Search

A study was conducted to determine the effect of feed quantity offered (1.5, 2.0 or 2.5 kg) on growth performance, carcass yield, organs weight and backfat composition. A total of 48 Large White grower male pigs with initial average weight of 36.48±2.25 kg were allotted to 3 treatments of 16 pigs per treatment and were further replicated into 4 with 4 pigs per replicate. Data were collected on weekly basis and carcass characteristics were performed when the pigs on each experimental group attained an average weight 70 kg. Final body weight, daily weight gain and daily feed intake were significantly (P0.05) enhanced by feed quantity offered. The weight of ham (11.54, 12.18 and 13.41%) increased significantly (P

This study aimed to estimate the productive and economic impacts caused by the withdrawal of antibiotic growth promoters (AGP) from broilers diet. Indexed publications that compared diets with or without AGP (AGP+/AGP-) for broilers (from initial to final phase) were collected and the results of feed intake, weight gain, and feed conversion were compiled in a database. A meta-analysis was performed following sequential analyses: graphical approach (to observe biological data coherence), correlation (to identify related factors), and variance-covariance (to compare groups). The annual number of broiler slaughtered in Brazil, target weight gain and feed conversion for each phase, the variation in feed conversion, feed cost, and AGP costs were used to build a model to estimate the effects of the AGP withdrawal on feeding costs. The database comprised 174 scientific articles containing 183 experiments, totaling 121,643 broilers, most of which were Ross (52% of the studies). The most frequent AGP sources/forms in the database were Avilamycin (41% of the AGP+ treatments), Flavomycin (19%), Virginiamycin (16%), and Bacitracin (14%). Higher feed intake, weight gain, and lower feed conversion were attributed (P < 0.05) to AGP+ diets during Initial phase (1 to 21 D). In Final phase (22 to 42 D) no differences were observed in performance variables. Treatments AGP+ presented higher weight gain and better feed conversion in the Total period (1 to 42 D). The results of feed conversion were improved (P < 0.05) with Avilamycin and Flavomycin; Virginiamycin improved weight gain and feed conversion. In the Total period, the economic impact was $0.03 per animal and a total of $183,560,232 per year. It was concluded that broilers fed AGP+ diets have higher weight gain and better feed conversion than those fed AGP- diets, and withdrawing AGP increases production costs.

In this paper we described a new tool used for frequent growth monitoring in pig production. The aim of the constructed tool was to alert farmers about deterioration in pigs’ growth and to provide current and historical growth statistics for consecutive batches. The tool was built as a dynamic linear model (DLM) for systems with identified and unidentified pigs. The growth of pigs was described by parameters representing an initial body weight (BW), average daily gain and daily fluctuations in BW of pigs. Moreover, the constructed tool was built to account for increasing variation in BW of pigs over time as well as autocorrelation between BW measurements of observed individuals. The forecast errors obtained from the DLM were standardized and monitored with a tabular cusum. Alarms obtained from the cusum were registered both on batch (identified and unidentified pigs) and individual level (identified pigs). The constructed tool was tested on data gathered between February and September 2016. Altogether, data from 3 batches, 1058 individuals and 146,926 BW observations were collected and analyzed. For all 3 batches, filtered and smoothened growth means were obtained and plotted. Using the model for identified and unidentified pigs, the growth problems were detected on certain dates in Batch 2 and Batch 3. In both identification scenarios, similar batch alarms were obtained. The example on growth alarms for individual pigs (using version of the model for identified pigs) was also provided. The filtered herd mean, obtained from the constructed DLM, was calculated based on all pigs present at the start of fattening. Therefore, the obtained batch BW mean was accounting also for the heaviest individuals sold after exceeding a defined target weight from the observed batches. Hence, the presented tool can be useful in obtaining growth statistics for systems where pigs are sold continuously. Frequent BW information can be useful in informing farmers about unexpected events influencing growth e.g. outbreaks of diseases or management problems. Moreover, the historical information on growth might be valuable in making optimal decisions regarding management. In the future the economic value of information from frequent BW monitoring should be assessed. In this study, we have demonstrated that frequent observations of unidentified pigs can provide meaningful alarms on growth deterioration at the batch level.

The objective was to determine the growth performance of Friesian calves given milk or milk replacer (MR) at varying levels. Forty-eight male Friesian calves were divided into four groups of 12 animals each. Calves were offered either milk or MR at either 10 or 15% of body weight (BW), with upper limits of 5 and 6 L/d, respectively until week 8. The calves were weaned at 10 weeks of age by gradually reducing the offered liquid to zero. In addition, from the second week, calves were offered calf starter ration (CS) until each calf reached 120 kg. The calves raised on milk had better growth rates (610 ± 25 vs. 487 ± 25 g/d; P0.05), displayed higher weaning weights (71 ± 1.5 vs. 55.9 ± 1.5 kg; P0.05) and reached the target weight of 120 kg earlier (20.9 ± 0.8 vs. 24.1 ± 0.8 weeks; P0.05) than those on MR. However, growth rate was not affected (535 ± 25 vs. 568 ± 25; P0.05) by liquid feeding level. Cost per kg live weight gain was not affected (325 ± 8 vs. 319 ± 8; P0.05) by feeding source or feeding levels (317 ± 8 vs. 328 ± 8). Thus, feeding milk at 10% of body weight saves time and labour required to achieve target weight in veal calves.

