bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of substitution of soybean meal by dried tomato pomace on feed intake, rumen fermentation and nitrogen utilisation in goats
Authors: Yuangklang Chalermpon , Vasupen Kraisit , Srenanul Paiwon , Wongsuthavas Sasiphan , Mitchaothai Jumlong , Kongwaha Kraisorn
Published: June 2019

Goat production in northeast of Thailand has gradually increased, partly because of the limited land available to raise cattle. The other reason is that goats can give twin kids and can give birth twice a year under good management. Tomato pomace is a by product from the tomato juice factory. Dried tomato pomace is a promising protein source with high protein content. The price of dried tomato pomace is cheaper than soybean protein when expressed as price per unit protein. The trial of Yuangklang et al. (2006) found that dried tomato pomace increased growth rate in beef cattle. In dairy cows, replacing soybean meal by dried tomato pomace did not influence milk production (Yuangklag et al., 2005). Data on utilisation of dried tomato pomace in goats is limited. Therefore the present experiment aimed to investigate the effects of substitution of soybean protein by dried tomato pomace in the concentrate diet on feed intake, nutrient digestibility and nitrogen utilization of meat goats.
Estimation of genetic and phenotypic parameters for fleece characteristics of Sanjabi sheep breed
Authors: Edriss Mohammad-Ali , Siahkamari Gholam-Reza , Edriss Vahid
Published: June 2019

Sanjabi breed is an important dual-purpose (meat and wool) sheep and one of the heavy weight and the second largest populated of sheep among 27 breeds in Iran. According to FAO (2004) there are more than 53 millions sheep are reared in Iran. The breed is well adapted to reasonably suitable environment, vegetation and management conditions of the western part of Iran. In the western part of Iran although there are rocky mountains, there is enough feed source for raising sheep. The objective of this study was to estimate genetic parameters for planning sustainable improvement, conservation and utilization of the breed.
The effects of herbage allocation and concentrate supplementation on the performance of replacement ewe lambs offered extended grazed pastures
Authors: Keady T.W.J. , Hanrahan J.P.
Published: June 2019

Recent studies at this centre (Flanagan 2003, Keady et al. 2006) have shown that grazing swards in the winter (extended grazing), either in mid, late or throughout pregnancy, provides a low-cost system for wintering ewes. With decoupling of subsidy from production post Mid Term Review of the Common Agricultural Policy it is essential to improve efficiency and reduce costs of production. One of the major costs in sheep production is the cost of rearing replacements. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of herbage allowance and concentrate supplementation on animal performance during extended grazing and on compensatory growth during the subsequent grazing season. Furthermore the potential herbage allowance sparing effect of concentrate supplementation was also determined.
The effects of steam treated sugarcane pith as a feed ingredient on performance of lactating dairy goats
Authors: Chaji Morteza , Naserian AbbasAli , Valizadeh Reza , Eftekhari Shahroodi Ferydon , Hashami Omid
Published: June 2019

Sugarcane bagasse and pith, by-product which the residue after rind removal, are highly lignified by products of the sugar and paper industries, are the most abundant by-product in Iran. The use of by-product in animal nutrition is necessity since it may increase the availability of feed for animal and avoid accumulation that contributes to environmental problems. The main nutritional constraints for these crop residues as animal feeds are their slow rate of digestion and low nitrogen content (Liu et al., 2000). Steam-pressure treatment cleavage the bounds between lignin and the other component of the cell wall, in order to improve it’s degradability by enzymes of the rumen microbial ecosystem. The aim of this study were to evaluate the effect of increasing dietary steam treated pith content on feed intake, milk yield and composition of lactating dairy saanen goats.
The effect of a pesticide on mulberry silkworm Bombyx mori (Lep.: Bombycidae) larvae
Authors: Bizhannia Alireza , Etebari Keyvan , Seidavi Alireza , Mirhosseini Seyed Ziaeddin
Published: June 2019

Environmental pollutants, like pesticides, have been destructive on different aspects of life. Silkworm, as a beneficial insect, is no exception to this matter. Due to this, many problems have appeared in sericulture because of pesticide applications to cultivations, especially when mulberry trees grow next to cultivated plants. Many studies that have focused on the effect of insecticides on B. mori deal with toxicity, retardation of development and growth, fecundity, mortality, food utilization and economic parameters (Vassarmidaki et al., 2000). However, between these studies a few documents focused on the effect of fungicide residue on silkworm growth and performances (Dutta et al., 2003). Sik et al (1976) reported that more than 1.4% of yield reduction in sericulture is due to side effect of pesticide application. 49.4% was due to the application of different pesticides in rice filed, 21.2% in fruit garden and 12.3% in olericulture. Therefore, the present investigation deals effects of long term application of systemic insecticide, Oxydemeton-methyl(metasystox R) on some biological performance of silkworm. Because metasystox has just recently used to against of mulberry thrips in sericulture and it is necessary to study different side effects of this insecticide on silkworm.
The effect of tannins in grape pomace on the protein fractions in soybean meal
Authors: Alipour Darioush , Rouzbehan Yousef
Published: June 2019

