 days, weighing 30.76 kg, distributed in a completely randomised design using a 2 x 2 factorial arrangement (diet and sex). The yeast was added to the feed before pelletising in a proportion of 0.050 g/kg dry matter (DM). When the goats reached an average of 30 kg of live weight, they were slaughtered. No effects of live yeast on quantitative carcass and qualitative characteristics of shoulder and loin were observed. Regarding sex, males had higher slaughter weights (31.73 kg), empty carcass weight (27.98 kg), hot carcass weight (14.39 kg), cold carcass weight (14.22 kg), higher carcass compactness index (0.28 kg/cm), lower slaughter age (176 days) and lower cooling loss (1.20%). For the cut yields, females presented a higher loin yield (11.55%) and males presented a higher neck yield (6.84%). In the shoulder, males presented a higher proportion of bone (18.58%), while females presented a higher proportion of fat (17.09%) and muscle:bone (3.47). In the loin, females showed higher fat deposition (19.54%) in relation to males. The inclusion of yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae var. boulardii in the crossbred goat kids’ diet did not generate differences in the quantitative and qualitative characteristics of the shoulder and loin.

REPLACING MAIZE WITH CASSAVA ROOT MEAL OR ITS MIXTURE WITH BREWERS YEAST SLURRY IN RABBIT DIETS

Three diets were evaluated for their effect on performance, carcass yield and organ measurements of finisher rabbits. The control was maize-based (MC) while, in the other two diets, cassava root meal (CR) or its mixture with brewers yeast slurry (CYS) replaced the maize. Five approximately 9-week old crossbred (Chinchilla X California X New Zealand White) rabbits which averaged 930g livewight, were allocated to each diet and fed individually for 70days. The rabbits were then slaughtered and their dressed carcasses and organs weighed. At 70days of feeding, the average livewighed of rabbits fed MC, CR and CYS were 2120g, 2026g and 2098g respectively. Average daily feed intake, average daily gain and feed conversion ratio were 66.80g, 64.92g and 60.70g, 15.65g and 16.29g and 3.92g and 4.15 and 3.64 for the respective diets. Warm dressing % and organ weight as percent of empty carcass weight did not differ significantly (P &gt;0.05) among the diet. Kidney fat weight was lower (P &lt;0.05) for CYS than for MC and CR. Replacement of maize with CR in the diet lowered (P &lt; 0.05) rabbit performance while that with CYS allowed for more efficient utilization of the diet, and for leaner carcasses of rabbits

Characterization of a Swine Model of Birth Weight and Neonatal Nutrient Restriction

ABSTRACT Background Evidence indicates that birth weight and neonatal nutrition have lifelong effects. Animal models are required to improve our understanding of these factors. Objectives We aimed to develop and validate a swine model of birth weight and neonatal undernutrition. Methods At birth, a total of 112 piglets were identified as low (LBW; 1.22 ± 0.28 kg SEM) or normal birth weight (NBW; 1.70 ± 0.27 kg). From day 3 to weaning (day 28), piglets received normal nutrition (NN) or restricted nutrition (RN) via intermittent suckling, where piglets were isolated from the sow for 6 h/d. After weaning, pigs were fed a common diet for 28 d. Body weight (BW) was determined for the duration of the study. On days 28 and 56, empty carcass, viscera, and individual organ weights were determined in 8 pigs/treatment. Results LBW pigs remained smaller than NBW pigs, regardless of nutrient restriction (P &amp;lt; 0.05). Within birth weight category, RN reduced BW by day 7 after birth, which was maintained until weaning (P &amp;lt; 0.05); however, at 7 d postweaning there was no difference in BW due to RN (P &amp;gt; 0.05). At weaning, empty carcass, viscera, heart, liver, and lung weights were lower in LBW than in NBW pigs, whereas empty carcass, heart, small intestine, liver, kidneys, lung, and spleen weights were lower in RN than in NN pigs (P &amp;lt; 0.05). Brain weight was highest in NBW-NN and lowest in NBW-RN, with LBW intermediate, regardless of nutrient restriction (P &amp;lt; 0.05). Postweaning, LBW had lower empty carcass, viscera, heart, stomach, large intestine, liver, and kidney weights than NBW, whereas RN had a higher small intestine weight than NN (P &amp;lt; 0.05). Conclusions Intermittent suckling is an effective means of inducing nutrient restriction in a swine model.

