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The great snipe Gallinago media, as a long‐distant migrant wintering in Africa, faces the challenge of accumulating sufficient energy reserves before departing from European breeding grounds. Despite possible trade‐offs in resource allocation, this species additionally initiates moult of flight feathers before southward migration. Here, we discuss the strategy of flight feather moult and fuelling for female and male great snipes from the Eastern European lowland population, exploring their scheduling constrained by the timing of breeding and departure. We found significant intersexual differences in both moult initiation date and the speed of moult. Males start flight feather replacement more than 2 weeks earlier and moult at a faster rate compared to females. However, neither sex completed this process on breeding grounds before the migration, as late in the season all males and half of the females had suspended their primary moult, with the remaining females not moulted at all. Moult of secondaries rarely occurred in the studied population. We observed non‐linear energetic stores gain in the studied period, where both sexes maintained stable and low energy stores until the end of July, coinciding with the primary moulting period. Subsequently, there was an increase in energy stores of approximately 1% of the lean body mass per day, indicating a shift towards fuelling for migratory flight. The overlap between stages of stable and low energy stores and moulting suggests a resource allocation towards feather growth before initiating fuelling. Besides limiting a trade‐off in resource allocation, this strategy may also contribute to minimizing predation risk, as both increased body mass and missing flight feathers may impair flight. Our study describes moult strategy in great snipe conducted on their breeding grounds, highlighting intersexual differences likely resulting from different parental duties of males and females of this lekking species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Aquatic Warbler Acrocephalus paludicola is a globally threatened, long-distance migratory passerine that continues to decline in abundance and range. Studies throughout its annual cycle are needed, including during migration, when information on habitat availability and usage are important for conservation. Here, the autumn occurrence (distribution, abundance, phenology) of Aquatic Warblers in Portugal is described taking advantage of an increase in capture effort with diurnal song playback. The species was captured at six new sites and seen at a further three, increasing the total number of sites to 16. Salreu marshlands appeared to be the most important with 93% of all captures since 2009, although ringing effort was highly variable between sites. We show that song playback did not influence age nor sex ratios, but tended to attract individuals with lower body mass, presumably those that arrived recently at stopover sites. Adult males migrated earlier than all other sex and age categories, in accordance with their limited role in parental care. Furthermore, we show that at least some individuals fuel up at Portuguese stopovers, which increases their importance for conservation. In addition, at Salreu marshlands, the abundance of Aquatic Warblers was significantly greater at an active than at a dry, abandoned (extensive) rice field, suggesting this land-use change may affect the quality of stopover sites. Recommendations regarding habitat management and conservation measures are proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate fattening performance, carcass traits, meat quality, and leg bone traits in geese reared under an intensive production system, depending on genotypes. In the study, a total of 210 goslings (70 goslings for each genotype such as Linda, Toulouse, and Mast) were obtained from 168-week-old breeders. The geese were fed ad libitum with the same feeds during 12 weeks. Then, 5 males and 5 females from each goose genotype (30 birds in total) were slaughtered to determine the carcass, meat, and bone properties. The fattening performance, carcass properties, relative organ weights, and proximate analyses of breast and thigh meats did not differ among the genotype groups. The relative abdominal fat percentage weight was the highest in the Mast geese among the examined genotypes. Dry matter and crude protein values in meat were affected by genotype. The liver compositions, such as dry matter, crude fat, and crude protein, was significantly different from breast and thigh meat. It was found that the meat of Toulouse and Linda genotypes had lower SFA, n6/n3, and TI values, but higher MUFA, UFA, and crude protein values, making them superior to the meat of the Mast genotype. In the thigh meat, it was determined that lower SFA, AI, and TI values, and higher MUFA and UFA values, made it superior to the breast meat. In goose liver, DFA, NF and TI values were higher than the other tissues. Interactions were observed in the chemical composition and some fatty acids (P < 0.05). The femur and metatarsus bones of the Linda genotype were more durable than those of the Mast genotype due to their lower Robusticity indexes of femur and metatarsus bones. These results show that Linda and Toulouse geese are superior to the Mast genotype in terms of valuable fatty acids under intensive fattening. Additionally, the superior bone strength of Linda geese indicates that bone-related problems will be less common when this genotype is raised under intensive conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Primates spend on average half as much energy as other placental mammals while expressing a wide range of lifestyles. However, little is known about how primates adapt their rate of energy use in the context of natural environmental variations. Using doubly labelled water, behavioral and accelerometric methods, we measured the total energy expenditure (TEE) and body composition of a population of Eulemur fulvus (N = 12) living in an agroforest in Mayotte. We show that the TEE of this medium-sized cathemeral primate is one of the lowest recorded to date in eutherians. Regression models show that individual variation in the rate of energy use is predicted by fat-free mass, body size, thigh thickness and maximum temperature. TEE is positively correlated with increasing temperature, suggesting that thermoregulation is an important component of the energy budget of this frugivorous species. Mass-specific TEE is only 10% lower than that of a closely related species previously studied in a gallery forest, consistent with the assertion that TEE varies within narrow physiological limits. As lemur communities include many species with unique thermoregulatory adaptations, circadian and/or seasonal temperature variations may have constituted a major selective pressure on the evolution of lemur metabolic strategies.

Primates spend on average half as much energy as other placental mammals while expressing a wide range of lifestyles. However, little is known about how primates adapt their rate of energy use in the context of natural environmental variations. Using doubly labelled water, behavioral and accelerometric methods, we measured the total energy expenditure (TEE) and body composition of a population of Eulemur fulvus (N = 12) living in an agroforest in Mayotte. We show that the TEE of this medium-sized cathemeral primate is one of the lowest recorded to date in eutherians. Regression models show that individual variation in the rate of energy use is predicted by fat-free mass, body size, thigh thickness and maximum temperature. TEE is positively correlated with increasing temperature, suggesting that thermoregulation is an important component of the energy budget of this frugivorous species. Mass-specific TEE is only 10% lower than that of a closely related species previously studied in a gallery forest, consistent with the assertion that TEE varies within narrow physiological limits. As lemur communities include many species with unique thermoregulatory adaptations, circadian and/or seasonal temperature variations may have constituted a major selective pressure on the evolution of lemur metabolic strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Considering the need to feed the increasing world population, it is essential to ensure that food production systems are sustainable. Aquaculture has been identified as a potential crucial source of sustainable food with its significant potential for future growth, notably by the recent EU regulations aiming at boosting food security and sustainable food systems. In this context, it is important to reflect on how the aquaculture of carnivorous species, which are exhibiting the highest growth rates, stands in respect of environmental impacts and contribution to the overall food supply. In particular, tuna aquaculture has been largely criticized for its high environmental impacts and general low sustainability. Methods: Here, we present a methodology to assess the sustainability of seafood production systems, with a first analysis applied to Atlantic bluefin tuna (BFT) aquaculture, detailed for both BFT fattening and farming. Results: Results suggest that the limited economic and social contributions of BFT aquaculture do not currently compensate its environmental impacts with an estimate of a 3.4-fold higher long-term social cost than the short-term economic gain. Discussion: However, it is also a species where the production cycle is not closed in commercial operation, and with a significant potential for further improvement as the control of the production process increases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To study the effects of different feeding patterns on growth performance and flavor quality in edible parts of Chinese mitten crab (Eriocheir sinensis), two groups were set up for the feeding trial: feeding formulated feed throughout the feeding trial (A), and feeding formulated feed in the early-stage and feeding chilled trash fish in the late stage (B). Three replicates were set in each group, with 15 male and 15 female crabs in each replicate. At the end of the experiment, the growth performance and muscle, hepatopancreas and gonad related quality indexes, and volatile substances of hepatopancreas and gonads were measured. The results showed that the two feed patterns had no significant effect on the hepatopancreas index and condition factor of Chinese mitten crab, as well as the hardness, cohesiveness, springiness and shear force of leg muscle tissue (P>0.05). While the combination of diet supplemented with chilled trash fish significantly increased the gonad index in male crabs (P<0.05), it also enhanced the weight gain rate and specific growth rate in female crabs (P<0.05). Group B exhibited better growth performance than Group A in female crabs (P<0.05). Similarly, Group B showed superior hepatopancreas and gonad coloration effects in male crabs (P<0.05), as well as higher muscle collagen protein content compared to Group A (P<0.05). Furthermore, the crabs in Group B, when fed in combination with the diet complemented by chilled trash fish, demonstrated a more favorable flavor (P<0.05). Overall, a feeding regimen consisting of feeding with formulated feed in the early stage followed by later feeding with chilled trash fish demonstrates superior effects on the fattening and flavor quality of river crabs. Consequently, the subsequent development of formulated feed should focus on the enhancement of flavor compounds, promotion of collagen protein synthesis, and the development of fattening-functional feed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to