Soybean meal (SBM) is commonly used as protein supplement in the ration of high producing dairy cattle. It has a good palatability and acceptable amino acid balance. However, SBM has relatively low protein efficiency because of the extensive ruminal degradation. Recently, tannins have become a matter of interest in ruminant nutrition because of their potentially beneficial effects on decreasing the ruminal degradation of dietary protein (Barry and McNab, 1999). Several methods (in vivo, in vitro, in situ and solubility methods) have been proposed to characterize the dietary protein. Cornell Net Carbohydrate and Protein System (CNCPS) have a submodel in which crude protein is partitioned into five fractions with different degradation rates. Hence, the objective of this study was to determine the protein fractions of soybean meal treated with tannin in grape pomace.
The effects of studs on forelimb kinematics during trot gait of the horse
Authors: Pye R. , Brigden C.V. , Northrop A.J. , Martin J.H.
Published: June 2019

Studs are attached to horse shoes as anti slip devices for many performance horses (Dyson, 2000), with the aim of reducing the distance the hoof slides between impact and coming to rest. These anti slip devices are needed to prevent injury to the horse caused by over stretching of the joints and soft tissues during the slip or by loss of balance. Despite the practical benefits perceived by horse riders, it has been suggested that studs may have detrimental effects on the horse’s kinematics and musculoskeletal system, possibly increasing jarring (Wilson et al., 2001). The aim of this study was to measure the effects studs have on trot kinematics.
Did the horses that reached the final of the 2004 PAVO British Eventing Breeding Championships show a higher level of subsequent performance in British Eventing competition compared to those who did not qualify?
Authors: Marshall F. G. , Scott R.
Published: June 2019

The production of young sport horses for British Eventing (BE) competition requires huge investment in terms of time, money and effort. To ensure that such resources are not wasted, it is necessary to select the individuals that display the most talent and potential for an illustrious competitive career. In order to facilitate such selection, the BE Breeding Championships were introduced in 2003. Sponsored by feed manufacturers PAVO, the series is formed by a number of national qualifiers run within a selection of BE one-day events each year. Successful horses qualify for the championship final at the end of the eventing season. The objective of the series is to provide a showcase of the most talented young event horses in the UK for breeders, owners, riders and prospective buyers. The aim of the study was to establish whether 4, 5 and 6 year old horses that qualified for the 2004 PAVO BE Breeding Championship final performed better in BE competition during the following year of competition compared to horses of the same age that did not qualify for the final.
Quantitative aspects of calcium absorption and excretion in growing horses
Authors: Vitti D.M.S.S. , Bueno I.C.S. , Lopes J.B. , Furtado C.E. , Quadros J.B.S. , Nozella E.F. , Godoy P.B.
Published: June 2019

Ca bioavailability has been of considerable interest. NRC (1989) expressed Ca requirement as total Ca but assumed an absorptive efficiency of 0.50. To improve the understanding of calcium absorption and excretion in horses, the present study analysed the quantitative calcium metabolism in animals fed different levels of calcium.
Forage intake, milk yield and composition of cows in a silvopastoral system with and without access to the forage tree and energy supplementation during the rainy season
Authors: Valdivia V. , Sandoval-Castro C.A. , Otaduy K. , Ku-Vera J.C.
Published: June 2019

The improvement in animal performance obtained in silvopastoral systems has been explained either by their ingestion of a higher quality grass (Hernandez et al., 2001, Iglesias, 1998) resulting from the inclusion of a legume in the system which provide N for grass growth or due to the intake of the legume itself, which in turn is also of higher quality than grass. During the rainy season, animals might be able to increase selectivity and intake due to the higher availability of biomass hence possibly reducing the advantage of including a legume in the system. The objective of the present work was to discriminate in a silvopastoral system the effect of improved grass quality and legume intake on dual purpose lactating cows milk yield and composition.
Sow agonistic behaviour of two breeds moved from individual stalls to an outdoor park
Authors: Silva S. R. , Lourenço A. , Fernades A. L. , LeBras E. , Almeida J. C. , Mestre R. B. , Monteiro D. O.
Published: June 2019

Public concern about animal welfare has increased both legislation and consumer pressure, to introduce new technical developments in sow’s housing. In recent years, there has been increased interest in less intensive production systems for pigs, including outdoor production. The issue of sow’s housing and its relation to welfare has been investigated for sometime now (SVC, 1997; McGlone et al., 2004). Concerns over animal welfare combined with European based scientific data have led to the progressive removal of gestation stalls in several European countries, and from 2013 the use of stalls will be restricted throughout the European Union. Therefore one of the greatest challenges in swine housing management is the development of a viable alternative to stalls. In this way, we carried out a study to (1) compare the agonistic behaviour of two breeds of sows moved from individual stalls to an outdoor park, and to (2) determine the evolution of behaviour throughout four weeks of study for each breed.
The relationship between in vitro and in situ dry matter disappearance of some Iranian feedstuffs in sheep
Authors: Paya H. , Taghizadeh A. , Janmohamadi H. , Moghadam G.A
Published: June 2019