Piglet mortality, especially due to crushing, is a concern in pig production. While current systems use farrowing crates to reduce mortality, they present major animal welfare problems for the sow. This study investigated the effects of free lactation farrowing accommodation on the welfare of piglets born and reared in such accommodation when compared with conventional farrowing crates. Piglets were born to sows in one of two farrowing accommodation treatments and followed from birth to slaughter. Treatments were conventional farrowing crates (control, n = 24 litters) and free lactation pens, which were larger and allowed the sow freedom of movement both pre and post farrowing, (free, n = 22 litters) (675 total piglets). Individual weights were recorded from birth to slaughter. Hoof score was recorded at weaning. Behaviour was recorded during lactation and during the weaner stage. Pre-weaning percentage mortality was equal in treatments (free = 15.95 ± 2.31, control = 14.42 ± 2.15, p = 0.61). Final weight was influenced by treatment (p &lt, 0.05) with pigs from free lactation pens significantly heavier at 114.73 kg compared to 110.82 kg for control pigs. Free pigs took fewer days than control pigs to reach the target weight of 105 kg (147.6 vs. 149.23 days). Throughout lactation, fewer instances of damaging behaviour (ear and tail biting) were observed in free pigs (p = 0.07). Improved growth rates and a decrease in damaging behaviours provide evidence to suggest that pigs from free lactation pens experience improved welfare when compared with control pigs.

This study was conducted to determine the effect of two different levels of supplementary feed and two different stocking rates on the production of g razing ostriches. One hundred and seventy ostriches were randomly allocated to four groups and kept on irrig ated lucerne pasture with or without supplementary feed from approximately 58 kg to a target weight of 95 k g. The ostriches rotationally grazed lucerne pastur e at one of two stocking rates, i.e. 15 birds/ha or 10 b irds/ha and were fed one of two levels of supplemen t i.e. 0 g or 800 g feed/d formulated according to the nutrien t requirements of the relevant group of birds. Data were analyzed by ANOVA. There was no interaction between the supplementary feed and stocking rate regarding mean live weight at 54 weeks of age and feed conversion ration (FCR). Data were provided as the two ma in effects of level of supplementation and stocking ra te. Significant differences in mean live weight at 54 weeks of age and FCR of the birds were observed between t he different levels of supplementary feed. The parameters measured for the two different stocking rates used in this study (10 birds/ha vs . 15 birds/ha) did not differ from each other and did not influence ei ther mean live weight at 54 weeks of age, average d aily gain (ADG) or FCR. The two groups which received 800 g supplementary feed/d reached slaughter weight (95 kg) within the set of 54 weeks of grazing for t he trial, while the two groups which received no supplementary feed did not achieve slaughter weight by 54 weeks on the pasture. Ostriches receiving supplementation of 800 g/bird/day had significantly better FCR’s than birds receiving no supplementati on. There was a significant interaction between level o f supplementary feed and stocking rate regarding ADG of the birds. As stocking rate increased, average dail y gains of birds receiving no supplementary feed de clined. This study indicates that ostriches being kept on g razing and receiving supplementary feed will exhibi t improved and faster growth rates than ostriches whi ch only have access to grazing and receive no supplementary feed.

In a 2 x 2 factorial design, attainment of puberty in 32 Black Indigenous (BI) and 60 SA Landrace (SAL) gilts was studied under the effects of two treatment diets fed individually ad libitum. Treatment 1 contained 160 g CP and 13.6 MJ DE/kg DM, and Treatment 2, a 25% dilute of Treatment 1 using wood shavings, contained 120 g CP and 10.2 MJ DE/kg DM. Target weights set for BI gilts were from 10 to 50 kg and for SAL, 15 to 120 kg. A sample was slaughtered at each target weight. Reproductive organs were removed, measured and the number, size and physiological state of follicles recorded. Carcasses were deboned and the soft tissue analysed for moisture, protein and fat content. Treatments affected growth significantly. Cumulative mass (lnkg) was regressed against cumulative ME intake (lnME) with b the allometric coefficient in a linear autoregressive model. A change in b indicated a change or breakpoint of physiological development. Puberty was taken to coincide with the breakpoint. Age and weight at puberty differed by treatment for each genotype. Estimated live weight fat (percentage) and carcass fat (percentage) at these ages show a close range between genotypes and treatment diets.

The study was conducted to evaluate the effects on subsequent performance, carcass traits, jejunal histomorphology for broilers subjected to various time of feeding prestarter diet. For this purpose three hundreds day old Cobb 500 chickens were used. Chickens were grouped as a completely randomized design with 4 treatments and 4 replications. Prestarter diet was fed to 4, 6, 8 or 10 days of age. Starter diet was fed for variable times depending upon termination of feeding prestarter. Finisher diet was fed beginning at 22 days of age. Diets were identical in terms of all the nutrients levels. Morphometric indices of jejunum were measured at 10 days of age and the end of the production period. Increasing the duration of feeding prestarter diet significantly increased body weight and decreased FCR at 10 days of age (P 0.05). The FCR of birds fed the prestarter for 10 days significantly lower from that of birds fed the prestarter for 4 days at the end of experiment (P 0.05). There was no significant effect of time of prestarter diet on dressing percentage, breast meat, legs or wings weight (P > 0.05). Different feeding strategies had significant effect on intestinal histomorphology (P < 0.05). Birds fed prestarter diet for the first 10 days had higher villi width and villus surface area (VSA) compared with other treatments at 10 days of age. Based on the data under the experimental conditions, the optimum time of feeding prestarter diet for birds grown to a target weight of approximately 2.2 kg appears to be 10 days.

