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The venerid clam Chamelea gallina is a popular and economic foodstuff around the Mediterranean countries especially in Italy, Spain, and France. The aim of this study is to evaluate the nutritional quality of striped venus of Southern Marmara. Samples were harvested seasonally at five stations and analyzed to determine meat yield, proximate, and elemental composition. According to the results, meat yield ranged from 20.24% to 29.94%. Means of water, protein, lipid, and ash content were 67%, 10.12%, 2.57%, and 1.66%, respectively. The mean concentrations (mg/kg wet weight) of elements in tissues are as follows: B: 2.37-4.24; Cr: 0-0.76; Co: 0-0.43; Cu: 0.71-5.30; Mn: 0.30-5.94; Zn: 13.08-77.76; Ni: 0-1.22; Fe: 2.46-114.22; Al: 1.23-75.49; Pb: 0.18-3.24; Ba: 0.66-15.97; Cd: 0.04-0.69. Among the reported metal levels, only Pb and Zn in two stations exceeded the maximum critical concentrations enforced by Turkish legislation and European Commission. Therefore, we report that striped venus from Southern Marmara Sea, in general, are safe for human consumption; nonetheless, Pb and Zn levels should be closely monitored in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was carried out to determine the meat yield and chemical composition of Salmo trutta macrostigma caught in Munzur River. A total of 23 fish samples were used in this study. Average meat yield of fish used in this study were found as 58,04±04 % in one age group, 58,98± % in two age group , 59,93±1,00% in three age group, 61,07±1,21 % in four age group. Chemical analyses results showed that in all fish, mean percentage values of moisture, protein, fat, ash and carbohydrate were 78.87±0.78, 18.45±0.30, 2.65±0.77, 1.15±0.15 and 0.98±0.09 respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Growth and survival of flat oyster, Ostrea edulis, juveniles of different sizes (15 mm, 20 mm, 25 mm, 30 mm, 35 mm and 40 mm) from natural spatfall were studied in suspended culture in Mersin Bay Izmir, Turkey from April 2002 to August 2003. Environmental parameters such as temperature, salinity, chlorophyll-a, total particulate matter (TPM), pH were monitored each sampling time. Temperature was between 13.8°C (December 2002) and 24.5°C (July and August 2002). Average chlorophyll-a, TPM and pH were 1.7±0.64 μg l-1, 0.01311±0.00224 mg l-1 and 7.65±0.22, respectively. Shell length increment for each size groups (from small to large) was determined as 49.99, 43.39, 39.10, 33.11, 39.36 and 25.67 mm, respectively. The smallest group was growth faster than others (P<0.05). Significant differences in survival rates between size groups occurred (highest: 60% for 15.mm and lowest: 12.8% for 35 mm) (P<0.05). Condition index and meat yield which showed many variations throughout the study changed from 2.65% to 5.11% and from 6.65% to 12%, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An experiment was conducted with a total of 54 animals, corresponding to three categories (cows, oxen, and bulls), to study the value of the carcass hindquarters as to the cuts of highest economic value and beef yield. Analyses of variance were performed, according to one-way classification model, comparing the effects of the category (ox, bull and cow) for each valuable cut (in both hindquarters). The cuts of higher value were expressed according to each category, with the two hindquarters, and with each one of them, right and left. The hindquarters, right and left, from 54 animals (17 oxen, 15 cows, and 22 bulls), slaughtered in the period February-August in 2007, were collected and weighed in the processing plant. The hindquarter weight and the slaughtered animal category were recorded. The deboning of the hindquarters was carried out, and the outcomes of the weighing of the most valuable ones were recorded: eye round, inside round, knuckle, tenderloin, shortloin, round flat, and the sum of all of them, including the control of the right and left meat pieces. The results indicated highly significant differences (P < 0.001) between the cow category and the rest, for all the rear muscles. There were only differences between bulls and oxen, specifically in the muscles of the inside round and the palomilla steak. This showed better cuttability of the beef from the bulls as compared with the rest. There was not dimorphism between the animal categories. However, the highest differences were in the eye round, suggesting to improve the extraction by the butchers. It was concluded that the factors animal category, deboning quality, and loss in freezer are essential to attain higher beef yield. Therefore, in order to improve the efficiency in the production of meat feeds, it is necessary the qualification of the hindquarter in the process of beef production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Manipulation of light intensity is an important management tool affecting broiler production and well being. Despite considerable research on light intensity, there is still a debate on the optimum level to be used for intensively housed broilers. Two trials were conducted with the objective of investigating the effect of light intensity, within the practical levels at confinement barns (1, 10, 20, and 40 lx), on production, processing characteristics, and welfare of broilers raised to 35 d of age. Each light intensity treatment was replicated in 2 environmentally controlled rooms in each trial with 950 Ross x Ross 308 chicks per room. Data were analyzed as a randomized complete block design with trial serving as a block. All chicks were exposed to 40 lx of light intensity and 23 h of light for the first 7 d followed by treatment light intensity and 17 h of day length thereafter. Body weight and feed consumption were determined at 7, 14, and 35 d of age. At the end of each trial, 60 birds per treatment were processed to determine the detailed meat yield. Skeletal and footpad and ocular health were monitored at 31 and 32 d of age, respectively. Body weight, feed consumption, feed:gain ratio, and mortality were unaffected by light intensity. Carcass, thigh, and drum yield as a percentage of live weight decreased linearly with increasing light intensity. The 1 lx treatment resulted in heavier wings as a percentage of live weight. Light intensity had no effect on skeletal health, but ulcerative footpad lesions decreased linearly with increasing light intensity. Birds exposed to the 1 lx treatment had heavier and larger eyes. In conclusion, light intensity did not affect broiler production and mortality but did affect carcass characteristics. The 1 lx light intensity treatment had a negative effect on broiler welfare as demonstrated by increased ulcerative footpad lesions and eye size. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to assess the influence of growth and reproductive cycle on the meat yield and proximate composition of the banded murex (Hexaplex trunculus) from the Ria Formosa lagoon (Algarve coast, southern Portugal). Samples of the edible portion (all soft-body tissues) were analysed monthly during one year. The average meat yield was 37.9±4.6%, with females containing more edible content (39.1±4.7%) than males (36.8±4.2%). The proximate composition comprised 70.7±1.4% moisture, 20.1±1.2% protein, 1.6±0.3% fat, 3.0±0.3% ash, and 4.6±1.2% carbohydrate, corresponding to an energetic value of 119.2±7.5 kcal/100 g wet weight. The meat yield was influenced by specimen size, increasing significantly during growth. Both meat yield and proximate composition presented seasonal fluctuations related to the reproductive cycle, which coincided mainly with the periods of maturation and spawning of this species in the Ria Formosa. Finally, H. trunculus meat yield and proximate composition were compared with similar information available for other marine gastropods. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Abstract: Knowledge of the gametogenic cycle and biochemical composition of commercially valuable species is important in aquaculture. Monthly variations in meat yield, gonadal development and biochemical composition of the bivalve Tapes decussatus were studied from January 2002 to December 2002 in the Sufa Lagoon in relation to environmental conditions. Histological evidence showed that gametogenesis began in January and major spawning started in July and appeared to continue into August and September. The majority of individuals were resorbing their gonad, or alternatively in a period of gonadal inactivity in October, November and December. When the gonad stage was ripe in April, the glycogen value was at the maximum level in contrast to protein which was at the minimum value. The glycogen value was at the minimal level during spawning and resting period. During the late gametogenesis the protein value was the highest in March and the following month when the gonad was ripe, protein was at the lowest. Lipid content fluctuated throughout the study. During the gametogenesis, the meat yield was observed to range between 12.7% and 26.8%. The results of this study showed that six stages of gonadal development of T. decussatus were observed in transplanted area. Seawater temperature was the major factor rather than food availability on gametogenesis of carpet shell clam in the study area. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This work investigated effects of carrying 0, 1, or 2 copies of the A allele resulting from the g+ 6723C-A transition in growth differentiation factor gene (GDF8) in New Zealand Texel-cross sheep at different lamb ages and carcass weights. Two Texel-cross sires carrying 1 copy of the A allele were mated to approximately 200 ewes carrying 0, 1, or 2 copies of the A allele. A total of 187 progeny were generated and genotyped to determine whether they were carrying 0, 1, or 2 copies of the A allele. The progeny were assigned to 1 of 4 slaughter groups balanced for the 3 genotypes, sex, and sire. The 4 groups were slaughtered commercially when their average BW (across all progeny in the slaughter group) reached 33, 40, 43, and 48 kg, respectively. Measurements of BW, and carcass dimensions arid yield were made on all animals using Viascan (a commercial 2-dimensional imaging system that estimates lean content of the carcass as a percentage of total carcass weight). Additional measurements were made on the fourth slaughter group, which was computed tomography scanned at each slaughter time point to obtain 4 serial measures of lean and fat as estimated from the computed tomography images, The A allele did not have an effect on any BW traits. The A allele was associated with increased muscle and decreased fat across the variety of measures of muscling and fat, explaining between 0.2 and 1.1 of a residual SD unit. Estimates for an additive effect were significant and were positive for muscle and negative for fat traits. No dominance effect estimates (positive or negative) were significant. There was no significant interaction between A allele number and carcass weight or slaughter group for any trait. This is the first systematic study of the effect of the A allele copy number over a range of carcass weights (13 to 20 kg) and ages and results suggest the size of the effect across these endpoints is proportionately the same. Testing for the A allele therefore offers breeders the potential to improve rates of genetic gain for lean-meat yield across most production systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The Meat and Livestock Commission’s (MLC) EUROP classification based scheme and Video Image Analysis (VIA) system were compared in their ability to predict weights of primal carcass joints. A total of 443 commercial lamb carcasses under 12 months of age and mixed gender were selected by their cold carcass weight (CCW), conformation and fat scores. Lamb carcasses were classified for conformation and fatness, scanned by the VIA system and dissected into primal joints of leg, chump, loin, breast and shoulder. After adjustment for CCW, the estimation of primal joints using MLC EUROP scores showed high coefficients of determination (R 2) in the range of 0.82–0.99. The use of VIA always resulted in equal or higher R 2. The precision measured as root mean square error (RMSE) was 27% (leg), 13% (chump), 1% (loin), 11% (breast), 5% (shoulders) and 13% (total primals) higher using VIA than MLC carcass information. Adjustment for slaughter day and gender effects indicated that estimations of primal joints using MLC EUROP scores were more sensitive to these factors than using VIA. This was consistent with an increase in stability of the prediction model of 28%, 11%, 2%, 12%, 6% and 14% for leg, chump, loin, breast and shoulder and total primals, respectively, using VIA compared to MLC EUROP scores. Consequently, VIA was capable of improving the prediction of primal meat yields compared to the current MLC EUROP carcass classification scheme used in the UK abattoirs. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A total of 7074 crossbred lambs, produced by mating crossbred Mule ewes with terminal sire rams were used in this study. Of these, 630 were scanned using a Video Image Analysis (VIA) to estimate carcass quality traits. Genetic parameters for average daily gain (ADG), scanning live weight (SW), ultrasonic measures of muscle (UMD) and fat (UFD) depths, cold carcass weight (CCW) and VIA measurements of primal carcass joint weights (LEG, CHUMP, LOIN, BREAST and SHOULDER) were estimated using multivariate animal models. Additionally, VIA traits were evaluated under a repeatability model, considering the primal joints as repeated measures of the same trait. Direct heritability estimates were low to moderate (0.08–0.26) for VIA measurements of primal joints. Repeatability estimates for VIA traits were high (>0.90). Moderate to high heritability estimates (0.25–0.55) were found for performance traits (ADG, SW, UMD and UFD) and CCW. Genetic correlations between VIA traits and ADG were strong (0.75–0.93). Most of the VIA traits were highly correlated to SW (0.60–0.97). UFD was significantly negatively correlated with UMD (−0.22), ADG (−0.18) and CCW (−0.18). The results of this study suggest that selection on performance and carcass traits, measured by VIA, could possibly improve primal meat yield of carcass cuts without increasing the overall carcass fatness. High repeatability estimates of VIA traits and moderate heritabilities of the most valuable carcass joints suggests that including VIA information in breeding programs would be useful in order to improve carcass quality. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In order to assess the effect of a probiotic mixture (Lactobacillus acidophilus and Lactobacillus rhamnosus) on the productive performance, carcass yield and economic indicators of broilers, 350 male chicks of the hybrid HE21 were used. They were distributed in two treatments (control and probiotic), and a completely randomized design was used. The productive performance (liveweight, weight gain and feed conversion) was assessed, and the yield of edible parts (carcass, breast, leg plus thigh, edible viscera and neck) was determined, as well as the main economic indicators. The studies of the performance showed increase in feed intake with the probiotic (3693 vs 3580 g/bird) and higher weight gain (1940 vs 1822 g/bird). Thus, the feed conversion was better with this product (1.90 vs 1.96). Higher breast yield (31 vs 28 %) was observed, which denoted higher economic efficiency favoring the probiotic with reduction of the costs/kg of the carcass (1.03 vs 1.13 USD/kg) and breast (3.66 vs 4.43 USD/kg). The results suggest the possibility of increasing the economic and biological efficiency of the broiler when using this probiotic. Therefore, its application is recommended because it improves the productive performance of this important source of animal protein. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to examine main and interactive effects of nutrient density (ND), feed form (FF; mash, pellet), and lighting program (12L:12D, 20L:4D) on production characteristics and meat yield of broilers raised to 35 d of age. Diets (starter, grower, and finisher) were formulated so that amino acid levels were in proportion to the dietary energy level. Lighting programs were initiated at 4 d of age. Body weight was not affected by ND when diets were fed in a pellet form but decreased in a linear manner with lower ND when fed as a mash. Final BW of birds fed mash were less than those of birds fed pellet diets. Feed to gain ratio decreased with increasing ND but was not affected by FF. Feed intake decreased with increasing ND and was lower for birds fed mash. The effect of ND on feed intake was less when birds were fed mash in contrast to pellet diets (PND × F < 0.0001). Dietary ND had no effect on mortality, but feeding mash decreased mortality (3.8%) compared with feeding pelleted feed (5.6%). Lighting programs affected production characteristics independently of ND and FF. Use of 12L:12D reduced BW, feed to gain ratio, feed intake, and mortality compared with 20L:4D. Similarly, carcass components were not affected by ND when fed in pellet form but decreased with lower ND when fed as a mash. Overall, carcass yields were reduced when broilers were fed mash or provided with 12L:12D. Female birds had higher carcass yields and increased proportional breast meat deposition compared with males. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a highly significant quantitative trait locus (QTL) for meat percentage, eye muscle area (EMA) and silverside percentage was found on cattle chromosome 2 at 0–15 cM, a region containing the positional candidate gene growth differentiation factor 8 ( GDF8), which has the common alias myostatin ( MSTN). Loss-of-function mutations in the MSTN gene are known to cause an extreme ‘double muscling’ phenotype in cattle. In this study, highly significant associations of MSTN with cattle carcass traits were found using maternally inherited MSTN haplotypes from outbred Limousin and Jersey cattle in a linkage disequilibrium analysis. A previously reported transversion in MSTN (AF320998.1:g.433C>A), resulting in the amino acid substitution of phenylalanine by leucine at position 94 of the protein sequence (F94L), was the only polymorphism consistently related to increased muscling. Overall, the size of the g.433C>A additive effect on carcass traits was moderately large, with the g.433A allele found to be associated with a 5.5% increase in silverside percentage and EMA and a 2.3% increase in total meat percentage relative to the g.433C allele. The phenotypic effects of the g.433A allele were partially recessive. This study provides strong evidence that a MSTN genotype can produce an intermediate, non-double muscling phenotype, which should be of significant value for beef cattle producers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: About 80% of the Norwegian landings of edible crab (Cancer pagurus) are females. Meat content is often poor also for hard-shelled crabs. Feeding has proved to increase the quality, however the feeding process is costly and should be as short as possible still providing the required product quality. The crab fishery season coincides with the females'' reproduction period which affects the quality and body