Substitution of Leucaena hay for oil seed cake meal in total mixed rations for goats

This study investigated the effects of incorporating different protein sources (oil seed cakes versus Leucaena leucocephala hay) in a total mixed ration (TMR) on intake, digestibility, growth and carcass meat quality of Saanen goats. Sixteen Saanen male goats were allocated to TMR diets formulated with or without L. leucocephala hay at 25% of total dry matter (DM). The TMRs were formulated to be iso-nitrogenous, isocaloric and iso-neutral detergent fibre using two sources of crude protein from Leucaena hay or oilseed cake meal (OSCM), which is a blend of soybean, sunflower and cottonseed cake meal. Data were collected on nutrient digestibility and carcass quality parameters. The goats fed TMR with Leucaena had greater (P &lt;0.05) dry matter intake compared with those fed the control diet. In contrast, the digestibility of DM, organic matter, crude protein, neutral detergent fibre, acid detergent fibre and feed conversion ratio did not differ (P &gt;0.05) between the two dietary treatments. Between treatments, no differences were detected for slaughter bodyweight, empty bodyweight carcass weight, and dressing percentage. Nor were differences detected (P &gt;0.05) for cooking loss percentage, back fat cover, and area of eye muscle (longissimus dorsi) and WarnerBratzler shear force between goats fed the two TMR diets. Replacing a portion of oilseed cake meal at 15% DM with Leucaena hay at 25% DM in TMR for Saanen goats would help rural farmers to reduce the cost of feeding.Keywords: body composition, digestibility, feed intake, growth, meat quality

Chlorella vulgaris supplementation effects on performances, oxidative stress and antioxidant genes expression in liver and ovaries of New Zealand White rabbits

Oxidative stress is an exclusive biochemical complication affecting reproduction; hence, dietary antioxidant supplementation for its attenuation is a required nutrition – reproduction improvement strategy. On this background, Chlorella vulgaris (a natural antioxidant) was supplemented to grower female rabbits to maturity. The rabbits were thirty-five in number randomly distributed into five experimental groups in a completely randomized design. Control group was fed only basal feed while treatment groups were fed diets containing 40 %, 60 %, 80 % and 100 % Chlorella vulgaris biomass as T1, T2, T3 and T4 respectively at 500 mg per animal body weight (kg) along with the basal feed daily. Performance records were obtained, blood was collected, and at the end uterus, ovaries and liver were removed from sacrificed animals for analysis. Serum, uterus and liver oxidative stress status were determined while RNA isolated from liver and ovaries samples were used for antioxidant genes expression analysis. Oxidative stress status and antioxidant enzymes activities were determined using chemical assays while antioxidant gene expression levels were determined using real-time quantitative PCR system. There was significant difference in feed intake (p < 0.014), final body weights (p < 0.008), empty carcass weights (p < 0.001) and commercial carcass weights (p < 0.001) of the rabbits as results of the microalgae supplementation. There was also significant difference in malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations (p < 0.050), total antioxidant capacity (TAC) (p < 0.050) and protein carbonyl (PCO) concentrations (p < 0.050) due to the supplementation of the microalgae; in addition, supplementation of the microalgae significantly improved activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) (p < 0.050), catalase (CAT) (p < 0.050) and reduced glutathione (GSH) concentration (p < 0.050). Furthermore, there was significant difference in relative expression of primary antioxidant genes sod1 (p < 0.050) and gpx1 (p < 0.050); however, there was no significant difference in relative expression of bre (p > 0.050) and ucp1 (p > 0.050). The study concluded from the outcomes stated above that supplementation of microalgae Chlorella vulgaris improved performances of rabbits through attenuation of oxidative stress, enhancement of antioxidant enzymes activities as well as up-regulation of primary antioxidant genes. Hence, it was recommended as dietary supplement for protection against oxidative stress and improved productivity in rabbits and other food producing mammalian species. In addition, further studies into assessment of its effects on expression of transcripts and immune modulation genes in rabbits and other animals is warranted as future studies in order to established its potential as beneficial nutraceutical for animals and human.