Nutrient composition of the feed and formulated ration often differ depending on uncertainties in DM content and nutrient composition of ingredients, as well as from feeder errors during loading. The objective of this study was to describe the deviation from target weight for the high-producing cow ration (HCR) and premix (HCP) on 26 California dairies ranging in size from 1,100 to 6,900 cows. Records from a consecutive 12-mo period were extracted from FeedWatch 7 (Valley Agricultural Software Inc., Tulare, CA), a feeding management software. Variables extracted and studied were date, recipe type, recipe number, ingredient, loading sequence, target weight, weight, and tolerance level (TL, deviation allowed per ingredient during loading). Based on the distribution of the deviation from target weight for the 8 most common ingredients, loading accuracy (quartile 1; small: |20| kg), loading precision (interquartile range=quartile 3 to 1; small: 40kg), and extreme observations (quartile 3; small: |40| kg) were described. Descriptive statistics were conducted with SAS 9.4 (SAS Institute Inc., Cary, NC). The median TL assigned to ingredients across dairies ranged from 0 to 90kg. At the ingredient level, the TL allowed a deviation from the median ingredient target weight of 0 to 2 (53.9%), >2 to 5 (25.5%), >5 to 10 (11.6%), or >10% (8.9%). A total of 2.5% of the loads did not reach the target weight set by the TL, ranging from 0.1 to 21.1% loads across dairies. Ingredient deviation from the formulated target weight across dairies was below target 49.1% of the time [0 to 2 (36.7%), >2 to 5 (8.9%), >5 to 10 (1.2%), >10% (0.2%)]. Five dairies loaded ingredients with adequate accuracy (small to medium, quartile 1) and adequate precision (small to medium, interquartile range), but accuracy and precision were very poor on 3 dairies (large, quartile 1 and interquartile range). Rolled corn and almond hulls were loaded with adequate precision (small to medium, interquartile range) on a minimum of 64% of the dairies and adequate accuracy (small, quartile 1) on at least 68% of the dairies. In contrast, alfalfa hay, corn silage, and canola were loaded with poor precision (large, interquartile range) on a minimum of 60% of the dairies. There was a large variation within and across dairies on the deviation from target weight. Readjusting the TL settings might reduce the deviation from target weight. On 5 dairies, feeders were able to load ingredients with minimal deviation from target weight, setting achievable goals for the industry. Based on loading errors, opportunities exist to improve feeder performance on California dairies.

Introduction: Bioelectrical impedance spectroscopy (BIS) devices are being used to determine ultrafiltration requirements to achieve target weight for haemodialysis (HD) patients. Pre-dialysis measurements are more convenient for both patients and staff. We wished to compare the changes in pre- and post-dialysis hydration measured by BIS with actual weight loss. Methods: We compared paired BIS measurements made pre and post HD using a BIS device based on a 3-compartmental model, designed to provide information on extracellular water (ECW) excess. Results: BIS was measured in 49 HD patients, 35 male (71.4%) with mean age 67.6 ± 14.2. Weight fell significantly from 69.2 ± 17.8 to 67.6 ± 17.4 kg, and BIS over hydration (OH) from 4.5 ± 3.3.4 to 3.4 ± 2.9 litres, and ECW from 16.8 ± 4.8 to 15.5 ± 4.4 litres, but there was no change in the amount of intracellular water. Weight loss correlated positively with the change in ECW, but exceeded the fall in OH; mean bias -0.58 (95% confidence limits -3.6 to 4.8 kg). Summary: We measured OH pre and post HD, but did not find that the change in OH correlated with changes in body weight. Although there was a correlation between changes in OH and ECW, there was none for weight. Our findings do not support total reliance on pre-dialysis BIS alone for assessing volume status in HD patients, but rather BIS should be considered an aid to clinical assessment of volume status.

The purpose of the study was to investigate the effects of three levels of lick supplementation on the production and reproduction of cows grazing transitional Cymbopogon-Themeda veld. The study was conducted over three years (2011–2014). A total of 150 Drakensberger cows were randomly allocated to three supplementary treatment groups. These supplementation formulations are available commercially and are typical of levels used under farming conditions. In summer Treatment 1 (T1) consisted of a supplement containing 50 g phosphate (P)/kg and 150 g crude protein (CP)/kg. T2 and T3 both consisted of supplements containing 60 g P/kg and 0 g CP/kg. In winter, T1 consisted of a supplement containing 367 g CP/kg, 77.5% non-protein nitrogen (NPN) and metabolizable energy (ME) content of 5.25 MJ/kg. T2 had 466 g CP/kg, 88.7% NPN and a ME content of 4.4 MJ/kg. T3 had 475 g CP/kg, 95.9% NPN and an ME content of 2.4 MJ/kg. Traits were calf birth weight, 100-day and weaning weights of calves, cow weight at weaning, inter-calving period (ICP), conception rate and body condition score (BCS) of cows. Calf birth weight was affected by supplementation treatment only in year 3 and 100-day weight in year 2. However, weaning weight and reproductive performance were not influenced by treatment. It was concluded that the level of supplementation of each treatment group enabled the cows to operate within their target weight range; however, it was more profitable to use the T3 supplementation option. Keywords: Cymbopogon-Themeda veld, cows, performance

A decision-support tool that automatically selects an age-specific target weight for beef heifers and specifies the daily liveweight gain (DLWG) required to achieve this target weight within 3 months was developed as an aid for farmers to use to promote calving at 24 months of age in the Northern Ireland suckler herd. The ability of Northern Ireland beef producers to follow this target-driven growth management plan and calve heifers at 24 months of age was appraised in a study involving a total of 459 heifers of 10 breeds on six suckler farms. A unique growth curve was generated for each farm, with the aim of achieving 60% and 90% of the estimated mature weight of their cows at 14 months and 24 months respectively. Mature weight was estimated using the 6.7% truncated mean weight of mature cows on each farm. At intervals of 3 months, heifer weight, body condition score (BCS) and diet quality and quantity were assessed on each farm and a target weight for the next visit was specified, along with the DLWG required to achieve that target weight. Typically, heifers were significantly above their target weight prior to 9 months of age (P

WOS: 000402217900008, This research was conducted to determine muscle fiber characteristics and its relationship with some meat quality traits in Longissimus dorsi (LD) and Semitendinosus (ST) muscles from lambs of some Turkish native sheep breeds. A total of 36 singleton male lambs were used as experimental pure breed animals of Karayaka (n = 6), Kivircik (n = 6), Middle Anatolian Merino (n = 6), Awassi (n = 6), Morkaraman (n = 6) and Akkaraman (n = 6) breeds. All experimental animals were fed the same diet until they reach to a target weight of 40 kg weight. After the feeding period all lambs were slaughtered and LD and ST muscle samples were collected for determination of some meat quality traits (tenderness, pH, water holding capacity, and colour) and ATPase staining of muscle fibers. Type IIB muscle fiber numbers of Morkaraman sheep were higher than those of other breeds in LD muscle (P < 0.05). Awassi lambs had higher number of (P < 0.05) type IIA fibers and total fiber numbers in ST muscle compared to other breeds. Diameter of type I muscle fiber of ST muscle from Kivircik lambs was higher than those of other breeds (P < 0.05). There were positive correlations between diameters of type I (r = 0.513; P, TAGEM [TAGEM/10/AR-GE/13], The authors acknowledge the financial support by TAGEM (TAGEM/10/AR-GE/13) to carry out this study.

