Archivos de Zootecnia

**Characterization of hens batsi alak in the Highlands of Southeast Mexico**

Se caracterizaron zoométricamente 508 gallinas adultas (132 machos y 376 hembras) de 9 comunidades en 3 municipios de Los Altos de Chiapas. Se realizó observación directa y obtención del peso y medidas corporales. Las plumas fueron predominantemente de tonalidades oscuras (68,3 %), trigueñas (14,4 %) y blancas (10 %). El plumaje es normal (97,8 %) o rizado (2,17 %) y con cuello desnudo (6,29 %) o emplumado (93,7 %), tarsos con plumas (8,66 %), con copetes (35,8 %) y con plumas en mejillas y copetes (7,48 %). Las crestas son sencillas (87 %) o en rosa (11,6 %). El color de la piel fue principalmente blanco (56,8 %) o amarillo (41,7 %). Los ojos fueron principalmente de color naranja (64,56 %) o amarillo (21 %). El peso promedio de las hembras fue de 1900 ± 376 g (CV: 19,8 %), y el de los machos de 2300 ± 630 g (CV: 27,6 %). Las medidas de los machos fueron mayores. Hubo correlación entre el peso y perímetro torácico para machos y hembras. La gran variabilidad permitiría la creación de líneas productivas con rusticidad y la conservación de sistemas de producción tradicionales, cultural y socialmente sustentables en poblaciones indígenas.

A study was conducted for zoometric characterization of 508 adult hens (132 males and 376 females) from nine communities in three municipalities from Los Altos de Chiapas region (Chiapas highlands). Description was obtained by direct observation, weight and corporal measurements. Feathers colors is diverse, but the tonalities predominant are dark (68.3 %), brunettes (14.4 %) or white (10 %). The plumage is normal (97.8 %) or curled (2.17 %), with naked neck (6.29 %), feathered neck (93.7 %), feathered shank (8.66 %), fringed (35.8 %) and feathered cheeks and fringed (7.48 %). The comb shape is simple (87 %) or rose type (11.6 %). The skin was predominantly white (56.8 %) or yellowish (41.7 %). The eyes presented an orange (64.5 %) or yellow (21 %) color. The average weight of females was 1900 ± 376 g (CV: 19.8 %) and of males was 2280 ± 630 g (CV: 27.8 %). Measurements were larger in males whit high variability. High correlations between weight and thoracic perimeter for males and females were found. This variability involves a biological richness and may be a great potential for the creation of rustic productive lines for Los Altos de Chiapas region in the highlands of Chiapas, Mexico.

The competitiveness of the Argentinian Thoroughbred stud farms through the identification of Critical Factors of Success

La industria hípica en general y la de Sangre Pura de Carrera (SPC) en particular, es un sector preponderante en la economía agraria argentina. Un grupo reducido de empresas se alternan permanentemente entre los diez primeros lugares del Stud Book de SPC, condición que permite establecer que las mismas poseen factores claves de éxito (FCE), tanto por su gestión empresarial como productiva. Este trabajo, mediante la realización de una encuesta a 20 empresas de SPC pertenecientes al Stud Book, intenta determinar la presencia de FCE. Se estudiaron 52 variables reunidas en siete áreas temáticas de FCE (ubicación geográfica, infraestructura, modelo productivo, recursos tecnológicos, equipamiento aplicado a la producción y programa sanitario). Se detectaron tres grupos productivos claramente regionalizados y un grupo disperso de empresas, asimismo se detectó heterogeneidad con respecto a los éxitos comerciales y deportivos además de diferentes niveles de adopción de innovaciones productivas. El agrupamiento ubicado en el norte de la Provincia de Buenos Aires (Argentina), podría ser considerado como equivalente a un distrito industrial, por la coexistencia de cooperación-competencia. En esta zona se concentra la mayoría de las empresas exitosas. El presente trabajo pretende ser un aporte de nuevos conocimientos relativos al sector hípico del SPC argentino.

The horse racing industry in general, and the Thoroughbred (SPC), in particular, is a leader sector in the agricultural economy of Argentina. A small group of companies constantly alternates among the top ten places in the Stud Book of SPC, a condition that establishes that they dispose the key factors of success (FCE), both in business and productive managements. This research, by conducting a survey on 20 companies belonging to the Stud Book SPC, tries to determinate the presence of FCE. There were 52 variables collected in seven thematic areas of FCE (geographical location, infrastructure, production model, technological sources, equipment applied to production and sanitary program). This research identified three groups clearly regionalized and a dispersed group of companies. It also detected heterogeneity respect to commercial and sporting success as well as different levels of decision-productive innovations. The cluster located in the north of the Province of Buenos Aires (Argentina), could be considered as the equivalent to an industrial district, because of the coexistence of cooperation-competition. This area concentrates most successful companies. This study intended to be a contribution to knowledge and characterization of the SPC equestrian industry in Argentina.

