bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Milk yield and reproductive performance of Friesian cows under Sudan tropical conditions
Authors: z. Abdel Gader A. , Ahmed M.-K. A. , Musa L. M.-A. , Peters K. J.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The data obtained from the dairy herd of the Arab Company for Agricultural Production and Processing (ACAPP) in a semi arid area 40 km south of Khartoum involved 337 cows with a total of 1049 records from 16 years between 1986 and 2002. The least squares means for age at first calving, calving interval, days open, lactation milk yield, daily milk yield, lactation length and dry period were 29.76±0.40 months, 433.12 ± 6.70 days, 167.79±7.08 days, 3475.53±78.89 kg, 12.29±0.28 kg, 294.10±3.62 days and 164.08 ± 6.70 days, respectively. The analysis of variance showed that the parity number had significant (p<0.05) influences on all studied traits, while year-season of calving influenced (p<0.05) age at first calving, milk yield per lactation and daily milk yield. The sire of cow influenced (p<0.05) lactation yield, daily yield, lactation length and days open. The effects of linear and quadratic regressions of both lactation yield and daily yield on length of lactation were also highly significant (p<0.01). Heritability estimates of age at first calving, calving interval, milk yield per lactation, daily milk yield, lactation length and dry period were generally low (0.098±0.104, 0.047±0.046, 0.130±0.042, 0.123±0.041, 0.172±0.062 and 0.044±0.031, respectively) except the heritability of days open which was 0.51±0.37. The productivity of the herd in this study which averaged 12.3 kg/cow/day was much lower than the expected productivity of Holstein Friesian cows, which reflects the negative impact of the prevalent environment in the Sudan. More records and economic data are required to examine the economic feasibility of raising pure Friesians under Sudan conditions.
Molecular characterization of the porcine DNAL4 gene
Authors: Uhlmann B. , Kuiper H. , Distl O. , Leeb T.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The DNAL4 (dynein, axonemal, light polypeptide 4) gene encodes a light chain of dynein. Dyneins are motor proteins that contribute to axonal transport. Cloning and characterization of the porcine DNAL4 revealed a conserved organization with respect to the human ortholog. The porcine DNAL4 gene consists of 4 exons and codes for a peptide of 105 amino acids. The porcine DNAL4 gene is located on SSC5p15. Analysis of the naturally occurring variation of the DNAL4 gene in pigs from the Piétrain und Duroc breeds revealed five SNPs in non-coding regions of the gene.
The effect of chitosan on body weight and protection against Salmonella gallinarum infection in broiler chickens (short communication)
Authors: Balicka-Ramisz A. , Wojtasz-Pająk A. , Pilarczyk B. , Ramisz A.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Chitosan adipate was administered orally to broiler chickens to investigate its effect on body weight and protection against Salmonella gallinarum. The study was conducted on 80 six-day-old broiler chickens from the ROSS line that were divided in four groups (20 birds each): I – control; II – infected with S. gallinarum and treated with chitosan adipate; III – infected with S. gallinarum; IV – chitosan adipate treatment only. Chitosan salt was administered as a feed additive in an amount that guaranteed that the chitosan contained in the salts constituted 3% of the chicken diet. (Phenotypic characteristics of Salmonella gallinarum and Salmonella pullorum isolated from layers). The chickens were infected with a suspension containing 1800x106 bacteria in 2 ml (on the McFarland scale gruppe 3). The chickens pretreated orally with chitosan were highly resistant to S. gallinarum infection. The clinical symptoms and anatomicopathological changes in chickens infected with bacteria and treated with chitosan (group II) were weak in comparison with chickens infected with S. gallinarum only (group III). Weight gain was significantly higher (by about 12.5%) in the control group than in the chickens infected with S. gallinarum (group III). In the birds that were infected and treated (group II), and in those that were given chitosan (group IV), weight gain was about 2–2.5 % lower in comparison with the control group.
Estimates of genetic parameters for test day milk yields of a Holstein Friesian herd in Turkey with random regression models
Authors: Takma Ç. , Akbaş Y.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Genetic parameters for test day milk yields of Holstein Friesian cows have been estimated using a random regression model (RRM). Data consisted of 1487 monthly test day milk yield records of cows calving between 1987 and 1993 in Sarmısaklı Farm, Turkey. Data were restricted to have at least 150d and at maximum 308d length of first lactations. Additive genetic and permanent environmental (co)variances were modeled with the same order polynomial regressions. Residual (measurement) error variance was assumed to be constant throughout lactation. The quadratic (k=3) order orthogonal polynomial regression was found to be sufficient. Heritability estimates for test day milk yields were high at the middle of the lactation and ranged from 0.07 to 0.32. Genetic correlations of milk yields between consecutive test days were high, but decreased as the interval between tests days increased. Genetic correlations ranged from 0.51 to 0.99. Residual error variance was estimated 13.77 kg.