Postnatal nutrition has immediate and long-lasting effects on beef heifer reproductive efficiency, longevity, and productivity. This article reviews the effects of nutrients and nutritional management on reproduction in developing heifers. In addition, the current debate on the preferred target weight for heifers at breeding is discussed.

Pouliot, E., Gariépy, C., Thériault, M., Avezard, C., Fortin, J., Simmons, N. J. and Castonguay, F. W. 2012. Effects of low-voltage electrical stimulation and aging on lamb meat quality. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 92: 59–66. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of electrical stimulation (ES) and aging time on meat quality of heavy lamb as produced in Quebec. Seventy-six Suffolk-sired crossbred male lambs were slaughtered at a target weight of 50±2 kg. Half of them were electrically stimulated (ES vs. control) at 5–10 min postmortem (21 V; 0.25 A; 60 s). Postmortem pH decline and temperature were monitored. After carcass cutting, longissimus dorsi sections were assigned to aging periods of 1, 3 or 8 d. Temperature decline was the same for both treatments (P=0.749). However, ES carcasses always had a lower pH value than controls during the first 24 h (P

Restaurant patrons, particularly in upscale locations, increasingly prefer entrees developed from portions cut from fillets larger than those currently sold by the US catfish, Ictalurus punctatus, industry. A production study evaluated the feasibility of producing the necessary size (1.6 kg) of catfish. Twelve 0.1-ha earthen ponds were stocked with 0.363-kg channel catfish at 2500 (low); 5000 (medium); or 7500 (high) fish/ha, with four replicates. Mean individual weight at harvest exceeded the mean target weight (1.6 kg) at the two lower densities, and the minimum target weight (1.36 kg) at the highest density. Percentages of fish (by weight) that did not meet the minimum weight required were: 1, 5, and 18%, in the low, medium, and high density treatments, respectively. Yields were significantly greater at higher densities (P < 0.05). Costs of production at the two higher densities were 4 to 7% higher than in the traditional multiple-batch system, but increased to 51% at the lowest density. Results demonstrated the biological feasibility of producing channel catfish of a mean weight of 1.6 kg. Economic feasibility depends on (1) the price premium paid and (2) development of a market for fish sizes between current acceptable maximum sizes accepted and 1.36 kg.

Background: Obesity is the most common nutritional disease in dogs. Although weight loss by dietary caloric energy restriction is successful in experimental studies, there is limited information on success of such programs in client-owned dogs who are obese. Further, no information currently exists on the changes in body composition during weight loss in clinical cases. Hypothesis: Key determinants of outcome of weight loss, including energy allocation and body composition, are influenced by both individual and weight program factors. Animals: Nineteen client-owned dogs with naturally occurring obesity. Methods: In this prospective clinical study, body composition was quantified by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry before and after weight loss on an individually tailored program that incorporated a high-protein and moderate-fiber diet. Results: Mean percentage weight loss was 18% (range, 6–29%), and mean rate of weight loss was 0.85% per week (range, 0.35–1.56%). Mean energy allocation required to achieve weight loss was 60% of maintenance energy requirement at target weight (MERTW) (range, 50–82%). Significant dietary noncompliance was reported (mean, 1.0% MERTW; range, 0.0–9.5%). The mean composition of tissue lost was 84:15:1 (fat: lean: bone mineral content [BMC]). Lean tissue loss was positively associated with overall percentage of weight loss (Pearson correlation coefficient [Rp] = 0.591, P= .008), whereas BMC loss was greater in retrievers compared with other breeds (1.9%± 1.16% versus 0.8%± 0.44%; P= .008). Conclusions and Clinical Importance: This clinical study demonstrated body composition changes during weight loss in dogs. Conventional programs produced safe weight loss, but marked energy restriction was required and the rate of loss was slower than in experimental studies.

There is almost no information on ideal growth rates for adult boars, but estimates can be made if the relationship between boar weight and age is known. Therefore, this study was aimed to predict growth rates in adult working boars in a commercial boar stud. A total of 214 adult working boars from two genetic lines in a commercial boar stud were individually weighed on a platform scale. Age of the boar was recorded at the time of weighing. A regression equation to predict boar weight as a function of age was developed by using PROC REG of SAS. The model was used to predict BW on a daily basis, and ADG was derived as the difference between two predicted BW values. Factorial estimates of daily ME requirement and feeding rates were determined. The energy requirement for weight gain was computed by using the predicted ADG as a guide in setting target weight gains. Results showed a positive curvilinear response (P

