bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Einsatz von Echinacea-Extrakt bei tragenden und säugenden Sauen
Authors: Kuhn G. , Ender K. , Thomann R. , Tuchscherer M. , Tuchscherer A. , Stabenow B. , Krüger M. , Schrödl W.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Title of the paper: Application of Echinacea-extract in pregnant and suckled sows In an experiment with thirteen sows (echinacea: n = 6; control: n = 7), the influence of Echinacea purpurea treatment of pregnant and suckled sows on immune system, health status, growth performance, and carcass quality of the offspring (echinacea: n = 69; control: n = 79) was investigated. Echinacea was given as liquid feed supplement during the whole pregnant and suckling period of sows in six intervalls (5 days of treatment, followed by 2 weeks of break, respectively). During the treatment time the daily dosage per sow in echinacea-group was 0.125 ml preparation of echinacea extract (incl. solution)/kg body weight. To measure the concentrations of immunoglobulin G (IgG), immunoglobulin A (IgA) and C-reactive protein (CRP) in serum, blood samples were taken by punction of V. cava cranialis (sows and piglets) at different times. The treatment of sows resulted in immunostimulatory effects both in sows and piglets with highest changes in peripartal period. In one day old piglets, the concentrations of IgG, IgA and CRP were significantly increased in echinacea-group (P = 0.0004, P < 0.0001, P = 0.05, respectively). Up to day 70 of age, the rate of therapeutical treatments of piglets from echinacea-treated sows was decreased in tendency (P = 0.08). The growth performance and carcass quality of offspring was not influenced by echinacea treatment of sows.
Polymorphisms of the androgen receptor gene associate with fatness, uterus and ovary measurements in the pig
Authors: Wimmers K. , Trakooljul N. , Schellander K. , Ponsuksili S.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Quantitative trait loci, QTL, for fatness and carcass traits in pigs have been recently mapped to the X chromosome approximately at the position where the androgen receptor gene (AR) is localized. The AR acts as a nuclear transcription factor regulating expression of a number of androgenic response genes during various stages of sexual development. The present study aimed to analyze association of the AR genotype on traits related to fatness and phenotype of primary female sexual organs, ovary and uterus. Animals of a F2 resource population based on Duroc and Berlin Miniature pig were genotyped at a multi-allelic microsatellite marker (CCTTT)n situated in the 5' untranslated region and a bi-allelic CAG-insertion/deletion polymorphism (CAG-INDEL) within exon 1 of the AR. Association analysis showed that the AR genotype both at the CAG-INDEL and microsatellite affect almost all fatness traits measured. The D allele inherited from Duroc was associated with the decrease of fat thickness. The AR genotypes also affect uterus and ovary measurements. The pigs homozygous for D allele were likely to have a lighter uterus, shorter uterus horns, oviducts and smaller ovaries than pigs homozygous for the M allele. Our results confirm the previously reported QTL for fatness traits and provide evidence for a QTL affecting dimensions of uterus and ovary on the X chromosome. The AR is a positional functional candidate gene for both trait complexes.
Der Einfluss der Fütterung auf die Zusammensetzung des intra-muskulären Fettes des Musculus longissimus und verschiedener Fettdepots von Jungbullen der Rassen Ungarisches Grauvieh und Holstein Friesian – 1. Mitteilung: Fettsäurezusammensetzung
Authors: Holló G. , Nuernberg K. , Repa I. , Holló I. , Seregi J. , Pohn G. , Ender K.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Title of the paper: Effect of feeding on the composition of the intramuscular fat in longissimus muscle and different fatty tissues of Hungarian Grey and Holstein Friesian bulls. 1. Fatty acid profile The aim of this study was to analyse the effect of nutrition, genotype and nutrition x genotype interaction on the fatty acid composition of intramuscular fat from longissimus dorsi muscle and different fat deposits using Hungarian Grey cattle bulls (HG) in comparison to Holstein Friesian bulls (HF) kept under extensive and intensive conditions. The extensive group was kept on pasture and was fed a concentrate supplemented with linseed meal in the last month of the trial. The extensive diet influenced the linoleic and linolenic acid ratio and the CLA content of longissimus muscle more advantageous concerning human nutrition. The meat from HG contained more CLA and less n-6 fatty acids also in case of the intensive diet than that of HF bulls. In the fat deposits from HF the PUFA mainly the linoleic acid was in a significant higher proportion available, however in the fat deposits of HG was the percentage of linol- and linolenic acid favourable. The extensive nutrition resulted in a lower linoleic acid and a higher linolenic acid content in both breeds and all three fat deposits. The PUFA content in the fat samples was altered contrary in both analysed breeds because of the different diet. In case of the extensive UG was the PUFA higher in all three fat deposits. In conclusion, the fatty acid composition of beef can be modified favourably by extensive feeding and concentrate which is rich in unsaturated fatty acids, however the beef of Hungarian Grey has a more wholesome influence on human health, than that of Holstein-Friesian bulls.