Characterization of productive and reproductive parameters of Normande breed in Colombia

Para caracterizar la raza Normando en Colombia se utilizó el análisis multivariado que permitió la identificación de 4 grupos dentro de la raza a partir de 1186 datos de hembras registradas. El grupo minoritario fue el número 1 (8,2 % de la población muestreada), mientras el grupo mayoritario fue el 3 (53,0 % de la población). Destaca el grupo 2 con vacas con lactancias ajustadas promedio de 5608,4 kg y con intervalo entre partos (IEP) de 433,4 días y edad al primer servicio de 28 meses. El 80,6 % de los animales pertenecientes a este grupo se encontraron en sistemas productivos intensivos suplementados. En el grupo 3, se encuentran animales con lactancias ajustadas de 3317,9 kg, y los mejores parámetros reproductivos: IEP de 399,2 días, y edad al primer servicio de 25,7 meses. El 48,3 % de las vacas pertenecientes a este conglomerado se encuentran en sistemas productivos extensivos mejorados, y el 49,9 % en sistemas intensivos suplementados. El sistema predominante de ordeño para este grupo es el doble de tipo manual al cual pertenece el 71,9 % de la población.

To characterize the Normandobreed in Colombia, the multivariate analysis on 1186 data allowed the identification of four groups within the breed. The minority group was the number 1 (8.2 % of the sampled population), while the larger is group 3 (53.0 % of the population). Adjusted lactation of cows in group 2 averaged 5608.4 kg and reproductive parameters as calving interval (433.4 days) and age at first service (28 months); 80.6 % of animals in this group are under intensive supplemented production systems. In group 3, adjusted lactation was 3317.9 kg, and it had the best reproductive parameters, such as 399.2 days calving interval, and 25.7 months of average age at first service; 48.3 % of the cows belonging to this cluster are under improved extensive production systems, and 49.9 % under intensive systems with supplements. The prevailing (71.9 % of the population) milking system in this group is manual and twice per day.

Performance of dairy calves suckling fed hay

Objetivou-se estudar a influência da época de fornecimento de feno no desempenho de bezerros leiteiros da raça Girolando, desaleitados aos noventa dias de vida. Foram utilizados 16 animais lactentes, distribuídos num delineamento inteiramente ao acaso. As dietas testadas foram: T1- Ração concentrada; T2- Ração concentrada mais feno fornecido a partir do 15º dia de vida; T3- Ração concentrada mais feno fornecido a partir do 30º dia de vida e T4- Ração concentrada mais feno fornecido a partir do 60º dia de vida. O feno de alfafa utilizado (Medicago sativa) foi oferecido sem qualquer tipo de trituração. Todos os animais receberam diariamente 4 litros de leite, mais água e ração concentrada a vontade, sendo a ração disponibilizada a partir do 10º dia de vida. As variáveis observadas foram os pesos corpóreos inicial (nascimento) e à desmama, o ganho de peso diário, as alturas de cernelha e garupa, o perímetro torácico, os consumos de matéria seca, proteína bruta e fibra em detergente neutro e a conversão alimentar. A dieta contendo somente ração concentrada proporcionou desempenho semelhante às dietas contendo ração mais feno; a dieta contendo ração mais feno a partir do 15º dia de vida proporcionou a melhor receita/custo.

The experiment aimed to evaluate the influence of time of supply of hay in the performance of dairy calves Girolando breed submitted to early weaning at 90 days of life. Sixteen sucking calves were distributed in a completely randomized design. The diets tested were: T1- Concentrate; T2- Concentrate plus hay supplied at 15º day of life; T3- Concentrate plus hay supplied at 30º day of life; T4- Concentrate plus hay supplied at 60º day of life. An alfalfa (Medicago sativa) hay was offered without any grinding. All animals received 4 liters of milk daily, plus water and concentrate ad libitum. Concentrate was available from the 10º day of life. The observed variables were the initial (birth) and weaning body weights; daily weight gain, heights at withers and rump; thoracic perimeter; intake of the dry matter, crude protein and neutral detergent fiber; and feed:gain ratio were also measured. A diet containing only concentrate provided similar performance to diets containing ration plus hay. However, the diet containing ration plus hay from the 15º day of life provided the best ratio revenue/cost.