The effect of tail docking on metabolizable energy requirements and carcass characteristics was studied using 80 weaned entire Awassi male lambs. Docking was performed within 3 days of birth and lambs were weaned at 90 days old. Docked and undocked lambs were randomly allocated to four groups, individually penned and offered different amounts of a pelleted concentrate diet. The pelleted diet was estimated to contain 11·8 MJ of metabolizable energy (ME) and 182 g of crude protein (CP) per kg dry matter (DM). Lambs on the high levels of intake were slaughtered at a target weight of approximately 45 kg. Other lambs were maintained on the diet for 149 days before being slaughtered. The right sides of all carcasses were cut into standardized commercial cuts then dissected into muscle, fat and bone. The soft tissue was pooled and analysed for DM, C P, ash and fat. Prediction of live-weight gain (LWG) and empty body gain for a given ME intake (MEI) was made using the growth and MEI data. MEI was expressed as MJ per kg metabolic body weight (M 0·75) per day. Tail docking had no effect (P > 0·05) on lamb growth from birth to weaning. During the post-weaning growth period, LWG and empty body gain were significantly higher (P < 0·05) for undocked lambs than docked lambs, at feeding levels between 0·31 and 0·52 MJ/kg M 0·75 per day and similar (P > 0·05) at high levels of intakes (between 0·74 and 1·1 MJ/ kg M 0·75 per day). Hot and cold carcass weights were similar (P > 0·05) for the two groups. Differences in empty body weight and fleece-free empty body weight were significant (P < 0·05) only for the 0·443 to 0·522 MJ/kg M 0·75 per day level of ME intake. Predicted ME requirements were higher for docked lambs for an estimated LWG between 0 and 100 g/day and lower for higher LWG (125 to 225 g/day). Docking had no effect (P > 0·05) on food conversion efficiency (FCE). Carcasses from docked lambs had significantly lower (P < 0·001) internal plus tail fat. Pooled soft tissue excluding tail fat, for the undocked lambs contained significantly more (P < 0·01) protein, less (P < 0·001) fat, higher (P < 0·01) moisture and similar (P > 0·05) ash content.

Weight-classified athletes need an energy intake plan to accomplish target weight reduction. They have to consider body composition and energy metabolism during rapid weight loss followed by rapid weight regain to achieve their energy intake plan. We investigated the effects of rapid weight loss, followed by weight regain, on body composition and energy expenditure. Ten weight-classified athletes were instructed to reduce their body weight by 5% in 7 days. Following the weight loss, they were asked to try to regain all of their lost weight with an ad libitum diet for 12 h. Food intake was recorded during the baseline, weight loss, and regain periods. Fat mass, total body water, and fat-free dry solids were estimated by underwater weighing and stable isotope dilution methods. A three-component model was calculated using Siri's equation. Basal and sleeping metabolic rates were measured by indirect calorimetry. Body composition and energy expenditure were measured before and after weight loss and after weight regain. Body weight, total body water, and fat-free dry solids were decreased after the weight loss period but recovered after weight regain (p0.05). Basal metabolic rate did not change throughout the study. Sleeping metabolic rate decreased significantly during weight loss but recovered after weight regain. Changes in total body water greatly affect body weight during rapid weight loss and regain. In addition, rapid weight loss and regain did not greatly affect the basal metabolic rate in weight-classified athletes.

This experiment was conducted over an 18-week period to determine the effects of initiating a skip-a-day (SAD) feed restriction program at 2, 4, and 6 weeks of age on male broiler breeders. For each of the SAD treatments, feed intake was manipulated so that the breeder's recommended target weight was reached by all groups at 18 weeks of age. Males were evaluated for shank and keel length and head width at 7 and 18 weeks of age. The results of this experiment show that starting a SAD feeding program at 2, 4, or 6 weeks of age will decrease shank and keel length as well as head width. Feed restriction affected keel length and head width in a very similar manner; shank length was not as sensitive to the time of initiation of the SAD feed restriction program.

Two experiments were conduct to determine the effect of changing time of feeding starter (SD), grower (GD), and finisher (FD) diets on live performance and carcass composition of broilers grown to approximately 1 kg. In Experiment 1, SD were fed to 7, 14, or 21 days, with combinations of GD and FD fed to 28 days. In Experiment 2, SD were fed to 7, 14, or 21 days with GD subsequently fed to 28 days. Male broilers grown to 28 days attained the desired weight of 1 kg on all feeding programs. Inclusion of FD from 21 to 28 days resulted in a reduction in body weight, a deterioration in feed conversion and calorie utilization, and an increase in abdominal fat. Different feeding strategies did not affect carcass yield. Using typical poultry industry diets, optimum time of feeding SD for birds grown to a target weight of 1 kg appear to be no more than 14 days and may lie between 7 and 14 days. Based on typical cost differences between SD and GD, the economic impact of changing from SD to GD at earlier ages may be considerable. Use of diets of different nutrient content may alter these recommendations.

Selection for high and low threshold weight for onset of lay (ThrWtLay), carried out in a broiler line over six generations, was previously found to increase reproductive performance in the low line (LL). Because of the potential importance of this effect, a two-generation replication of the original experiment was carried out using a modern broiler line. Selection was on the basis of ThrWtLay, measured as body weight at first egg, following gradual release from feed restriction. The total response to selection over two generations was 382 g, giving a realized heritability of .42. The difference in 6-wk body weight of the two lines was +19 g in favor (P > .05) of the high line (HL). Reproductive performance was measured in the S2 generation and in the first (R1) generation of relaxed selection. On the average, age at first egg of LL was 17.6 d earlier, and prepeak, postpeak, and total egg production of LL to a fixed age was 9.9, 1.1, and 11.1 eggs greater, respectively, than that of HL. The differences in age at first egg, prepeak, and total egg production were significant; those in postpeak production were not. There was a difference of 1.1 g in favor (P > .05) of HL for egg weight. Thus, the results of this short-term selection experiment are broadly consistent with those of the original, long-term selection. Namely, ThrWtLay responded strongly to selection, with a powerful accompanied response in age at onset of lay and in prepeak egg production, and only a small effect on 6-wk body weight. However, in contrast to the results obtained previously, LL in the present experiment showed only a small increase (P > .05) in postpeak production relative to HL. Nevertheless, although an effect on postpeak production was not obtained in the present experiment, the results do provide general support for the previously expressed view that selection for early onset of lay, on release from feed restriction, may provide a means of increasing photoperiodic drive and consequent reproductive performance of broiler breeders.