explore the key marine environmental factors affecting the growth and fattening of triploid Crassostrea angulata and promote the development of triploid oyster culture to the deep waters in the outside bay, a 10-month survey was conducted on the triploid C. angulata culture area in Huangqi Bay from December 2021 to September 2022. The growth indexes of oysters and marine environmental factors of the culture areas both outside and inside the bay were obtained, and the data were analyzed by Redundancy analysis （RDA） and other methods. The results showed that there were significant differences in growth indexes of oysters such as shell length, shell width, total mass, soft tissue mass, and fillet yields between the inner and outside bay groups, with all those indexes being significantly higher in the outside bay than those in the inner bay, while the difference of shell heights inside and outside bay was not significant. The contents of nitrate nitrogen, chlorophyll-a and phytoplankton cell density in the seawater in the outside bay were significantly higher than those in the inner bay, and there was no significant difference between other indexes inside and outside the bay. The results of RDA analysis showed that the main factors affecting the growth indexes of oysters were water temperature, nitrate nitrogen, phytoplankton cell density and chemical oxygen demand. What′s more, phytoplankton cell density and chlorophyll-a content had the greatest effect on oyster fillet yield. Comprehensive analysis showed that water temperature, phytoplankton biomass and nutrients were the key marine environmental factors affecting the growth and fattening of triploid oysters. The average chlorophyll-a content in the sea area was above 6 μg/L for at least one month from spring to early summer, which was beneficial to the fattening of oysters. The selection of non-pollution source, good water exchange conditions, abundant food, rich nutrient supply, stable salinity and low wind waves in the outside bay to cultivate triploid oysters may be helpful to improve the yield and quality of oysters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As global demand for pork continues to rise, strategies to enhance nitrogen utilization efficiency (NUE) in pig farming have become vital for environmental sustainability. This study explored the relationship between the fecal microbiota, their metabolites, and NUE in crossbreed fattening pigs with a defined family structure. Pigs were kept under standardized conditions and fed in a two-phase feeding regime. In each phase, one fecal sample was collected from each pig. DNA was extracted from a total of 892 fecal samples and subjected to target amplicon sequencing. The results indicated an influence of sire, sampling period (SP), and sex on the fecal microbiota. Streptococcus emerged as a potential biomarker in comparing high and low NUE pigs in SP 1, suggesting a genetic predisposition to NUE regarding the fecal microbiota. All fecal samples were grouped into two enterotype-like clusters named cluster LACTO and cluster CSST. Pigs' affiliation with enterotype-like clusters altered over time and might be sex-dependent. The stable cluster CSST demonstrated the highest NUE despite containing pigs with lower performance characteristics such as average daily gain, dry matter intake, and daily nitrogen retention. This research contributes with valuable insights into the microbiome's role in NUE, paving the way for future strategies to enhance sustainable pig production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction and Objective: The Markazi province is considered as one of the important centers of calf fattening in the country. This province has more than 4.4% of the total cattle and calf population of Iran with 370,000 head of cows and calves, including purebred, hybrid and native. It ranks twelfth among the provinces of the country. In addition, this province, with the production of 15,000 tons of beef and veal, accounts for about 3.3% of the production of beef and veal meat in the country. In recent years, there has been a lot of interest from the Livestock breeders of the province for the fattening of Simmental calves, due to their calmness and better meat production efficiency, as well as their adaptability to the weather conditions of this province. This issue caused the desire and request of the province's livestock improvement deputy to implement a project in order to determine the productivity and fattening characteristics of this breed in a scientific and documented manner. Since no research has been done in the province to compare the growth and feedlot performance of crossbred Holstein and Simmental calves and there is little information about carcass characteristics and suitable slaughter weights of cattle breeds in the province, calf breeders do not have detailed information about productivity, feed consumption, growth traits and carcass quality of calves of different breeds. So, this study was conducted to compare of fattening and carcasses characteristics of Simmental and Holstein crosses male calves in one of the fattening units of the Markazi Province that had the necessary conditions and facilities for the implementation of the project (having a scale and a suitable and sufficient place). Material and Methods: 60 male calves with an average weight of 150 to 200 kg were divided into two groups (treatment). In one group, 30 Holstein crossbred calves and in the other group, 30 Simmental crossbred calves were placed. So that there was the least difference of weight and body condition between the two groups. Therefore, balanced and optimal diets were adjusted for each group, based on the nutritional needs of the calves (according to the weight of the calves) and according to the appropriate and available nutrients in the unit based on the nutritional requirements presented in the NRC tables of beef cattle (2016). Balanced diets were given to the calves based on Total Mixed Ration and after a 14-day feeding adaptation period. The average consumption of fodder and concentrate was adjusted to 40 to 60 in the whole period. During the fattening period, daily feed was provided to the calves in three times and until the appetite. During the fattening period, the feed was given to the calves three times a day and to extent of appetite. Daily feed intake was recorded. Calves were weighed monthly after 12 hours of food deprivation and before morning feeding, and then the feed conversion ratios of the animals in each group were calculated. The fattening period continued until the calves reached the appropriate weight. At the end of the fattening period, 5 calves in each group were weighed and slaughtered after 12 hours of food deprivation and were measured the carcass weight and yield and fat thickness on the ribs of 12. Comparisons between two groups of calves in different weight groups were performed by independent t-test using SPSS statistical software. Results: The results showed that the total weight gain of calves in the fattening period was 360 and 336 kg for Simmental and Holstein hybrids, respectively; which showed a higher weight gain (24 kg) in treatment one (P =0.03). So that the average monthly and daily weight gain of Simmental and Holstein hybrid calves in a breeding period was (40 and 37.30) and (1.33 and 1.24) kg per month, respectively (P =0.032). The average daily dry matter intake during the fattening period for Simmental and Holstein hybrid calves was 8.05 and 8.28 kg, respectively, but the difference was not significant. The mean feed conversion ratio for the whole fattening period of treatments was 6.05 and 6.67, respectively, which was significantly different between the two treatments (P =0.04). The mean carcass yield of Simmental and Holstein hybrid calves at the end of 9 months of fattening was 55.45 and 52.27% and the difference between the two treatments was significant (P =0.01). The thickness of dorsal fat between ribs 12 and 13 in treatments one and two were 6.05 and 6.75 mm, respectively, and the thickness of straight muscle in the range of 12 and 13 ribs was 53.62 and 51.4 mm, respectively (P =0.035). Conclusion: The results showed that Simmental hybrid calves have better efficiency in terms of growth, food yield and carcass and meat characteristics than Holstein hybrid calves. Therefore, for the economic production of meat and the supply of the country's red meat from the domestic sources, suggested that, if possible, some of the country's feedlot farm proceed to breed this high yielding breed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cattle production in Mexico is one of the main activities of the agriculture and livestock sector. The production, commercialization and fattening of steers that are sold for slaughtering represents an extended practice in rural communities, while changes in demographics and consumption habits in the population have an important demand for beef. The objective of this study was to characterize the links and identify the points of origin of production (cow-calf system), stockpiling, trading, fattening and sacrifice that make up the supply chain of cattle produced in the northern zone of the state of Veracruz, which supplies the demand for beef in the Metropolitan Area of the Mexican Valley. The methodology used was the design and application of semi-structured surveys with 180 young bull producers in 5 municipalities of the Huasteca Veracruzana region; 50 fatteners in the state of Hidalgo an in eastern State of Mexico; 2 Livestock Services Providers (Prestadores de Servicios Ganaderos, PSG); and 2 persons who introduce them to the slaughterhouses. A descriptive characterization of the supply chain was made with the information obtained. It was found that the main consumption center of meat obtained from the young bulls produced in the northern zone of Veracruz is Mexico City and State of Mexico; the animals produced in the Huasteca Veracruzana region are fattened in Hidalgo (Atotonilco el Grande, Ixmiquilpan and Metztitlan) and the eastern zone of State of Mexico (Otumba, Tepetlaoxtoc and Texcoco), where they are fattened, slaughtered, dressed, packaged, distributed and sold at retail to the final consumer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

IntroductionConsidering the need to feed the increasing world population, it is essential to ensure that food production systems are sustainable. Aquaculture has been identified as a potential crucial source of sustainable food with its significant potential for future growth, notably by the recent EU regulations aiming at boosting food security and sustainable food systems. In this context, it is important to reflect on how the aquaculture of carnivorous species, which are exhibiting the highest growth rates, stands in respect of environmental impacts and contribution to the overall food supply. In particular, tuna aquaculture has been largely criticized for its high environmental impacts and general low sustainability.MethodsHere, we present a methodology to assess the sustainability of seafood production systems, with a first analysis applied to Atlantic bluefin tuna (BFT) aquaculture, detailed for both BFT fattening and farming.ResultsResults suggest that the limited economic and social contributions of BFT aquaculture do not currently compensate its environmental impacts with an estimate of a 3.4-fold higher long-term social cost than the short-term economic gain.DiscussionHowever, it is also a species where the production cycle is not closed in commercial operation, and with a significant potential for further improvement as the control of the production process increases.