Increasing levels of protein in the diet of heifers of Pantaneira Breed: performance and digestibility

Objetivou-se com este trabalho verificar a influência de níveis crescentes de proteína dietética sobre o desempenho, digestibilidade aparente e concentrações de uréia plasmática e urinária, em bovinos da raça Pantaneira. Os dados foram obtidos de 15 novilhas, com 18 meses de idade e peso corporal inicial de 146 kg, recebendo dietas com 11; 13; 15 e 17 % de proteína bruta (PB). Os animais permaneceram confinados por 114 dias e em intervalos de 28 dias foram pesados e realizadas coletas de sangue, de fezes na ampola retal e de urina na forma spot. O aumento do teor de PB não influenciou o consumo de matéria seca (MS) e o ganho de peso médio diário (GMD); porém melhorou a digestibilidade dos nutrientes, elevou os níveis de nitrogênio no sangue e promoveu maior excreção de uréia urinária. Observou-se, em média, consumos de 5,13 kg MS/animal/dia; GMD de 570 g; coeficientes de digestibilidade aparente de 40,9; 59,6; 39,2; 41,3 e 34,0 % para MS, PB, carboidrato total (CT), fibra detergente neutro (FDN) e ácido (FDA), respectivamente; concentração de uréia plasmática de 49,6 mg/dL; e perda de uréia urinária de 110,0 g/animal/dia.

The objective of this experiment was to verify the influence of increasing levels of dietary protein on performance, apparent digestibility and plasma and urinary urea in Pantaneira breed. The data were obtained from 15 heifers, 18 months old and 146 kg initial body weight, fed diets containing 11, 13, 15 and 17 % of crude protein (CP). The animals were confined for 114 days. At intervals of 28 days they were weighed and blood samples and spot samples of feces from the rectum and of urine were taken. The increase in dietary CP content did not influenced dry matter (DM) intake and average daily weight gain (ADG), but improved nutrient digestibility, increased blood nitrogen levels and increased excretion of urinary urea. A mean intake of 5.13 kg DM/animal/day and an ADG of 570 g were observed. Apparent digestibility values of 40.9, 59.6, 39.2, 41.3 and 34,0 % for DM, CP, total carbohydrate, neutral detergent fiber and acid detergent fiber, respectively, were found. Plasma urea concentration was 49.6 mg/dL; and an urinary urea loss of 110,0 g/animal/day was observed.

Characteristics of corn silages inoculated with Lactobacillus Buchneri and L. plantarum

Objetivou-se avaliar o padrão fermentativo, estabilidade aeróbia e valor alimentício de silagens de milho inoculadas com Lactobacillus buchneri associado ou não ao L. plantarum. Os tratamentos avaliados foram: silagem de milho sem inoculação (controle); silagem de milho inoculada com L. buchneri NCIMB 40788 (1x10(5) UFC/g forragem); silagem de milho inoculada com L. buchneri NCIMB 40788 e L. plantarum MA18/5U (1x10(5) UFC/g forragem). A inoculação com L. buchneri promoveu alterações no padrão fermentativo e composição química das silagens, notando-se maior perda de matéria seca (MS) e estabilidade aeróbia nestas silagens. Contudo, as mudanças químicas ocorridas durante a fermentação não foram suficientes para alterar o consumo de MS e de nutrientes por novilhas mestiças, embora tenha se observado maiores digestibilidade da MS e matéria orgânica devido à ação das bactérias ácidoláticas, o que refletiu na maior produção de ácidos graxos de cadeia curta e menores valores de pH. Os resultados deste trabalho permitem concluir que a estabilidade aeróbia das silagens de milho aumenta devido à aplicação de L. buchneri de forma isolada. Contudo, a aplicação isolada ou associada ao L. plantarum não altera o consumo de matéria seca e de nutrientes, mas resulta no aumento da digestibilidade aparente da matéria seca e matéria orgânica.

The aim of this research was to evaluate the fermentation, aerobic stability and nutritional value of corn silages inoculated with Lactobacillus buchneri combined or not with Lactobacillus plantarum. The treatments evaluated were: corn silage untreated (control); corn silage inoculated with Lactobacillus buchneri strain NCIMB 40788 (1x10(5) cfu/g forage); corn silage inoculated with Lactobacillus buchneri strain NCIMB 40788 (1x10(5) cfu/g forage) and Lactobacillus plantarum strain MA18/5U (1x10(5) cfu/g forage). The inoculation with Lactobacillus buchneri promoted changes in fermentation and chemical composition of silages and, there was higher dry matter (DM) loss and aerobic stability in these silages. However, the changes occurred during the fermentation were not enough to change the DM and nutrient intake of the heifers, although there was higher DM and organic matter digestibility due to action of the lactic acid bacteria. These facts resulted in an increase of short-chain fatty acids production and a decrease in the pH values. The results of this study showed that the aerobic stability of corn silages is improved after inoculation with Lactobacillus buchneri. However, the alone or combined application with Lactobacillus plantarum do not change the dry matter and nutrient intake, but dry matter and organic matter apparent digestibility is enhanced.