Thirty-nine dogs were assigned to four treatment groups for weight loss. Breed, sex and initial body condition were similar across groups. Treatments included 0, 25, 40 or 50% caloric restriction, based on calculated maintenance energy requirements for the dog's estimated ideal body weight. True maintenance energy requirements and actual caloric restriction were determined retrospectively. When the dogs reached their target weight or when 16 weeks on restriction were completed, they were switched to either maintenance or ad libitum feeding. The changes in their behavior between the end of caloric restriction and the first week off restriction, and between baseline data collected before caloric restriction and data collected 10 months after the initiation of behavioral observations (5–9 months after the end of caloric restriction) were evaluated. Minimal changes in activity and time-budgets occurred as a consequence of transition from restriction to non-restriction. Slightly more change occurred between baseline and 10 months, but changes were still not substantial. Coprophagy was not altered by diet. Aggression decreased significantly between baseline and 10 months, in spite of intervening periods of the physical stress of caloric restriction.

International audience; With a view to alleviate the feeling of hunger in broiler breeders, different types of fibre sources were used in high-fibre diets to increase feed quantity while limiting growth to industry recommended levels. Using scatter feeding, three diets (C1: commercial control diet, 13fibre content, 80% insoluble fibre (ISF); H2: 23fibre content, 89% ISF; and L2: 23fibre content, 71% ISF) were each fed to 10 groups of 16 broiler breeder chickens. Similar growth rates were obtained on different quantities of food with all birds reaching commercial target weight at 15 weeks of age. In a hunger test, birds fed C1 ate significantly faster and showed a higher compensatory feed intake than birds on diets H2 and L2, indicating that the two high-fibre diets did reduce the level of hunger experienced by the birds. Behavioural observations carried out at 14 weeks of age showed high levels of tail pecking in birds fed C1 and almost none in birds fed L2, whereas birds fed H2 were intermediate. Stereotypic pecking at fixtures was seen twice as frequently in birds fed C1. Birds on diet L2 displayed behavioural signs indicative of discomfort, and the high water usage on this diet created problems with litter quality. Birds on diet H2 continued to show foraging behaviour throughout the day, and were more frequently engaged in dust bathing and other comfort behaviour. This experiment indicates that high-fibre diets can alleviate the feeling of hunger currently experienced by broiler breeders, and a high ratio of ISF may improve the well-being of the birds.

In a 2 x 2 factorial design, attainment of puberty in 32 Black Indigenous (BI) and 60 SA Landrace (SAL) gilts was studied under the effects of two treatment diets fed individually ad libitum . Treatment 1 contained 160 g CP and 13.6 MJ DE/kg DM, and Treatment 2, a 25% dilute of Treatment 1 using wood shavings, contained 120 g CP and 10.2 MJ DE/kg DM. Target weights set for BI gilts were from 10 to 50 kg and for SAL, 15 to 120 kg. A sample was slaughtered at each target weight. Reproductive organs were removed, measured and the number, size and physiological state of follicles recorded. Carcasses were deboned and the soft tissue analysed for moisture, protein and fat content. Treatments affected growth significantly. Cumulative mass (lnkg) was regressed against cumulative ME intake (lnME) with b the allometric coefficient in a linear autoregressive model. A change in b indicated a change or breakpoint of physiological development. Puberty was taken to coincide with the breakpoint. Age and weight at puberty differed by treatment for each genotype. Estimated live weight fat (percentage) and carcass fat (percentage) at these ages show a close range between genotypes and treatment diets.

Fifty-four-week-old breeder hens were either feed restricted to meet target weight or over-fed by 10 or 20 g daily for 8 wk. Overfeeding increased body weight and breast muscle weight, but did not affect fat pad weight, ovary morphology or egg output. The consequences of over feeding old breeder hens are not as severe as has previously been reported with young hens. Key words: Broiler breeders, feed restriction, ovary morphology, egg production

The study was conducted to evaluate the effect of increased concentrate supplementation on nutrient intake, growth performance, carcass characteristics, duration of feeding and profitability of Ethiopian Afar and Blackhead Ogaden (BHO) lambs. Forty-eight lambs (24/breed) initially weighing 17.84±1.6 kg were randomly assigned to three dietary treatments (T) in Complete Randomized Design. Each lamb was fed on tef straw ad libtium and supplemented with 150, 300, 450 g d-1 of concentrate (containing 19.4% crude protein (CP) and 11.28 MJ ME kg-1DM) in T1, T2 and T3, respectively. Intake and growth trial lasted for 126 days, followed by digestibility trial of 7 days. Dry matter (DM) intake increased (p

Carcass and live measurements of 203 pigs representing seven genetic populations and four target live weights (100, 114, 128, and 152 kg) were used to evaluate alternative measures of carcass composition. Measures of carcass lean (fat tissue-free lean, FFLM; lipid-free soft tissue, LFSTIS; and dissected lean in the four lean cuts, DL), fat (total carcass fat tissue, TOFAT), and lipid mass (soft tissue lipid, STLIP) were evaluated. Overall, LFSTIS was 22.8% greater than FFLM (47.8 vs 38.9 kg) and TOFAT was 30% greater than STLIP (38.5 vs 29.6 kg). The allometric growth coefficients relative to carcass weight were different for the measures: b = 0.776, 0.828, 0.794, 1.37, and 1.49 for FFLM, LFSTIS, DL, TOFAT, and STLIP, respectively. At 90 kg carcass weight, the predicted growth of FFLM, LFSTIS, TOFAT, and STLIP was 0.314, 0.420, 0.553, and 0.446 kg/kg increase in carcass weight. The difference between FFLM and LFSTIS, representing nonlipid components of the carcass fat tissue, was greater for barrows than for gilts (9.2 vs 8.6 kg). Lipid-free soft tissue mass was predicted more accurately from carcass or live animal measurements than FFLM with smaller relative RSD (4.6 vs 6.5% of their mean values). The alternative measures of carcass composition were evaluated as predictors of empty body protein (MTPRO) and lipid (MTLIP) mass. Empty body protein was predicted with similar accuracy (R 2 = 0.74 to 0.81) from either DL, FFLM, LFSTIS, or ribbed carcass measurements. Empty body lipid was predicted more accurately from TOFAT (R 2 = 0.92) or STLIP (R 2 = 0.93) than ribbed carcass measurements (R 2 = 0.88). Although the alternative measures of lean mass (LFSTIS vs FFLM) and lipid mass (TOFAT vs STLIP) were highly related to each other (r = 0.93 to 0.98), they had different relative growth rates (allometric coefficients) and thus cannot be predicted as linear functions of the similar alternative variable without significant weight group biases. From the 100- to 152-kg target weight groups, gilts gained 12.9% greater FFLM and 12.1% greater MTPRO but only 4.4% greater LFSTIS than barrows. Fat-free lean mass is more precise as a measure of muscle growth and as a predictor of lysine requirements. Lipid-free soft tissue can be obtained more quickly and predicted more accurately from carcass or live animal measurements.