Introduction: Stall-fed lambs, which account for the bulk of mutton production, are one of the main sources of red meat supply in the country. In order to achieve optimal and economical production, sheep breeders must take into account the nutritional needs, food quality and dietary intake time in the diet plan of livestock. However, due to the shortage of forage and pastures in Iran, stockbreeders are forced to include more concentrate in the animals’ diet, while trying to carefully observe the concentrate proportions as well as the necessary points associated with concentrate feeding. Therefore, the purpose of this project is to evaluate the effects of alfalfa removal and reducing forage on the profitability of Afshari fattening lambs.Materials and Methods: In order to investigate the effects of reducing the amount of forage and also removing alfalfa on performance of Afshari breeding lambs, based on a factorial experiment with a completely randomized design, was done on 36 Afshari male lambs, with a mean live weight of 32.53 ± 1.9 kg and a mean age of 93 ± 6.63 days for 90 days. Experimental diets included: 1) 80 Percentage concentrate and 20 Percentage forage (10 Percentage wheat straw and 10 Percentage dry alfalfa), 2) 80 Percentage concentrate and 20 Percentage forage (20 Percentage wheat straw, 0 Percentage dry alfalfa), 3) 90 Percentage concentrate and 10 Percentage forage (5 Percentage wheat straw and 5 Percentage dry alfalfa), and 4) 90 Percentage concentrate and 10 Percentage forage (10 Percentage wheat straw and 0 Percentage dry alfalfa). Experimental diets were adjusted according to NRC (2007) standard diet tables and the constituents of the diets and their nutritional value were similar. The data were analyzed using SPSS21.Results and Discussion: The chemical composition of diets was changed with altering of the forage to concentrate ratio, and with increasing the concentrate in the diet, the amount of NFC increased and the percentage of NDF decreased. Increasing the concentrate and removing of alfalfa increased feed intake and daily weight gain throughout the period (P

Simple Summary: There is little information about the consequences of variation in birth weight due to intrauterine growth on postnatal growth and development of lambs. This study, therefore, investigated the effects of birth weight on postnatal growth, fattening performance, muscle mass development, muscle fibre characteristics, and meat quality in Karayaka lambs. The results of the study show that heavier-born lambs develop better, which is reflected in fattening performance and carcass characteristics. Although there was no difference in meat quality parameters, it was found a significant difference in the fibre area of Type I fibres in the longissimus thoracis et lumborum muscle due to birth weight. The results of the study provide essential insights into the complex relationship between birth weight and various physiological values such as carcass parameters, muscle mass development, and muscle fibre characteristics in post-weaning fattening of Karayaka lambs. This investigation aimed to assess the influence of birth weight on post-weaning fattening performance, meat quality, muscle fibre characteristics, and carcass traits in Karayaka lambs. The study categorized the lambs into three distinct groups based on birth weight: low birth weight (LBW), medium birth weight (MBW), and high birth weight (HBW). Throughout the fattening phase, the lambs were given ad libitum access to food and water, culminating in the slaughter at the end of the study. Following slaughter, warm and cold carcasses were weighted, and specific muscles (longissimus thoracis et lumborum [LTL], semitendinosus [ST], and semimembranosus [SM]) were isolated for the evaluation of muscle weights, muscle fibre types (Type I, Type IIA, and Type IIB), and muscle fibre numbers. Carcass characteristics were also determined, including eye muscle (LTL) fat, loin thickness, and meat quality characteristics, such as pH, colour, texture, cooking loss, and water-holding capacity. The statistical analysis revealed highly significant differences among the experimental groups concerning muscle weights and warm and cold carcass weights (p < 0.01), with the lambs in the HBW group exhibiting a notably higher carcass yield (in females: 45.65 ± 1.34% and in males: 46.18 ± 0.77%) and LTL, ST, and SM (except for female lambs) muscle weights than the lambs in LBW group (p < 0.01). However, apart from the texture of LTL and ST muscles, no significant differences in meat quality parameters were observed among the treatment groups (p > 0.05). Notably, the birth weight of lambs did not impart a discernible effect on the total number and metabolic activity of muscle fibres in LTL, ST, and SM muscles. Nonetheless, a noteworthy distinction in the fibre area of Type I fibres in the LTL muscle of male lambs (LBW: 30.4 ± 8.9, MBW: 29.1 ± 7.3 and HBW; 77.3 ± 15.4) and in the ST muscle of female lambs (LBW: 44.1 ± 8.1, MBW: 38.8 ± 7.7 and HBW: 36.9 ± 7.1) were evident among the birth weight groups (p < 0.05). The study also found that the mean fat thickness values of eye muscles in Karayaka lambs, as obtained by ultrasonic tests, were below the typical range for sheep. In synthesis, the outcomes of this study underscore the considerable impact of birth weight on slaughtered and carcass weights, emphasizing the positive association between higher birth weights and enhanced carcass yield. Remarkably, despite these pronounced effects on carcass traits, the birth weight did not demonstrate a statistically significant influence on meat quality or overall muscle fibre characteristics, except for the area of Type I fibres in the LTL muscle. This nuanced understanding contributes valuable insights into the intricate relationship between birth weight and various physiological and carcass parameters in Karayaka lambs undergoing post-weaning fattening. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Yaks are a major economic source for people in the Tibetan Plateau region. Yaks are rich in nutrients, but their low fat content is not conducive to the large-scale promotion of yak meat, so the study of the mechanism of yak lipid deposition is beneficial to the marketing of yak meat. In this paper, the results of transcriptome sequencing analysis of yak liver showed that it could be determined that the expression levels of genes associated with partial lipid deposition were significantly up-regulated during yak fattening. In addition, this study found that the tenderness of yak meat improved during this process. Fattening significantly affects fat deposition in yaks, which may be realized through its effects on lipid metabolic pathways. Therefore, studying the mechanism of lipid deposition in yaks and fattening yaks will improve the quality of yak meat. Yak meat is nutritionally superior to beef cattle but has a low fat content and is slow-growing. The liver plays a crucial role in lipid metabolism, and in order to determine whether different feeding modes affect lipid metabolism in yaks and how it is regulated, we employed RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) technology to analyze the genome-wide differential gene expression in the liver of yaks maintained under different raising systems. A total of 1663 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified (|log2FC| ≥ 0 and p-value ≤ 0.05), including 698 down-regulated and 965 up-regulated genes. According to gene ontology (GO) and KEGG enrichment analyses, these DEGs were significantly enriched in 13 GO terms and 26 pathways (p < 0.05). Some DEGs were enriched in fatty acid degradation, PPAR, PI3K-Akt, and ECM receptor pathways, which are associated with lipid metabolism. A total of 16 genes are well known to be related to lipid metabolism (e.g., APOA1, FABP1, EHHADH, FADS2, SLC27A5, ACADM, CPT1B, ACOX2, HMGCS2, PLIN5, ACAA1, IGF1, FGFR4, ALDH9A1, ECHS1, LAMA2). A total of 11 of the above genes were significantly enriched in the PPAR signaling pathway. The reliability of the transcriptomic data was verified using qRT-PCR. Our findings provide new insights into the mechanisms regulating yak meat quality. It shows that fattening improves the expression of genes that regulate lipid deposition in yaks and enhances meat quality. This finding will contribute to a better understanding of the various factors that determine yak meat quality and help develop strategies to improve yield and quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: In the current market, most