Ration formulation systems require information on nutrient requirements of the animal and reliable values for rumen degradable and undegradable fractions of feed ingredients. The in situ nylon-bag technique is widely used to characterize the disappearance of feeds from the rumen (Woods et al., 2002). The objective of this study was determining of relationship between in vitro and in situ dry matter disappearance.
Evaluation of nutritive value of tropical clover (Trifolium resupinatum) using gas production technique
Authors: Taghizadeh A.T. , Najafnejad B. , Noori R.
Published: June 2019

Gas measurement provides a useful data on digestion kinetics of both soluble and insoluble fractions of feedstuffs (Getachew et al., 1998). Carbohydrate portion of each feed is divided into three digestible fraction: the A fraction, containing sugars, short oligosaccharides, and organic acids; the B1 fraction, containing starch and pectin; and B2, the digestible fibre fraction (Doane et al. 1998). The objective of this study was to measure of fermentation parameters of tropical clover (Trifolium resupinatum) (pre bud, full bud, pre bloom and full bloom) using gas production technique.
The chemical composition and in vitro digestibility of pistachio by-product
Authors: Bohluli Atiyeh , Naserian Abasali , Valizadeh Reza , Eftekarshahroodi Fereydon
Published: June 2019

Pistachio (pistachio vera) is from Anacardiaceae family. According to the FAO (2003) report, Iran is the largest pistachio producer in the world (more than 310,000 tons). The most three important exported pistachio nuts of Iran are Ohadi, Akbari and Kaleghuchi (Mohammadi, 2005). About 150,000 tons in DM of pistachio by-product (PB) is produced from dehulling process in Iran, annually. This by-product is mainly consisted of pistachio hulls (PH), and then peduncles, leaves and a little amount of mesocarp and kernels. In this experiment the chemical composition, Total Phenolic Content (TPC) and tannin amount of PB and PH of Ohadi, Kaleghuchi and white varieties were determined; also, In Vitro Dry Matter and Organic Matter Digestibility (IVDMD and IVOMD) were measured.
Effects of a bacterial inoculant on chemical composition and fermentation parameters of corn silage ensiled in a laboratory silo
Authors: Rezaeian M. , Chaudhry A. S. , Honarzad J.
Published: June 2019

The use of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) as microbial inoculants in order to increase bacterial fermentation and decrease the pH of silage which in turn inhibit the growth of undesirable microbes and provide stable ensiling conditions has been well documented (McDonald, 1991). Although corn silage is used as major forage for dairy cattle at most commercial farms in Iran no information is available regarding the suitability of LAB for their use as inoculants in preparing corn silage. The objective of this study was therefore to determine the effects of the addition of a bacterial inoculant on chemical composition and fermentation characteristics of corn forage ensiled in 2 kg laboratory silos.
Comparison of effects of different fat sources and their blend on broiler performance
Authors: Shivazad Mahmoud , Ramzani Mohammad , Eela Nima , Lotfolaheian Hooshang , Seidavi Alireza
Published: June 2019

Arian broiler is one of the most important strains in Iran. There are many fat sources in poultry nutrition at Iran and other countries. These fat sources have different effects on broiler performance. Various fatty acids absorbed separately and differently in chicken lumen. Fats, especially linoleic acid have main effects on microbial flora at chicken (Pesti et al., 2002). Meanwhile fat sources have important share in costs of diet formulation. The aim of current experiment was to evaluate the effects of different fat sources and their blend on broiler performance.
Investigation of feeding betaine as an osmoprotectant in broiler chicks
Authors: Honarbakhsh Shirin , Zaghari Mojtaba , Shivazad Mahmood
Published: June 2019

Trimethylglycine has two primary metabolic roles: it is a methyl group donor and an osmolyte that assists in cellular water homeostasis. Tissues that rely on zwitterionic betaine as an osmolyte include the intestines, kidney, liver, brain and leukocytes. Osmolytes are particularly important in situations in which cellular dehydration is present because these compounds help minimize water loss despite a prevailing osmotic gradient. Thus, water balance homeostasis is an important factor for cells exposed to a variety of osmotic conditions (Klasing et al., 2002). For example, the osmotic pressure of the intestinal contents varies during the process of digestion. The osmotic difference between the intestinal epithelium and the luminal fluid is likely to necessitate means to control the osmotic pressure inside the intestinal epithelial cells. Betaine, as an organic compatible osmolyte, is one of the most likely candidates for the task.
Study on the effects of Saccharomyces cerevisiae SC47 on broiler performance and immune organs
Authors: Hosseini Seyed Abdollah , Lotfollahian Houshang , Shariatmadari Farid , Mahdavi Ali
Published: June 2019

Several researches was conducted to investigate the effect of Saccharomyces cerevisiae on poultry performance, but Saccharomyces cerevisiae has an especial quality that makes its more noticeable for continuing research about its. This quality is:a) improving fatty acid digestibility (Kautz and Arens,1998), Improving of ether extract, cellulose digestibility and retention of nitrogen 2) improving of Phosphors digestibility(3) b) Stimulation of immunity c)improving of bronchitis and gambro Elisa titer d) have a several strain. According to this, an exprement was conducted to investigated the effects of SC47 on broilers performance and immune organs.
Conservation grazing
Authors: Hosking Julian
Published: June 2019