Anpassung eines Fixed Regression Modells für die tägliche Zunahme von Fleckviehbullen mit Hilfe von Informationskriterien
Authors: Mielenz N. , Krejčová H. , Přibyl J. , Schüler L.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Title of the paper: Fitting a fixed regression model for daily gain of bulls using information criterion In this study the model choice is demonstrated exemplarily on data of 6405 Czech Simmental bulls using information criterion. Per bull up to 8 observations were available for the trait daily gain. Because the animals showed different age on control day, the expected gain curves were described in the population and within the herd*year*season-classes by second, third or fourth order Legendre polynomials of age. For optimization of the fixed effects and to choice the covariance structure of the repeated records the information criteria of Akaike (AIC), the Bayesian criteria (BIC) and the ICOMP-criteria, developed mainly from Bozdogan, were used. Within and over all covariance structures AIC selected generally the most complex model. On the other hand, BIC and ICOMP favoured a model with second order polynomials of age nested within the head*year*seasonclasses. All criterion selected models with nested second order polynomials within the herd*year*season-classes in comparison to models with non-nested polynomials of age.
Genetic and permanent environmental variations in daily milk yield and milk flow rates in Hungarian Holstein Friesian
Authors: Amin A. A.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Random regression animal model was applied for analyzing the relationships between test-day milk yields (DY), and milk flow rate (FR). The current study involved 169,491 sample test-day records of Hungarian Holstein- Friesian cows. A quadratic random regression was applied for declaring additive genetic variances in all studied traits during biweekly observations across the first three parities. Estimates of heritability for test-day milk yield and udder milk flow rates ranged from 0.09 to 0.58 and from 0.02 to 0.50, respectively through 42 milk-weeks (Wk). The highest heritability estimates occurred during the end of trajectory for both traits. In general DY tended to be more heritable than FR across lactation except during the first few weeks of lactation. Performance of DY was less affected by environmental variation than FR, while both values were moderate to high (0.63 to 0.75). Correlations among measurements showed that additive correlations (Ra) of 4WkFR with the reminder part of lactation were high during early and late lactation. Also 24WkFR was more genetically correlated with next measures and reached Ra = 0.94. Whereas 42WkFR was high additively correlated with other biweekly measurements and ranged from 0.53 to 0.99. Performance of early and late DY was negative additively correlated and ranged from −0.03 to −0.53. Heritability of DY within levels of FR ranged from 0.09 to 0.33 within very slow and medium milk flow, respectively. Correlations among both traits increased linearly toward lactation end. DY during 24Week and 42Week of lactation accounted the highest additive correlations with FR across lactation. Estimated breeding values for DY and FR increased in different rates with progressing lactation. These results may indicate that individual selection results would be favorably achieved during the late part of lactation. More details about estimates of breeding values, estimates of permanent environmental and additive genetic correlations for all traits were tabulated.
The relationship of parameters of body measures and body weight by using digital image analysis in pre-slaughter cattle
Authors: Ozkaya S. , Bozkurt Y.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The objective of this study was to predict body weight (BW) of pre-slaughtering beef cattle using digital image analysis. Data used in this study were collected from slaughterhouses in Isparta and nearby provinces from 140 animals. Selected body measurements such as body weight (BW), wither height (WH), body length (BL), chest depth (CD), hip width (HW), hip height (HH) and body area (BA) of different breeds of beef cattle were combined and compared by digital image analysis. The body area was included as a different parameter for prediction of BW instead of chest girth. However, regression equation that included only body area gave the lowest R2 value for Holstein (18.0%), but the R2 value was 43.2 and 51.7% for Brown Swiss and crossbred animals, respectively. The regression equation which included all body traits resulted in R2 values 35.3, 85.1, and 79.6% for Holstein, Brown Swiss and crossbred, respectively. The regression equation which included body area and body length showed that prediction ability of digital image analysis was high for prediction of BW in Brown Swiss and crossbred animals compared to Holsteins (R2 82.6, 76.5, and 29.5%, respectively). Results indicated that the prediction ability of digital image analysis was low for prediction of BW. Although possibility of using body area as a parameter in predicting BW is low it can be developed by further and better designed experiments.
Analysis of population and heterosis effects in crossbred cattle of Czech Fleckvieh and Beef Simmental parentage for growth traits
Authors: Vostrý L. , Jakubec V. , Schlote W. , Bjelka M. , Bezdíček J. , Majzlík I.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Genetic effects, e.f. population and heterosis effects have been estimated for: Czech Fleckvieh, Beef Simmental and various types of their crosses produced in beef cow-calf operations. The best genetic-statistical model was chosen for the analyze of these effects. The fallowing traits were analyzed: birth weight, weights at 210 and at 365 days of age as well as average daily gains between birth and 210 days, between 210 and 365 days and between birth and 365 days of age. Parameters for all the traits were estimated by the method of least squares means with fixed effects year of birth, herd, sex, type of birth (single or multiple), age of dam and genotype. Genetic models involved the means and two to four crossbreeding effects: i.e. direct and maternal population effect and direct and maternal heterosis effect. The results showed that the genetic model including the mean and all four crossbreeding effects was more accurate and advantageous that the others. For all growth traits crossbreds exceeded both purebred populations. Positive values were estimated for most direct and maternal population effects. Direct and maternal heterosis effects in global showed negative values.
