bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Milchaufnahme und Wachstumsleistung von Saugkälbern der Deutschen Rotbunten und der Deutschen Schwarzbunten im alten Typ während der Winterstallhaltung Einflüsse durch das Geschlecht und das Alter des Kalbes
Authors: Steinhardt M. , Thielscher H.-H.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Title of the paper: Milk ingestion and growth performance of suckler calves born during winter stalling from German Red and White breed and from old type German Black and White breed in a cow-calf operation On 14 calves from German Red and White breed and on 17 calves from old type German Black and White breed in a cow-calf operation measurements of body weight were done repeatedly during growth after separating the calves from the dams for 150 min and than again after the calves had contacted the dams for 60 min. Measurements took place always at the same daytime. Milk ingestion of calves was assessed by way of body weight difference method. Acute body weight difference varied markedly between calves and increased with age. The fraction of positive weight difference of all measurements was between 60 % and 86,2 % (male 60 % and 86,2 %; female 67,6 % and 80,6 %) in DRB breed and between 69,1 % and 89,3 % (male 72,9 % and 89,3 %; female 69,1 % and 82,6 %) in DSB breed. Means of all measurements showed a significant difference of acute positive body weight change and of growth rate between breeds and sexes. Mean acute positive body weight changes developed with life age and body growth with different degree in male and female calves. Growth rate of calves showed greater inter- and intraindividual variation from 1 to 10 days of life age. Differences in growth rate between male and female calves were more profound in DRB breed than in DSB breed.
Optimalization of Salmonella detection in chickens’ caecum using PCR method (short communication)
Authors: Heinrich R. , Lauková A. , Strompfová V. , Revajová V. , Levkut M. , Pistl J.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. PCR analysis is regarded to be a quick and reliable method of Salmonella detection in food and animal samples. The mode of sampling and sample preparation influence the sensitivity and accuracy of the analysis. The 10 days old, clinically healthy Salmonella-free chickens were experimentally infected with Salmonella enterica subsp. Enteritidis strain. Five randomly selected birds were euthanized at intervals from 2 days to 16 days post-infection (pi). DNA detection with polymerase chain reaction (PCR) as a mean of identifying Salmonella infection in chickens' caecum was used. The caecal sample was diluted into LB medium and incubated to eliminate inhibitory compounds and to allow enrichment of the bacteria. The DNA was extracted from cultures by boiling method. The pair of primers used was those directed at the invA gene. As expected a 243 bp fragment DNA was amplified from extracted DNA by PCR. Salmonella DNA was detected throughout the entire test period. The number of chickens containing salmonellae in caecum varied during the 16 days post-infection between 100% and 60%. The stated sensitivity of PCR reaction was 1 CFU of used strain in pure culture. The faeces and caecum content were simultaneously examined by conventional culture procedure. The microbiological examinations showed the presence of salmonellae in faeces during the entirely experiment. The results of this study confirm that PCR is a useful tool for the detection of Salmonella infection in poultry.
Impact of trainer and judges in the mare performance test of Warmblood Horses
Authors: Dietl G. , Hoffmann S. , Reinsch N.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Data of the mare performance test of the Mecklenburger Warmblood Horses were used to estimate genetic and phenotypic (co-)variance components. The data set included the records of 1628 mares tested on station in the years 1993 to 2004. The pedigree contained information of 9560 horses. The investigated traits were trot, canter, walk, manner, ability and ride ability, according to trainer, judges and foreign riders. The estimated heritability coefficients, genetic and phenotypic correlations are in the range of the results report by other authors. The ride ability earns an exception position because a very low heritability was found. A comparison of the heritability coefficients between the trainers' scores and judges' scores makes very evident that the trainers are more able to evaluate the breeding value of the mare. This can probably be caused by the longer observation time of trainers during the stay of the mare on station lasting 14 days in comparison to the judges having only approximately 10 minutes. The current weights of trainers' scores and of judges' scores with 0.5 to 0.5 to generate the total score is not optimal. A stronger emphasis on the scores of the trainers promises an increasing breeding success of approximately 5 to 7 percent.