‘Conservation grazing’ is normally interpreted to mean livestock grazing for wildlife conservation purposes. Farm livestock grazing is essential for the management of many of the United Kingdom’s most important habitats. For example, permanent grassland, heathland, wood pasture, floodplain and coastal marshes all require some grazing to maintain the structure and composition upon which a wide variety of wild plants and animals depend for their survival. Farming activities have played a significant role in shaping these habitats over time and the continuation of certain livestock husbandry practices is often crucial for their sustained existence. The key livestock species utilised for conservation grazing are cattle, equines (mainly ponies), sheep, goats and occasionally pigs. Wild herbivores (e.g. deer and rabbits) may also play a significant part in conservation grazing outcomes.
Livestock and water in developing countries with an emphasis on Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Peden DG
Published: June 2019

Projected increased demand for food in developing countries over the next 30 years implies a correspondingly great need for additional agricultural water unless integrated research and development can achieve much higher water-use efficiencies. Without appropriate innovations in water management, poor access, quality and supply will continue to constrain food production. A global consortium recently completed the Comprehensive Assessment of Water Management and Agriculture (CA 2007) and identified many options for overcoming water-related constraints to sustainable food production in developing countries. Historically, research and development of water resources has neglected the potential benefits and impacts of livestock. Apart from drinking water, livestock professionals have not given adequate attention to the use of and impact of domestic animals on water and related environmental health. In the absence of good science, popular literature is often highly critical of livestock production because of its perceived excess depletion of vital water resources. The CA uniquely attempted to address this issue (Peden 2007). This paper summarizes the CA’s findings about livestock for the benefit of the British Society of Animal Science (BSAS) and the wider livestock research community.
Innovative in vitro and ex vivo models for studying bovine hoof biology
Authors: Muelling Christoph KW , Nebel Ulrike , Wuestenberg Rya-Yvonne
Published: June 2019

Research into the biology and physiopathology of the bovine claw has become interdisciplinary employing epidemiology, cellular and molecular biology. Foot disorders in cattle are a global problem causing substantial economic losses to farmers. New hypotheses demonstrate possible links between systemic problems and local damage in the claw. Tissue explant and cell culture studies have already provided important insights into regulation of differentiation in healthy and diseased claw tissue (Hendry et al 1997, 2003; Nebel et al 2002, 2004). Detailed knowledge of the links between systemic events and the claw tissue as well as knowledge on the local regulatory cascades in response to metabolic and biomechanical challenges provide the key to understanding of the development of claw diseases. The development and experimental application of novel organotypic in vitro culture systems and an ex vivo isolated haemoperfused distal cow limb model (Wüstenberg 2004) was a major task and outcome of the EU framework 5 project Lamecow (http://www.abdn.ac.uk/lamecow).
Effects of equine back massage pads on stress indicators by the assessment of behaviour, heart rate and salivary cortisol
Authors: Harris A , Northrop A J , Martin J H , Adjei L J
Published: June 2019

Equine massage therapy is becoming increasingly popular, particularly the use of electronic pads which eliminate the need for a masseur and make the treatment more accessible. Domestic horses live in conditions that are different to which they are naturally adapted. Horses are free roaming, social trickle feeders but modern management houses them in isolation and confinement with little or no social interaction and highly concentrated feeding regimes (Harewood and McGowan, 2005). The inability to carry out these behaviours may lead to stress. Stress may alter the biochemistry of the body and could affect reproduction, growth, metabolism and immune function, which in turn may reduce the performance potential of an individual. Stress can have a negative effect on welfare so it is the responsibility of horse owners to reduce stress. Massage may help in stress reduction due to a similarity to mutual grooming, believed to be a goal directed behaviour and have a reward of stress reduction (McBride et al., 2004). The effect of massage on horses, particularly with an electronic massage pad is not established. The aim of the study was to examine the effect of an electronic pad on the stress perception of domestic horses.
The relationship between judge assessment of ‘collective marks’ and overall performance within an elite level dressage competition
Authors: Whitaker T C , Mills A A , Kane R , Murray R
Published: June 2019

Dressage competitions consist of the subjective scoring of a number of set movements performed in a specific order within an arena. Hinnemann and van Baalen (2003) suggested that the ‘collective’ marks awarded are a good judgement of the relative behaviour of a horse performing a dressage test. Those animals that are observed to be more relaxed, calm and appear comfortable in their work are generally awarded higher collective marks. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between collective marks and overall score (i.e. level of performance) within a dressage competition.
Ovarian status, uterine pathology and physical condition of anoestrus and culled buffaloes in Chitwan, Nepal
Authors: Bhuminand D , Prasad B Tapendra , Kumar S Amit , Motozumi M , Yoh-Ichi M
Published: June 2019

Buffaloes are the major production animals in most of the South Asian countries including Nepal. The buffalo, however, is a sluggish breeder and is beset with various constraints which adversely influence its fertility; such as, problems of silent heat coupled with poor expression of oestrus, irregular oestrus cycles, anoestrus, prolonged days open and low conception rates (Madan and Prakash, 2006). Among them, anoestrus is the most commonly encountered condition leading to reproductive failure and culling in buffaloes. However, the ovarian status of such buffaloes is poorly understood. The present study aims to investigate the ovarian status, uterine pathology and physical condition of anoestrus and culled buffaloes in Chitwan, Nepal. The buffaloes in Nepal are generally culled if they fail to conceive for long time or the production is seized.
Linseed oil or sunflower oil as supplements in horse compound feedstuffs : effects on plasma insulin and on plasma triglycerides fatty acids
Authors: Robaye V , Dufrasne I , Dotreppe O , Istasse L , Hornick J L
Published: June 2019