The effect of temperament on weight gain of Hungarian Merino, German Merino and German Blackhead lambs
Authors: Pajor F. , Szentléleki A. , Láczó E. , Tőzsér J. , Póti P.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. We evaluated temperament of sheep using two temperament tests: temperament score test and flight test. Temperament score test: behaviour of animals was assessed in a 5-score system while weighing, spending 30 s on the scale. Flight time test: the time taken by an animal to move a set distance (1.7 m) after exiting a weighing scale into an open yard. 10 rams, 22 ewes Hungarian Merino, 13 rams, 19 ewes German Merino and 12 rams, 16 ewes German Blackhead lambs were lot-fed on 49 days, after weaning. The temperament score test was not related to the weight at weaning, therefore the measurement of the temperament was not affected by the weaning process (P>0.10). The gender not affected the temperament scores in either of observations or genotypes. In this investigation German Blackhead lambs were calmer, than Hungarian Merino lambs. The evaluation of the effects of temperament (temperament score test [TS] and flight time test [FT]) on body weight showed that lambs with calm temperament had higher weight at the end of fattening (TS: 44.88 kg and FT: 42.37 kg) and higher average daily weight gain as well (TS: 492.18 g/day and FT: 430.03 g/day), compared to nervous animals (TS: 36.20 kg and 330.08 g/day, P<0.001; FT: 36.73 kg and 345.77 g/day, P<0.05). The lambs with good temperament had better fattening performance (higher weight at end of fattening, faster weight gain) than nervous lambs.
Development and characterization of lambs’ coats of East Prussian Skudden and Rough-coated Pomeranian Landrace sheep
Authors: Kurt G. , Brandt H. R.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. East-Prussian Skudden (Skudden) and Rough-coated Pomeranian Landrace (RPL) sheep are old endangered mixed-wool breeds. The fleece structure is unique for each breed compared with other characteristics in related breeds. Therefore, an essential factor in breed conservation is preservation of the typical fleece. As some RPL sheep show a tendency towards uniform fleeces, emphasis is placed on fleece evaluation in selection of flockbook ewes and especially in licensing rams. Currently, rams can only be presented at a minimum age of 1 ½ years when regrowth has sufficiently taken place. As these rare breeds are primarily kept in small flocks and not by shepherds, an earlier, preliminary selection for typical fleeces would aid in flock management. Fleece samples were taken from five body regions at intervals of 30–35 days beginning at an age of one month to 8 months, prior to shearing and after regrowth. Adult samples were graded and those of RPL evaluated for type and colour. Fibre types were sorted and counted according to presumed adult type as well as lamb fibre type. An attempt was made to find a point in development suitable for concluding the final fibre type composition, taking into account the final grade, type and fleece colour. In Skudden a preliminary selection is preferable at an age of 10–12 months. As RPL showed considerable changes in all fleece parameters between shearing and the adult sample, preliminary selection is not advisable.
Effect of unfavourable population structure on estimates of heritability, systematic effects and breeding values
Authors: Kominakis A. P.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Empirical estimations of heritability, systematic effects and predictions of sires’ breeding values (BVs) were obtained under various population structures for simulated populations consisted of n = 400 animals in 5 herds for a trait of medium heritability (h2 = 0.30). An infinitesimal additive genetic animal model was assumed while simulating data. Population structure was varied to allow for good and poor connectedness across herds and (non)random association between the genetic and the environmental effects. The impact of the various population structures on the parameter estimation(s) was assessed using Mean Squared Error (MSE) and Pearson’s correlations. Allowing sires to have progenies in more than one herd (good herd connectedness) and random use of sires across herds generally resulted in good parameter estimations. Poor connectedness significantly affected herd effects estimation and BV prediction but not heritability estimation as long as random usage of sires across environments was guaranteed. Selective use of the best sires in the best herds along with poor connectedness resulted in poorest estimations of all parameters examined. In the latter case, heritability was seriously underestimated (h2 = 0.06) while highest error, lowest accuracies for the BVs and a remarkable underestimation of the genetic gain were observed. Use of reference sires on a natural mating basis to create genetic links between herds has served a good solution for both heritability and BVs estimation under unfavorable structure. Mating 0.25 of the herd ewes with reference sires resulted in a heritability estimate close to the simulated one. Significantly better estimates of systematic effects and BVs were, however, obtained when 0.5 of the herd ewes were mated by reference sires.
Genetische Analyse des Legemusters in der Bodenhaltung im Hinblick auf neue Leistungsprüfungskriterien für die Legehennenzucht
Authors: Icken W. , Thurner S. , Cavero D. , Schmutz M. , Wendl G. , Preisinger R.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Title of the paper: Genetic analysis of the laying pattern in floor management in terms of new performance parameters for breeding In order to facilitate a specific selection of laying hens which are suitable for alternative housing systems, it will be of advantage if the individual hens were tested in their later husbandry environment. Therefore, a new technology has been developed, the »Weihenstephan Funnel Nest Box«, which enables the automatic recording of these essential performance and nesting behaviour parameters of the individual hens in a group housing system. The exact oviposition times of 263 laying hens of Lohmann Silver line were recorded and used to analyse the laying pattern. Some results which were already pointed out in literature were thus confirmed, other brought new cognitions in terms of the oviposition pattern and about the pause following a laying sequence. A positive genetic correlation between the length of a laying sequence and the subsequent pause durations (rg=+0.49) confirmed the tendency to longer breaks following an increasing laying sequence. The duration of a break was, however, not such an essential criteria for the productivity of a hen. More important in this context was the number of pauses which rises constantly with the number of laying sequences over the whole observation period. When the hens laid in shorter sequences, it was observed that the proportion of sequences grew, which was reflected as smaller number of registered eggs per hen (rg =−0.73). The logical conclusion was the highly positive correlation between the length of a laying sequence and the number of registered eggs (rg =+0.82). Closely associated with the length of a laying sequence, as well as the laying performance, was the parameter time interval between two laid eggs. The time interval between two laid eggs was significant shortened from the first to the third egg within one laying sequence and eventually reached for more than 24 h for most of the hens. The phenotypic and genetic correlation between the time interval and the laying performance was negative (rp =−0.46 and rg =−0.46). The heritability for the time interval was estimated at h²=0.17 which was similar to the heritability for number of eggs (h²=0.20). Slightly higher heritabilities were estimated for the indirect parameter of the time interval, the oviposition time of the third to the fifth egg in a laying sequence (h²=0.25, h²=0.34 and h²=0.29). Valuations in this range would be in regard of new performance testing parameter competitive to the parameter number of eggs and therefore, be tested in further investigations.