Effects of breed, sex and diet and their interactions on carcass composition and tissue weight distribution of broiler chickens
Authors: Shahin K. A. , Abd Elazeem F.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The effects of breed (Hubbard and Anak), sex and diet (two levels of protein (high or low) with two levels of crude fiber (low or high) at each level of protein) on carcass composition and distribution of tissues over the carcass were studied. Carcass composition and ratios of muscle: bone, muscle: fat and meat: bone in the carcass did not differ significantly between breed groups. Male carcasses had more muscle, more bone, more fat-free carcass, higher ratios of muscle: bone, muscle: fat but less fat, less meat and lower meat: bone ratio than female carcasses. Carcasses of chicks fed high protein (with either low or high fiber) diet had more muscle than carcasses of chicks fed low protein (with either low or high fiber) diet. Carcasses of chicks fed high fiber (with either low or high protein) diet had more bone but less meat than carcasses of chicks fed low fiber (with either low or high protein) diet. Increasing both protein and fiber in the diet resulted in lowering carcass fat, consequently raising muscle: fat ratio. Breed and sex did not influence the distribution of muscle and meat throughout the carcass parts. Breed differences in fat weight distribution were not significant. Anak had significantly higher proportions of bone in wing and neck than Hubbard did. The proportion of total carcass muscle in breast, drumstick, wing were not significantly affected by diet. Carcasses of chicks fed high fiber (with either low or high protein) diet had higher proportion of total meat in thigh and neck than carcasses from chicks fed low fiber (with either low or high protein) diet. Diet had no significant effect on bone weight distribution. Increasing crude fiber in diets resulted in lowering proportion of total fat in breast, thigh but increasing proportion of total fat in drumstick and wing. Breed x sex, breed x diet and sex x diet interactions did not significantly influence most of carcass traits indicating that the factors under consideration act independently of each other's. Significant sex x diet interactions was found for carcass fat and boneless carcass relative to live body weight: the sexual dimorphism in low protein diet is more pronounced than in high protein diets.
Effects of udder traits on the milk yield of sheep
Authors: Kukovics S. , Molnár A. , Ábrahám M. , Németh T. , Komlósi I.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. In order to determine the possible effects of udder traits on milk yield and milk composition a serial of experiments were carried out on five different sheep farms, between 1998–2000. Ten breeds and genotypes were included in these experiments: Merino, (Merino x Pleven Blackhead) F1, Pleven F1 x Black East Friesian, Lacaune, (Merino x Lacaune) F1, British Milksheep, (Merino x British Milksheep) F1, Awassi, (Merino x Awassi) F1, Milking Tsigai. The udder traits (type, size, teat size) were determined individually at the time of the first test milking, within two weeks after the weaning in each year. Milk yield was measured in every four weeks (morning and evening). Data collected were processed using LSLMW and MIXMDL (HARVEY, 1990) program. Differences among and within the genotypes in udder characteristics were summarised and presented in tables and figures.
Effects of breed, sex and diet and their interactions on fat deposition and partitioning among depots of broiler chickens
Authors: Shahin K. A. , Abd El Azeem F.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The effects of breed (Hubbard and Anak), sex and diet (two levels of protein (high or low) with two levels of crude fiber (low or high) at each level of protein) on fat yields and partitioning among the depots were studied. No significant differences were found between breeds in fat yields and in fat partitioning among the major fat depots. Expressed as a percentage of live body weight, females had a greater percentage of non-carcass fat, carcass fat and total body fat than males. Females tended to partition more of their fat to non-carcass fat, whereas males tended to partition more of their fat to carcass fat. The effects of diet were consistent over the breeds and for all fatness traits. Non-carcass fat, carcass fat and total body fat yields were greatly depressed and favorable fat partition between depots was achieved through feeding birds high protein- high fiber diets. These birds tended to partition more of their fat to carcass fat depots (more valuables) and less to non-carcass fat depots. Breed x sex, breed x diet and sex x diet interactions did not significantly influence most of fatness traits indicating that the factors under consideration act independently of each other. Significant sex x diet interactions was found for carcass fat and total body fat relative to live body weight: the sexual dimorphism in low protein diet is more pronounced than in high protein diets. The differences between sexes in their response to diet for these traits might have important implications.
Schlachtkörperzusammensetzung und Gewebebeschaffenheit von schweren Schweinen – I. Mitteilung: Material und Methoden, Mastleistung, Schlachtkörperzusammensetzung und Teilstückanteile
Authors: Fischer K. , Lindner J. P. , Judas M. , Höreth R.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Title of the paper: Carcass and meat quality of heavy pigs. I. Experimental design, methods, fattening performance, carcass composition and proportion of cuts The aim of the 1st part of the study was to present the shifts concerning carcass composition and proportion of cuts associated with a prolonged fattening. In total 63 male castrates and 60 females (Piétrain-NN *German Landrace) were randomized to three groups with different live weights at slaughter (110, 135, 160 kg). The increase of live weight to 135 and 160 kg, respectively, took on average 28 and 55 days. Compared with the lower weight class (110 kg) the daily gain calculated with respect to the whole fattening period decreased only by 30 g/d. The feed efficiency, however, increased from 2.7 to 3.1 kg feed / kg weight gain. The M. longissimus area of castrates and gilts, respectively, rose from 53 to 68 cm2 and from 58 to 73 cm2, respectively, while the lean meat content decreased from 57 to 54 % and from 61 to 57 %, respectively. The weight gain of the loin and the neck amounted absolute to 2.4 and 1.3 kg, respectively. The relative weight gain of the backfat and those cuts rich in adipose tissue (e.g. chump, ventral parts of the belly), amounted to 84 % and 60–70 %, respectively, whereas the primal cuts with a high lean content (ham, loin, shoulder, neck) gained only by 40 to 45 %.