Sport horses tend to be offered diets high in concentrate during trainings and races. These concentrates are mainly made of cereals, which are high in starch. Owing to this high level of starch, associated disturbances, such as gastrointestinal disorders or laminitis can be observed. Fat has been suggested as an alternative compound to starch. Oil can increase the energy content of the diet and also supplies essential fatty acids. Linseed oil, incorporated into equine diets has been shown to reduce the extent of the plasma insulin profile and the arachidonic acid (C20:4 n-6) content in the plasma, while it increased the alpha linolenic acid (C18:3 n-3) content (Istasse et al, 2007). The aim of the present trial was to compare linseed oil high in C18:3 n-3 with sunflower oil high in linoleic acid (C18:2 n-6), when incorporated in a compound feedstuff.
Decrease in methane emissions in dairy cows with increase in dietary linseed content
Authors: Martin C , Ferlay A , Chilliard Y , Doreau M
Published: June 2019

Because ruminants make a significant contribution to greenhouse gas emissions, attempts are being made by dietary manipulation, to mitigate methane emissions without altering animal performance. Dietary fat supply may be a promising solution (Martin et al., 2008a). A first experiment has shown that increasing extruded linseed supply in a hay-based diet resulted in a decrease in methane production (Martin et al., 2007). A second experiment has been carried out using a maize silage-based diet and the same linseed supply. The present abstract summarises the results of both experiments.
The effects of sire genotype and the porcine circovirus type 2 vaccine on the growth performance of pigs from weaning to slaughter
Authors: Taylor A , Jagger S , Toplis P , Wellock I , Miller H M
Published: June 2019

Crossbreeding is common practice in commercial pig production as one way to increase lean growth and improve meat quality (Visscher et al., 2000). Reducing disease is another way to help improve growth rate in pigs. Porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) has devastated the pig industry in recent years. PCV2 infection increases mortality and reduces growth rate as it acts as an immunosuppressant thereby making pigs more susceptible to co-infections (Kixmöller et al 2008). Keeping disease at low levels has been achieved by improving husbandry standards, biosecurity, minimising presence of other pathogens and use of antibiotics. However vaccines against PVC2 are now available. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of sire genotype and PCV2 vaccine on growth performance and body composition of pigs.
Meta-analysis of the halothane gene effect on parameters of pig meat quality
Authors: Salmi B , Bidanel J , Larzul C
Published: June 2019

Technological meat quality has a significant economic impact and many publications have shown that pig meat quality is strongly influenced by the effect of genetic type (especially Hal and RN genes) and by rearing and slaughter conditions (Sellier and Monin, 1994). The quality of meat is generally assessed by measuring meat pH at different times post mortem, colour or drip loss. Our study consists on a meta-analysis based on 11 publications in order to assess the possibility of predicting the effects of halothane gene, sex, breed and slaughter weight of animals on three selected parameters: pH at 45 minutes post mortem (pH45), ultimate pH (pHu) and reflectance (L*-value).
Comprehensive evaluation of the direct effects of LM-QTL on carcass traits in crossbred lambs
Authors: Masri A , Macfarlane J M , Lambe N , Haresign W , Ruis-Vilarrasa E , Bunger L
Published: June 2019

LoinMax (LM-QTL) increases M. longissimus dorsi (MLD) area and weight by 11% and 8% respectively (Nicoll et al., 1998). It was found to segregate in Australian Poll Dorset sheep (Banks, 1997) and has been mapped to chromosome 18 (Nicoll et al., 1998). The UK sheep industry may benefit from using LM-QTL to increase yield of the highly priced loin region. However, before being utilised, the effects of LM-QTL need to be verified in a genetic background typical to the stratified structure of the UK sheep industry.
Evidence for segregation of a third gene with a major effect on ovarian function in Cambridge sheep
Authors: Hanrahan J P
Published: June 2019

Normal development of ovarian follicles leading to ovulation depends on interactions between the oocyte and somatic cells in the follicle as well as the general physiological milieu. The oocyte-secreted molecules bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15) and growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF9) are essential for normal ovarian follicle growth and function (Shimisaki et al. 2003). Mutations in both BMP15 (FecXG) and GDF9 (FecGH) have been shown to be segregating in the Cambridge breed and ewes that are heterozygous carriers of either of these mutations have greatly increased ovulation rate while homozygous carriers of either mutation are sterile with a typical ovarian hypoplasia (Hanrahan et al. 2004). The sterility is due to failure of follicular development to progress beyond the primary follicle stage. However, not all cases of ovarian hypoplasia in Cambridge ewes could be explained by these mutations and sequencing of the entire coding regions for these genes did not reveal any mutations that could account for their typical sterile phenotype (Hanrahan et al. 2004). It was suggested, based on pedigree analysis of the four ‘unexplained’ sterile ewes, that another gene was responsible. The present report concerns the available evidence concerning this hypothesis.
The effect of genotype and diet on lamb meat quality from hill sheep systems
Authors: Speijers M H M , Dawson L E R , Carson A F , Kilpatrick D J , Moss B W
Published: June 2019