Relationships among dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, bioelectrical impedance and ultrasound measurements of body composition of swine
Authors: Mitchell A. D. , Scholz A. M.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. In three separate studies (156 pigs total), dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), bioelectrical impedance (BIA) and ultrasound were compared as methods for measuring live body composition of pigs at 60 and 100-110 kg BWt. DXA measured total body fat and lean content, BIA measurements of resistance (Rs) and reactance (Xc) were used to calculate total body lean mass and ultrasound measurements of backfat (BF) depth and longissimus muscle area (LMA) were used to calculate total carcass lean mass. Following the 100–110 kg measurements, the pigs were slaughtered and the half-carcass analyzed chemically for fat and water content. At 110 kg both DXA and ultrasound measurements were significantly correlated with the percentages of carcass fat and water, although correlations were higher for DXA. The correlations between DXA and BF measurements were higher at 110 kg than at 60 kg, whereas they were lower for DXA and LMA. For pigs measured at 100 kg there were high correlations between the DXA values and the BIA estimates for both percentage of fat-free lean mass (FFM %) and FFM kg. Furthermore, the correlations between the BIA estimates of FFM and carcass fat and water content were similar to those for DXA and the same carcass values. This study also provided a side-by-side comparison of the BIA and ultrasound lean measurements relative to DXA and carcass composition. The BIA lean measurement correlated more highly with both DXA and carcass composition than did the ultrasound lean measurement.
Impact of hyper-prolific population generation on the reproduction of sows in multiplication herds
Authors: Tvrdon Z. , Humpolicek P.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of higher selection pressure used in hyperprolific population on the reproduction of subsequent generations breed in a multiplication herd. Information on 539 litters of 178 ancestors of purebred sows from both hyper-prolific and normal population was included. Higher selection pressure particularly on litter size and teat number was applied in the hyper-prolific population. Differences between total number of piglets born, number of piglets born alive or number of piglets weaned were neither observed on the 1st only nor on the 1st to 5th litters. Likewise, no effect on the age of sows at the first parturition and number of insemination per pregnant had been found. A significant response on selection was determined only for teat number. The descendents of hyper-prolific population had about 0.37 teats more than sows of normal population. The results suggest that to achieve desired litter size in multiplication herds the selection criteria should be revised and higher focus should be put on the prolificacy, particularly on the litter size than on the traits with high heritability like production traits.
Meat quality and ultrastructure of muscle tissue from fatteners of Wild Boar, Pulawska and its crossbreed Pulawska × (Hamshire × Wild Boar)
Authors: Kasprzyk A. , Stasiak A. , Babicz M.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The investigation included three genetic groups, i.e. Pulawska, Wild boar and Pulawska × (Hampshire × Wild boar) crossbreds. Each group comprised 8 individuals (1: 1 sex ratio). The animals were presented for slaughter at 90 kg body weight. The muscles of the analysed genetic groups have shown good quality, pH 6.07–6.54. Lower diameters were characteristic for both, wild boars and wild pigs, that averaged 33.74 μm and 35.4 μm for m. longissimus dorsi (MLD) and then 42.3 μm and 46.43 μm for m. semimembranosus (MS), respectively. It is likely to arise from their higher rate in the muscles regarding total red fiber content. The shortest sarcomeres were established in a group of wild boars (2.03 μm MLD and 2.31 μm MS) that may confirm the association with their meat tenderness. The most juicy and tender meat was produced by pigs of Pulawska breed, whereas the meat obtained from Pulawska pigs and crossbreds earned the highest score for flavour intensity and taste. Markedly higher sarcosomers number was characteristic for the semimembranosus muscles. Contractile fibres in wild boars’ muscles were separated by greater amount of the sarcoplasma as compared to other animals. The analysis of longissimus dorsi and semimembranosus muscle microstructure confirmed that the presented genetic groups showed proper structure of the muscle tissue and did not show any degenerative lesions. The muscles visualized the well-preserved sarcomeric structure, appropriate cell nuclei and mitochondria. Besides, the regular cross striation was visible giving evidence of the muscle decontraction.