Addition of water to rations for growing pigs

Para avaliação dos efeitos da adição de água em rações fareladas sobre a digestibilidade de nutrientes e energia, desempenho, ingestão de água e qualidade dos dejetos em suínos na fase de crescimento, foram utilizados 12 suínos machos castrados com peso inicial de 44,0 ± 3,1 kg, para o ensaio de digestibilidade, distribuídos em delineamento em blocos ao acaso, baseado no peso dos animais, e 18 suínos machos castrados e 18 fêmeas com peso inicial de 33,0 ± 3,5 kg, para o ensaio de desempenho, distribuídos em delineamento inteiramente casualizado. Todos os animais eram híbridos comerciais da linhagem Agroceres Pic. Foi formulada uma ração para atender as exigências dos animais (tratamento um), os tratamentos dois e três consistiram da mesma ração, com a adição da mesma proporção de água e com o dobro de água, respectivamente, sendo a unidade proporcional utilizada o quilograma. Não houve diferença estatística entre os tratamentos para os coeficientes de digestibilidade aparente da matéria seca, energia bruta, extrato etéreo, cálcio e fósforo, para as variáveis de desempenho e umidade, nitrogênio e fósforo fecal. Em termos absolutos a redução da ingestão de água de bebida de animais que recebem dieta líquida é de 17,81 % e a excreção de fósforo fica reduzida em 15,4 %. A adição de água em rações de suínos na fase de crescimento não influencia a digestibilidade aparente dos nutrientes da dieta, nem o desempenho dos animais quando o arraçoamento é realizado duas vezes ao dia.

In order to evaluate the effects of adding water to mash diets on nutrients and energy digestibility, performance, water intake and quality of pig excrement at the growing phase, 12 barrows with initial weight of 44.0 ± 3.1 kg were used. For the digestibility trial, the animals were distributed into a randomized block design based on their weight. For the performance test, 18 barrows and 18 females with initial weight of 33.0 ± 3.5 kg were distributed into a completely randomized design. All animals were hybrids lineage Agroceres Pic. Treatment one consisted of a diet formulated to meet the animals' requirement. Treatments two and three consisted the following of water:feed ration (kg:kg) 1:1 and 2:1. There was no statistical difference among treatments for the coefficients of dry matter digestibility, gross energy, ether extract, calcium and phosphorus, and for the variables of performance, moisture, and fecal nitrogen and phosphorus. In absolute terms, the reduction of fresh water intake and of phosphorus excretion for animals receiving liquid diet is 17.81 % and 15.40 %, respectively. The addition of water to pig diets at growing phase does not influence the nutrients digestibility and the performance of the animals when they are fed twice a day.

Effect of slaughter handling conditions and animal temperament on bovine meat quality markers

The aim of this research was to study the effect of different handling conditions on physiological stress indicators and meat quality of beef cattle by studying animals with different temperaments. Forty animals classified by their temperament (calm and disturbed) were used. They were fed on pastures and finished with a mixed diet of corn grain and pasture. Biochemical indicators of animal stress were measured at slaughter (packed cell volume -PCV-, proteins, glucose, creatinine, alkaline phosphatase -APactivity, cortisol, insulin, glycogen). Also, ultimate pH and instrumental colour were chosen as meat quality markers. Animal temperament showed a significantly increase (p<0.05) on PCV levels and a significantly (p<0.05) decrease on muscle glycogen. Besides, levels of plasma glucose and total proteins showed significant (p<0.05) differences associated to management applied. Meat quality markers (pH and colour) did not show significant differences according to handling conditions or temperament. Mean cortisol levels at the exsanguination time were significantly higher (p<0.05) than the values obtained one week prior to slaughter, which suggests an important effect of stress associated to slaughter procedures. It would be interesting to focus attention on the assessment of acute stress at abattoir, in order to improve handling protocols, and therefore to assure meat quality in Argentinean beef production systems.