The effects of early- or mid-gestation nutrient restriction on bovine fetal pancreatic development

Research on the effects of nutrient restriction in beef cows on fetal pancreatic development is limited. To address this, multiparous Angus-cross cows (n = 22) were fed either control (CON; to gain 1 kg/wk) or nutrient-restricted (NR; 0.55% NEm) diets based on NRC requirements. On d 30 of gestation, cows were blocked by body condition and randomly assigned to one of three nutritional regimes: CON fed from d 30 to 190 (n = 8), or NR/C (n = 7) or C/NR (n = 7) fed either the CON or NR diet from d 30 to 110 followed by CON or NR from d 110 to 190 of gestation. Cows were harvested on d 190 of gestation, and blood samples, fetal weights, and fetal tissue weights and samples were collected. Pancreas samples were embedded in paraffin and sectioned for standard immunohistochemistry procedures to quantify insulin-positive β cells and number of apoptotic β cells using TUNEL staining. Data were analyzed via ANOVA using the general linear model procedure of SAS. At harvest, empty carcass weights were decreased (P = 0.036) in fetuses of C/NR and NR/C fed dams compared to fetuses of CON fed dams. Pancreas weight was decreased (P = 0.028) in fetuses of C/NR fed dams compared to CON fetuses; however, fetuses of NR/C fed dams were not different (P > 0.05) from fetuses of CON fed dams. Maternal and fetal serum insulin concentrations were not different (P > 0.05) in NR/C fed compared to CON fed; however, concentrations of insulin were decreased (P = 0.036 and P = 0.40, respectively) in C/NR fed compared to CON fed. Beta cell number was decreased (P = 0.009) in fetuses of NR/C and C/NR fed dams compared to fetuses of CON fed dams. Percentage of apoptotic cells was increased (P < 0.0001) in fetuses of NR/C and C/NR fetuses than fetuses of CON fed dams. This evidence suggests that nutrient restriction either during early- or mid-gestation can negatively impact fetal pancreatic development. However, mid-gestational nutritional insult is potentially recovered by reacclimation to a diet that meets requirements of the dam, thus reducing negative outcomes in fetal offspring.

Response of supplemental cassava root sievate - cassava leaf meal based diets on carcass and cost benefits of kano brown goats Capra aegagrus

The experiment was conducted to determine the organ weight characteristics, carcass yield and cost benefits of Kano Brown goats fed cassava root sievate and cassava leaf meal (CRSCLM) based diets as supplement to (Pennisetum purpureum) using 36 Kano Brown goats of 8 to 10 months of age.Four diets T1, T2, T3,and T4, were formulated at the levels of 0%, 20%, 40% and 60% CRSCLM respectivelyin a completely randomized design. Each animal received a designated treatment diet in the morning for 97 days. Feed offered was based on 3.5% body weight per day; the animals in addition were fed a kg wilted chopped P. purpureum later in the day as basal diet to enhance rumination and fine chewing. Results on carcass indices showed significant (p&lt;0.05) response on live weight at slaughter, empty carcass weight, warm carcass weight, dressing percentage, shoulder, leg, loin, end and shank with T4having relatively best results. The dressing percentage was numerically (49.59%) best at T4. On the offal weights, head and full guts were significantly (p&lt;0.05) improved for T4and T1goats. The organ characteristic proved the safety of using CRSCLM through the significantly (p&lt;0.05) lower organ weights at T4goats. Cost per kg feed, feed cost/weight gainand cost/benefit ratio were positively influenced (p&lt;0.05) at T4with expected income of 4.79 / 1 invested. It could therefore be concluded that Kano Brown goats fed 60% CRSCLM had the best carcass and organ yields at a reduced feed cost. Keywords: Pennisetum purpureum, Kano brown goats, Cassava leaf meal, Cassava root sievate,