Haplotype analysis and linkage disequilibrium for DGAT1
Authors: Strucken E. M. , Rahmatalla S. , De Koning D.-J. , Brockmann G. A.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. This study focused on haplotype effects and linkage disequilibrium (LD) for the K232A locus and the promoter VNTR in the DGAT1 gene. Analyses were carried out in three German Holstein Frisian populations (including 492, 305, and 518 animals) for milk yield, milk fat and protein yield, and milk fat and protein content. We found that effects of the promoter VNTR were not significant and explain only a small amount of the variation of the QTL on BTA14. Haplotype effects were less significant than the K232A locus by itself, but the haplotype containing the A allele of the K232A locus and allele 3 with five repeats of the promoter VNTR showed negative effects on protein content when paternally inherited, whereas the haplotype with the A allele and VNTR allele 2 (with six repeats) increased the protein content. Significant differences between these two haplotypes occurred for protein yield as well, pointing to a linked effect that is picked up by the haplotypes rather than a direct effect of the VNTR. The linkage disequilibrium, estimated by D', showed values between 0.29 and 0.59 which is unexpectedly low for a distance of ~10 kb. Only a very low correlation between the two loci was observed due to the almost similar frequencies of haplotypes containing the A or K allele of the K232A locus.
Effects of probiotic and phytogenic products on performance, gut morphology and cecal microflora of broiler chickens
Authors: Perić L. , Milošević N. , Žikić D. , Bjedov S. , Cvetković D. , Markov S. , Mohnl M. , Steiner T.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The trial involved 684 Cobb 500 broiler chicks in order to investigate the effects of probiotics and phytogenic additives on performance, gut morphology and cecal microbial concentrations. Birds were assigned to three treatments: control feed, treatment with addition of probiotics in feed and water and treatment with addition of phytogenic blend in feed. The results showed a significant improvement (P<0.01) in body weight gain and a numerical, but non significant (P>0.05) improvement in feed conversion ratio by adding both probiotics and phytogenics in feed. There were no statistically significant differences among treatments regarding total aerobes, anaerobes, lactic acid bacteria, bifidobacteria, enterococci, and Escherichia coli populations (P>0.05) in cecum of broilers. The gut morphology examination showed that probiotics had beneficial effect on jejunum morphology causing a significant (P<0.005) increase in villus height and villus surface area compared to other two groups. On the other hand, phytogenic additive had no effect (P>0.05) on villus height or villus surface area, but reduced the villus/crypt ratio (P<0.05), which may indicate that the improved production results in the group with added phytogenics are not directly connected with changes in gut integrity, but with other physiological mechanisms.
Effect of feeding level and linseed oil on some metabolic and hormonal parameters and on fatty acid profile of meat and fat in growing pigs
Authors: Więcek J. , Rekiel A. , Skomiał J.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. In an experiment with 56 pigs, the effects of feeding level and linseed oil supplement on fattening and slaughter parameters, the weight of internal organs, the concentration of hormones and indicators of protein and lipid metabolism, and the fatty acid profile of m. semimembranosus and backfat were investigated. During the growing period, all animals received a feed supplemented with 4 % linseed oil. At the end of the growing period (23–61 kg body weight), compared to semi-ad libitum fed animals, animals that were fed restrictively (25 % less feed) during this period were characterized by lower daily gains (P≤0.001), greater meatiness (P≤0.01), lower weight of internal organs, higher level of growth hormone (P≤0.05), lower levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone and blood urea nitrogen (P≤0.05), and dietetically more beneficial profile of fatty acids (more polyunsaturated fatty acids [PUFA]). During realimentation (61–104 kg body weight), when all animals were fed semi-ad libitum diets with 0 or 4 % linseed oil, daily feed intake and daily weight gains of the pigs that had previously been restrictively fed, were greater than in animals fed semi-ad libitum throughout fattening. Compensatory growth was found for the internal organs. Animals that received linseed oil diets throughout fattening were characterized during the finishing period by a higher rate of growth (P≤0.001), higher concentrations of triiodothyronine (T3) and insulin (P≤0.05), and a greater proportion of n-3 PUFA in the fatty acid profile of m. semimembranosus and backfat (P≤0.001).
Relationships of sire breeding values and cutting parts of progeny in Czech Fleckvieh bulls
Authors: Bezdíček J. , Říha J. , Kučera J. , Dufek A. , Bjelka M. , Šubrt J.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of the meat yield breeding values of sires on highly valued parts of carcasses in their progeny. The study was carried out on Czech Fleckviehs, a breed dual purpose milk-beef production. Cutting parts evaluated were: round, strip loin and tender loin (first-class meat); rib, shoulder blade (boneless), fore shank, flank, chuck roll + neck (second-class meat) and separable fat. The correlation analysis showed significant negative relationships only for the relative breeding values of trading classes and the rib (r=−0.2079); relative breeding values of net daily gain with strip loin (r=−0.2433). Although strip loin is an important first-class meat cut, the correlation is rather low. Correlations between other meat cuts with breeding values were non-significant. The correlation between meat cuts and age showed the same pattern as correlations between meat cuts and weight at slaughter. Significant negative correlations were found between first-class meat and increasing age (r=−0.1979) and weight (r=−0.2884). In contrast, for second-class meat there were positive correlation with increasing age and weight (r=0.3489 for age, r=0.4495 for weight). This also corresponds with the correlation between age or weight and specific first-class meat cuts (tender loin r=−0.2804, r=−0.3413, strip loin r=−0.3710, r=−0.2012) and second-class meat (sep. fat r=+0.2360, r=+0.2951, r for correlation with age and weight respectively). Based on the calculations of canonical analysis 27.75 % explained variability was found for variables relative breeding value of net daily gain (RBVndg), relative breeding value of trading class (RBVtc), age and weight using a linear combination of variables for individual cuts. At the same time, 14.25 % explained variability was found for cut variables which can be expressed using linear combinations of RBVndg, RBVtc, age and weight.