retailers in EU countries pay pig breeders primarily for the lean meat percentage of the carcass, which does not agree entirely with the quality of pork meat (such as colour). It is well known that pigs are more susceptible than other livestock species to high environmental temperatures. High temperatures in finishing pigs are associated with reduced performance parameters. This study evaluated the seasonal effect (summer vs. autumn) on performance (live weight, average daily gain) and slaughter traits of finishing pigs (warm and cold carcass weights, trunk length, fat thickness), as well as meat quality parameters of the pork (pH at 45 min and 24 h postmortem, colour, drip loss, thawing loss, cooking loss, shear force, and meat composition). Seasonal differences in performance between summer and autumn were more pronounced when measuring the length of the phase of the average daily weight gain during the trial. There was also a significant difference in trunk length and fat thickness parameters (withers, loin, and mean back fat thickness), L* value, total drip loss, and cooking loss between the two groups. In addition, the seasonal differences affected the meat composition parameters. Most retailers in EU countries pay pig breeders for their animals' lean meat percentage, which does not align fully with measures of pork quality (such as colour). In this study, we investigated the effects of season (summer vs. autumn) on finishing pigs' performance, carcass characteristics, and meat quality parameters in 24 slaughter pigs. Growing performance traits (live weights, average daily weight gain), slaughter values (warm and cold carcass weights, trunk length, fat thickness) and meat quality parameters (pH at 45 min and 24 h postmortem, colour, drip loss, thawing loss, cooking loss, shear force, and meat composition) were recorded. Seasonal differences were more pronounced for the initial age, the number of days in the growing-finishing phase, and the average daily gain. There was also a significant difference in the trunk length between groups, the fat thickness on withers and loin, and also in mean fat thickness. A significant difference was found in the case of pH, total drip loss, and meat colour (L*). The intramuscular fat and collagen content of meat was significantly higher in summer; in contrast, the protein content of meat samples was considerably lower in summer. In conclusion, seasonal effects on finishers' performance, lean meat values, and several meat quality parameters highlight the importance of more profound seasonal settings of climate control to fulfil the progressively changing quantitative and qualitative requests of pork sector participants from farm to fork. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of feeding the drug “Kronocid-L” with the content of chelated compounds of microelements on slaughter performance and the quality of muscle tissue of pigs was investigated. Chelate compounds, or chelates (from the English chelate – claw), belong to complex compounds that are formed as a result of the connection of a cation (metal ion) with two or more atoms of a complexon (ligand) molecule. Chelates are significantly different from non-chelated compounds both in terms of chemical and physical properties and in their effects on living organisms. A scientific and economic experiment was conducted on two analogous groups of 75-day-old fattening young pigs, 12 heads in each, obtained from crossing sows of the large white breed with boars of the landrace breed. The control group of pigs consumed the basic diet during the equalization and baseline periods. In addition to the main diet, the experimental group was fed the drug “Kronocid-L” with the content of chelated compounds of microelements at the rate of 1 liter per 1 ton of water. The drug “Kronrocid-L” is a transparent green-blue solution that contains chelate compounds of trace elements (iron, zinc, manganese and copper), formic, acetic, orthophosphoric, lactic, citric, succinic and benzoic acids in an amount of 19 % by weight in an aqueous solution. It was established that feeding pigs on fattening with the above-mentioned preparation contributes to an increase in slaughter weight and slaughter yield in the 2nd experimental group, respectively, by 12.8 kg or by 15 % (P < 0.05) and 5.6 % (P < 0.05 ) against benchmarks. At the same time, under the influence of the feed additive, the thickness of the lard above the 6- 7 thoracic vertebra decreased by 3.2 mm or by 10 % (P < 0.05) and the area of the “muscle eye” increased by 2.8 cm2 or 6 % P < 0.01). The use of the drug “Kronocid-L” makes it possible to improve the quality indicators of muscle tissue, namely, to increase the juiciness and intensity of meat color, to increase the content of protein and fat, which indicates an increase in the intensification of protein and fat metabolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Beef cattle breeding in Ukraine is considered to be a promising and socially important livestock sector, which is experiencing a systemic decline in production. The purpose of the study was to find the most effective options for organizing production in beef cattle breeding. The analysis was based on the production data of an agricultural enterprise with more than 4.5 thousand heads of meat cattle, including more than 1.7 thousand cows. Taking into account the company's development strategy, which provided for the expanded reproduction and sale of bull-calves and culled breeding stock, the production indicators of the farm's operation under the cow-calf system and the complete cycle with the rearing of young animals to slaughter conditions were analysed. The analysis of these production options was carried out for the conditions of using year-round and seasonal (from February to April) calving on the farm. It was found that when calving throughout the year, the number of cattle places in the premises and pens will be relatively constant. In the case of seasonal calving, the structure of the herd changes significantly during the year. Sales of finished products during seasonal calving should take place in relatively short periods of time and in large groups. In particular, the monthly sales of bull-calves for fattening in the cow-calf system during seasonal calving will be on average 11 times higher than during year-round reproduction in the herd. With a full breeding cycle, the batches of bull-calves for slaughter will differ less, but will occur only in the spring months. Seasonal calving during the complete production cycle resulted in a 1% reduction in silage and 3% reduction in hay consumption and a 10% increase in pasture grass consumption. The full cycle of raising bull-calves for meat makes it possible to increase the total live weight of cattle sold by 59%, increase sales revenue by 54% and reduce total feed costs per 1 tonne of live weight by 20%. The practical significance of this study is to obtain results that can be used in the Ukrainian beef cattle industry to plan efficient production organization

The aim of the present work was to compare the estimated metabolisable energy requirements (MER) of fattening light lambs raised in feedlot with the U. S. National Research Council (NRC) predictions. Body weight (BW) gain and feed intake were collected from 15 pens (7 lambs/pen) of Manchega male lambs under on-farm conditions over six weeks. The pens were randomly assigned to three dietary treatments (5 pens/treatment) consisting of three concentrates of different composition and barley straw. Feeds were offered for ad libitum consumption throughout the experimental period. Average daily metabolisable energy intake (MEI) was calculated on a weekly basis for each pen from the average daily consumption of concentrate and barley straw and their respective ME contents. Following, the average daily MER was predicted for each pen from the weekly average of both BW and BW gain, according to two models: One including the adjustment of ME for body maintenance (MEm) for the effect of level of MEI on visceral organ tissue energy use as described by NRC (Model 1), and the other excluding such adjustment (Model 2). Model 1 had no mean bias, and exhibited a higher concordance correlation coefficient and a lower underprediction, supporting the need for the upward adjustment of MEm in accordance with MEI to enhance the precision and accuracy of predicted MER. It was concluded that the NRC method was precise and accurate enough to support its application for calculating the MER of feedlot light lambs.