Influence of supplemental cassava root sieviate - cassava leaf meal based diets on carcass and economics of production of West African dwarf goats

The experiment was conducted to evaluate the carcass yield, organ characteristics and economics of production of West African Dwarf (WAD) goats fed cassava root sieviate-cassava leaf meal (CRSCLM) based diets as supplement to Panicum maximum using 36 WAD goats of about 8 to 10 months of age. Four diets T1, T2, T3, and T4, were formulated at the levels of 0%, 20%, 40% and 60% CRSCLM respectively, in a completely randomized design. Each animal received a designated treatment diet in the morning for 97 days. Feed offered was based on 3.5% body weight per day; the animals in addition were fed a kg wilted chopped Panicum maximum later in the day as basal diet to enhance rumination and chime chewing. Result on carcass indices showed significant (p&lt;0.05) influence on live weight at slaughter, empty carcass weight, warm carcass weight, dressing percentage, shoulder, leg, lion, end and shank with T4 having relatively best results. The dressing percentage was numerically (49.59%) best at T4. On the offal weights, head and full guts were significantly (p&lt;0.05) improved for T4 and T1 goats. The organ characteristic proved the safety of using CRSCLM through the significantly (p&lt;0.05) lower organ weights at T4 goats. Cost per kg feed, feed cost/weight gain and cost/benefit ratio were positive influenced (p&lt;0.05) at T4 with expected income of ^4.79 per ^1 invested. It could therefore be concluded that WAD goats fed 60% CRSCLM had the best carcass and organ yields at a reduced feed cost.Keyword: WAD goat, Cassava leaf meal, cassava root sieviate, cost/benefit ratio

EFFECT OF FEEDING DIETS CONTAINING DRIED GREEN BEAN (PHASEOLUS VULGARIS L.) VINES ON PERFORMANCE OF GROWING APRI RABBITS

A total of seventy APRI rabbits were chosen after weaned at 5 weeks of age and randomly divided into 5 similar groups (14 rabbits/group) according to their initial live body weight (656.96±2.67g), to evaluate the utilization of dried green bean vines (GBV) in feeding growing rabbits and its effect on growth performance, nutrients digestibilities, carcass traits, some blood parameters, cecum activity as well as economic efficiency. Rabbits were fed ad-libitum on diets containing 0, 10, 20, 30 and 40% dried GBV for groups D1, D2, D3, D4 and D5, respectively. The five diets were formulated according to the Agriculture Ministry Decree Recommendation (1996). At the end of the experimental period (15 weeks of age), digestibility trials were carried out to determine the digestibility and the feeding values of the experimental diets. In addition, four rabbits were slaughtered from each group to test the carcass traits, some blood parameters and cecum activity. The experimental diets were fed to growing rabbits for 10 weeks post-weaning period. Results revealed that the dried GBV contained 2243 kcal digestible energy/kg, 12.70% crude protein, 21.59% crude fiber, 1.60% ether extract, 15.77% ash, 2.05% calcium 0.18% phosphorus and amino acids such as 1.02% aspartic acid, 0.90% glutamic acid, 0.12% methionine and 0.40% lysine (as fed). Final body weights (at 15 weeks of age) were insignificant higher with tested diets (D2, D3 and D4) and significant lower with tested diets (D5), compared with control one (D1). The same trend among the experimental diets was observed with the total weight gain over 5-15 weeks. Total feed intake during the whole experimental period was significant lower with D5, compared to that of D2, D3, D4 and control diet (D1). Feed conversion was insignificant better with diets contained 10 up to 30% dried GBV than that of control one, while the diet contained the highest level of dried GBV (D5) was achieved significantly the worst one in comparison of control diet, over the whole experimental period. In comparison with control diet, most nutrients digestibilities of most tested diets did not affected significantly. Diets involved up to 30% dried GBV had achieved the best results in respect of pre-slaughter weight and empty carcass weight as well as dressing percentage in comparison with control and the other tested diets (D4 and D5). Level of 10, 20 and 30% dried GBV recorded insignificantly higher values of CP and ash contents and the lowest content of EE of rabbit meat compared to the control and D5 groups. Dried GBV had slightly changes on blood constituents of experimental rabbits. Insignificantly higher concentrations of TVFA´s were observed in the cecum contents of rabbits fed on the different levels of dried GBV compared to the control group. Inversely pH of cecum content and ammonia-N concentrations were insignificantly decreased compared with control diet. While cecum weight had significantly the highest value in D5 diet. Profitability and economic efficiency were markedly improved with dried GBV up to 30% compared to control diet. In conclusion dried GBV could be used in feeding of growing rabbits up to 30% with no adverse effect on productive performance, carcass traits, physiological functions and economic efficiency.