Effect of frame score on performance and carcass characteristics of steers finished in the feedlot or backgrounded for various time on pasture and finished in the feedlot
Authors: Koknaroglu H. , Hoffmann M. P.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. A two-year data of three-year study integrating pasture and drylot feeding systems was used to examine effect of frame score on performance and carcass characteristics of steers. Each year, 84 fall-born and 28 spring-born calves of similar genotypes were used. Fall-born and spring-born calves were started on test in May and October, respectively. Treatments were: 1) fall-born calves directly into feedlot; 2 and 3) fall-born calves put on pasture with or without an ionophore and moved to the feedlot at the end of July; 4 and 5) fall-born calves put on pasture with or without an ionophore and moved to the feedlot at the end of October; 6 and 7) spring-born calves put on pasture with or without an ionophore and moved to the feedlot at the end of October. Frame scores were determined by taking steers’ age and live weight into consideration. Cattle that grazed the same duration on pasture were regarded as the same treatment regardless of whether they received an ionophore or not. In the feedlot, steers were provided an 82 % concentrate diet containing whole-shelled corn, ground alfalfa hay, and a protein, vitamin and mineral supplement containing ionophore and molasses. Pens of cattle were harvested at approximately 522 kg. Cattle having a higher frame score at the entry to pasture and grazed until July and October tended to have higher and lower daily gain on pasture than those having lower frame score, respectively (P>0.05). Fall-born and spring-born cattle grazed until October, which had higher frame scores at the entry to pasture tended to have higher daily gain in the feedlot showing a compensatory growth. In the feedlot, within each treatment cattle having higher frame score tended to have higher daily gain (P>0.05) and had higher dry matter intake (P<0.05). Cattle spending longer time in the feedlot have better carcass quality and higher yield grades. Results showed that cattle with higher frame scores had higher growth potentials in the feedlot and if the grazing season is extended then daily gain of cattle having higher frame score decreases.
Comparison of some meat traits in ducks from two conservative flocks
Authors: Kokoszyński D. , Bernacki Z.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Eighty Pekin ducks from P11 and P22 conservative flocks (40 birds of each strain, including 20 males and 20 females) were investigated. Ducks were raised in a confinement building and fed ad libitum standard diets for waterfowl. At 7 weeks of age, 5 males and 5 females from each strain were slaughtered and dissected. Breast and leg muscles were sampled to determine fatty acid profile and selected minerals. Compared to P22 ducks, P11 ducks showed higher body weight at 7 weeks of age and higher rate of growth paralleled by better feed conversion ratio (kg feed/kg gain), higher dressing percentage, lower proportion (%) of leg muscles and lower proportion of all carcass muscles. Differences in these traits were not significant. Breast muscles of P11 ducks had significantly more C24:0 and C20:4 acids and leg muscles contained significantly more C14:0, C16:1, C18:1 and C24:0 acids compared to P22 ducks. In addition, leg muscles of P11 ducks had a significantly lower proportion of C17:0, C18:0, C24:0 and C22:4 compared to the same muscles of P22 birds. Leg muscles of P11 ducks had significantly more monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA), higher unsaturated to saturated fatty acid (UFA/SFA) and polyunsaturated to saturated fatty acid ratios (PUFA/SFA), and significantly less saturated fatty acids (SFA) compared to P22 ducks. The Na, K, Mg, Fe, Cu and Zn content of duck muscles was similar in both lines. Compared to leg muscles, breast muscles of P11 and P22 ducks were found to contain significantly more iron (Fe) and copper (Cu), and less zinc (Zn).
Comparison of growth performance and slaughter characteristics of Limousin and Charolais heifers
Authors: Zahrádková R. , Bartoň L. , Bureš D. , Teslík V. , Kudrna V.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of breed and a diet containing linseed on the growth and carcass composition characteristics of heifers. A total of 48 Limousin (LI) and Charolais (CH) heifers with an average weight of 270 kg were assigned to two diets containing either extruded linseed (LIN) or no supplemental oilseed (CON). The target slaughter weight was set at 500 kg. The diet had no effect on any of the observed production traits. The CH heifers had higher live weight gains (P<0.001) and a lower feed conversion ratio (P<0.001). The LI heifers had a higher dressing percentage (P<0.001), higher meat to bone ratio (P<0.001), greater m. longissimus lumborum et thoracis area (P<0.05), and produced more internal and carcass fat (P<0.05). It was concluded that purebred LI heifers grew less rapidly and less efficiently but produced heavier carcasses with a more favourable meat to bone ratio compared to purebred CH heifers.