Milchaufnahme und Wachstumsleistung der Saugkälber (Kreu-zungstiere Galloway x F1 Galloway x Holstein Friesian) einer Mut-terkuhhaltung. Einflüsse durch das Geschlecht und das Alter des Kalbes sowie durch das Alter der Kuh
Authors: Steinhardt M. , Thielscher H.-H.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Title of the paper: Milk ingestion and growth performance of suckler calves (cross breeds Galloway x F1 Galloway x Holstein Friesian) from a cow-calf operation. Effects of sex and of life age of calf and of the age of dam On cross breeds (Galloway x F1 Galloway x Holstein Friesian; 12 calves from first pregnancy, 13 calves from second pregnancy; 10 male and 15 female) in a cow-calf operation measurements of body weight were done repeatedly during growth after separating the calves from the dams for 150 min and than again after the calves had contacted the dams for 60 min. Measurements took place always at the same daytime. Milk ingestion of calves was assessed by way of body weight difference method. Acute body weight difference varied markedly between calves and increased with age. The fraction of positive weight difference of all measurements was between 57,1 % and 91,8 % in calves from first pregnancy and between 54,8 % and 90,5 % in calves from second pregnancy the means of which were not significantly different. Mean acute positive body weight changes developed with life age and body growth with different degree in male and female calves. Greatest acute positive body weight changes of calves could be measured at 40 to 70 days of age (70 kg to 100 kg body weight). Growth rate of calves showed greater inter- and intraindividual variation within the first 10 days of life age. Differences in growth rate between male and female calves were more profound in calves from first then in those from second pregnancy.
Machine Learning as an aid to management decisions on high somatic cell counts in dairy farms
Authors: Goyache F. , Díez J. , López S. , Pajares G. , Santos B. , Fernández I. , Prieto M.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. High somatic cell counts (SCC) is associated with mastitis infection, in dairy herds, worldwide. This work describes Machine Learning (ML) techniques designed to improve the information offered to farmers on animals producing high SCCs according to particular herd profiles. The analysed population included 71 dairy farms in Asturias (Northern Spain) and a total of 2,407 lactating cows. Four sources of information were available: a) a questionnaire survey describing facilities, milking routines and management practices of the farms studied; b) dairy recording information; c) classification of the cows suspected of being healthy or subclinical mastitic according to farmers’ expertise; and d) positive or negative scores with respect to the California Mastitis Test (CMT). The decimal logarithm of the SCC (linear score), lactation number, herd size, lactating cows per milker, milk urea concentration, number of clusters per milker and actual SCC are shown to be the most informative attributes for mimicking both farmers’ expertise or CMT performance in order to identify animals producing persistently high SCCs in dairy herds. However, to improve the identification of cows suspected of being non-healthy, the system uses other information related to management and milking routines. Decision rules to predict CMT performance can provide useful, additional information to farmers to improve the management of dairy herds included in milk recording programs.
Nutzung des Ultraschalls in der Schlachtleistungsprüfung und Zuchtwertschätzung für Schafe
Authors: Gernand E. , Lenz H.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Title of the paper: Using of Ultrasound for estimation of carcass composition and prediction of breeding value for sheep’s In Thuringia the subjective visual conformation scores of carcasses for blade (BL), leg (K), back (R), fat overlay (OF) and kidney fat (NF) were added by ultrasonic muscle (USK) and fat (USF) depths of living lambs. Heritabilitity estimates were carried out on 2654 slaughtered and 3228 living and ultrasonic-tested Merinolongwool lambs. Estimates of the subjective conformation scores were very low with 0.178 (BL); 0.143 (K); 0.165 (R) and 0.118 (OF). Slightly higher heritabilities could be estimated for NF (0.234), USK (0.26) and USF (0.174). The genetic correlations between conformation scores for muscle on one hand and OF and USF on the other hand were between 0.313 and 0.848. In contrast, the genetic correlation between USK on one hand and OF and USF on the other hand was rA = 0.022 and rA = −0.110, respectively). This may increase efficiency of breeding . By means of selection differences, it is recommended to use USK instead of blade and back, and USF instead of fat overlay in selection index.