Production activities are mandatory elements of the technological cycle and cause various types of animal stress. The use of feed additives based on plant extracts in a liquid composition for pigs is an important strategy for developing their stress resistance and increasing productivity. The purpose of the experiment is to investigate the optimal duration of drinking a liquid feed additive in different periods of technological stress on pig productivity parameters. In farm conditions, 90 crossbred pigs were randomly divided into three groups according to generally accepted zootechnical methods. Animals of the I group (control) were fattened according to the basic technology; animals of II experimental group – BT+ administration of liquid feed additive three days before and three days after the technological action, and pigs of III experimental group – BT+ administration of liquid feed additive seven days before and seven days after. Swine of the III research group at the age of 11-26 weeks probably exceeded their counterparts in live weight by 1.70-5.43 kg, in average daily gains in the period from 14-22 weeks – by 20.0-82.5 g. According to the precocity indicator, pigs of the III group reached a live weight of 100 kg 6.1 days earlier and 120 kg 7.3 days earlier. The values of average daily gains in pigs of the III group were probably higher by 51.9 g – for a live weight of 100 kg and 38.1 g – for 120 kg. Pigs of III group had the lowest level of feed conversion – 0.11 kg at 100 kg and 0.14 kg at 120 kg. It has been established that in order to increase the productivity of pigs, it is worth drinking LFA 7 days before and 7 days after the period of technological stress during the entire growing period. The practical significance of the experiment is to identify the optimal duration of the use of liquid feed additive to increase the stress resistance and productivity of pigs

Objective Dietary green cabbage was evaluated for its impact on fatty acid synthetic ability in different adipose tissues during fattening of Wanxi White geese. Methods A total of 256 Wanxi White geese at their 70 days were randomly allocated into 4 groups with 4 replicates and fed 0%, 15%, 30%, and 45% fresh green cabbage (relative to dry matter), respectively, in each group. Adipose tissues (subcutaneous and abdominal fat), liver and blood were collected from 4 birds in each replicate at their 70, 80, 90, and 100 days for fatty acid composition, relative gene expression and serum lipid analysis. Two-way or three-way analysis of variance was used for analysis. Results The contents of palmitic acid (C16:0), palmitoleic acid (C16:1), linoleic acid (C18:2), and alpha-linolenic acid (C18:3) were feeding time dependently increased. The C16:0 and stearic acid (C18:0) were higher in abdominal fat, while C16:1, oleic acid (C18:1), and C18:2 were higher in subcutaneous fat. Geese fed 45% green cabbage exhibited highest level of C18:3. Geese fed green cabbage for 30 d exhibited higher level of C16:0 and C18:0 in abdominal fat, while geese fed 30% to 45% green cabbage exhibited higher C18:3 in subcutaneous fat. The expression of Acsl1 (p = 0.003) and Scd1 (p

This study aimed to evaluate the performance of Balinese bulls fattened by various forages on traditional farms. The study was experimental research using Clitoria ternatea, Zea mays fresh straw, Pennisetum purpuphoides, Pennisetum purpureum, Sesbania grandiflora, Centrosema pubescens, Leucaena leucocephala, and natural grass to fatten the livestock which were arranged for the farmers' habits in fattening. Variables measured included feed consumption and digestibility and livestock growth performance, including daily body weight gain (PBBH), feed conversion and efficiency, and feed cost per gain. The collected data were then analysed using descriptive analysis procedures. The results showed that fattening Balinese bulls with forage resulted in dry matter (DM) (kg/head/day) reaching 7.079, while crude protein (CP) and organic matter (OM) intake were respectively 1.053 and 6.440 (kg/head/day). The digestibility coefficient of dry matter was 56.68%, crude protein was 69.86%, and organic matter was 68.83%. The ADG obtained by livestock was 0.321 kg/head/day; meanwhile, the feed conversion and efficiency were respectively 23.664 kg.DM/kg.ADG and 4.619%; the feed cost per gain (IDR/kg.ADG) reached 10,813.85. To sum up, the use of various types of forage in fattening Balinese bulls on traditional farms indicates that DM, OM, and CP intake are relatively high, but it provides relatively low feed digestibility by mean of ADG, conversion, and feed efficiency are not optimal.

The aim of the present work was to compare the estimated metabolisable energy requirements (MER) of fattening light lambs raised in feedlot with the U. S. National Research Council (NRC) predictions. Body weight (BW) gain and feed intake were collected from 15 pens (7 lambs/pen) of Manchega male lambs under on-farm conditions over six weeks. The pens were randomly assigned to three dietary treatments (5 pens/treatment) consisting of three concentrates of different composition and barley straw. Feeds were offered for ad libitum consumption throughout the experimental period. Average daily metabolisable energy intake (MEI) was calculated on a weekly basis for each pen from the average daily consumption of concentrate and barley straw and their respective ME contents. Following, the average daily MER was predicted for each pen from the weekly average of both BW and BW gain, according to two models: One including the adjustment of ME for body maintenance (MEm) for the effect of level of MEI on visceral organ tissue energy use as described by NRC (Model 1), and the other excluding such adjustment (Model 2). Model 1 had no mean bias, and exhibited a higher concordance correlation coefficient and a lower underprediction, supporting the need for the upward adjustment of MEm in accordance with MEI to enhance the precision and accuracy of predicted MER. It was concluded that the NRC method was precise and accurate enough to support its application for calculating the MER of feedlot light lambs. A dataset comprising metabolisable energy (ME) intake and growth performance data of Manchega male lambs was utilised. The lambs' ME requirements were predicted according to the U.S. National Research Council (NRC) methods. Our data agree with NRC predictions, supporting its use in feedlot Manchega lambs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to investigate the effects of grape pomace on production performance and meat quality of beef cattle, the whole corn silage was replaced by grape pomace silage, and to anal‐ yse the changes of growth and development, slaughter performance and meat quality of beef cattle. The main beef cattle breeds Angus and Simmental cattle with 30 heads each were se‐lected and divided into test group A, group B and control group, the average body weight is (283.00± 2.47) kg, and the test group is fed grape pomace silage diet and control is fed whole plant corn silage diet. The result showed that compared with the control group, test groups of the weight gain over the trial period were higher than control group 16-36 kg, and average daily gain were higher 40-150 g; slaughter at the age of 20-month-old, the carcass weight of test group A and B were higher than control group 67 kg (P< 0.01), 38 kg (P<0.05), respectively; the dressing percentage and net meat percentage were seven percent‐ age points and six percentage points higher than the control group, respectively (P<0.05), the highest slaughter percentage and net meat percentage were about 65% and 58%, respectively; the fat and protein contents of beef in test groups were higher than those in control group, and the shear force was lower than that in control group (P<0.05); the polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) was mainly composed of lin‐ oleic acid, α-linolenic acid and arachidonic acid. The contents of linoleic acid and α-linolenic acid in experimental groups were significantly higher than those in control group (P<0.05), and the ratio of n-6/ n-3 PUFA in beef was about 10∶1, which was lower than that in control group. In summary when grape residue silage was used as the main roughage source, it could improve the growth performance, carcass weight, slaughter percentage and net meat percentage of beef cattle after slaughter, increase the types of fatty acids and the content of main fatty acids, improve the ratio of n-6/n-3 PUFA, and improve the beef quality to a certain extent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Improving the color and flavor of pork from commercial crossbred pigs using nutritional measures is a major issue that needs to be urgently addressed. The objective of this study was to determine the influence of supplementing the diets of growing–finishing pigs with glycerin and/or a mixture of vitamin C and niacinamide on carcass traits and pork quality. The results showed that the simultaneous supplementation of growing–finishing crossbred pigs with glycerin, vitamin C and niacinamide can improve the color, flavor and nutritional value of pork by significantly increasing the redness (a*) value, glycerol content and myristoleic acid content of the longissimus dorsi; this is also achieved by numerically increasing the levels of flavor amino acids, linoleic acid, linolenic acid and erucic acid, as well as the percentage and density of type I myofibers in the longissimus dorsi and the semimembranosus muscle. Glycerin had a significant influence on the erucic acid content in the longissimus dorsi and the semimembranosus muscle, and the mixture of vitamin C and niacinamide had a significant interaction effect on the redness (a*) value of the longissimus dorsi. The glycerol content in the longissimus dorsi was significantly affected by glycerin, the interaction between vitamin C and