El objetivo del presente trabajo fue estudiar el efecto de diferentes condiciones de manejo sobre indicadores fisiológicos de estrés y de calidad de carne en bovinos con temperamentos contrastantes. Se utilizaron cuarenta animales clasificados como calmos y excitables. Los mismos fueron alimentados inicialmente a base de pasturas y terminados con una dieta mixta de grano de maíz y pasturas. Se dosaron indicadores bioquímicos de estrés (hematocrito, proteínas plasmáticas, glucosa, creatinina, actividad fosfatasa alcalina, cortisol, insulina, contenido muscular de glucógeno). Como indicadores de calidad de carne se midieron el pH de 24 h y color instrumental. El temperamento animal demostró un incremento significativo (p<0,05) en los niveles de hematocrito y con una disminución significativa (p<0,05) del glucógeno muscular. Los niveles de glucemia y de proteínas totales mostraron modificaciones significativas (p<0,05) asociadas con el manejo. El incremento (p<0,05) en los niveles plasmáticos de cortisol durante la faena, independientemente del tratamiento o el temperamento animal, sugiere un importante efecto estresor por parte del proceso de faena. Sería interesante centrar la atención en el estudio del estrés agudo, a fin de mejorar protocolos de manejo animal, y consecuentemente, optimizar la calidad de la carne asociada en los sistemas de producción de Argentina.

Identification of insulin-like growth factor-I in boar seminal plasma and its influence on sperm quality

The present research was carried out to investigate the relationships between spermatozoal parameters and concentrations of IGF-I in the seminal plasma of boar. Semen samples (duplicates) were collected from mature boars (n=27). In each ejaculate, the macroscopic and microscopic characteristics were determined. After centrifugation to separate sperm cells from seminal plasma, concentrations of IGF-I in seminal plasma samples were determined by a human-specific immunoassay kit. The mean concentration of the boar seminal plasma (n=54 samples) IGF-I was 1.5±0.2 ng/mL. There was no correlation (p>0.05) between IGF-I with most of the evaluated parameters. There was only a low negative correlation (-0.29; p=0.0331) between the concentration of IGF-I in seminal plasma and the motility degradation rate. This study suggests that IGF-I in the seminal plasma of boars is not related to initial fresh semen parameters. However, the hormone did increase the duration of sperm motility.

A presente pesquisa foi realizada para investigar as relações entre os parâmetros dos espermatozóides e as concentrações de IGF-I no plasma seminal de varrões. Amostras de sêmen (duplicatas) foram coletadas de machos maduros (n=27). Em cada ejaculação, as características macroscópicas e microscópicas foram determinadas. Após a centrifugação para separar espermatozóides do plasma seminal, as concentrações de IGF-I em amostras de plasma seminal foram determinadas por kit de imunoensaio humano específico. A concentração média de IGF-I do plasma seminal de varrões foi de 1,5±0,2 ng/mL (n=54 amostras). Não houve correlação (p>0,05) entre IGF-I com a maioria dos parâmetros avaliados. Houve apenas uma correlação baixa negativa (-0,29, p=0,0331) entre a concentração de IGF-I no plasma seminal e a taxa de degradação da motilidade. Este estudo sugere que o IGF-I no plasma seminal de varrões não está relacionado com os parâmetros seminais iniciais do sêmen in natura. No entanto, o hormônio aumentou a duração da motilidade espermática.

Resumption of postpartum reproductive activity in hairy sheep

En este estudio se analizó la respuesta reproductiva de las ovejas de pelo al efecto del amamantamiento y a un protocolo de sincronización posparto (PP) con hormonas, así como el efecto del carnero. Aisladas de los carneros, 96 ovejas fueron clasificadas aleatoriamente al parto en dos grupos (n=48): un primer grupo con amamantamiento continuo por 18 horas (Ac) y un segundo grupo de lactancia controlada con amamantamiento por 30 min 2 veces día-1 (Lc). En el día 35 PP se les colocó a las ovejas un CIDR (Controlled Internal Drug Release) por 10 días, 48 horas antes de retirarlo se les aplicó 7,5 mg de dinoprost y se probó el efecto del carnero (Ca) 48 h antes y al momento de retirar el CIDR. Se determinó el contenido de progesterona (P4) por RIA a los 30, 35, 50, 55 y 64 días PP. Las ovejas fueron inseminadas vía intrauterina con laparoscopio abdominal 12 a 15 horas después de iniciado el estro. Las variables de respuesta fueron: porcentaje de ovulación antes de los 35 días PP, hora de inicio del estro, tasa de gestación, prolificidad, fecundidad y pesos de las ovejas y sus crías. La información obtenida fue analizada mediante regresión logística y de Poisson, prueba de chi cuadrado, curvas de supervivencia y análisis de medidas repetidas. El porcentaje de ovejas que ovularon antes de los 35 días PP fue mayor (p<0,05) en Lc (89,6 %) con respecto a Ac (52,1 %). El peso de las ovejas fue similar (p>0,05) entre tratamientos. El peso de los corderos fue mayor (p<0,05) en Ac a partir de los 41 días PP y no hubo mortalidad de corderos. Después de retirar el CIDR todas las ovejas manifestaron estro, siendo las de Lc las que primero lo hicieron (p<0,05), a las 50 horas. La tasa de gestación, prolificidad y fecundidad no difirieron entre tratamientos y los promedios fueron de 82,3; 1,84 y 1,51 %, respectivamente. Los resultados demuestran que la lactancia controlada aumenta y concentra el número de ovejas que ovularon antes de los 35 días PP. En cuanto a la sincronización posparto y al efecto macho, todas las ovejas respondieron al manifestar comportamiento estral y solo una oveja presentó cuerpo lúteo de vida media corta.