composition. Egg-carrying crabs are of no commercial value. The development of the gonads is therefore of great importance for a feeding management of crabs. A study was conducted to test if meat yield and quality increased over time in the peak season (September). Groups of females were fed a diet of saithe (Pollachius virens) fillet for 10, 24 and 33 days. An unfed reference group was killed, boiled and quality assessed at the start of the experimental period and compared with fed groups assessed in the same way at the termination of the feeding period. The improvement of quality traits was a continuous process, with a linear increase in total subjective impression, hepatopancreas lightness and gonadosomatic index (GSI) correlated with time of feeding or cumulative feed intake. Two different methods of inactivating the claws, banding and nicking, were compared during the feeding period. The treatments gave no difference in feed intake or external quality like lost legs and tips. Gonad and hepatopancreas were examined during several short experimental periods (3–4 weeks) expanding from just before until after the peak fishery season. In August, September and October/November GSI increased but no increase was seen in hepatosomatic index (HSI). Crabs with GSI between 15 and 18 (%) seemed to be close to spawning. In October/November 40% of the crabs spawned, in December 6.7%. No development in GSI was present in December but HSI increased for fed crabs. After the peak spawning period in October/November most of the remaining crabs do not start the onset of gonad development before the following year. Fed crab at this time of the year will be of a different body composition, with more hepatopancreas and less roe. Several factors may influence the economy in a feeding program. However, the short feeding period makes it possible to feed several batches in a year. In a growing market and with increasing knowledge in quality grading technology of live crabs, feeding of edible crab may be worthwhile in the future. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This study aimed to determine the optimum time of pre-slaughter feed withdrawal for broiler chickens to maintain profitable and hygienic meat production and to determine its effect on the meat yield, microbiological structure of gut content and microbiological quality of the carcass. A total of 100 birds were allocated to 4 identical 2 m² pens in a commercial broiler house, each pen housing 25 birds. The feed withdrawal durations were 18 h (group 1), 12 h (group 2), 6 h (group 3) and 0 h (group 4). The percentage live weight loss increased as the feed withdrawal period increased (P < 0.05). The meat yield in group 4 was lower than that in the other groups (P < 0.05). Full gizzard weight in group 1 was lower than that in groups 3 and 4, and group 2 parameters were lower than group 4 parameters (P < 0.05). Salmonella positive carcasses numbered 1 in group 1, 1 in group 2, 0 in group 3 and 2 in group 4. The only significant difference found among the groups was for coliform bacteria. The coliform count in group 1 (7.54 ± 0.100) was significantly different from that in group 2 (7.00 ± 0.159) and group 3 (7.08 ± 0.169) (P < 0.05). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Five species within the Family Pinnidae were collected on spat collectors at Pioneer Bay, Orpheus Island, north Queensland, Australia. Pinna bicolor represented >99% of recruits. Approximately 950 P. bicolor spat recruited to collectors during 12 months of study beginning in late summer (March) with recruitment showing a distinct pulse during March/April with mean (±S.E.) recruitment of 72±7 spat per collector. There was no significant difference between the intensity of recruitment at depths of 2 and 6 m (P <0.05). P. bicolor spat grew rapidly following removal from spat collectors and had a mean hinge length (HL) of over 150 mm after 1 year in suspended culture. Gonad development was evident within 12 months and a reduced growth rate at this time may be attributable to reproductive activity. After 80 weeks, mean (±S.E.) HL was 176.5±3.9 mm with a mean (±S.E.) whole wet weight of 114.3±17.5 g. Tissue wet weight was 27.5±0.5% of whole wet weight and the wet weight of the posterior adductor muscle was 3.5±0.1% of whole wet weight and 12.8±0.3% of tissue wet weight. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The article cites a study on the morphological analysis and meat yield of crayfish, Austropotamobius torrentium (A. torrentium), discovered in Turkey. This study used 60 male and 224 female A. torrentium which were caught in Velika River in Kirklareli, Turkey. The results of the study revealed that both sexes have a linear relation between carapace length and body weight. The researchers also observed sexual dimorphism in the abdomen size, carapace width and chelipeds in the mature crayfish species. The findings of the study discovered that male A. torrentium produced higher abdominal meat yield compared to female A. torrentium.

A total of 9360 offspring of 12 purebred Duroc sires and 692 Landrace x Yorkshire sows were evaluated for six osteochondrosis traits in the left elbow joints at slaughter. Osteochondrosis traits, growth pre- and post weaning, and meat content at slaughter were analysed simultaneously by a multivariate genetic model. Castrates scored worse than female pigs for nearly all osteochondral traits. Heritability of elbow osteochondrosis was moderate (0.02 to 0.28) and, thus, selection against the disorder is possible. Phenotypic correlations among joint surface abnormalities, cartilage thickness, subchondral lesions and cracks in the cartilage at the osteochondral junction in the medial condyle ranged from 0.33 to 0.69, whereas genetic correlations ranged from 0.75 to 0.97. Phenotypic correlations of the sagittal central groove with other abnormalities in the medial condyle were low and insignificant but genetic correlations were strongly significant (0.66 to 0.77). Depression of the proximal edge of the radius was to some extent phenotypically correlated to abnormalities in the medial humeral condyle (around 0.2), while genetic correlations ranged from 0.05 to 0.52. Significant genetic correlations among osteochondral traits indicate that all are part of the osteochondrosis complex. Abnormalities in the joint surface showed the strongest genetic correlations with other osteochondrosis variables in the elbow joint and were moderately inherited (h² = 0.22), which indicates that this trait can be used as a marker to select against osteochondrosis. Osteochondral traits had no significant genetic correlations with growth to weaning and to 30 kg, slight negative (favourable) genetic correlations with growth from 30 to 100 kg, and slightly positive (unfavourable) genetic correlations with meat content in carcass. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two experiments were completed with grower-finisher pigs to determine if pigmeat output, as measured by carcass gain per m² per year, could be increased, by 1 : increasing group size or 2 : split-marketing pen groups. In experiment 1,390 pigs (mean initial live weight 36.7 (s.d. 1.99) kg) were assigned to one of three treatments each with 10 replicates : 11, 13 or 15 pigs per single-sex group in pens measuring 11.04 m². Space allowance was 1.00, 0.85 and 0.74 m² per pig, respectively. Pelleted food was provided ad libitum. There were no differences (P > 0.05) between group sizes in growth rate, food intake, food conversion ratio, carcass growth and carcass food conversion ratio, backfat and muscle depth or carcass lean content. Pigmeat output per unit area increased with each increase in group size (234,279 and 314 kg/m² per year for 11, 13 and 15 pigs : P < 0.001). In experiment 2, 26 groups of 13 pigs (mean initial live weight 38.3 (s.d. 2.15) kg) were assigned to one of three treatments : 1D - group sold on 1 day (no. = 9), 2D - group sold over 2 days (14 days apart, no. = 10), or 3D - group sold over 3 days (each 7 days apart, no. = 7). Pigs were given a standard liquid diet three times daily. No differences (P > 0.05) were observed between treatments for overall growth rate, food intake, food conversion ratio, carcass weight, carcass lean content, backfat and muscle depth, carcass growth and carcass food conversion ratio or killing-out proportion of pigs. Split-marketing increased cycle length (67.7, 75.9 and 76.8 days for 1D, 2D and 3D, respectively; P > 0 .001). Live and carcass daily growth rates per pig place decreased with increase in number of sale days (live : 772, 680, 670 g/day and carcass : 658, 575, 571 g/day; P > 0.001). Carcass gain per unit area decreased in split-marketed groups (358, 318, 312 kg/m² per year for 1D, 2D and 3D, respectively : P < 0.05).Carcass weight variation (s.d.) within pen decreased with each increase in number of sale days (s.d. 5.28, 3.81 and 1.74, respectively; P < 0.001). In conclusion, pigmeat output, as measured by carcass gains per m² per year, was improved with increase in group size and by marketing all pigs in a group on a single day. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The most widely used system to predict percentage of retail product from the four primal cuts of beef is USDA yield grade. The purpose of this study was to determine whether routine ultrasound measurements and additional rump measurements could be used in place of the carcass measurements used in the USDA yield grade equation to more accurately predict the percentage of saleable product from the four primals. This study used market cattle (n = 466) consisting of Angus bulls, Angus steers, and crossbred steers. Live animal ultrasound measures collected within 7 d of slaughter were 1) scan weight (SCANWT); 2) 12th- to 13th-rib s.c. fat thickness (UFAT); 3) 12th- to 13th-rib LM area (ULMA); 4) s.c. fat thickness over the termination of the biceps femoris in the rump (URFAT; reference point); 5) depth of gluteus medius under the reference point (URDEPTH); and 6) area of gluteus medius anterior to the reference point (URAREA). Traditional carcass measures collected included 1) HCW; 2) 12th- to 13th-rib s.c. fat thickness (OFAT); 3) 12th- to 13th- rib LM area (CLMA); and 4) estimated percentage of kidney, pelvic, and heart fat (CKPH). Right sides of carcasses were fabricated into subprimal cuts, lean trim, fat, and bone. Weights of each component were recorded, and percentage of retail product from the four primals was expressed as a percentage of side weight. A stepwise regression was performed using data from cattle (n = 328) to develop models to predict percentage of retail product from the four primals based on carcass measures or ultrasound measures, and comparisons were made between the models. The most accurate carcass prediction equation included CFAT, CKPH, and CLMA (R² = 0.308), whereas the most accurate live prediction equation included UFAT, ULMA, SCANWT, and URAREA (R² = 0.454). When these equations were applied to a validation set of cattle (n = 138), the carcass equation showed R² = 0.350, whereas the ultrasound data showed R² = 0.460. Ultrasound measures in the live animal were potentially more accurate predictors of retail product than measures collected on the carcass. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a study which evaluated the repeatability of the system high-test molasses-soybean according to the procedure of Valdivi&eacute et al. from September to October, as well as to determine its effect on the yield of lean meat in the breast, drumsticks and legs of birds. The study found that the yield in edible portions did not differ between treatments, as well as the yield in breast, drumsticks plus thigh and breast meat and meat of the drumstick plus leg.

In this study, changes in the food component and meat yield in hot smoked tench (Tinca tinca L., 1758) were investigated. The meat yield of tench was calculated as 49.27 ± 0.76%. Before hot smoking the water content, and crude fat, crude protein, crude ash and carbohydrate levels were determined as 83.19 ± 0.56%, 1.11 ± 0.05%, 12.68 ± 0.57%, 1.13 ± 0.10% and 1.89 ± 0.14%, respectively. After hot smoking the water content and crude fat, crude protein, crude ash and carbohydrate levels were determined as 73.59 ± 0.35%, 1.56 ± 0.13%, 18.38 ± 0.64%, 4.29 ± 0.26% and 2.18 ± 0.15%, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a study on the effect of the body weight on the yield of carcass and muscular mass in native Mexican turkeys. Twenty male turkeys of 26 weeks of age were slaughtered by puncture in the jugular vein and later scalded and deplumed. The yield of carcass and its parts increased by augmenting the body weight during the processing. It was found that the variability of the body weight in native turkeys permits a systematic selection for backyard production with higher yield at slaughtering.