Growth curve analysis for body weight and dry matter intake in Friesian, Limousin x Friesian and Piemontese x Friesian cattle
Authors: Akbaş Y. , Alçiçek A. , Önenç A. , Güngör M.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. In this study, body weight and dry matter intake from birth to 460 days of age of Friesian (F), Limousin x Friesian (LixF) and Piemontese x Limousin (PixF) cattle fed individually under intensive feeding system were analyzed. Growth curve parameters of body weight and dry matter intake were investigated by using Gompertz model. No significant differences between genotypes were found in growth curve parameters for dry matter intake while there was significant genotype effect on integration constant, absolute weight gain at birth, degree of maturity at birth and absolute body weight gain from birth to 6 months of age for body weight. Mean values of growth parameters for body weight in F, LixF and PixF were: mature weight 744, 801 and 743 kg; integration constant 2.97, 3.02 and 2.81; maturity rate per day 0.0045, 0.0042 and 0.0047; age at inflection point 245, 270 and 227 days; weight of inflection point 274, 295 and 273, respectively. Body weight at birth for F, LixF and PixF were 38.6, 44.4 and 49.1. Absolute body weight gain from birth to 6 months of age for F, LixF and PixF were 24.8, 21.9 and 25.3. PixF exhibited higher maturity rate and reaching mature weights younger than F and LixF. Mature weight for body weight had positive phenotypic correlations with mature weight parameter for dry matter intake whereas there was a negative phenotypic correlation between mature weight for body weight and maturity rate for dry matter intake in all genotypes. The result shows that increasing intake is a result of body weight increased. On the other hand feed intake rate decreased as body weight increased. Considering the development period, from birth to 6 months of age, there was significant difference between genotypes for absolute body weigh gain and absolute dry matter intake whereas these parameters did not differ significantly between 6 and 16 months.
Diacylglycerol acyltransferase (DGAT) activity in relation to muscle fat content and DGAT1 genotype in two different breeds of Bos Taurus (short communication)
Authors: Sorensen B. , Kühn C. , Teuscher F. , Schneider F. , Weselake R. , Wegner J.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. To circumvent the obvious waste of resources when producing good marbled beef, research is needed to clarify mechanisms which are involved in intramuscular fat storage in cattle. The possible association between the activity of diacylglycerol acyltransferase (DGAT) and muscle fat content was examined in samples of longissimus dorsi (LD) and semitendinosus (ST) muscle from Holstein and Charolais bulls. The Holstein bulls exhibited higher fat content in both muscles and higher marbling score. In Holstein, DGAT activity was enhanced in the LD muscle, and there was a tentative positive relationship between DGAT activity and the fat content in ST muscle. When muscle DGAT activity was examined as a function of DGAT1 genotype for all animals, regardless of breed, the DGAT activity of LD muscle of the K/K genotype was about five-fold greater than for either the K/A or A/A genotypes. Further investigation on the relationship between DGAT1 genotype and i.m. fat is required before this may be developed as a selection tool for marbling.
Effect of the estrogen receptor (ESR) and ryanodine receptor (RYR1) genes on reproductive traits of Slovak Large White, White Meaty and Landrace pigs (short communication)
Authors: Omelka R. , Peškovičová D. , Martiniaková M. , Bauer M. , Bauerová M.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. We investigated the effect of the estrogen receptor (ESR) and ryanodine receptor (RYR1) genes on total number of born (TNB), number of born alive (NBA) and number of weaned (NW) piglets in Large White (LW), White Meaty (WM) and Landrace (L) sows from six Slovak breeding farms. We found a significant effect of ESR locus on NW (P≤0.01) in LW, however, we observed a negative effect of BB genotype on the trait. In WM, positive associations of B allele with TNB, NBA, NW were found but the differences were not confirmed statistically. A highly significant effect (P≤0.01) of ESR locus on TNB (+0.62±0.18 pigs per copy of B allele), NBA (+0.65±0.18) and NW (+0.51±0.16) was identified in L breed. With RYR1 gene we found significantly higher TNB and NBA in heterozygous WM sows (+1.01±0.36 in TNB; +0.87±0.32 in NBA; P≤0.01). NBA was also significant in LW (+0.41±0.19; P≤0.05).
Adhesion of bovine and goat salivary proteins to dental enamel and silicate (short communication)
Authors: Mau M. , Müller C. , Langbein J. , Rehfeldt C. , Hildebrandt J.-P. , Kaiser T. M.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Salivary proteins may help to prevent enamel abrasion and adverse chemical effects on teeth of herbivorous mammals. To detect potential candidates for protecting proteins, bovine and goat whole saliva were incubated with dental enamel and glass powder. Salivary proteins, bound to dental enamel and glass, were analysed by SDS-PAGE. Two distinct salivary proteins were found to adhere to bovine enamel and were identified by MS/MS mass spectrometry and protein sequencing. Both the bovine odorant-binding protein (bOBP) and the carbonic anhydrase VI (CA-VI) were components of the protein layers. The bovine CA-VI adherent to teeth may serve as a pH-regulator to protect bovine enamel from bacterial acids. The bOBP may bind odorant particles right in the oral cavity and enhance their transmission to the vomeronasal organ (VNO), the signals of which are important determinants in sexual behaviour of mammals. Another protein from bovine and goat saliva seemed to preferentially bind to glass beads. These results suggest that salivary proteins may support olfaction and protect teeth of ruminants from mechanical and chemical destruction.