Plane of nutrition affects growth rate, organ size and skeletal muscle satellite cell activity in newborn calves.

Plane of nutrition effects on body, tissue and cellular growth in the neonatal calf are poorly understood. The hypothesis that a low plane of nutrition (LPN) would limit skeletal muscle size by reducing fibre growth and muscle progenitor cell activity was tested. At birth, calves were randomly assigned to either a LPN (20% CP, 20% fat; GE=1.9 Mcal/days) or a high plane of nutrition (HPN; 27% CP, 10% fat, GE = 3.8 Mcal/days) in a 2×3 factorial design to test the impact of diet on neonatal calf growth, organ weight and skeletal muscle morphometry with time. Groups of calves (n=4 or 5) were euthanised at 2, 4 and 8week of age and organ and empty carcass weights were recorded. Body composition was measured by DXA. Longissimus muscle (LM) fibre cross-sectional area (CSA), fibre/mm2 and Pax7 were measured by immunohistology. Satellite cells were isolated at each time point and proliferation rates were measured by EdU incorporation. Calves fed a HPN had greater (p<0.05) BW, ADG and hip height than those fed a LPN for 2, 4 or 8weeks. HPN calves contained a greater (p<0.05) percentage of fat tissue than LPN calves. Liver, spleen and thymus weights were less (p<0.05) in LPN calves than HPN animals. Calves fed HPN had larger (p<0.05) LM CSA at 8weeks than LPN fed animals with no differences between the groups in numbers of satellite cells per fibre. Proliferation rates of satellite cells isolated from HPN fed calves were greater (p<0.05) at 2weeks than LPN fed animals, which exhibited greater (p<0.05) proliferation rates at 4weeks than HPN fed calves. We conclude a LPN diet reduces body growth and organ size and metabolically reprograms satellite cell activity.

Effect of feeding tannin-degrading bacteria Streptococcus gallolyticus strain TDGB 406 on meat quality of goats fed with Quercus semicarpifolia leaves.

The effect of feeding tannin-degrading bacteria (Streptococcus gallolyticus strain TDGB 406) on carcass characteristics of goats fed with oak (Quercus semicarpifolia) leaves was studied on 18 male goats (4months old, average body weight 9.50 ± 1.50kg), distributed into three groups of six animals each. The animals of group 1 served as control, while the animals of groups 2 and 3 were given (at 5ml/kg live weight) autoclaved and live culture of isolate TDGB 406 (10(6)cells/ml), respectively. The animals were fed with oak leaves as a basal roughage source and maize hay along with fixed quantity of concentrate mixture. After 4months of feeding, the animals were slaughtered for carcass studies. The feeding of live culture of isolate TDGB 406 did not cause any effect (P > 0.05) on pre-slaughter weight, empty body weight, carcass weight, dressing percent, and yield of wholesale cuts (neck, rack, shoulder, breast, shank, loin, leg, and flank) of the goat meat. The chemical composition of longissimus dorsi muscle was comparable (P > 0.05) among the groups. The organoleptic evaluation of pressure-cooked meat in terms of tenderness and overall palatability was increased significantly (P < 0.05) in the meat of group 3 where live culture was supplemented. The other attributes were similar among the groups. It was concluded that supplementation of tannin-degrading bacteria S. gallolyticus strain TDGB 406 to goats fed with oak leaves did not affect the carcass characteristics and meat quality.