The objective of this study was to determine whether increased amounts of collagen and (or) hydroxylysylpyridinoline crosslinks in longissimus muscle are partially responsible for decreased tenderness when callipyge lambs are compared to normal lambs. The longissimus muscle was used because we believe tenderness is a greater problem in loin chops of callipyge lambs than it is in other cuts. Ten normal and 10 half-sibling lambs expressing the callipyge gene were compared. Lambs were slaughtered at approximately 8 mo of age when they reached a target weight of 59 kg. Dressing percentages were higher for the leaner callipyge lambs that exhibited larger longissimus muscle areas and heavier leg weights (P < .01). Warner-Bratzler shear values for longissimus muscle from callipyge lambs were higher (P < .01) than those from normal lambs. The higher shear values were not explained by amount of muscle collagen or by hydroxylysylpyridinoline crosslink concentration because both collagen percentage (P < .09) and crosslink concentration (P < .04) were lower in callipyge lambs. Therefore, attempts to modify shear values and make loin chops from callipyge lambs more acceptable to consumers should focus on the myofibrillar fraction of muscle.

Two experiments were conducted to quantify the effects of protein intake on protein and fat deposition rates at two protein-free, energy intake levels in 90 preruminant Holstein Friesian x Dutch Friesian calves. The two experiments were similar in design, but were performed in two different weight ranges: 80 to 160 kg BW and 160 to 240 kg BW in Exp. 1 and 2, respectively. In each experiment, calves were allocated to either an initial slaughter group or to one of 12 treatments (three calves per treatment), which consisted of six protein intake levels at each of two protein-free energy intake levels. Calves were slaughtered and analyzed for body composition when they had reached the target weight. A balance study was conducted when calves reached 120 and 200 kg BW in Exp. 1 and 2, respectively. Protein digestibility increased with increasing protein intake in both experiments (P < .001). Average daily gain of the empty body varied between 640 and 1,340 g/d and between 420 and 1,370 g/d in Exp. 1 and 2, respectively, and was affected by protein (P < .001) and protein-free energy intake (P < .001). The calves responded to increased protein intake by increasing their protein (P < .001) and fat (P < .01) deposition rates. Maximum protein deposition was reached in the second experiment at 244 g/d. Extra protein-free energy intake resulted mainly in extra fat deposition (P < .001), but also increased the protein deposition (P < .01), even at low protein intake levels. In both experiments, the response of protein deposition rate to increased protein intakes was low: about 30% of the extra ingested protein was deposited. These results clearly demonstrate a low priority for partitioning dietary protein into protein gain in these calves.

This study describes the impact of Australian Sheep Breeding Values (ASBV) for post-weaning weight (PWWT), C-site fatness (PFAT) and eye muscle depth (PEMD) on lamb carcasses within the Australian Sheep Industry CRC Information Nucleus Flock. These results are taken from the 2007 drop progeny, consisting of ~2000 lambs slaughtered at a target weight of 21.5 kg. These lambs were the progeny of sires selected to ensure genetic diversity across various production traits. As expected, the PWWT ASBV increased weight at slaughter, and hot standard carcass weight. Dressing percentage was markedly improved by increasing PEMD ASBV, thus prime lamb producers will be maintaining an animal of similar weight on farm, but delivering a markedly larger carcass at slaughter. Lean meat yield % (LMY%) was highest in the progeny of sires with low PFAT ASBV, which decreased whole carcass fatness and increased muscularity. PWWT ASBV affected carcass composition but had little impact on LMY%, as the decreased fatness was largely offset by increased bone, with relatively little change in muscle content. Lastly, PEMD ASBV had little impact on whole carcass LMY%, but did appear to cause some level of muscle redistribution to the higher value loin cuts, in turn increasing the value of the carcass lean.

SUMMARYTwo forms of supplement, barley or dried grass pellets (G) were given to weaned lambs, set-stocked at pasture, at three stocking rates (43·5, 60 and 87 per hectare). The supplements were given either from weaning or from the time growth rate fell below a target value. The supplements significantly increased the proportion of lambs reaching the target weight (35 kg) and G was significantly better than barley, but slightly more G was given. The substitution value of supplement for herbage was 0·48 ± 0·12 and there was no difference in this value between barley and G. The proportion of lambs reaching the target slaughter weight was not influenced by whether the supplement was offered at weaning or delayed until lamb growth declined below a target level. Increase in stocking rate depressed the herbage intake and growth rate of the unsupplemented control lambs.

SUMMARY A replicated experiment using first cross Border Leicester/Merino maiden ewes set stocked at the rate of 9.9 per hectare was conducted to examine the effects of treatment of the ewes in the periparturient period (PPP) and treatment of lambs at about 12 weeks of age on the production of prime lambs. All treatments given were thiabendazole. Four groups each of 100 ewes (4 replicates × 25) were treated either pre-lambing, 2 weeks before lambing commenced and again post-lambing, 8 weeks later when lambing was almost complete (DD), pre-lambing only (DO), post-lambing only (OD) or not treated during the lambing period (OO). Lambing commenced 24 July 1972 with the bulk of lambing (98%) occuring within the first 4 weeks of a 6 weeks lambing period. The effectiveness of the drenching regimes was judged by observing bodyweight gains per day during four overlapping intervals between birth and 18 weeks of age. The bodyweight gain of lambs up to 18 weeks and the number of lambs exceeding a target weight of 33 kg at 18 weeks of age were considered to be critical measurements of production efficiency. Significant bodyweight differences were observed within 30 days from birth, favouring DD and DO over OD and OO lambs (p < 0.01). These differences continued until 12 weeks of age at a reduced level of significance (p < 0.05). By 18 weeks of age the results favoured DD over DO (p