Association of a missense mutation of the MC4R gene with growth traits in cattle (Brief report) (Assoziation einer Mutation im MC41 Gen mit Wachstumsmerkmalen beim Rind)
Authors: Zhang C. L. , Chen H. , Wang Y. H. , Lan X. Y. , Zhang L. , Zhang A. L. , Zhang R. F.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4R) is one of five G-protein-coupled receptors binding melanocortins that is implicated in the control of ingestive behavior and energy homeostasis. Mutations have been described in the human and mouse MC4R genes which are associated with obesity (YEO et al., 1998; HUSZAR et al., 1997). Moreover, a mutation in porcine MC4R is associated with economically important traits in the pig (KIM et al., 2000). The SNPs reported in bovine MC4R coding region were specific to breeds (VALLE et al., 2004; THUE et al., 2001; HAEGEMAN et al., 2001). In the present experiment over 95% of the coding region of MC4R were screened to detect the SNPs in the predominant cattle breeds of China. Association of a missense mutation of MC4R gene with growth traits was analyzed.
Estrogen receptor gene (ESR) and semen characteristics of boars
Authors: Terman A. , Kmieć M. , Polasik D.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Estrogen receptor gene (ESR) which is localized in the swine chromosome 1, has been recognized as a "candidate" gene of reproductive traits. The aim of this study was to determine the mutations in the ESR/AvaI (ESR1) and ESR/PvuII (ESR2) gene in boars kept at the AI Station and its effect on selected quantitative and qualitative characters of the semen. The study included 217 boars maintained at the AI Station. The ESR genotypes were determined with PCR-RFLP. Two alleles ESR1 were identified: A (109 and 76 bp), B (76, 62 and 47 bp) and also two alleles ESR2: C (120 bp), D (65 and 55 bp), with the frequencies: 0.79 (A), 0.21 (B), 0.83 (C) and 0.17 (D) respectively. In the studied population of boars, the genotype AA was detected with the frequency 0.69, AB-0.21, BB-0.10 of ESR1 and CC-0.72, CD-0.23, DD-0.05 of ESR2. The analysis showed statistically significant differences (P≤0,01) between boars carrying different ESR1 and ESR2 genotypes and all semen traits.
Two new PCR-RFLPs in the domestic pigeon (Columba livia var. domestica) lactate dehydrogenase A (LDH-A) gene (Brief report)
Authors: Dybus A.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Traditional selection of racing pigeons has been focusing on spatial orientation, velocity, and endurance of flight. LDHA gene is involved in aerobic and anaerobic metabolism of the muscle tissue (VAN HALL et al., 1999). Mutations in the LDHA gene can potentially diversify the homing performance of racing pigeons. Previously, two polymorphic sites of LDHA gene have been identified (DYBUS and KMIEĆ, 2002, DYBUS et al., 2006).
Comparison of Breeding Values for Daily Gains of Bulls Estimated with Multi-Trait and Random Regression Models
Authors: Krejčová H. , Mielenz N. , Přibyl J. , Schüler L.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. In this study, random regression models with Legendre polynomials of the 2nd, 3rd and 4th degree (RR2, RR3 and RR4) are compared with regard to the estimation of breeding values for the average daily gain of Czech Pied bulls (Simmental type). The data were prepared such that a multi-trait model (MTM) could be used as reference model. For each bull, 8 repeated records or fewer were available for the testing period from the 12th to the 420th day of life. For the modeling of the expected value structure, the fixed regression coefficients of the Legendre polynomials were subordinated hierarchically to the herd-year-season effects (HYS). For the comparison of the random regression models with the reference model, rank correlations between the estimated breeding values of various animal groups were calculated and a variety of top-lists were analyzed. In general, models RR3 and RR4 returned higher rank correlations with MTM in comparison to model RR2. Additionally, the number of common animals in the 1% and 10% top-lists showed that models RR3 and RR4 are to be preferred over RR2 when it comes to the estimation of breeding values.
Growth, carcass and meat quality parameters of purebred and crossbred goat kids in extensive pasture
Authors: Herold P. , Snell H. , Tawfik E. S.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Goats are more and more used as shrub-fighters in landscape conservation. Important traits for the extensive production system are vitality and robustness but also acceptable meat production of kids during the grazing period. To investigate possible selection traits for "landscape conservation suitability", 35 kids were investigated for vitality parameters directly after birth whereas all-in 65 kids were investigated for performance traits under extensive grazing conditions. Birth weight as a parameter for vitality and survivability of kids was significantly influenced by sex, genotype and age of doe. Besides rectal temperature 3 hours p.p., other factors regarded as possible vitality parameters were not influenced by birth weight. Birth weight had a significant influence on daily weight gain during the extensive period; kids with higher birth weight showed slightly better weight gain. Birth weight had also a significant effect on some carcass parts, indicating that higher birth weight implies a high probability of a better carcass performance especially in some valuable parts. Still, the effect of the genotype on carcass performance was considerably higher than any other investigated effect. As a result of the present study, there are indications that birth weight can be taken as a parameter for kids' vitality. Also, it is indicated that goats of Cashmere type as fibre animals are not appropriate for landscape management whereas crossbred animals with a meat, dairy and fibre component in their genotype showed to be a vital animal with acceptable efficiency also in harsh conditions and with an average meat and carcass performance.