Growth performance, body composition, carcass traits and meat quality of young Nellore bulls fed freshly cut or ensiled sugar cane

The objective of this study was to compare the effects of diets with two levels (20 and 50% dry matter (DM) basis) of sugar cane (Saccharum officcinarum), either chopped fresh or ensiled with calcium oxide (CaO) and Lactobacillus buchneri as additives, in combination with two concentrate levels (80 and 50% DM basis) on the animal performance, body composition and gains, carcass characteristics and meat quality of young Nellore bulls. Treatments were arranged in a 2×2 factorial design: 50% freshly cut sugar cane +50% concentrate, 20% freshly cut sugar cane +80% concentrate, 50% sugar cane silage +50% concentrate and 20% sugar cane silage +80% concentrate. Twenty-nine Nellore bulls (300±4.8kg BW) were used; five bulls were slaughtered at the beginning of the experiment and used as reference animals. Bulls remained in the feedlots for 84days after an adaptation period of 25days. The interaction of roughage and concentrate was significant for dry matter intake, daily gain of body weight fasting, daily gain of empty carcass weight, daily gain of carcass, slaughter weight and weight of carcass. Dry matter intake was greater in bulls receiving freshly cut sugar cane. Daily gain of carcass, slaughter weight and carcass weight were lower in bulls fed 50% sugar cane silage +50% concentrate. There were no differences in carcass yield (P=0.4027) and loin eye area (P=0.1005) among the treatments. Backfat thickness was greater (P=0.0406) with 80% concentrate. The interaction of concentrate level and roughage type was significant for daily gain of fat and energy, with lower values for bulls fed 50% sugar cane silage +50% concentrate. Thawing (P=0.0149), cooking (P=0.0352) and total losses (P=0.0059) were greater in diets that contained sugar cane silage. There was an increase in shear force (P=0.0103) and a decrease in sarcomere length (P=0.0061) in bulls fed sugar cane silage, although they remained within the limits that characterized the flesh as soft. Diet was not found to affect the myofibrillar fragmentation index, color index (L*, a* and b*) or the amount of collagen (total and soluble) in beef. Ensiled sugar cane combined with 50% concentrate in bulls fattening in feedlots yielded lower animal performance than 80% concentrate and diets containing freshly chopped sugar cane with 50 and 80% concentrate levels.

Effect of Different Dietary Levels of Atorvastatin and L-Carnitine on Performance, Carcass Characteristics and Plasma Constitutes of Broiler Chickens.

The effects of L-carnitine, atorvastatin and their combination on growth and lipid metabolism of broiler chickens is not yet known. Thus, the objective of the present study was to investigate the effects of dietary L-carnitine and atorvastatin on the performance, carcass characteristics and blood parameters in broilers. Different dietary levels of L-carnitine (0, 150 and 300 mg/kg, respectively) and atorvastatin (0, 1 and 2 g/kg, respectively) were added to the daily birds' ration. Significant positive effects (P<0.05) on broiler body weight for both L-carnitine and atorvastatin were reported, and this effect became clear starting from the 4th week of rearing period till the slaughter age. Dietary treatments had also significant (P<0.05) positive effects on broilers empty carcass, breast and drumstick weights. Conversely, L-carnitine slightly increased abdominal fat, whereas supplementing atorvastatin slightly reduced it (P<0.05). However, Combining the treatments, resulted in reduction of abdominal fat pad, showing also the best development of breast and drumstick muscles (P<0.05). Moreover, the weight of gizzard, liver and heart were significantly higher in birds treated with the highest doses supplied (P<0.05). Dietary treatments had also influence on blood biochemical parameters of broilers. In overall, our findings suggest that combining dietary L-carnitine and atorvastatin supported birds growth and muscles development reducing the body fat deposition. However, further studies are needed to deeply study the potential effect of statins on meat quality.