Crossbreeding can be used in the hill sector to improve the efficiency of production. Carsonet al. (2001) showed that ram breed substitution increased lamb output per ewe by 24% with concomitant improvements in carcass quality. However, information is required for a range of crossing sire breeds for the hill sector to enable the most effective crossbreeding programmes to be developed. Therefore, the primary aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of a range of lamb genotypes on lamb meat quality. Furthermore, a range of production systems (long-keep grass-based systems to short-keep concentrate-based systems) are used to finish hill lambs. Diet type (i.e. roughage-versus concentrate-based) can also affect lamb growth rates and carcass characteristics (Carsonet al., 2001). Consequently, a secondary aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of diet and its interaction with lamb genotype on lamb meat quality.
The effect of alpha-tocopherol concentration and antioxidant enzyme activities on the shelf life stability of beef from different feeding systems
Authors: Garcia-Galicia I , Richardson R I , Ball R , Coulmier D , Scollan N D
Published: June 2019

The oxidative stability of meat depends upon a combination of pro-and antioxidants and the degree of unsaturation of its lipid classes. When animals graze grass the concentrations of α-tocopherol and β-carotene in meat and fat increase and decrease when they are fed concentrates. Supplementation with α-tocopherol acetate increased αtocopherol concentration in the meat of concentrate-fed animals, less so for grass-grazed animals (Descalzo et al., 2005; Realini et al., 2004). Less is known about the relationship between diet, antioxidant enzymes systems such as Superoxide dismutase (SOD) and Catalase (CAT), and the oxidative stability of meat. This study aimed to determine the influence of a forage versus a concentrate diet fed to beef cattle, and an additional treatment with a PUFA-rich lucerne-based plant extract (PX), on the antioxidant profile of their meat, and its relationship with lipid oxidation and colour shelf life. The addition of PX raised the unsaturated nature of the beef muscle lipids and thus increased the oxidative stress (Kim et al., 2009).
Evaluation of genetic trends for milk yield and somatic cell counts in the Holstein breed in terms of changes in the lactation curve
Authors: Mrode R , Coffey M P , Moore K
Published: June 2019

The use of test day model (TDM) for genetic evaluation results in predicted transmitting abilities (PTAs) for any stage of lactation. However, in the United Kingdom (UK), publication and selection of parents are still based on PTAs computed on a 305-day basis from the random regression coefficients of the TDM. It is expected from selection index theory, that selection on 305-day PTAs would place different weights on PTAs at different days in milk (DIM). This could result in changes in the lactation curve of animals over time as a result of genetic progress. This study evaluates genetic trends in terms of changes in PTAs at different DIM for production traits and somatic cell counts (SCC) in the Holstein breed. In addition, the inclusion of SCC in the national profitable life index (£PLI) is based on its relationship with milk computed on a 305-day basis. This study also examines what impact such selection has on the relationship between PTAs for milk and SCC at different DIM.
Selection for milk production in a single Holstein herd: effects on correlated traits
Authors: Pollott G E , Coffey M P
Published: June 2019

Selection is the main tool used by animal breeders to improve the performance of their stock. Despite large gains being made at industry level in the major dairy traits (Royal et al, 2000) very few reports exist for the results of experiments on persistent selection for dairy traits in a single herd, particularly with reference to the correlated effects on other dairy traits. This paper reports one such set of results between 1980 and 2005 from SAC’s Langhill herd, which has been under maximal selection for milk production during this period.
Effects of replacing grass silage with maize silage or concentrates on lamb output from housed pregnant ewes
Authors: Annett R W , Carson A F
Published: June 2019

Rations for pregnant ewes in the UK are often based on grass silage. However, due to a number of factors, the cost of producing high quality grass silage has increased significantly in recent years so lower cost alternatives need to be investigated. Production of forage maize has the potential to reduce forage costs on mixed beef/sheep farms, with high dry-matter yields (comparable to that of a 3-cut silage system) of high quality maize silage possible from a single harvesting operation (Easson and Fearnehough, 2000). However there is limited information on the effects of feeding maize silage to pregnant ewes. Alternatively, grass silage could be eliminated from rations by feeding high grain diets. The aims of this study were to evaluate the effects of replacing grass silage with either maize silage or concentrates on the performance of housed pregnant ewes and their lambs.
Performance of crossbred Welsh Mountain ewes in the hill environment
Authors: Wolf B T , McLean B M L , Davies O D , Griffiths J B
Published: June 2019

The Welsh Mountain sheep is a numerically important breed in the UK, but its lambs are characterised by low slaughter weights and poor carcass conformation. The reduction in stocking rates that is often associated with environmental conservation schemes, offers the potential for the use of larger ewes. Crossbreeding allows more rapid genetic change to be undertaken than would be possible from selection within breeds, and affords the potential to utilise heterosis and improve the quality of subsequent crosses with the Bluefaced Leicester. This work compared the survival and productivity of purebred Welsh Mountain ewes with a range of crossbred ewe types maintained in a hill environment.
Comparison of the performance of finishing beef cattle offered grass silage and legume / cereal wholecrop silage either alone or in combination with grass silage
Authors: Kennedy P , Dawson L E R
Published: June 2019