The effect of genotype on the chemical and fatty acid composition of the Quadriceps femoris muscle in extensively fattened lambs
Authors: Zapletal D. , Kuchtík J. , Dobeš I.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The aim of the experiment was to define the effect of a Suffolk-sired genotype on the chemical composition and fatty acid profile of the Quadriceps femoris muscle in fattened lambs reared under organic farming conditions. Three different genotypes of Suffolk-sired crossbreds were included in the experiment: F1 Suffolk-Charollais (SF 50 CH 50, n=10), F11 Suffolk-Charollais (SF 75 CH 25, n=10) and F1 Suffolk-Improved Walachian (SF 50 IW 50, n=10). The genotype did not have any effect on age at slaughter, average daily gain or carcass dressing percentages. However, the SF 75 CH 25 lambs displayed a lower live weight at slaughter (P<0.05), lower cold carcass weight (P<0.05) and lower protein content in muscle (P<0.05) than both of the other genotypes. They also had a lower content of kidney fat compared to the SF 50 CH 50 (P<0.01). The F11 Suffolk-Charollais lambs showed a higher proportion of C12:0 (P<0.01), C14:0 (P<0.01) and C16:0 (P<0.05) than the other two genotypes. A higher proportion of C18:0 was found in the SF 50 CH 50 lambs (P<0.05). The total content of saturated fatty acids (SFA) was higher in the SF 75 CH 25 crossbreds (P<0.05). The genotype also affected the content of C16:1 having its highest presence in the SF 75 CH 25 lambs while the lowest presence was found in the SF 50 CH 50 lambs (P<0.01). Between these two genotypes there were also found different proportions of C18:1 having its higher presence in SF 50 CH 50 lambs (P<0.05). Moreover, the IW type lambs had a lower SFA proportion and lower values of atherogenic and thrombogenic indexes and a higher polyunsaturated/saturated fatty acid (P/S) ratio in their meat than lambs of the CH genotypes (P<0.05). As for crossing between the Suffolk and Charollais breeds, a favourable fatty acids profile of meat was observed in the F1 crossbred as compared to the F11 crossbred.
Effect of bovine colostrum on the serum insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I), the IGF binding proteins-2 and -3 and the thyroid hormones in weaning piglets
Authors: Boudry C. , Dehoux J.-P. , Colinet F. G. , Wavreille J. , Portetelle D. , Beckers Y. , Théwis A.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. This study examined the effect of a bovine colostrum supplementation on growth performance, feed intake and the hormonal response of piglets at weaning. Ninety-six newly-weaned piglets were assigned for four weeks to one of the two treatments: Control (diet with bovine milk whey) and Colostrum (diet with bovine colostrum whey) treatments. The supplements were incorporated in a commercial diet at 20 g/kg during the first 2 weeks after weaning and lowered to 10 g/kg for the next 2 weeks. Body weight and feed intake were measured weekly. Blood samples were taken weekly for determination of circulating IGF-I, its binding proteins and the thyroid hormones (T3 and T4). During the first week of the trial, the Colostrum-fed piglets presented improved growth performance, feed intake and feed efficiency and a higher concentration in circulating IGF-I (+15 %) compared to the Control piglets. In both treatments, the circulating thyroid hormones were reduced by weaning and the levels measured at weaning were recovered earlier by the Colostrum-fed piglets compared to the Control group (P<0.05). It is concluded that hormonal response observed after the bovine colostrum supplementation is, at least in part, consequent of the positive action of bovine colostrum on the feed intake.
Chromosome mapping of five differently expressed miRNAs in porcine skeletal muscle development (Brief Report)
Authors: He H. B. , Zhao S. H. , Li X. Y.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of short, non-coding regulatory RNAs, which are approximately 22 nucleotides in length. Typically, miRNAs negatively regulate gene expression by binding with the 3' untranslated region (UTR) of its regulatory target mRNAs. MicroRNAs are known to play diverse roles in fundamental biological processes, such as proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis (Bartel 2004, 2009). It has been reported that miR-1, miR-133, miR-181 and miR-206 play important roles in skeletal muscle proliferation and hypertrophy (Callis et al. 2007, McCarthy -Esser 2007). We have detected porcine miRNA expression profiles during different stage of skeletal muscle development and a total of 140 miRNAs were differentially expressed (HUANG et al. 2008). In this study, we mapped five differentially expressed miRNAs (mir-29c, mir-103-1, mir-127, mir-193b and mir-218-1) using the radiation hybrid (IMpRH) panel (YERLE et al. 1998).
Association between IGF1/TasI polymorphism and milk traits of Polish Holstein Friesian cows
Authors: Szewczuk M. , Zych S. , Czerniawska-Piątkowska E.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The study was carried out on 658 Polish Holstein Friesian cows. A transversion of A→C in the P1 promoter region of bovine IGF1 gene at position 977 bp upstream from the start codon in exon 1 was identified using ACRS-PCR method. Reverse primer introduced an artificial TasI restriction site. Three genotypes (AA, AC, CC) were found in the analysed herd of dairy cows occurred with a frequency of 0.766, 0.213 and 0.021, respectively. In the presented study, the statistically significant differences between individuals of different IGF1/TasI genotypes were found in milk, fat and protein yield. In the 2nd and 3rd lactations, the cows carrying the CC genotype produced more milk than the AA individuals (P≤0.05). In the case of protein and fat yield, similar tendencies were observed.