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of suckling, postpartum (PP) synchronization protocol and the ram effect on reproductive performance of hairy sheep. Isolated from the rams, 96 ewes were randomly assigned to one of two groups at lambing (n=48): continuous suckling for 18 h (Ac) and controlled suckling for 30 minutes twice a day (Lc). On day 35 PP, both groups were synchronized with CIDR (Controlled Internal Drug Release) for 10 days, 48 hours before CIDR removal, 7,5 mg of dinoprost was administered and the effect of the ram (Ca) 48 hours before and at the time of CIDR removal were tested. We determined progesterone (P4) por radioimmunoassay at 30, 35, 50, 55 y 64 days PP. The ewes were inseminated intrauterine by abdominal laparoscopy 12 to 15 hours after estrus onset. The response variables were: percentage of ovulation before 35 days PP, time of estrus onset, pregnancy rate, prolificacy, fecundity and live weight of the ewes and their lambs. The information obtained was analyzed using logistic regression and Poisson, chi-square test, survival curves and repeated measures analysis. The percentage of ewes that ovulated before 35 days PP was higher (p<0.05) in Lc (89.6 %) than Ac (52.1 %). The weight of the ewes was similar (p>0.05) between treatments. The weight of lambs was higher (p<0.05) in Ac after 41 days PP and there was no mortality during lactation. After CIDR removal all ewes showed estrus, being those of Lc (p<0.05) the first to manifest estrous behavior (50 hours). Pregnancy rate, prolificacy and fecundity were not different between treatments and averaged 82.3, 1.84 and 1.51 %, respectively. The results indicate that controlling lactation increases and concentrates the number of ewes that ovulated before 35 days PP. All ewes responded to the synchronization postpartum and the ram effect showing estrous behavior and only one ewe presented corpora lutea of shortened lifespan.

In vitro evaluation of goat cauda epididymal sperm, cooled in different extenders at 4^oC

Collection of spermatozoa obtained from the epididymis cauda (CES) is a viable option to preserve of genetic material from threatened species and for use in assisted reproduction. The aim of the present study was to assess the in vitro effect of four different extenders on spermatozoa from goat epididymis cauda, cooled at 4ºC. Epididymal sperm were recovered from the cauda by flushing six pairs of epididymis. The samples of each pair were mixed, subdivided into four aliquots and diluted in coconut water-egg yolk (CW-EY), physiologic solution with 0.5 % glucose and egg yolk (PSG-EY), UHT skim milk (SM), and UHT skim milk with egg yolk (SM-EY). The samples were cooled at 4ºC for 2, 12, 24 and 48 hours. After storage, in each period, the semen was evaluated by the heat resistance test for sperm motility, vigor and total morphological alterations. The motility degradation rate was calculated at the end of each time period. Sperm viability decreased with time in the four extenders. Epididymal sperm diluted in CW-EY showed higher values for vigor and motility, although these parameters did not differ from the sperm kept in the PSG-EY up to 48 hours at 4ºC, except for spermatic vigor. However, the PSG-EY and SM extenders caused greater morphologic damage to epididymal sperm after 12 and 24 hours, respectively. Extenders based on skim milk provided less spermatic cell stability during 48 hours. In conclusion, CW-EY extender was the most efficient extender to maintain CES viability at 4ºC.

A colheita de espermatozóides da cauda do epidídimo (CES) é uma opção viável de preservação de material genético de espécies ameaçadas de extinção, bem como para uso em reprodução assistida. Este trabalho teve como objetivo verificar a eficiência de quatro diferentes diluidores sobre os espermatozóides da cauda do epidídimo de caprinos, resfriado a 4ºC. Os espermatozoides epididimários foram recuperados da cauda de seis pares de epidídimo. As amostras de cada par foram misturadas e subdivididas em quatro alíquotas que foram diluídas na água de cocogema (CW-EY), solução fisiológica glicosada 0,5 %-gema (PSG), leite desnatado UHT (ME) e leite desnatado UHT-gema (ME-EY). As amostras foram resfriadas a 4ºC por 2, 12, 24 e 48 horas. Após o armazenamento, em cada período, o CES foi avaliado através do teste de termoresistência quanto à motilidade, vigor espermático e alterações morfológicas total. A taxa de degradação da motilidade foi calculada no final de cada período. A viabilidade espermática diminuiu com o tempo de refrigeração nos quatro diluidores. Os CES diluídos na CW-EY apresentaram maiores valores para vigor e motilidade, embora estes parâmetros não deferissem daqueles mantidos no PSG por até 48 horas, exceto para vigor espermático. Entretanto, os diluidores PSG e ME ocasionaram maiores danos morfológicos aos CES a partir de 12 e 48 horas, respectivamente. Os diluidores ME e MEEY proporcionaram à célula espermática menor estabilidade durante 48 h de conservação. Concluiu-se que o CW-EY foi o mais eficiente em manter a viabilidade dos CES a 4ºC.