Preliminary investigation into thermal stress during diurnal road transportation of young ostriches (Struthio Camelus) (short communication)
Authors: Piccione G. , Costa A. , Giudice E. , Caola G.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Diurnal road transportation influence on body temperature and on body weight was studied in 60 chick ostriches. Prior to the transportation, body temperature and body weight were recorded. On arrival, an elevation in body temperature and a decrease in body weight were observed. In particular, recording for body temperature were 39.34±0.16°C before the departure and 39.86±0.17°C at the arrival (P<0.001); for body weight, recordings were 1.72±0.05 kg before the departure, 1.64±0.07 kg at the arrival and 1.6±0.08 kg after 1 day (P<0.001). Only on the 4th day after the arrival the body temperature and on the 2nd to the 3rd day the body weight reached the exit values before departure. Analysis of the effect of transportation on body temperature and body weight was conducted by factorial analyses of variance (ANOVAs). Obtained results show physical sign of stress with a high body temperature and a low growth rate of chicks probably due to the diurnal transportation.
Estimation of variance components for production and fertility traits in Northern Thai dairy cattle to define optimal breeding strategies
Authors: König S. , Chongkasikit N. , Langholz H.-J.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Milk production in Thailand has been growing into an important agricultural sector, but it still faces numerous difficulties in environmental constraints. The main intention of this study was to identify significant environmental effects on production and fertility traits to give advices for farm management. Additionally, adjusting records for environmental impact is essential to define appropriate models for estimation of variance components and improving selection procedures. The data consists of production and reproduction records and body measurements from 2764 Holstein upgrade cows in 252 farms. With a body weight of 415 kg and a production level of 3668 kg milk Thai Holsteins only reach approximately 60 % of performances of Holsteins in temperate zones. Percentages of Holstein genes of cows and quality of roughage sources showed a certain effect on calving interval and services per conception but not on milk performances. Despite seasonal effects were not very pronounced on milk yield, there was a strong interaction between years and calving seasons. Estimates of variance components applying REML and animal models were in the range as expected, i.e. heritabilities for production traits between 0.34 and 0.37, for fertility lower than 0.03 and for body weight 0.46. Genetic correlations between fertility and production traits were near zero. Economic weights for milk yield and calving interval were derived as first derivation of profit functions and used for selection index calculations. Suc
Schilddrüsenhormone bei Milchrindern in Laufstallhaltung nach der Kalbung und bei deren Kälbern. Effekte einiger konstanter und variabler Faktoren
Authors: Steinhardt M. , Thielscher H.-H.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Title of the paper: Thyroid hormones in loose housed dairy cattle and in their newborn calves. Effects of some constant and variable factors On dairy cows (72 German Holstein Friesian, 8 German Red Pied, kept loose house) and on their newborn calves thyroid hormone and body temperature measurements and in calves body weight measurements were done and analysed considering lactation number and gestation length of the dam, sex and body weight of the calf, type of birth, daytime of birth and measurement. For gestation length, body weight and lactation number no effects on thyroid hormones could be found. Birth course was specified as GV1 (without assistance), GV2 (with little assistance by the herdsman, in some cases with mechanical support), and GV3 (with heavy traction, most with mechanical support). In GV2 the number of male calves was twice that of female calves. Sex of calf influenced effects of birth type in case of T4 and body temperature of the dam and effects of pH group in case of FT3 of the calf. Calves born without any support had significant greater T4, FT4 and FT3 concentrations than those with GV 2 and GV 3. Assisted birth types were significantly more frequent in pH groups pHG3 and pHG4 than in groups pHG1 and pHG2. In calves thyroid hormones had significant correlations with pCO2 and pH of calf venous blood and with the time elapsing between birth and sampling. In dams of group GV3 the means of FT4 and T4 were smaller than those in dams of GV1 and GV2 but this differences were not significant.
Studies on the development of the claws in new born calves of different breeds and crossbreds using Dual Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry (DXA)
Authors: Nüske S. , Hampe J. , Scholz A. M. , Förster M.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. This study evaluated claw development in 199 calves of different genetic background during the first 70 days of life. Dual Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry (DXA) was found to be a useful tool for this purpose. By the means of DXA, in humans as in animals, body constitution and composition can be examined in vivo. Thus, the whole body or body regions can be analyzed for the content of fat tissue, lean tissue, bone mineral content and bone mineral density. Large differences in claw parameters were observed, depending on the position of the claws, sex and breed, including interaction effects between gender and breeds. In all four pairs of claws, the medial claws had significantly higher contents of bone mineral than the lateral claws. All fore claws had a higher density than hind claws. Male calves showed significantly higher values than females in all measured parameters. Comparing breeds and crossbreds, pure German Holsteins had the lowest values in all parameters with exception of the R-value. Within breeds/crossbreds and gender various interactions could be found. Calves of first lactation cows had lower values than calves of elder cows. Calves with a small birth weight and calves originating of a multiple birth had significantly lower values of the scanned parameters than calves with higher birth weight or monoparous calves.