niacinamide, and the interaction between glycerin, vitamin C and niacinamide. This study is valuable in improving pork quality and increasing consumers' desire to purchase these products. The objective of this study was to determine the influence of supplementing the diet of growing–finishing pigs with glycerin and/or a mixture of vitamin C and niacinamide on carcass traits and pork quality. Eighty-four weaned piglets with an initial average body weight of 20.35 ± 2.14 kg were assigned, at random, to four groups for a 103-day feeding experiment: control; glycerin-supplemented group; vitamin C and niacinamide-supplemented group; and glycerin, vitamin C and niacinamide-supplemented group. At the end of the experiment, three pigs/group were randomly selected and slaughtered, and samples were collected for analysis. The results indicated that supplementing crossbred pigs with glycerin, vitamin C and niacinamide simultaneously increased the redness (a*) value (p < 0.05), glycerol content (p < 0.01) and myristoleic acid content (p < 0.01) in the longissimus dorsi and tended to increase the level of flavor amino acids, linoleic acid, linolenic acid and erucic acid, as well as the percentage and density of type I myofibers in the longissimus dorsi and the semimembranosus muscle. Glycerin had an influence (p < 0.01) on the erucic acid content in the longissimus dorsi and the semimembranosus muscle, and vitamin C and niacinamide had an interaction effect (p < 0.05) on the redness (a*) value of the longissimus dorsi. Glycerin, vitamin C and niacinamide supplementation in the diet of crossbred pigs improved the color, flavor and nutritional value of pork, which contributed to an increased intent to purchase this product. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent research in rabbit farming has focused on studying the impact of proper nutrition on rabbits during the growing stage. This is done in a proposal to find an effective strategy to reduce health problems in animals during weaning, while also considering the technical and economic aspects of this type of farming. Our study aims to clarify the effects of different types and quantities of dietary restriction on rabbits and their performance, based on various studies and research that have addressed this topic. Therefore, this research serves as a comprehensive summary of previous studies on dietary restriction in rabbits during the fattening stage. The results of these studies demonstrate the effectiveness of dietary restriction as a strategy, which can be adopted to achieve the desired economic goals of markets and consumers, as well as health-related objectives and overall profitability in rabbit farming projects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Hydrobiology is the property of Editorial Department of Journal of Hydrobiology and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Beef cattle breeding in Ukraine is considered to be a promising and socially important livestock sector, which is experiencing a systemic decline in production. The purpose of the study was to find the most effective options for organizing production in beef cattle breeding. The analysis was based on the production data of an agricultural enterprise with more than 4.5 thousand heads of meat cattle, including more than 1.7 thousand cows. Taking into account the company's development strategy, which provided for the expanded reproduction and sale of bull-calves and culled breeding stock, the production indicators of the farm's operation under the cow-calf system and the complete cycle with the rearing of young animals to slaughter conditions were analysed. The analysis of these production options was carried out for the conditions of using year-round and seasonal (from February to April) calving on the farm. It was found that when calving throughout the year, the number of cattle places in the premises and pens will be relatively constant. In the case of seasonal calving, the structure of the herd changes significantly during the year. Sales of finished products during seasonal calving should take place in relatively short periods of time and in large groups. In particular, the monthly sales of bull-calves for fattening in the cow-calf system during seasonal calving will be on average 11 times higher than during year-round reproduction in the herd. With a full breeding cycle, the batches of bull-calves for slaughter will differ less, but will occur only in the spring months. Seasonal calving during the complete production cycle resulted in a 1% reduction in silage and 3% reduction in hay consumption and a 10% increase in pasture grass consumption. The full cycle of raising bull-calves for meat makes it possible to increase the total live weight of cattle sold by 59%, increase sales revenue by 54% and reduce total feed costs per 1 tonne of live weight by 20%. The practical significance of this study is to obtain results that can be used in the Ukrainian beef cattle industry to plan efficient production organization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hibernation is an effective physiological energy saving strategy to survive through harsh environmental conditions. To survive over the winter, some hibernators rapidly store large amount of body fat as the fuel of hibernation during the fattening period before hibernation. However, there was no evidence of metabolic disorders, such as ectopic fat accumulation in fat-free organs during fattening period. Therefore, the mechanisms of fattening and resistance of metabolic disorder provide important physiological and ecological significances. This review summarized the regulations and influences of exogenous factors and endogenous factors on fattening in fat-storing hibernators. In addition, we summarized the phenotypes of resistance of metabolic disorder during fattening period. The mechanisms of fat accumulation provide not only insights into unique physiological adaption of mammalian hibernators, but also a strong reference for the treatment of metabolic diseases caused by obesity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Melatonin is involved in the regulation of circadian rhythms and is implicated in seasonal reproduction in sheep. In several physiological mechanisms, it acts as an antioxidant and an anti-inflammatory molecule, regulating energy metabolism. This work investigated the effects of melatonin implants at 30 days of age on locomotor activity (LA), body temperature, and growth of fattening female and male lambs. Sixty lambs were divided into two groups: one of which received melatonin (MEL, 15 males, 16 females) and a control group (CTR, 16 males, 14 females). In the melatonin group, two 18 mg melatonin implants were placed at 30 days of age. Lambs were fattened for 6 weeks from weaning (45 days of age) to slaughter (85 days). The feed conversion rate (FCR) was calculated based on live weight and the amount of concentrate consumed. LA was measured weekly by actigraphy, and circadian rhythmicity was calculated. Rectal (Trec) and surface temperatures (Tsur) were recorded in the last week of fattening, and subcutaneous fat thickness (FT) over the longissimus dorsi muscle was measured by ultrasound scanning. Treatment did not affect FCR, although MEL female lambs consumed significantly (P < 0.001) less concentrate than CTR lambs. Treatment and sex had a significant (P < 0.05) interaction effect on FT; specifically, FT was significantly (P < 0.05) higher in female MEL lambs (3.22 ± 0.21 mm) than in female CTR lambs (2.57 ± 0.24 mm), but FT in males did not differ between MEL (2.77 ± 0.21) and CTR (2.94 ± 0.24 mm) lambs. Overall activity was significantly (P < 0.001) lower in the MEL lambs (72.22 ± 0.10 counts/min) than in the CTR lambs (78.89 ± 0.12 counts/min). MEL lambs had a significantly (P < 0.01) lower Trec (CTR: 39.00 ± 0.07; MEL: 38.68 ± 0.10) and Tsur for all body regions evaluated than the CTR lambs. In conclusion, treatment with exogenous melatonin at 30 days of age increased food efficiency in fattening female lambs, probably, because of the lower metabolism in treated lambs, which was reflected by the lower body temperature and LA exhibited by these animals. In addition, the study has demonstrated the effect of exogenous melatonin in the growth performances of post-weaning lambs, and that its effects depend on animal sex, which suggests that treatments that target females might be most appropriate in the fattening period. • Melatonin implant diminished locomotor activity in fattening lambs. • Melatonin implant reduced rectal and surface temperatures in fattening lambs. • Female lambs treated with melatonin consumed less concentrate than not treated females. • Females treated with melatonin had a greater back fat thickness than not treated females. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The aim of this research was to evaluate the performance and carcass characteristics of immunocastrated cattle, in comparison to castrated and non-castrated cattle supplemented on pasture. 36 bovines were used, distributed in a completely randomized design, in 3 treatments: non-castrated animals (ANC), animals castrated late by the surgical method (ACC) and immunocastrated animals (AIC), with 12 replicates each. Immunocastration was performed following the protocol of two doses of the immunocastrating vaccine, with an interval of 60 days, promoting a castrated effect of 120 days. The animals were kept on mixed pasture in an extensive rearing system using rotational grazing, they received mineral supplement in the first 3 months and specific feed for the fattening season in the subsequent 3 months, according to the property’s standards. The total experimental period was 180 days. Data were hidden from the normality test, analysis of variance and mean comparisons were performed using the Tukey test, except for the variable degree of finishing, which was maintained at the chi-square test, at 5%. Average daily weight and total weight gains, hot and cold carcass weights and hot and cold carcass yield did not show statistical differences (P>0.05) for animals submitted to different treatments. However, the cooling loss was lower in immunocastrated animals (P0.05) were verified for the animals submitted to different treatments. Final carcass pH was higher (P0.05) from non-castrated animals. Immunocastrated animals, in a grazing system receiving supplementation, showed similar gains in weight and carcass weight in relation to non-castrated and surgically castrated animals, however, with lower losses to carcass cooling.