Electricity consumption in Castilla y León dairy sheep farms

Para conocer las características del consumo de energía y agua de las explotaciones de ganado ovino lechero de Castilla y León se realizó una auditoría energética a 35 granjas. Se recogieron datos de censo y producción, equipos y horario de funcionamiento (ordeño, enfriamiento, bomba de agua, agua caliente...), maquinaria disponible y consumo de agua. Se calcularon los índices de utilización de la energía por oveja productora y por unidad de leche producida. Aunque existen diferencias en función del tamaño de las explotaciones, el consumo de agua caliente sanitaria se sitúa en 0,42 L por oveja productora al día o 0,29 L por cada litro de leche producido. El consumo medio de electricidad es de 2000 kWh al mes, es decir, casi 50 kWh/oveja y año u 84 kWh por cada 1000 L de leche producida. El ordeño consume 34 kWh/día (más del 40 % del gasto eléctrico diario), seguido del enfriamiento de la leche (30 %) y el calentamiento del agua (12 %). Las explotaciones con variador de velocidad en la bomba de vacío presentaron un menor consumo de electricidad por oveja. Se ha estimado que el consumo total de electricidad representa el 2 % del precio percibido por cada litro de leche vendido.

An energy audit model was designed and data collected on 35 dairy sheep farms in Castilla y León were used to ascertain the nature of energy and water consumption of these farms. Data regarding census and production, equipment and hours of operation (milking, cooling, water pump, hot water...), other available machinery and water consumption were studied. Rates of energy utilization per producing ewe and per unit of milk produced were calculated. Beyond the differences due to farm size, hot water consumption was at 0.42 L daily per producing ewe producing or 0.29 L per litre of produced milk produced. The average electricity consumption was 2000 kWh/month, nearly 50 kWh/ewe and year or 84 kWh/1000 L of produced milk. Milking consumes 34 kWh/day (more than 40 % of daily utility costs), followed by milk cooling (30 %) and water heating (12 %). Farms with variable speed vacuum pump had lower electricity consumption by sheep. It has been estimated that total electricity consumption accounts for 2 % of milk price.

Dairy cattle farm electricity consumption in Castilla y León

Con el objetivo de conocer el consumo de electricidad y su distribución en las explotaciones de ganado vacuno lechero de Castilla y León se realizaron auditorías energéticas a 80 explotaciones, recogiéndose datos sobre sus características, equipos y tiempos de utilización (sala de ordeño, refrigeración, limpieza, agua caliente, ventilación, otros dispositivos) y factura eléctrica. A partir de estos datos se calcularon los índices de consumo medio anual y los índices de utilización de electricidad por vaca productora y por litro de leche producido. Los equipos que más electricidad consumen son la bomba de vacío (8948 kWh/ año) y el tanque de frío (6030 kWh/año), seguidos por los sistemas de limpieza (5244 kWh/año). Los sistemas de ordeño en espina de pescado mostraron un consumo inferior (7 kWh) al de los robots de ordeño (24 kWh) o las salas rotativas (26 kWh). El consumo eléctrico anual medio se sitúa en los 516 kWh por vaca productora o 51 kWh por cada 1000 kg de leche producida. La optimización del consumo eléctrico en las explotaciones de ganado vacuno lechero es posible, pero pasa por la evaluación del consumo real producido en cada equipo y proceso de la explotación.

Eighty energy audits were carried out to 80 dairy cattle farms in Castilla y León, in order to determine electricity consumption and its distribution. Data regarding their characteristics, equipment (milking, cooling, cleaning, hot water, ventilation and other devices), usage times and electricity bills were collected. From these data, average electricity annual consumption and utilization rates per cow and per litre of produced milk were calculated. Vacuum pump (8948 kWh/ year) and the cooling tank (6030 kWh/year) were the most consumptive equipments, followed by cleaning systems (5244 kWh/year). Herringbone milking parlours showed lower consumption (7 kWh) than milking robots (24 kWh) and rotary milking parlours (26 kWh). Average electricity consumption stands at 516 kWh per productive cow and year or 51 kWh per 1000 kg of milk produced per year. The optimization of power consumption in the dairy cattle farms is possible, but passes through the evaluation of actual consumption produced in each team and exploitation process.