Effect of body weights of day-old Muscovy ducklings on growths and carcass traits
Authors: Kleczek K. , Wilkiewicz-Wawro E. , Wawro K. , Makowski W.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The purpose of this work was to determine the effect of the body weights of day-old Muscovy ducklings on some slaughter value traits of females aged ten weeks and males aged twelve weeks. The relationships between the body weights of day-old ducklings, daily gains and slaughter value of grown-up ducks were also analyzed. The experimental materials comprised 96 White Muscovy ducklings (46 ♂ and 50 ♀). Males and females were reared separately, to twelve and ten weeks of age respectively. At the completion of the rearing period the birds were fasted for 12 hours and sacrificed. The carcasses were chilled, weighed and subjected to a detailed dissection. Before statistical calculations were carried out, males and females were divided into five weight groups, depending on their body weights on the first day following hatching. At the end of the experiment it was found that the grown-up ducks once classified as light, medium-heavy and heavy ducklings did not differ significantly in terms of body weight, mean daily gains, carcass weight, as well as the weight and percentage of particular tissue components in a carcass. Low and statistically non-significant values of the coefficients of simple correlation and regression suggest a lack of interdependences between the body weights of day-old ducklings and the slaughter value parameters of adult Muscovy ducks. The only exception was the carcass dressing percentage of males, which was found to be significantly negatively correlated with their body weights on the first day of life.
Parameters for the estimation of live weight and for the visual appraisal of the muscular conformation in the (double-muscled) Belgian Blue beef breed
Authors: Coopman F. , Van Zeveren A. , Verhoeven G. , De Smet S.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. In the double-muscled Belgian Blue beef breed, withers height and hearth girth are routinely measured. This is mainly done to prevent a decrease in growth potential when selecting for increased muscular conformation. The muscular conformation itself is subjectively scored. It was questioned if additional body measurements may improve the accuracy of estimating live weight and whether some of these body measurements may yield information for evaluating the muscular conformation hence the slaughter value of a live animal. It was found that hearth girth and shoulder width have a high correlation with the live weight of slaughter bulls. The width of the hind quarters and withers height are good estimators as well. Models combining these different traits to estimate live weight have reliability up to 83%. Shoulder width and width of the hind quarters are a good reflection of the value of the slaughter bull, which is expressed as Euro per kg cold carcass weight. The withers height is negatively correlated (r = −0.40) with the muscular conformation of the slaughter bulls. Hearth girth has no clear relation with the muscular conformation. The four body traits, withers height, hearth girth, shoulder width and width of hind quarters are interesting traits related to economical traits in the double-muscled Belgian Blue beef breed. Using these body measurements in selection might be worthwhile to consider.
The effects of inbreeding on service period and pregnancy length in Holsteins and Czech Fleckviehs after the first calving
Authors: Bezdíček J. , Šubrt J. , Filipčík R. , Bjelka M. , Dufek A.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The effects of inbreeding level on service period (SP) and pregnancy length (PL) were monitored in Holstein and Czech Fleckvieh after the first calving. The levels of inbreeding (FX) ranged from 1.25 to 25 %. SP and PL of inbred cows were compared with their outbred equals – half-sisters, sharing the same sire (n = 1824) and their first calving happened in the same farm and at the same time (± 3 month). Database with the number of 631 810 animals (year of calving 1985–2004) was used for analyses. Inbred cows were grouped according to Fx coefficient (1.5-2.3 %; 3.0-5.0 %; 8.0-12.5 %; 25 %). The GLM with fixed effects (the breed, breeding value of the sire and monitored individual for milk production, year of calving, age at first calving) was applied to all data. The effect of inbreeding depression on SP was more pronounced at higher levels of inbreeding (+2.81; +3.35; +4.53; +8.23 d, respectively according to above mentioned Fx groups) but non-significant. Differences in PL (+0.3; +0.32; -0.08 and 1.68 d) were not significant either. Average value of PL for inbred animals was 0.43 d higher. The correlation coefficient was +0.023 for SP and +0.0658 for PL. The Fx coefficient increasing by 1 % extends the SP by 0.22 day and PL by 0.063 day. There was a higher variability of SP and PL in inbred cows. The length of calving interval between the first and second lactation is affected more by SP than PL.
Selection of a suitable data set and model for the estimation of genetic parameters of the weaning weight in beef cattle
Authors: Vostrý L. , Přibyl J. , Veselá Z. , Jakubec V.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The objective of this paper was to select a suitable data subset and statistical model for the estimation of genetic parameters for weaning weight of beef cattle in the Czech Republic. Nine subsets were tested for the selection of a suitable subset. The subsets differed from each other in the limit of sampling criteria. The most suitable subset satisfied these conditions: at least 5 individuals per each sire, 5 individuals per HYS (herd, year, season), 2 sires per HYS, and individuals per dams that have at least one half-sister and two offspring (n = 4 806). The selection of a suitable model was carried out from 10 models. These models comprised some of the random effects: direct genetic effect, maternal genetic effect, permanent maternal environment effect, HYS, sire × herd or sire × year interaction, and some of the fixed effects: dam’s age, sex (young bull, heifer × single, twin born), HYS, year, herd. The direct heritability (h2a) ranged from 0.06 to 0.17, of maternal heritability (h2m) from 0.03 to 0.06. The genetic correlations between the direct and maternal effect (ram) were in the range of –0.15 –0.42.