The DGAT1 gene K232A mutation is associated with milk fat content, milk yield and milk somatic cell count in cattle (Short Communication)
Authors: Manga I. , Říha H.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The present study investigated the K232A mutation of the diacylglycerol O-acyltransferase 1 gene (DGAT1) in 315 Czech Holstein Cows. The allele frequency was found to be 0.19 for the K allele and 0.81 for the A allele. The results ofK232A testing were assessed in relation to average daily milk yield (l), percentage of fat, protein, lactose and milk somatic cell count (SCC, thousand/ml). A GLM procedure was used to analyse the differences among genotypes. The K232A genotypes were significantly associated with milk fat percentage (KK, KA>AA [P≤0.005, P≤0.05]) and milk yield (KK, KA>AA [P≤0.05, P≤0.005]). The K allele was also favourable for SCC levels: cows with the KA genotype had lower SCC levels than those with the AA genotype (P≤0.05), while cows with the KK genotype showed the lowest levels of SCC at all. This new association of K232A suggests the existence of another gene in the centromeric region on BTA14 linked to DGAT1 with direct effect on the SCC. On the basis of a broad range of DGAT1 protein functions and the non-conservative matter ofK232A, a direct effect of K232A on the SCC cannot be ruled out either.
The effect of sex and terminal sire line on carcass characteristics of pork belly
Authors: Bahelka I. , Oravcová M. , Hanusová E. , Demo P.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The objective of study was to evaluate the effect of sex and terminal sire line on pork belly composition of commercially produced pigs. The animals were progeny of White Meaty sows and three terminal sire lines: HA × PN, LA and YO × PN. Barrows: gilts ratio was 97:102. Pigs were slaughtered at average carcass weight 85.73–89.0 kg according to genotype. Day after slaughter, the dissection of right half sides was done. After that, the detailed dissection of trimmed belly to individual tissues (bones, meat, fat and skin) was performed. The effect of sex on belly characteristics was significant. Gilts had higher meat proportion in belly than barrows (51.41 vs. 47.21 %), which reached higher content of subcutaneous and intermuscular fat (43.92 vs. 38.83 %). The influence of terminal sire line was also significant. All differences were found between HaxPN genotype and other two terminal sire lines. Progeny of Ha × PN sire line had the highest percentage of meat in belly (51.28 %) while progeny of YO × PN had the highest content of fat and skin (42.79 %) and bones in belly (9.48 %).
Heritability and repeatability of the number of lambs born and reared estimated using linear and threshold models
Authors: Piwczyński D. , Kowaliszyn B. , Mroczkowski S.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The research was conducted on 3 844 Polish Merino lamb dams born in 1991‑2001, used in 15 flocks from the Pomerania and Kujawy region in Poland. The assessed parameters were the number of lambs born from a dam after lambing (LSB) (1, 2, 3) and the number of lambs reared (LSW) (0, 1, 2, 3). The genetic parameters LSB and LSW were estimated with the use of two methods: Average Information – REML (AI-REML) and Gibbs sampling (GS). For estimation of components by means of the AI-REML method the animal’s linear model was used, and in the case of the GS method a threshold model was also used alongside the linear one. The LSB heritability estimated using the AI-REML and GS methods in combination with a linear model were similar and their values were respectively 0.025 and 0.029, with similar standard errors for variance components. Applying the GS method combined with a threshold model resulted in a two times higher heritability (0.054) compared to when linear models were used. A similar tendency was found to exist in respect of estimated repeatability. When using linear models, the obtained values were closely matched: 0.064 (AI-REML) and 0.065 (GS). The highest repeatability occurred when a threshold model was used (0.118). The LSW heritability was low and, depending on the model and method (0.016-0.020). Similar values LSW repeatability were obtained with the use of linear models (0.048 – REML and 0.049 – GS), and when a threshold model was used the result was higher – 0.070.
The mRNA and protein expression of ruminal MCT1 is increased by feeding a mixed hay/concentrate diet compared with hay ad libitum diet (Short Communication)
Authors: Kuzinski J. , Röntgen M.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. In this study the protein and mRNA expression of Monocarboxylate transporter 1 (MCT1) was evaluated in rumen epithelial cells (REC) obtained from sheep fed hay ad libitum (control, h diet, n=4) or a mixed hay/concentrate diet (h/c diet, n=4) for two weeks. REC were isolated via fractionated trypsination and three groups consisting of fractions 3 to 5=G1, fractions 6 to 8=G2, and fractions 9 and 10=G3 were formed. Using an anti-basal cytokeratin antibody and flow cytometric analysis, the proportion of REC originating from the stratum basale (SB) was determined for each group. In addition, MCT1 mRNA and protein expression was determined by qRT-PCR and Western blot, respectively. Feeding the h/c diet led to a 299±93 % elevation of the number of SB cells known to express the MCT1 protein. This is accompanied by an increased MCT1 mRNA (1.8 to 2.2-fold) and protein (1.3-fold) expression. Thus, an increased number of MCT1 expressing cells and upregulation of ruminal MCT1 protein seem to be components of rumen epithelium functional adaptation to high energy diet.