Effects of dietary canistel (Pouteria campechiana) fruit meal on growth performance and carcass parameters of broiler chicken

Pouteria campechiana (Canistel) is an under-utilized tree fruit grown naturally in many tropical and sub-tropical regions. Objective of this study was to determine the effects of dietary Canistel fruit meal (CFM) on growth and carcass parameters of 3-6 week old broiler chicken. Ninety broiler chicks in 30 pens, were fed one of the five iso- proteomic broiler finisher diets containing either 0 (control), 5, 10, 15 and 20% of CFM from day 21 to 42. The dietary level of CFM had no significant (P>0.05) effects on final live weight on day 42, weight gain from day 21 -42, water intake, carcass weight and dressing percentage. However, feed conversion ratio (FCR) of the birds given control diet was significantly lower than that of the birds given diets with CFM. The weights of the visceral organs and the length of the small intestine in relation to empty carcass weight were not significantly different among treatments. The abdominal fat pad weight of the birds given 10%CFM was significantly lower than that of the birds given diet without CFM. It was concluded that the up to 20%CFM can be included in broiler finisher diets without any adverse effects on health, mortality, growth and carcass parameters. Tropical Agricultural Research and Extension 16(2): 2013: page 34-39

Effect of Vasectomy and / or Adding Cuminum cyminum Seeds in the diet of Awassi Ram Lambs on their Carcasses Traits

This experiment was carried out at Animal Farm, College of Veterinary Medicine, Baghdad University, from Mar. up to Sept. 2010. Twenty eight Awassi ram lambs of 4-5 months old were equally divided into four groups of similar body weight and fed 2% of concentrate diet of body weight with grazing for 3-4 hours a day. The first group (C) and the third group (V) were fed concentrate diet free of cumin seeds; while the second group (CU) and the fourth group (CV) were fed the same amount of concentrate diet contain 3% of cumin seeds. All animals were grazed daily for 3-4 hours as one group. The third and the fourth groups were vasectomized by close vasectomy operation at the beginning of the experiment. The results revealed that cumin seeds used as feed additives for Awassi ram lambs caused significant (P&lt;0.05) increase in live animal body weight, fasting and empty body weight, hot and cold carcass weights also it had an effect on carcass measurements, empty digestive and stomach weight, most carcass joints weight, rib eye muscle area, Longismus dorsi weight, lean and fat weight in the rack joint compare with the control group. However vasectomy had significant (P&lt;0.05) increase in the body weight, fasting, empty and hot and cold carcass weight, the weight of pelt, full and empty digestive system, most of joint weights, fat tail, fat weight of the rack joint, while the 4th group showed higher values than the most carcass traits compared with the 2nd and 3rd groups and significantly (P&lt;0.05) higher than the control group (1st group). It is concluded that vasectomy and cumin seeds have positive effect on lamb performance and carcass traits. Cumin seeds can be used as effective and cheep feed additives. Further studied are required to prove the suitable ratio of cumin seeds addition alongside with castration in other farm animals.