Vergleichende Untersuchungen von Wachstumsverläufen bei Schweinen – 1. Mitteilung: Wachstumsverläufe bei Gruppen- und Einzeltiervergleichen
Authors: Schlegel M. , Matthes W. , Kanswohl N. , Expósito Polanco G.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Title of the paper: Comparing investigations of growth progresses of pigs. I. Growth progresses by comparisons of groups and individuals The variability of delivered groups of fattened pigs is attempted to decrease always. For that it is essential to gather knowledges about the typical, separate development periods and points of inflection of growth patterns in order to work out indications for influencing the process engineering. Statements coming from experimental tests arn´t transferable without doubt. Therefore, it is of importance to realize also tests under production conditions. Under the tests, the first realized in farm I 1989, the second realized in the farms IIa/ IIb 2005, here ought be published the investigation of pig groups and individuals in 1989. For 276 hogs the ages and the weights were registred five times. For each animal were ascertained the function parameters (growth function of Lehmann) from their dataset. Consequently could be determined the “theoretical possible end weight” (xE). According to these book values the datasets were sorted increasingly and divided into groups. Group 1 contains the animals with low xE and group 11 the with high. The comparison of pig groups leads to following statements: 1. A low xE corresponds with a high growth intensity (WI) and contrariwise. 2. The higher the WI the earlier the animals reach their maximum of daily live weight gains (tZmax) and the faster the animals cross this maximum. These statements were confronted with those of individuals. The selected animals 117 and 59 show identical xE. The higher WI express in a faster crossing of the tZmax (confirmation of the second statement), but the faster reaching cannot be confirmed. At a compare of two other animals with same WI can be determined that they have different xE. With it the first statement can't be confirmed in the complete consequence.
Vergleichende Untersuchungen von Wachstumsverläufen bei Schweinen – 2. Mitteilung: Gegenüberstellung von Wachstumsverläufen aus den Jahren 2005 zu 1989
Authors: Schlegel M. , Matthes W. , Kanswohl N. , Expósito Polanco G.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Title of the paper: Comparing investigations of growth progresses of pigs. II. Comparison of growth progresses from the year 2005 to the year 1989 The introduction of automatic single animal recognition possible with a simultaneous weighing of the animals can help during the practice transfer of results from growth investigations. Differing live weights at the end of fattening represent a problem, that only let consider and solve with growth investigations. In this connection were realized already 1989 investigations (1st communication). The results should be matched in this communication with that newer date. In the investigation of 2005 in the farms IIa/ IIb, masculine and feminine pigs were weighed six times. These data records were provided separated to a estimation procedure for determination the parameters (growth function of Lehman) for each animal. Among other things, the values of the theoretical possible end weight could be determined by means of the mentioned function from the weighing data. According to these values became ascendingly sorted and subsequent the data records of the animals in nine groups divide. Consequently group 1 contained those animals with small possible end weights and group 9 for example with the highest ones. The following statements can be hit: In the group arrangement of the nine groups can be confirmed in direction the statement in year 1989, that a low growth intenseness go along with one high possible end weight and a high growth intenseness with a small one, that however this state of affairs can not be supported in single animal arrangement in this consequence. Further, the statement can be confirmed that a high growth intenseness is be compared with a more rapid cycling the growth relevant dates and/or a low one with a slower one. The respective statements can not be confirmed with the single animal arrangements of years 1989 and 2005 from the group arrangements, that a high growth intenseness always agree with an early attaining of the maximum of daily increase in live weight and/or a low with a late attaining.
Genetic relationship of drip loss to further meat quality traits in purebred Piétrains
Authors: Borchers N. , Otto G. , Kalm E.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Drip loss is an important quality criterion for the meat processing industry and also the consumer. Therefore this characteristic is discussed as a target trait for breeding schemes. In this study the EZ-DripLoss method was implemented in a routine testing procedure to determine drip loss regularly at 48 hours post mortem. As further meat quality traits conductivity and meat brightness were recorded at 24 hours post mortem. Additionally, pH value was measured at 45 minutes post mortem in the loin muscle and at 24 hours post mortem in the loin and in the ham. Reflectance was adopted from the FOM-protocol of the abattoir. For the estimation of the genetic parameters the determined percentage drip losses were logarithmicly transformed to get nearly normal distributed values. In total data of 2337 purebred Piétrains were analysed from which 782 were investigated on drip loss. Heritability of drip loss was 0.34±0,04 and decreased on 0.14±0,04 when the influence of the MHSgene was corrected. Genetic correlation of drip loss to pH45 was rg = −0.91±0.03, to pH24 (loin) rg = −0.72±0.04, to pH24 (ham) rg = −0.41±0.06, to conductivity rg = 0.93±0.02, to meat brightness rg = −0.87±0.03, and to reflectance rg = 0.63±0.07. Considering MHS-genotype the corresponding correlations were rg = −0.66±0.11, rg = −0.72±0.09, rg = −0.50±0.10, rg = 0.74±0.09, rg = −0.64±0.11, and rg = 0.13±0.13.