Carcass data of 114 19-month-old Merino sheep descended from two lines that were divergently selected for maternal multiple rearing ability (H and L lines, respectively) were used. In study A only ram progeny of the same age were slaughtered, while ewes and rams of the respective selection lines were included in study B. Study A: Mean slaughter weight of H line rams was 12% heavier than that of L line contemporaries. A corresponding difference of 13% was found for carcass weight. Carcass component weights, body measurements, retail cut weights and eye-muscle areas were higher in the H line than in the L line, barring a few exceptions. Adjustment for the higher slaughter weight resulted in most of the line differences being eliminated, but the difference in the loin retail cut remained in favour of the H line. Study B: Mean slaughter and carcass weights of H line animals were respectively 7% and 11% heavier than that of L line contemporaries. Adjustment for the higher slaughter weights of H line animals resulted in most of the differences in the retail cut weight being eliminated, but the hindquarters of H line animals remained heavier than that of L line contemporaries. Line did not affect the moisture, protein, lipid or ash content of the M. longissimus dorsi toracis in study B. The effect of gender on the retail cut weights and proximate analysis was consistent with results from the literature. Selection for multiple rearing ability did not result in any unfavourable responses in retail cut weights or meat chemical properties. Carcasses in the H line, in fact, yielded better in the highly priced loin and hindquarters areas, independently of slaughter weight. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A wide selection of lamb types of mixed sex (ewes and wethers) were slaughtered at a commercial abattoir and during this process images of 360 carcasses were obtained online using the VIAScan® system developed by Meat and Livestock Australia. Soft tissue depth at the GR site (thickness of tissue over the 12th rib 110 mm from the midline) was measured by an abattoir employee using the AUS-MEAT sheep probe (PGR). Another measure of this thickness was taken in the chiller using a GR knife (NGR). Each carcass was subsequently broken down to a range of trimmed boneless retail cuts and the lean meat yield determined. The current industry model for predicting meat yield uses hot carcass weight (HCW) and tissue depth at the GR site. A low level of accuracy and precision was found when HCW and PGR were used to predict lean meat yield (R2=0.19, r.s.d.=2.80%), which could be improved markedly when PGR was replaced by NGR (R2=0.41, r.s.d.=2.39%). If the GR measures were replaced by 8 VIAScan® measures then greater prediction accuracy could be achieved (R2=0.52, r.s.d.=2.17%). A similar result was achieved when the model was based on principal components (PCs) computed from the 8 VIAScan® measures (R2=0.52, r.s.d.=2.17%). The use of PCs also improved the stability of the model compared to a regression model based on HCW and NGR. The transportability of the models was tested by randomly dividing the data set and comparing coefficients and the level of accuracy and precision. Those models based on PCs were superior to those based on regression. It is demonstrated that with the appropriate modeling the VIAScan® system offers a workable method for predicting lean meat yield automatically. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The body composition, carcass characteristics and retail cuts of 61 Dormers (21 rams and 40 ewes) and 35 South African Mutton Merinos (SAMM) (17 rams and 18 ewes) were determined. A range of carcass measurements was recorded. Since there was no sex x breed interaction, only main effects of breed and sex were considered. There were no differences in slaughter weight between Dormer and SAMM sheep at 18 months of age. Dormers had a 2.7% point higher dressing percentage and a 6.2% higher carcass weight than the SAMM. The Dormer had a higher fat content (kidney fat, back-fat depth) than the SAMM. The eyemuscle area of the Dormers was 13% larger than that of the SAMM sheep. Rams were heavier than the ewes at slaughter. All the traits measured, indicated advantages in favour of rams. Only the saturated, monounsaturated fatty acids and polyunsaturated fatty acids to saturated fatty acids ratio differed significantly between the Dormer and SAMM sheep. Based on the fatty acid profile, SAMM meat is slightly healthier than that of Dormer sheep. The higher retail cut weights of Dormers suggested that they were superior to the SAMM as far as meat production was concerned. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, 60 pig carcasses were included, divided in 2 groups according to breed (1st=SLxGL; 2nd=SL), and within groups according to sex (gilts F1=15 and F2=14; male castrates M1=17 and M2=14). Pigs were produced on family farm and fattened in same conditions. Primary processed and cooled carcasses were cut according to “Kulmbach” method (CAC/79). The main parts of the carcasses were dissected on tissues (muscle, fat and bones) and share of lean meat was determined for carcasses and for individual cuts. Muscle tissue share in the carcasses was higher in gilts from 1st and 2nd group (F1=53.93%; F2=51.77%) than in male castrates from both groups (M1=50.13%; M2=49.90%) and regardless the sex it was higher in SL x GL crossbreds (1st group) than in SL breed (2nd group). Statisticaly significant differences (P

Considerable research has been conducted on the induction of triploids in Haliotis discus hannai. However, very few studies have focused on the performance of triploids. In this study, we present the first report of a comprehensive comparative field study on triploids of H. discus hannai and their diploid siblings cultivated for up to 30 months on a sea-based suspended system in a subtropical environment. Two types of triploids were created using cytochalasin-B (CB) and 6-dimethylaminopurine (6-DMAP). The triploid percentages were 89.10% (CB group) and 100.00% (6-DMAP group) at the larval stage, which fell to 28.58% (CB group) and 86.91% (6-DMAP group) at 30 months post-fertilization (mpf). The survival rates in both treatments were similar to that of the control group, except for the 6-DMAP group at 9 mpf and both treated groups during the first high-temperature period (Jun-Dec), when significant decreases in survival were observed (P < 0.05). Surprisingly, there was no difference in thermal tolerance between triploids and diploids through the assessment of heat adhesion duration (P > 0.05). The growth of the triploids differed across the two ploidy levels. The triploids within the CB group did not differ from control diploids throughout the observation period (P > 0.05), whereas triploids in the 6-DMAP group showed superior growth in body weight at 20 mpf (P < 0.05). After the end of the maturation season (30 mpf), a significant increase (19.57%) in foot muscle weight was found in the 6-DMAP group triploids, and a significant increase (7.22%) in the foot muscle-soft tissue index (FMSI) was found in the CB group triploids in comparison to diploid individuals (P < 0.05). The advantage of meat yield may be attributed to the hypothesis of the diversion of energy from gonadal to somatic growth. Despite the normal sex ratio (1:1) of triploids, their reproductive potential was significantly reduced, showing infertility in the females with highly reduced numbers of oocytes or abnormal oogonia and sterility in the males with an absence of spermatozoa. Our study confirms a definite advantage in the meat yield of triploid H. discus hannai and provides insights for the commercial promotion of triploid strains in the abalone aquaculture industry in southern China. • The first field study on the Pacific abalone triploids cultured in subtropical area by the sea-based suspended systems. • Triploids at 20 mpf in the 6-DMAP group exhibited greater body weight than diploids; the CB group was not. • Triploids had obvious advantages in meat yield after the end of the maturation season. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deep Learning (DL) has proven to be a successful tool for many image classification problems but has yet to be applied to carcass images. The aim of this study was to train DL models to predict carcass cut yields and compare predictions to more standard machine learning (ML) methods. Three approaches were undertaken to predict the grouped carcass cut yields of Grilling cuts and Roasting cuts from a large dataset of 54,598 and 69,246 animals respectively. The approaches taken were (1) animal phenotypic data used as features for a range of ML algorithms, (2) carcass images used to train Convolutional Neural Networks, and (3) carcass dimensions measured directly from the carcass images, combined with the associated phenotypic data and used as feature data for ML algorithms. Results showed that DL models can be trained to predict carcass cuts yields but an approach that uses carcass dimensions in ML algorithms performs slightly better in absolute terms. • Prediction of meat yield for specific cuts from digital images of cattle carcasses is proposed. • A range of artificial intelligence algorithms are tested alongside machine vision techniques. • Deep Learning is investigated for predicting meat yield of Grilling cuts and Roasting cuts of beef. • Results are comparable between Deep Learning and machine vision approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The use of DL-methionine (MET) in poultry diet formulation is vital for poultry growth because poultry do not synthesize sufficient amounts of MET needed for proper growth and performance, and currently there are insufficient natural sources of MET to fulfill the dietary needs of broiler chickens. However, the use of MET is restricted in the United States in organic poultry diets. Therefore, the objective of this study was to examine the effect of feeding different levels of dietary MET on organic broiler live performance and yield of a modern commercial broiler strain. This study gives us insight into how broiler growth and yield is affected when the allowable levels of methionine for organic broilers is further reduced, or zero methionine is used. This study was designed to evaluate the effects of dietary supplemental DL-methionine (MET) on live performance and meat yield for broilers raised to a common weight. A total of 1552 one-day old Ross 708, sexed broilers were randomly distributed to 32 pens resulting in eight treatments (TRT) of four replicates with 44 male or 53 female/pen. A randomized complete block with a 2 × 4 (sex × 4 MET levels 0, 0.5, 1, and 2 g/kg) factorial arrangement of TRT was used. A common weight of 2400 g was approached by day 46 (1 and 2 g MET/kg feed) and day 48 (0 and 0.5 g MET/kg feed). Supplementation of MET at 1, and 2 g/kg had a lower (p < 0.01) feed conversion ratio (FCR) at day 46/48 than broilers fed 0.5 g MET/kg. Broilers without supplemental MET had the worst (p < 0.01) feed conversion and average daily gain (ADG) at day 46/48. Birds fed 0 g MET/kg of feed had lower (p < 0.05) whole eviscerated carcass without giblets (WOG), yield than birds fed 2 g MET/kg of feed. Additionally, birds fed 0 g MET/kg of feed had lower (p < 0.05) breast fillet and tender percent yields than birds fed supplemental MET. Elimination of MET from organic broiler diets resulted in reduced ADG, breast fillet yield and feed efficiency of meat yield of broilers raised to day 46/48. Reduction in MET supplementation below current levels reduced the efficiency of meat production of organic broilers raised to day 46/48. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Video image analysis (VIA), carcass shape and colour data were collected for 1211 lambs of known gender, breed type and carcass weight over a 1-week period using the VIAscan® system developed by the Australian Meat Research Corporation. Classification data (thickness of soft tissue over the 12th rib (GR measurement) and subjective conformation scores on a five-point scale of the leg, loin and shoulder) were assessed by an Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada grader after carcasses had chilled at 5°C for 3 to 6 h. Dissections into saleable meat yield (no. = 58) were performed after carcasses had chilled an additional 24 h. The timing of this study, which was dependent on availability of the VIA equipment, influenced the age and type of lambs available for analysis. The majority of lambs evaluated were wool-breed wethers, age > 10 months, of average GR (15·7 (s.d. 0·2) mm) and muscle conformation (3·0, s.d. 0·1). VIA improved the prediction of saleable meat yield (R2 = 0·71, residual s.d. = 14g/kg) compared with the current classification system (R2 = 0·52, residual s.d. = 18 g/kg). Although prediction ofGR measurement by VIA resulted in a large residual error (residual s.d. = 2·4 mm), the proportion of waste fat (perirenal and subcutaneous) and bone dissected from the carcass was accurately predicted (R2 = 0·62, residual s.d. = 11 g/kg). Proportions of leg (R2 = 0·71, residual s.d. = 7 g/kg) and shoulder (R2 = 0·62, residual s.d. = 9 g/kg) primals were also accurately predicted by VIA, although there were no significant predictors for the proportion of the loin (P > 0·15). VIA improved the prediction of saleable meat yield compared with the current classification system. However collection of additional data including some from extremely lean or well muscled animals would be required before VIA could be recommended to classify lamb carcasses [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This experiment involved a commercial evaluation of carcasses of extensively reared crossbred lambs. These were sired by Suffolk rams from either a selection line or a control line of a Scottish Agricultural College (SAC) selection experiment, in which selection wasfor lean growth, or by Suffolk ‘reference sires’ from an industry co-operative breeding scheme (SSRS). The lambs were slaughtered at a target live weight of 42 kg between June and October 1992. In total, 421 lamb carcasses were included in the evaluation, 173 from six selection-line rams, 193 from six control-line rams and 55from three SSRS rams. Each of the