In Northern Ireland grass silage is the basal forage for beef cattle during the winter feeding period. Increasingly however, other ensiled forages are being considered due to their potentially lower cost and perceived conservation and nutritional attributes. Wholecrop cereals such as wheat have been shown to improve dry matter (DM) intake but not animal performance (Keady et al, 2007). With increasing volatility in world markets creating major fluctuations in protein prices, interest has increased in home grown protein sources. High protein legumes with low input costs, such as lupins have given reasonable animal performance when offered as a monoculture. However, limited scientific research has been undertaken on the role of legumes in combination with a cereal as a bi-crop for finishing beef cattle. Consequently the objective of the current study was to evaluate the effects of legume/cereal wholecrop offered either alone or in combination with grass silage on the performance of beef cattle.
Effects of dietary protein concentration on the efficiency of nitrogen utilisation in lactating dairy cows
Authors: Yan T , Young F J , Patterson D C , Mayne C S
Published: June 2019

The European Union Nitrates Directives set a limit on the amount (170 kg/ha) of manure nitrogen (N, = faecal N + urine N) that may be applied to land each year. This limit has very significant implications for stocking rates on intensive livestock farms. Consequently, there is increasing interest in developing mitigation strategies to reduce N output in faeces and urine in animal production systems. The objectives of the present study were to evaluate the effects of dietary crude protein (CP) concentration on the efficiency of N utilisation in lactating dairy cows.
Manipulating the fatty acid composition of lipids in the digital cushion of the bovine claw
Authors: Baird L G , O’Connell N E , Young I S
Published: June 2019

The fatty acid (FA) composition of animal tissues is influenced by many factors including age, dietary forage to concentrate ratio, breed and energy status. Despite a high degree of bio-hydrogenation of unsaturated FA’s in the rumen, another crucial influence on tissue FA composition is the FA composition of the diet. Feeding linseed has been shown to increase omega-3 (n-3) polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) in beef. Altering the fat content and composition of the bovine digital cushion has potential implications for lameness in cattle. This study aimed to test the hypothesis that cattle offered extruded linseed would show a marked difference in FA composition in the lipids of the digital cushion compared to cattle offered a diet with no linseed.
An investigation of calf rearing practices on dairy farms in Northern Ireland
Authors: Morrison S , Carson A F , Matthews D , Mulholland M
Published: June 2019

Without a detailed understanding of how calf rearing is performed in practice, it is difficult to establish 1) the effectiveness of technology transfer initiatives and 2) how best to focus future research efforts. In view of this, the objective of the current study was to investigate calf rearing practices on Northern Ireland dairy farms.
Use of selenium enriched fertilizers in the management of a suckling herd: effects over a 5 year period
Authors: Robaye V , Dotreppe O , Hornick J L , Paeffgen S , Istasse L , Dufrasne I
Published: June 2019

Antioxidant mechanisms, immune responses, reproduction, thyroid metabolism are processes in which the trace element selenium (Se) is involved. In beef production with suckling herds, a Se deficiency could impair animal health resulting in reduced incomes. In Belgium the Se content in locally produced feedstuffs is low and thus, in beef farms where locally produced feedstuffs are fed for the entire year, symptoms of Se deficiency are observed. The aim of the present study was to assess the effect, of Se enriched fertilizers on the Se content of feedstuffs and on the Se status of cattle.
The behaviour of cows in response to rubber mats in milking parlour stalls
Authors: Gudaj R , Blackie N , Bleach E , Scaife J R , Amory J
Published: June 2019

High-yielding dairy cows are at risk of injuries causing lameness due to the hard, abrasive nature or slipperiness of the usual concrete floor surface (Cook et al., 2004). These problems can be exacerbated by the milking procedure that includes crowding of cows and possible sharp turns at the entrance and exit of the parlour. Rubber mats on walkways have been shown to reduce injury (Rushen and Passillé, 2006) and are preferred by cows to a concrete or slatted surface (Telezhenko et al., 2007). A recent installation of rubber matting in the milking stalls of a 15 cows per side (30-30) rapid exit parlour provided an opportunity to observe potential effects on cow behaviour. The mats were introduced to one side at a time and then to both sides and the aim was to determine whether the rubber matting had any significant effects on social interaction immediately prior to entering the milking stalls and the time taken for 15 cows to take their places.
Spatial distribution of Scottish Blackface ewes in comparison to other crossbreds on a hill environment
Authors: McCloskey E P , McAdam J H , Carson A F
Published: June 2019