Fattening Pelibuey lambs fed with different alfalfa levels in the diet

El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar el efecto de diferentes niveles de alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) en la dieta de corderos sobre el comportamiento productivo, durante 11 semanas. Se utilizaron 36 corderos machos Pelibuey de 5 meses de edad, en estabulación, con peso inicial promedio de 22 kg, distribuidos homogéneamente en cuatro grupos de 3 animales cada uno, con 3 repeticiones por grupo. Los grupos fueron asignados al azar a cada uno de cuatro tratamientos evaluados: 0, 20, 30 y 40 % de alfalfa (base seca). Se utilizó un diseño completamente al azar, utilizando el Proc GLM (SAS, 1999) y cuando se observaron diferencias estadísticas, se realizó una comparación de medias utilizando la prueba de Tukey. Se determinó consumo de alimento, ganancia de peso, conversión, eficiencia alimenticia, rendimiento de canal en caliente y frio, y pH de la canal; además de la degradabilidad in situ de la MS de las dietas. El consumo de MS aumentó (p<0,05) de 1,19 a 1,39 kg MS animal-1 día-1 al incrementar el nivel de alfalfa de 20 a 40 %, respectivamente, a pesar que las dietas que contenían alfalfa tuvieron menor (p<0,05) degradabilidad en comparación con la dieta testigo; sin embargo, la ganancia diaria de peso no se afectó (p>0,05), promediando 271 g animal-1 día-1. Tampoco hubo variación (p>0,05) en el peso final, conversión y eficiencia alimenticia, promediando 38,0 kg animal-1,4,74 y 0,212, respectivamente. El peso (19,3 y 18,8 kg) y rendimiento (54,4 y 53,0 %) de canal en caliente y fría, fueron similares entre tratamientos. Incluir alfalfa en la dieta de corderos, no ofrece ventajas en la ganancia de peso, sin embargo hasta 40 %, podría ser atractivo económicamente para el productor, además de promover mayor consumo de MS.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of feeding alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) to lambs on animal performance, during a period of 11 weeks. Thirty-six, 5 months old, Pelibuey male lambs were used indoors, with initial live weight of 22.0 kg. They were distributed homogeneously into four groups of three each, with three replicates per group, and then randomly assigned to each of the following treatments: diet with 0, 20, 30 and 40 % (dry basis) of alfalfa. Dry matter intake (DMI), daily gain weight (DGW), feeding conversion (FC) and efficiency (FE), hot and cold carcass yield, biological hot and cold carcass yield, and carcass pH at slauthering and 24h post mortem, and digestibility in situ of the diet, were evaluated. A completely randomized design using Proc GLM was used; mean comparison was done using the Tukey test. There were not significant differences (p>0.05) between treatments on animal performance, except on dry matter intake, which increased (p<0.05) from 1.2 to 1.4 kg DM per animal when increasing alfalfa level from 20 to 40 %, even though diets including alfalfa had less digestibility compared to the control one. DGW, FC and FE, averaged 271 g animal-1 day-1, 4.74 and 0.212, respectively. The average for hot and cold carcass yield, were 54.4 % and 53.0 %, respectively. Including alfalfa in the lamb diet, offers no benefits on animal performance; however, including up to 40 % of alfalfa, could be a viable feeding strategy, and from the economical point of view could be attractive to the farmer, besides, it increases dry matter intake.

Datamining for preslaughter mortality preview of broilers

Objetivou-se analisar a eficiência de um sistema de informação simples para diagnosticar cenários de mortalidade em condições de espera pré-abate, pelo uso de árvores de regressão e classificação, estudando dados de um abatedouro comercial de frangos de corte no Estado de São Paulo, utilizando-se um sistema de mineração de dados (CART, classification and regression trees). Esta árvore de decisão, por meio de um conjunto de dados históricos, é capaz de predizer variáveis categóricas e classificar efeitos, e apresentou 77 % de acerto e mostrou ser um meio prático e rápido para predições, além de ser de fácil interpretação para uso direto de técnicos.

The performance of a simple information system to identify possible mortality conditions in pre-slaughter operation through classification and regression trees was studied. Data referring a commercial broiler slaughterhouse, located in State of São Paulo, were studied using a data mining system (CART). This decision tree is able to predict categorical variables through a historical dataset and then classify effects. The classification tree had 77 % of success and showed to be a practical and faster way to predictions for this dataset and it is able to show an easy interpretation to direct use by the sector area experts.