Characteristic of selected rheological parameters of stallion ejaculate
Authors: Severa L. , Máchal L. , Křivánek I. , Machatková M. , Mamica O.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Dynamic viscosity of native (30 minutes after ejaculation) and 24 hours stored (at 4 °C) stallion ejaculate was measured. The ejaculate from 10 breeding stallions was examined in three different experimental series. The average value of dynamic viscosity at shear rate 1.02 s−1 was found to be 416.8 ± 10.1 mPa.s. The correlation between ejaculate volume, sperm concentration and viscosity was tested. The experiments resulted in finding a dependence between increasing viscosity and decreasing sperm concentration (rp = −0.67; P<0.05). Performed experiments with changing shear rate demonstrated non-Newtonian characteristics of stallion ejaculate with a clear shear-thinning behaviour. Stallion ejaculate appeared to be slightly time-dependent liquid.
Comparison of microstructural traits of Musculus longissimus lumborum in wild boars, domestic pigs and wild boar/domestic pig hybrids
Authors: Bogucka J. , Kapelanski W. , Elminowska-Wenda G. , Walasik K. , Lewandowska K. L.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The aim of the present study was to compare the histological structure of muscles in wild boars, pigs and wild boar/domestic pig hybrids by determining the percentage of different muscle fibre types and diameters and the intramuscular fatty tissue content of the Musculus longissimus lumborum (LL). The study involved 24 males representing three groups: wild boars (6 animals), pigs (12 animals: 6 of Polish Landrace and 6 of Duroc breeds) and wild boar/domestic pig hybrids (6 animals). Wild boar/domestic pig hybrids were obtained by crossing DU pigs with wild boars. Samples of the LL were frozen in liquid nitrogen. Frozen muscle samples were cut into 10- μm sections. These were later placed on a glass slide and stained using different histochemical reactions: NADH-TR and myofibrillar ATP-ase activity to distinguish muscle fibre types and Oil Red staining to determine the intramusuclar fatty tissue content. The highest proportion of slow twitch oxidative fibres and fast twitch oxidative fibres, being indicative of high meat value, was characteristic of wild boar muscles. The lowest diameters of all three muscle fibre types, associated with the largest number of fibres in the analysed area, suggest that the meat had the most delicate structure. Compared to wild boars, wild boar/domestic pig hybrids showed a decrease in the percentage of oxidative fibres and an increase in the percentage of glycolytic fibres. The diameters of all muscle fibre types in this group of animals were similar to those obtained in pigs.
Influence of heat stress and age on the percentage of calcium carbonate in eggshell and the percentage of broken and cracked eggs
Authors: Nikolova N. , Pavlovski Z. , Milošević N. , Wahner M.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The influences on eggs of high temperatures and age were examined in hens that were from a poultry farm situated in the south of the Republic of Macedonia where the average summer temperatures were always the highest. The experiment lasted for 9 months and comprised a period of three seasons: summer, autumn and winter. Maximum and minimum temperatures and relative humidity were recorded every day. Layers were of two different ages. During the research, all production parameters were recorded for the flocks: egg production, mortality, feed-consumption, body weight and the percentage of broken and cracked eggs. Once a month 50 eggs out of each age group were examined. An analysis of egg mass, eggshell mass and percentage of calcium carbonate in the eggshell was performed. At the end of the research the results underwent statistically analysis according to the Least Squares Means method. High temperatures in the region had a highly significant influence (<0.01) over egg size, which was smaller than the average. The heat stress showed high significance (<0.01) in relation to the percentage of calcium carbonate in the egg shell, which was lowest in the summer months and highest during the winter months. The age of the layers did not exhibit significant differences in any parameter examined. The percentage of broken and cracked eggs per month was highest in the summer period.
ANKOM – a new instrument for the determination of fat in muscle and meat cuts – a comparison
Authors: Seenger J. , Nuernberg G. , Hartung M. , Szűcs E. , Ender K. , Nuernberg K.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The objective of this study was to compare the new fat extraction equipment ANKOMXT15 Extractor with different chemical and physical methods which are widely used to determinate the fat content of different animal tissues. In total 23 pigs and 19 cattle were included in the investigations. Different cuts of the carcasses like longissimus muscle (MLD), head, belly and breast, feet, ham, neck, loin, tenderloin and subcutaneous fats were used for this comparison. The investigation compared following three chemical methods: classic Soxhlet method, automatic fat extraction (ANKOMXT15 Extractor), automatic fat extraction following hydrolysing (ANKOMHCL Hydrolysis System, ANKOMXT15 Extractor) and two physical methods: Infratec1255 Food and Feed Analyzer and FoodScan™ Lab (FOSS). For accurate statistical analysis the different cuts were ordered into three fat groups. The repeatability (θ) of the chemical methods was calculated, which ranged between 0.88–1.00. No significant differences were measured between the new tested device ANKOMXT15 Extractor and the Soxhlet method. The use of the ANKOMXT15 Extractor is recommended because of the high precision, low purchase and using costs, and shorter analyses time.