Conjugated linoleic acids alter body composition differently according to physiological age in Moulard ducks

Conjugated linoleic acids (CLA) have been shown to have remarkable yet inconsistent metabolic effects in mice, rats, hamsters, chickens, cattle, and humans. In particular, effects on lipogenesis vary with tissue, physiological state, and species. In this study we tested the hypothesis that CLA would differentially affect ducks of the same genetic background but of differing age. Growing (7 wk) and maintenance (11 wk) Moulard ducks were grouped by age and fed a standard diet supplemented with 5% soybean oil (control) or 5% CLA isomer mixture. Birds were slaughtered after 3 or 6 wk for assessment of body composition including adipose, liver, viscera, and empty carcass weight. Serum nonesterified fatty acid (NEFA) and glucose concentrations were evaluated, and gene targets were cloned from the duck to use in quantifying mRNA abundance for genes involved in lipogenesis (fatty acid synthase, FAS; acetyl-CoA carboxylase, ACC) and lipid oxidation (carnitine palmitoyl transferase-1, CPT-1) in liver tissue from maintenance birds. After 3 wk, the growing CLA group exhibited a 24% decrease in dissectible adipose tissue (P < 0.05), whereas maintenance birds showed no significant diet effect. After 6 wk, the growing CLA group exhibited a 20% increase in liver mass compared with the control (P < 0.05), but no diet effect on adipose tissue. Maintenance birds receiving dietary CLA had a 42% decrease in adipose tissue mass after 6 wk; increased serum NEFA, ACC, and CPT-1 mRNA after 3 and 6 wk (P < 0.05); and increased FAS mRNA after 3 wk of treatment (P < 0.05). These data indicate that CLA have potent effects on lipid metabolism in ducks, but these effects differ depending on physiological age.

Carcass characteristics of sheep fed with castor bean hulls in replacement of tifton 85 hay

Castor bean hulls (CBH), co-products of castor oil extraction, are high in dry matter (DM) and fiber and are emerging as alternative roughage in sheep feed. This could reduce feed costs since other sources of roughage can be more expensive. The effects of replacing Tifton 85 hay with CBH at 0, 33, 66 and 100% in the diet of sheep on the carcass characteristics, weights and yields of retail cuts and carcass measurements were studied. Twenty-eight non-castrated sheep averaging 7 ± 1.4 months of age with an initial weight of 19.5 ± 4.3 kg were slaughtered after 70 days of confinement. There was a linear decline (P ≤ 0.05) in slaughter body weight, empty body weight, hot and cold carcass weight and longissimus muscle area (LMA) as the percentage of dietary CBH increased. A linear decrease (P≤0.05) of the weights of all retail cuts and a quadratic effect (minimum yield of 9.84% with the replacement of 56.9%) of the neck yield were also detected as the percentage of CBH increased. No treatment effects (P &gt; 0.05) on the yield of the other cuts were observed, but there was a linear decline (P ≤ 0.05) in the perimeters of the thorax, leg and rump and the carcass compactness index. Replacing Tifton 85 hay with CBH in sheep diets is not recommended because it decreases the slaughter body weight, cold and hot carcass weight, retail cut weights and morphometric measurements.

Características de carcaça de cordeiros Morada Nova alimentados com diferentes níveis do fruto-refugo de melão em substituição ao milho moído na dieta

Foram avaliados as características de carcaça e os rendimentos dos cortes comerciais e realizada avaliação tecidual de 20 cordeiros Morada Nova alimentados com dietas contendo fruto-refugo de melão em substituição a 0, 30, 60 ou 100% do milho moído. Os animais, com peso médio inicial de 15 kg e 6 meses de idade, foram mantidos confinados em baias individuais e abatidos com peso médio de 26 kg. Utilizou-se um delineamento experimental inteiramente casualizado, com quatro tratamentos (níveis de substituição do milho por fruto-refugo de melão) e cinco repetições. Não foram observadas diferenças significativas no peso de corpo vazio, no peso de carcaça quente e fria, nos rendimentos de carcaça quente e fria nem no rendimento biológico. Também não foi verificado efeito significativo da inclusão de fruto-refugo de melão nas dietas sobre os rendimentos dos cortes comerciais (pescoço, costela, paleta, lombo e a perna) e as concentrações de músculo, osso e gordura. A substituição do milho moído por fruto-refugo do melão nas dietas não prejudica as características quantitativas de carcaça de cordeiros Morada Nova e consiste numa boa alternativa na alimentação de ovinos de corte em terminação.