Effect of quality of sperm chromatin structure on in -vitro production of cattle embryos
Authors: Kątska-Książkiewicz L. , Bochenek M. , Ryńska B.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Bull effect on results of in vitro embryo production has been well documented. The aim of the present study was to find the relationship between quality of bull sperm chromatin and its effect on in vitro embryo production. Bovine in vitro matured oocytes were fertilized in vitro using capacitated spermatozoa (freshly ejaculated or frozen-thawed) of 12 bulls. Semen was simultaneously processed according to the sperm chromatin structure assay (SCSA) method and was analysed by flow cytometry. At least 3 replications of IVP with the same semen sample were done. The percentage of spermatozoa with abnormal chromatin ranged from 0.4% to 23.8%. All bulls used for the experiment were divided into three groups showing minimal (0.82% ± 6.82%), low (1.70% ± 15.82%) and high (18.16% ± 53.59%) percentages of spermatozoa with abnormal chromatin structure. Both cleavage rates and embryo development to the blastocyst stage were correlated significantly with sperm chromatin abnormalities and resulted in 23.1, 17.7 and 12.2% of blastocysts respectively for sperm with minimal, low and high percentages of chromatin abnormalities. The SCSA method may be used as a practical indicator of suitability of bull ejaculate for IVP purposes.
Persistency Within and Between Lactations in Morning, Evening and Daily Test Day Milk in Dairy Goats (short communication)
Authors: Pala A. , Savaş T.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Persistence in dairy animals can be used as selection criteria. Peak value in lactation can be used to predict total lactation production if within lactation persistence is high. This will provide information on early lactation and shorten generation interval. Major purpose of this study was to determine persistency within and between lactations of Turkish Saanen goats in morning, evening and daily milk yields. Two different methods were employed. One used ratios of the succeeding test days as dependent variables. The multivariate analyses indicated that effects of parity (P=0.05), year (P < 0.01), lactation length (P=0.05) and parity by year interaction (P < 0.01) were large. The other approach was to use within correlations and measure changes in milk production in different parities by using repeated measures analysis and modeling covariance structure using compound symmetry. The within correlations can be used as indicators of persistency. Effects of parity, test day and days in milk (DIM), DIM2, ln(DIM) and [ln(DIM)]2 on morning and evening values and total daily milk weights were analyzed to characterize the lactation curve. Values of DIM and repeated measure id number of the goats were added to the model within parity. Within lactation correlations were estimated as 0.22 for morning, 0.28 for evening and 0.27 for daily milk yield. Evening milk tests can alone be used to estimate lactation milk yield, instead of the total test day milk yield. Milk yield increased until lactation four, and decreased in lactation five in morning, evening and daily milk yields. There was a sharp increase from first lactation to second (ranged from 22.0 to 26.8%) and second lactation to third (ranged from 20.0 to 22.2%).
Untersuchungen zur Körperzusammensetzung und zum Wachstum von Kälbern unterschiedlicher genetischer Herkunft mittels Dualenergie–Röntgenabsorptiometrie (DXA)
Authors: Hampe J. , Nüske S. , Scholz A. M. , Förster M.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Title of the paper: In vivo analysis of body composition and growth of calves of different genetic origin using dualenergy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) In vivo body composition and growth of 214 calves (6-50 days old) of different genetic origin were analyzed using dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA). A whole body scan was performed. Looking at body composition there were differences among calf genotypes and parent genotypes. Purebred German-Holstein calves showed lower bone mineral density, bone mineral content, bone mineral percentage, fat tissue percentage and weight than the other genotypes. Opposite conditions existed for lean tissue percentage. Daily feed intake and tissue growth rates (lean tissue, fat tissue, bone mineral) were recorded from day 0 to day 50 of age. Further effects of birth type and lactation number of dam became obvious. Twins showed a significant higher daily gain than calves of single births. Heifer calves had highest daily gain between Scan 2 and Scan 3 in contrary to calves of cows of fourth or fifth lactation number. Within the study two scan modes were compared. A comparison between two scan modes 'normal' and 'pediatric large' showed a high correlation of selected values (r ≥ 0,90) except for lean tissue percentage (r = 0,62), fat tissue percentage (r = 0,70) and R-value (r = 0,69). In conclusion DXA is a very suitable method for examination of body composition and growth of calves.