Carcass characteristics and meat quality of Hungarian Simmental young bulls fed different forage to concentrate ratios with or without linseed supplementation
Authors: Holló G. , Ender K. , Lóki K. , Seregi J. , Holló I. , Nuernberg K.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. In total, 30 Hungarian Simmental bulls were reared to 300.07 ± 43.78 kg initial live weight and 274.57 ± 19.73 d of age. Animals were distributed into three feeding groups with different maize silage to concentrate ratios (670 : 330 = F/ HC; 750 : 250 = F/ LC 1; 800 : 200 = F/ LC 2) based on dry matter. The low concentrate groups (F/ LC 1 and F/ LC 2) received linseed supplemented concentrate during the fattening period. Feeding high concentrate (F/ HC) caused the significantly highest daily gain. The slaughter weights, dressing (%), lean (%) and fat (%) did not show any significant differences between feeding groups. Carcass conformation of all groups was assessed mainly as U. Bulls of group F/ LC 2 had the lowest amount of kidney fat. Bone proportion of the carcasses was affected by the diet (F/ HC: 18.65 %; F/ LC 1: 18.41 %; F/ LC 2: 17.91 %). The tendon proportions were lower in groups F/ LC 1 and F/ LC 2 but not significantly (F/ HC: 1.15 %; F/ LC 1: 1.1 %; F/ LC 2: 1.08 %). The intramuscular fat content varied between the three muscles investigated. Psoas major muscle contained the highest fat concentration in all three feeding groups. The mineral content of muscles (iron [Fe], copper [Cu], zinc [Zn]) was only affected by muscle type, but not by diet. In linseed supplemented groups (F/ LC 1 and F/ LC 2) the palmitic acid and palmitoleic acid proportion was decreased (P<0.05) in all muscles and the linolenic, eicosapentaenoic and the sum of n-3 fatty acid (P<0.05) was increased compared to the F/ HC group. The beef from groups F/ LC 1 and F/ LC 2 bulls showed a lower n-6 to n-3 fatty acids ratio (P<0.05). The relative and absolute concentration of CLAcis-9,trans-11 was unaffected by diet but muscle type caused changes.
Effect of backfat loss during lactation on weaning-to-oestrus interval of sows at gonadotropin application
Authors: Škorjanc D. , Hohler M. , Brus M.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. A total of 984 primiparous and multiparous crossbred sows (Swedish Landrace × Large White) housed on a commercial pig farm were used to study the effect of the decrease in backfat thickness during lactation and the level of backfat at weaning on weaning-to-oestrus interval and conception rate of sows. Primiparous sows (n=213) received a single injection of 400 IU eCG + 200 IU hCG (PG600®, Intervet) at weaning and approximately 30 % of sows did not respond to the first treatment. First-farrowing sows produced significantly fewer live-born piglets, had markedly thinner backfat in late gestation, showed significant loss of backfat thickness during lactation and showed thinner backfat at weaning than sows with a greater number of parities. Primiparous sows with backfat thinner than 18 mm at weaning lost an average of 21 % of backfat during lactation and had a significantly longer weaning-to-oestrus interval (31.75 ± 2.22 days), even after a second treatment with PG600®, than both primiparous sows which responded to the first treatment (5.95 ± 0.16 days) and multiparous sows which were not treated (5.19 ± 0.12 days). The primiparous and multiparous sows with thicker backfat at farrowing also had thicker backfat at weaning (r=0.874 and r=0.938 for primiparous and multiparous sows, respectively). Sows with thicker backfat at weaning showed a shorter weaning-to-oestrus interval and this correlation was higher for primiparous than for multiparous sows (r=−0.192 and r=−0.100, respectively). Thicker backfat of the sows at weaning was moderately but significantly correlated with lower loss of backfat during lactation (r=−0.179 and r=−0.273 for primiparous and multiparous sows, respectively). The present study showed that monitoring of backfat thickness and loss of backfat during lactation represents a useful tool to decrease non-productive days and improve the efficiency of high-producing pig herds.
Characterization of the fast skeletal troponin C (TNNC2) gene in three Chinese native sheep breeds
Authors: Xu Q. , Kang K. , Yan F. , An J. , Chen Y.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Fast skeletal muscle troponin C (TNNC2) protein plays a critical role in skeletal muscle contraction and has been proposed to be involved in meat quality traits in farm animals. Here, we report the cloning of the gene TNNC2 from native Chinese sheep. Sequence analysis indicated that the gene TNNC2 contains a putative open reading frame of 483 base pair, encoding a protein of 160 amino acids. We employed the polymerase chain reaction-single strand conformation polymorphism analysis to study the relationship between the TNNC2 gene polymorphisms and meat quality traits. A single site mutation (T/ −) was detected in the first intron, which created three genotypes TT (T/ T), TD (T/ −) and DD (−/ −). Compared with the DD and TD genotypes, the genotype TT conferred lower in carcass weight (P<0.05), longissimus thoracis et lumborum shear force (P<0.05) and drip loss rate (P<0.05), and higher in pH value (P<0.01) and marbling score (P<0.01). The results indicated that the allele T had positive effects on tenderness and marbling score, and suggest that the allele could be used as a molecular marker to study the meat quality in sheep.