Domestic sheep have a strong social tendency (Dwyer and Lawrence, 1999). Sheep recognise members of their own flock, and social bonds can determine grazing distribution. The distribution and distance between grazing ewes can vary widely depending on availability and quality of vegetation. However it tends to be a characteristic of breed (Sibbald and Hooper, 2003). Hill sheep breeds are known to have a higher flexibility than lowland breeds (Dwyer and Lawrence, 1999) and tend to have less need to be close to other animals in free ranging environments. The aim of this study was to monitor the behaviour and grazing patterns of a traditional upland breed, Scottish Blackface ewes in comparison to a range of other crossbred ewes.
Cluster analysis of farming systems according to predisposing factors of lameness in dairy sheep
Authors: Gelasakis A , Arsenos G , Valergakis G E , Fortomaris P , Banos G
Published: June 2019

Work on lameness has been focused on meat sheep but there is limited information on dairy sheep. Lameness is a welfare problem, which reduces productivity and it is a major problem in most sheep keeping countries (Winter, 2008). The latter is important for Greece which is ranked second (after Italy) in milk sheep production in Europe (deRancourt et al. 2006). The objective of this study was twofold. Firstly, to characterise the farming system in a representative sample of dairy sheep flocks, and to categorise them in certain clusters in relation to predisposing factors of lameness. Secondly, to assess the prevalence and the major epidemiological characteristics of lameness.
Influence of time of measurement post mortem on the near infra-red spectra of beef Longissimus dorsi and prediction of tenderness
Authors: Moss B W , Gordon A
Published: June 2019

Prediction of eating quality of beef at an early stage post mortem would enable selection of carcases for specific markets. Shackelford (2004) reported the design of near infra red (NIR) equipment suitable for measurement of larger areas of the muscle and also the prediction of 14 day slice shear force values from NIR measurements made at 2 days post slaughter (Shackelford 2005). The aim of the present study was to evaluate the use of equipment of a similar design and manufacture to that used by Shackelford et al (2005), to evaluate repeatability and time of measurement of NIR spectra on the prediction of Warner-Bratzler Shear force values.
Genetic parameters for carcass dimensional measurements from Video Image Analysis and their association with conformation and fat class scores
Authors: Rius-Vilarrasa E , Bünger L , Brotherstone S , Matthews K , Haresign W , Macfarlane J M , Davies M , Roehe R
Published: June 2019

Automatic technologies based on video image analysis (VIA) to assess lamb carcass value offer an accurate measure of weight of individual carcass components (Rius-Vilarrasa et al., 2008). In addition, VIA systems offer the possibility to record linear and area traits (dimensional measurements) on the carcass. Linear measurements on the body and carcass have been suggested by several authors as good indicators of live weight, conformation score and production traits in beef and sheep (Maiwashe et al., 2002; Janssens et al., 2004). Therefore, the aims of this study were (1) to estimate genetic parameters for VIA dimensional measurements (VIA-DM) and (2) to investigate the associations between VIA-DM with carcass conformation and fatness.
Cyprinus carpio as a biomarker to monitor metal pollution in the Indus River, Pakistan
Authors: Jabeen F , Chaudhry A S
Published: June 2019

Fish has been regarded as a source of nutritious and highly desirable food. This is due to its high quality meat which is rich in essential amino acids, beneficial fatty acids, calcium, phosphorus and vitamins. However, the pollution of the aquatic environment with heavy metals has become a serious health concern for fish and human populations. Industrial and agricultural discharges are considered as the primary source of metal poisoning of fish (Pandey, 2003). The aim of this study was to assess the bioaccumulation of trace metals in samples of skin, scales, gills and fins of fish to monitor freshwater pollutions. This information may help adopt practices to avoid the impacts of these pollutants on the aquatic and human populations.
The effect of days dry on milk production and fertility in subsequent lactation of high producing Holstein cows
Authors: Mesgaran S Danesh , Moussavi A Heravi , Koolabadi G , Banikamali A
Published: June 2019

Several studies have indicated that reducing the length of the dry period to less than 60 days had a more detrimental effect between the first and second lactation than between later lactations (Annen et al., 2004). Other studies demonstrated that a dry period less than 40 days reduces milk yield in the subsequent lactation (Sørensen and Enevoldsen., 1991). Several experiments designed to examine the effects of reducing the days dry to approximately 4 weeks have shown no difference in milk production and/or fat corrected milk in the subsequent lactation (Gulay et al., 2003). The aim of the present experiment was to determine the effect of days dry (from 10 to 90 days, 10 days interval) on subsequent milk production and fertility of high producing Iranian Holstein cows.
Effects of dry period length on follicular dynamics in early lactating Holstein cows
Authors: Soleimani A , Moussavi A Heravi , Mesgaran M Danesh , Safa S
Published: June 2019

For profitable production of milk, a nonlactating or dry period is established between lactations of dairy cow. There has been substantial recent interest in shortening dry periods. Physiological studies show that the changes the udder goes through to prepare for the next lactation take about three weeks, and yet current advice is that the most appropriate dry period for a modern dairy cow is 45 to 60 days. More recent studies show good reason to question that advice, and suggest dry periods of 30 to 35 days have no detrimental effect on production, but information relating the effects of dry period to subsequent reproductive performance of lactating cows is sparse (Grummer, 2007). Also, the effect of this management change on follicular dynamic has not been adequately evaluated. Therefore, the objective of the present study was to determine the effects of dry period length on follicular dynamics in early lactating Holstein cows.