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of fish oil supplementation, as an omega-3 fatty acids source, to ration of does in the different periods of pregnancy on the fattening performance of kids after weaning. Eighty German Fawn × Hair crossbred does were randomly divided into two groups; half were given fish oil in the first half of pregnancy (FO group), while the other half were given saturated fat (PF (control) group). Then, the goats in the FO and PF groups were randomly divided into two subgroups, and half of the goats were fed fish oil during the second half of pregnancy (FO-FO and FO-PF groups), while the other half was fed saturated fat (PF-FO and PF-PF groups). Thus, study groups of kids were formed according to the nutrition program of the does described above. Forty-seven male kids (84.6 ± 2.44 days old; 14.5 ± 3.09 kg live weight, mean ± standard deviation) were fed for 56 days after weaning, and their weight, feed consumption, serum biochemical parameters, carcass performance, and meat quality characteristics were evaluated. Maternal nutrition significantly affected live weight gain and serum AST, glucose, total protein, and globulin concentrations (P ≤ 0.050). The live weight gain of kids in the PF-PF and PF-FO groups was higher than that in the FO-FO and FO-PF groups. Maternal nutrition tended to affect the hot and cold carcass weights of male kids (P = 0.078 and P = 0.084, respectively). In conclusion, fish oil supplementation during gestation could negatively affect the fattening performance of kids after weaning, especially the daily live weight gain, although it tended to positively affect hot and cold carcass weights. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work investigated the effects of the usage of colored corn as a replacement for 50% and 100% yellow corn in the diet of Japanese quail. Two hundred and forty-day-old Japanese quails were indiscriminately separated into four experimental groups consisting of six replicates each containing 10 quails. Experimental groups designed: the control group (C) (basal diet-0% colored corn, vaccinated), negative control group (NC) (basal diet-0% colored corn, no vaccine), 50% CC group (basal diet-50% colored corn, vaccinated), and 100% CC group (basal diet-100% colored corn, vaccinated). At the end of the 35-day period, the highest body weight and body weight gain (BWG) were recorded in the 50% CC (P < 0.05). The highest feed intake (FI) was recorded in the 100% CC group, the lowest FI in C (P > 0.05), and the best feed conversion ratio (FCR) in the 50% CC group (P < 0.05). While L* was not affected, a* and b* values were significantly affected by feeding colored corn (P < 0.05). Meat pH, cooking loss (CL), and water holding capacity (WHC) values were significantly affected, and the highest pH and CL values were in the C group and the highest WHC value in NC (P < 0.05). Colored corn had no influence on MDA7th concentration of breast meat. The antibody titers against NDV were significantly superior in the vaccinated groups than in the NC (P < 0.05). In conclusion, the use of colored corn in quail had an affirmative effect on meat quality and growth performance but not on the immune response of quail against NDV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Production activities are mandatory elements of the technological cycle and cause various types of animal stress. The use of feed additives based on plant extracts in a liquid composition for pigs is an important strategy for developing their stress resistance and increasing productivity. The purpose of the experiment is to investigate the optimal duration of drinking a liquid feed additive in different periods of technological stress on pig productivity parameters. In farm conditions, 90 crossbred pigs were randomly divided into three groups according to generally accepted zootechnical methods. Animals of the I group (control) were fattened according to the basic technology; animals of II experimental group -- BT+ administration of liquid feed additive three days before and three days after the technological action, and pigs of III experimental group -- BT+ administration of liquid feed additive seven days before and seven days after. Swine of the III research group at the age of 11-26 weeks probably exceeded their counterparts in live weight by 1.70-5.43 kg, in average daily gains in the period from 14-22 weeks -- by 20.0-82.5 g. According to the precocity indicator, pigs of the III group reached a live weight of 100 kg 6.1 days earlier and 120 kg 7.3 days earlier. The values of average daily gains in pigs of the III group were probably higher by 51.9 g -- for a live weight of 100 kg and 38.1 g -- for 120 kg. Pigs of III group had the lowest level of feed conversion -- 0.11 kg at 100 kg and 0.14 kg at 120 kg. It has been established that in order to increase the productivity of pigs, it is worth drinking LFA 7 days before and 7 days after the period of technological stress during the entire growing period. The practical significance of the experiment is to identify the optimal duration of the use of liquid feed additive to increase the stress resistance and productivity of pigs [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Veterinaria is the property of Universidad Nacional del Nordeste and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The effect of feeding the drug “Kronocid-L” with the content of chelated compounds of microelements on the productivity and hematological indicators of fattening pigs was studied. The experiment was conducted on two analogous groups of 75-day-old fattening young pigs, 12 heads in each, obtained from crossing sows of the large white breed with boars of the landrace breed. The experiment lasted 105 days and consisted of two periods: an equalization period (15 days) and a main period (90 days). Experimental animals of the control group consumed the main diet during the equalization and main periods. The compound feed “Grower” included corn – 25 %, wheat – 25 %, barley – 23 %, sunflower meal – 12 %, wheat bran – 7 %, soybean meal – 3 %, and BMVD – 5 %. “Finisher” compound feed included barley – 38 %, wheat – 24 %, wheat bran – 12 %, corn – 9 %, sunflower meal – 9 %, and BMVD – 4 %. In addition to the main diet, the experimental group was fed the “Kronocid-L” with the content of chelated compounds of microelements at 1 liter per 1 ton of water. The drug “Kronrocid-L” is a transparent green-blue solution that contains chelate compounds of trace elements (iron, zinc, manganese, and copper), formic, acetic, orthophosphoric, lactic, citric, succinic, and benzoic acids in an amount of 19 % by weight in an aqueous solution. Experimental animals that received the drug “Kronocid-L” during the first stage of the primary period (75–110 days) and the second stage of the primary period (111–165 days) outweighed the pigs of the control group by live weight by 5.9 and 7.4, respectively %, with an average daily increase of 9.5 % (P < 0.05) for the entire period of fattening. Administration of the drug “Kronocid-L” to pigs increases the number of erythrocytes in the blood by 6.6 % (P < 0.01), eosinophils by 12.7 % (P < 0.05), rod- and segmentonuclear neutrophils, respectively, by 5.7 % (P < 0.01) and 8.09 % (P < 0.05) compared to the control group. At the same time, under the influence of the feed additive, there is a tendency to increase total protein content and a probable increase of albumins by 14.1% (P < 0.01). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of feeding the drug “Kronocid-L” with the content of chelated compounds of trace elements on the productivity and slaughter performance of fattening pigs was studied. The scientific and economic experiment was conducted on two analogous groups of 75-day-old fattening young pigs, 12 heads in each, obtained from crossing sows of the large white breed with boars of the landrace breed. The experiment lasted 105 days and consisted of two periods: an equalization period (15 days) and a main period (90 days). The control group of pigs consumed the basic diet during the equalization and baseline periods. The compound feed “Grower” included: corn – 25 %, wheat – 25 %, barley – 23 %, sunflower meal – 12 %, wheat bran – 7 %, soybean meal – 3 %, BMVD – 5 %. “Finisher” compound feed included: barley – 38 %, wheat – 24 %, wheat bran – 12 %, corn – 9 %, sunflower meal – 9 %, BMVD – 4 %. In addition to the main diet, the experimental group was fed the drug “Kronocid-L” with the content of chelated compounds of microelements at the rate of 1 liter per 1 ton of water. The drug “Kronrocid-L” is a transparent green-blue solution that contains chelate compounds of trace elements (iron, zinc, manganese and copper), formic, acetic, orthophosphoric, lactic, citric, succinic and benzoic acids in an amount of 19 % by weight in an aqueous solution. Experimental animals that received the drug “Kronocid-L” during the first stage of the main period (75–110 days) and the second stage of the main period (111–165 days) outweighed the pigs of the control group by live weight by 5.9 and 7.4, respectively %, with an average daily increase of 9.5 % (P < 0.05) for the entire period of fattening. The use of the drug “Kronocid-L” at the rate of 1 liter per 1 ton of water allows to reduce feed consumption by 6.2 %, which is 3.0 kg per 1 kg of growth. At the end of the scientific and economic experiment, a control slaughter of experimental pigs was carried out, 4 heads from each group. It was established that feeding pigs on fattening with the above-mentioned preparation contributes to an increase in slaughter weight and slaughter yield in the 2nd experimental group, respectively, by 12,8 kg or by 15 % (P < 0.05) and 5.6 % (P < 0.05) against benchmarks. At the same time, under the influence of the feed additive, the thickness of the lard above the 6–7 thoracic vertebra decreased by 3.2 mm or by 10 % (P < 0.05) and the area of the “muscle eye” increased by 2.8 cm2 or 6 % P < 0.01). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mycopasmatic or enzootic pneumonia is the most common disease of the respiratory system under in the intensive pig production. It is clinically manifested by coughing, a chronic inflammatory process in the lungs, high morbidity and a relatively low percentage of deaths. The infection can be transmitted horizontally and vertically. Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae invades the epithelial cells of the trachea, bronchi, bronchioles and alveoli and disrupts the function of the ciliary body. Evagination of epithelial cells occurs, so that the cleansing of the airway mucosa by the mucociliary apparatus is inhibited. As a result, bacterial complications (Pasteurella, Bordetella, Klebsiella, Actinobacillus, Hemophilus) are common.M.hyopneminia can play imortant role in PRDC. The development of Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae is favoured by large congregations of pigs in small spaces, inadequate environmental conditions (microclimate), parasitic infections and inadequate nutrition. Mycoplasma hyopneumonia can be a significant health problem on the fattening farm, exacerbated by the influence of non-specific factors as well as the spread of other bacterial pathogens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents the study results of the activity of blood serum enzymes, fattening, and meat qualities of young pigs of the universal direction of productivity, considering their intrabreed differentiation according to the “formation intensity” index. It was established that the activity of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) in the blood serum of young pigs of the large white breed corresponds to the physiological norm of clinically healthy animals; by the age of reaching a live weight of 100 kg, the thickness of lard at the level of 6–7 thoracic vertebrae and the length of the chilled carcass – I class and elite class. Taking into account the intrabreed differentiation of young pigs of the large white breed according to the “formation intensity” index, the animals of the experimental group I (∆ = 0.715–1.009) exceeded those of the same age as II (∆ = 1.011–1.356) in terms of average daily increase in live weight by 5.71%, age reaching a live weight of 100 kg – 1.28 %, fat thickness at the level of 6–7 thoracic vertebrae – 1.44 %. The pairwise correlation coefficient between biochemical indicators of blood serum and fattening and meat qualities of young pigs of the large white breed shows that this biometric indicator varies from -0.344 ± 0.1485 to +0.402 ± 0.1448. The maximum increase in additional production was obtained from young pigs of the first experimental group, in which the “formation intensity” index ranges from 0.715 to 1.009 points (+3.40 %). The criterion for selecting highly productive animals of the leading herd based on the absolute parameters of their offspring's fattening and meat qualities is their correspondence to the elite class, according to the “intensity of formation” index – 0.715–1.009 points

A field survey involving 144 camel meat producers from Souf region the Algerian northern Sahara was implemented in order to establish a typology of camel meat producers and collect data on camel production strategies, and camel rearing place. The collected data allowed to identify 3 homogeneous groups of producers well distinguished between them after cluster analysis. (traditional rural breeders, breeders-fatteners and fatteners). The present study confirmed the predominance of camel fattening in the study area compared, to traditional camel rearing. In-depth technical and economical studies on the different types of producers are mandatory to evaluate the vulnerability of the different systems in order to ensure camel-rearing production sustainability in the arid region of the country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Xinjiang Agricultural Sciences is the property of Xinjiang Agricultural Sciences Editorial Department and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

[Objectives] Protein energy ratio refers to the proportional relationship between protein and energy levels in animal diets, i. e., the grams of crude protein corresponding to every megacalorie of energy, which is generally expressed as CP; ME or CP; DE. This study was conducted to investigate the effects of different diets on fattening and slaughter performance and meat quality traits for "L (Large Yorkshire) x L (Landrace)" crossbred pigs. [Methods]Eighteen piglets of L x L crossbred with similar body weights about 51 kg were selected. The piglets were divided into 3 groups randomly and each group was assigned to 3 replicates with 2 piglets in a replicate. Group A was fed diet I (control diet), group B was fed the same diet of group A in the first month of the trial but fed diet II in second month, and group C consumed diet III. All the pigs were fed in the same feeding condition for two months except the different diets during the trial. One pig in similar body weight from each replicate was slaughtered for the determination of slaughter performance and meat quality traits in the end of the trial. [Results] The average daily feed intake (ADFI) of pigs from group B was only (2.32 ±0.52) kg and significantly lower than those from group A and group C (P <0.05), but no difference was found in average daily gain (ADG) and feed/gain (P >0.05). Also, no differences occurred in the carcass length, back fat thickness, longissimus muscle (LM) area and dressing percentage (P > 0.05). In addition, no differences were found in the meat quality traits of shear force, meat color, pH43, pHM h and cooking loss (P >0. 05). However, the water-holding capacity of meat from group C was (2.58 ±0.02) ms and significantly lower than that of (2.80 ±0. 20) ms from group A (P <0.05). Although the contents of glutamic acid and cystine in LM from group B was significantly lower than those from group A and group C (P<0.05), no differences occurred in the contents of other amino acids, the total amino acid and total flavor amino acid among the three groups (P>0.05). However, the inosine monophosphate content of LM from group C was only (331. 80 ±11. 53) mg/100 g and significantly lower than those of (361.00 ± 6. 36) and (366.37 ±4.80) mg/100 g from group A and B (P <0.05). Even though no differences were found in the contents of DM and CP in LM among the three groups of pigs, the content of intramuscular fat (IMF) in LM from group B and group C was increased by 45.6% and 46.58% respectively from that of group A (P <0. 05), but no difference occurred between group B and C (P >0.05). [Conclusions] Diets II and III in this study caused no differences in fattening and slaughter performance of L x L crossbred pigs, but the effects on some meat traits were still significant, especially on the improvement of intramuscular fat in experimental pigs. Therefore, they could improve the meat quality of crossbred pigs to a certain extent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Iranian Journal of Animal Science Research / Pizhūhishhā-Yi ̒ulum-i Dāmī-i Īrān is the property of Ferdowsi University of Mashhad Press and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

ABSTRACT: Glyphosate-based herbicides (GBH) are the most commonly used herbicides in agriculture. Several studies reported possible adverse effects on human and animal models after a GBH exposure. However, the effects of a temporary maternal exposure on the progeny have been poorly documented, especially in avian models. We investigated the effects of a hen chronic dietary exposure to a GBH on the progeny, obtained during the period following the withdrawal of GBH from the diet. Hens were exposed to a GBH via their food for 6 wk, after which the GBH was removed from their food. Eggs from these hens were collected 3 wk after the GBH was withdrawn for 1 wk. We monitored the growth performances, metabolic parameters, and behavior from the progeny of the hens (Ex-GBH chicks, n = 186) and compared them with those of unexposed control-hen progeny (CT chicks, n = 213). Ex-GBH chicks were more likely to explore their new environment than CT chicks during the open-field test. In addition, they had an increased fattening and blood triglycerides level, whereas their food consumption was similar to CT chicks. Quantitative PCR on the chemerin system and FASN in chicks livers indicate a transcriptional activity in favor of fatty acid synthesis, and lipidomic analysis on chicks abdominal adipose tissue reveal a global increase in monounsaturated fatty acid and a global decrease in polyunsaturated fatty acids. Seven genes involved in the synthesis of fatty acids were identified with the open access LIPIDMAP software, and their disturbance in Ex-GBH chicks was confirmed via qPCR. Taken together, these results suggest that the progeny of hens temporarily exposed to a GBH are more likely to fatten, even with a balanced diet. The removal of GBH from their contaminated environment would therefore not be sufficient to completely restore their health, has it could induce transgenerational effects.