carcasses was visually appraised for estimated subcutaneous fat proportion and for conformation of the shoulder, loin and leg, as well as being classified using conventional Meat and Livestock Commission (MLC) scales for fat and conformation. Animals were slaughtered at an average age of 139·5 (s.d. 25·6) days and achieved an average cold carcass weight of 20·04 (s.d. 0·96) kg. Carcasses had an average estimated subcutaneous fat proportion of 122·3 (s.d. 22·4) g/kg — equivalent to MLC fat class 3L to 3H. Overall conformation scores, on a 15-point scale, averaged 8·63 (s.d. 1·80) points. Carcasses were cut into joints according to a leading supermarket specification. The weights of pairs of shoulder, flank, loin and leg joints were obtained for each carcass, as well as weights of bone and fat removed during jointing. Saleable meat weights and proportions averaged 15·31 (s.d. 0·76) kg and 765·9 (s.d. 10·0) g/kg respectively. At a constant carcass weight, the SAC selection-line progeny were significantly younger (-11 days), had a significantly higher carcass value (+£1·50), a significantly lower estimated subcutaneous fat proportion (-13 g/kg), and a significantly higher weight of saleable meat (+0·1 kg) and higher proportion ofsaleable meat (+4 glkg) than control-line progeny, but had lower conformation scores. SSRS progeny had similar growth and fatness to selection-line lambs, but had poorer conformation, and significantly more bone in the carcass than either of the SAC lines. When comparisons were made at a constant estimated subcutaneous fat proportion, all differences in conformation between SAC lines disappeared. However, SSRS progeny remained poorer in conformation. The SSRS rams werefrom afoundation generation of the scheme, and were not expected to be markedly superior for carcass characteristics. Carcass weight was byfar the most important predictor of weight of saleable meat, or leg and loin joint weights. Conformation and estimated fat proportion made only marginal improvements, if any, to the precision of prediction, with fat proportion being the more important of the two predictors. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The commercial value of animal carcasses depends not only on their weight but also on their composition and shape (termed conformation). This is usually assessed subjectively by a skilled inspector. In this paper an attempt is described to assess the saleable meat yield of sheep carcasses by automatic digital image analysis. A low-cost system based on a still video camera and a personal computer was used. The results indicate that better prediction of saleable meat yield can be obtained using objective measures of carcass shape than from subjective conformation scores. Information from the intensities of colour components was not found to be useful, possibly due to difficulties with lighting and image quality. Recommendations are made for implementing a practical system. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The article discusses a study conducted to analyze affects of Ractopamine hydrochloride (RAC) when fed for the last 40 kg of gain before slaughter, on growth, carcass and compositional characteristics of 107-kg and 125-kg pigs. It is noted that results of the study showed that RAC increases carcass lean and improves efficiency of growth without having negative impact on meat quality.

The article presents a study conducted for analyzing the effects of in utero exposure on prenatal and postnatal muscle growth and meat tenderness of lambs. Topics discussed include gestation and lactation of lambs, growth cycle and body weight of lambs and calpain proteolytic system in neonatal lambs.

Forty-four Hereford-sired steers were measured ultrasonically for backfat and longissimus muscle area between the 12th and 13th ribs beforeslaughter and visually appraised for fatness, overall muscling, and frame. Carcass measurements associated with USDA yield and quality grades were measured and recorded. Carcasses were fabricated into closely trimmed, boneless subprimals at 1.27- and .32-cm fat trim levels. Cutability percentage (percentage of retail cuts from the cold carcassweight).

The article presents the study which examined the correlation between weight and genetic and environmental factors of beef cattle. It offers details of the method of the study which involved data obtained from commercial breeding herds enrolled in the Breedplan genetic evaluation service for beef cattle and ultrasound fat measurements taken by accredited sonographers.

The article discusses a study which determines the effect of zeranol implants in ram and wether lambs on performance traits, carcass characteristics, and subprimal weight distribution. It includes implantation of zeranol in lamps of different ages and observe the yield grades and subprimal weight; and also reports the results that indicates implanting lambs beginning near birth can increase growth rate but has minimal effects on carcass composition and subprimal weight distribution.

The article presents a research based on live and carcass values from different cattle types. It mentions that live values were calculated after slaughter and fabrication costs and drop credits were considered; and cattle types with higher percentages of choice carcasses were more valuable at the fat-trim level. It also mentions that cattle that meet certain specifications for quality and boxed beef yields and increasing interest in beef industry is a program that would pay for live cattle.

Red swimming crab Monomia haanii is an important export fishery in southern China. M. haanii is mainly sold as lump crabmeat, generating an annual trade of tens of millions of US dollars over the last decade. For such a commercially important crab species, little attention has been paid to the sustainable use of the stocks and there remains much to learn about its biology and ecology. Monthly fishery-dependent samplings were conducted from August 2018 to April 2019 from bottom trawler catches obtained in the southern Taiwan Strait waters to characterize the biological attributes of M. haanii (N = 3222 individuals). Growth parameters, fecundity, sex ratios and maturity ogives were estimated, and spawning dynamics were characterized. The overall male: female ratio was 1: 1.07; however, significant variations monthly were detected (p < 0.01). Consistent with other portunids, sexual dimorphism with males typically reaching a larger average size was confirmed (carapace width, CW) (p < 0.01). Mature females (carrying eggs on abdominal pleopods) were found in all months sampled, with one clear peak spawning season in February―April and a possible second peak around August. Size at 50 % female maturity was 6.3 cm CW. Female absolute fecundity (Fa) was significantly related to CW via a power function relationship (N = 72, p < 0.01). The estimated average meat yield was 18.46 % (N = 93), irrespective of sex and size (0.1> p > 0.05). These results provide the first in-depth characterization of M. haanii and may pave a way towards the first M. haanii stock assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]