1. From 1 to 22 weeks of age 720 Ross 1 parent stock pullets were given regulated amounts of food to achieve 90, 100 or 110% of a target weight (R90, R100 or R110, respectively) while from 23 to 64 weeks of age they were fed 80 or 100% of a set allowance (L80 or L100, respectively). One hundred and fifty Ross 1 parent stock males were on the R110 treatment and then either the L80 or L100 during breeding. 2. Mean number of settable (> 53 g) eggs per hen housed was 131, 131 and 135 and mean number of chicks hatched per hen housed was 108, 101 and 101, respectively, for the R90, R100 and R110 treatments. These differences were not statistically significant. 3. Mean number of settable eggs per hen housed was 116 and 148 and mean number of chicks hatched per hen housed was 94 and 112, respectively, for the L80 and L100 treatments (P

An experiment was conducted to compare the productivity and profitability of commercial broiler, cockerel and cross-bred (F1 RIR ? × Fayoumi ?) chicks up to target body weights of 850, 1000 and 1250g. Two hundred sixteen birds of 3 genotypes each of 72 birds having 18 chicks in each replication were considered. Commercial broiler starter diet was fed to experimental birds ad libitum. Similar care and management were provided to birds of all treatment groups. Commercial broilers attained the target weights of 850, 1000 and 1250g at the age of 21, 24 and 28 days respectively whereas cockerels attained weights close to those targets at 56, 63 and 74 days respectively and in the case of cross-breds, the days were 63, 77 and 90 for those target weights respectively. Feed conversion ratio (FCR) was best in broilers, followed by cockerels and cross-bred chicks respectively. The highest mortality (8.3%) was found in cross-bred group when reared up to target weight of 1250g. The mortality of broiler was 1.4% and no bird was died in cockerel group. Broiler was most profitable (21.11 Tk/kg live bird) at the target weight of 1250g whereas profit from cockerel varied little (21.78, 21.07 and 21.63 Tk/kg live bird against the target weights of 850, 1000 and 1250g respectively) amoung target weights. Therefore, appropriate weight to market these birds was at 850g to minimize the risk of diseases and other management works. Marketing of cross-bred chicks was most profitable (8.43 Tk/kg live bird) at 850g target weight and loss was incurred when rearing was continued up to 1250g. On the basis of results of productivity, it was concluded that commercial broiler, cockerel and cross-bred chicks could be reared upto 28, 56 and 63 days respectively to reach target weights close to 1250, 850 and 850g respectively to obtain maximum profit.? DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjas.v37i2.9886 BJAS 2008; 37(2): 89-98

Reproductive performance and weaning weight of the first calf was determined in 221 Brahman crossbred heifers fed to weigh either 272 (TW1) or 318 kg (TW2) at the start of their first breeding season (target weight). Heifers were divided into light- (below average) and heavyweight (above average) groups on the basis of initial weight. Within each target weight, heifers were fed in three lots. One lot contained lightweight heifers, the second contained heavy heifers and the third was composed of one-half heavy- and one-half lightweight heifers. Heifers were fed for 200 d before the start of the first breeding season. More heifers in TW2 showed estrus and became pregnant in the first 20 d of the breeding season and more were pregnant at the end of the first breeding season. These same differences in reproductive performance were also noted the second year. Each heifer exposed in TW2 weaned 43.4 kg more calf than those in TW1. An average heifer in TW2 was fed 220 kg more corn and 100 kg less hay than a corresponding heifer in TW1. Estrus and pregnancy rate for lightweight heifers in TW1 and TW2 were not improved by sorting and feeding them separately.

Proper development of replacement heifers leads to: Higher pregnancy rate first breeding season Less calving difficulty Higher pregnancy rate second breeding season Consequently, higher returns, The Bovine Practitioner, No. 19 (1984 November)

The Cambridge Diet original formula is a compounded food in powdered form which, when added to water, provides soups or sweet drinks. The recommended intake of the powder (103 g per day) provides the US recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for vitamins, minerals and trace elements. The United Kingdom RDA is less extensive than the American counterpart but the formulation covers all the UK RDA needs. All these are provided within a daily intake of 330 kcals (Figure 5).

The caloric requirements for weight gain were studied in 29 patients during 35 days of treatment for anorexia nervosa. Associations between the caloric requirements for weight gain and the amount of body weight depletion at the beginning of treatment were analyzed. There was a positive correlation between the percentage standard weight on the 1st day of treatment and the excess calories required to gain a kilogram. This highly significant correlation was possibly due to differences in type of tissue formed and/or an increase in metabolic rate as part of an adaptive response, as the patient nears target weight. Am. J. Clin. Nutr. 32: 1396-1400, 1979. A great deal of variation exists in the re- ported caloric requirements for weight gain. The caloric requirements for weight gain have been determined in adults fed excess calories and in infants recovering from mal

An experiment was conducted using Friesian heifers in a Mediterranean environment to examine the effect of growth rate to mating and mating age on subsequent production. Heifers were mated at 12, 15, 18 or 24 months of age and at target mating weights of either 250 or 300 kg liveweight. Differential feeding ceased at the end of mating but, after calving, cows were grazed at one of two stocking rates. There were 64 cows in the milking phase of the experiment. Liveweight and production were measured over four lactations. There were no differences in production associated with target weight. Productions over four lactations for heifers first mated at 12, 15, 18 or 24 months were 15 500, 17 683, 16 779 and 18 855 kg fat-corrected milk, respectively. It was concluded that when differential feeding was discontinued at first mating, and feed was then not restricted up to calving, lifetime production was comparable whether heifers were mated at 48 or 58% of mature weight. Calving at less than 24 months of age could not be recommended.