Der Begriff Wohlbefinden in der Nutztierhaltung – Diskussion aktueller Definitionsansätze als Grundlage für praxisorientierte Forschung am Beispiel Mastschweinehaltung
Authors: Weber R. E. F. , Valle Zárate A.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Title of the paper: Welfare in Farm Animal Husbandry – Current definitions and concepts as basis for practical oriented research with focus on fattening pig husbandry The paper reviews current definitions and concepts of "welfare" in farm animal welfare related literature, with focus on fattening pig husbandry. The respective concepts of welfare are analysed, and the concepts of explanation are categorised: reductionally, based on the animals’ adaptability, based on the animals’ feelings, comprehensive. In literature, "welfare" is used non-uniformly. Behind that, there are different concepts of welfare which reflect various attitudes towards animals. Furthermore, varying definitions also lead to differing traits and methods used to estimate welfare in farm animals. This, finally, ends in divergent interpretations of results of such studies even though they seem to pursue similar aims, namely to estimate or promote farm animal welfare. The present analysis shall contribute to the elucidation of backgrounds of interpretation of “welfare” in order to help outline practical oriented investigations dealing with welfare of farm animals, in a clear and well defined manner, in advance. It is emphasized that welfare is complex and any investigation of it, therefore, has to be carried out on a basis of manifold traits (indicators) and methods. Under the premiss of a clear concept and definition of welfare in which the limits are set clearly, too, estimation of welfare of pigs is possible using several indicators.
Characterizing polymorphism and multiplex feasibility of 142 microsatellite markers from a commercial German Landrace line (short communication)
Authors: Schwarz S. , Presuhn U. , Kalm E. , Reinsch N.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. In using microsatellites to perform linkage studies or parentage testing in pigs the effectiveness of genotyping can substantially be enhanced by multiplex polymerase chain reactions (PCR), i.e. joint amplification of several microsatellites. However, and in contrast to other species, little has been published on specific multiplex sets of porcine microsatellites and their amplification conditions. As a by-product of a whole genome scan in purebred Landrace families we present information on 142 porcine microsatellites, covering all chromosomes with an average marker spacing of 15 cM. In total 96 of these markers were amplified in 45 different multiplex sets (duplex and triplex reactions) and 46 markers were amplified alone. Details of PCR conditions, observed fragment lengths in Landrace and allele frequencies are given and it is shown in detail, which microsatellites have been combined together. These informations may serve as an aid for the development of more complex multiplex sets, comprising a higher number of simultaneously amplified microsatellites.
Skeletal muscle and liver protein degradation in mice divergently selected for low and high body weight over 108 generations
Authors: Rosochacki S. J. , Wirth-Dzięciołowska E. , Zimowska M. , Sakowski T. , Połoszynowicz J. , Juszczuk-Kubiak E. , Gajewska M.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Experiment was carried out on 111 and 13-14 weeks old mice divergently selected for low (L) and high (C) body weight over 108 generations. In leg muscle and liver cathepsin D (CatD) was determined as pepstatin sensitive activity (PSCatD), and as pepstatin-insensitive (PIA) and leupeptin-insensitive (LIA) acid autolytic activities (AAA) were measured. In leg muscle and liver all measured activities were higher in L as compared to C and control (K) mice. The percent of inhibition of LIA was lower in L then C mice in both examined tissues. In the leg muscles, in L mice protein catabolism was mostly influenced by CatD, but in the liver CatD was mostly active in K mice. CatD, PSCatD, AAA and LIA in leg muscle of L mice as compare to K were higher in female (F) by 68 %, 68.5 %, 91.3 % and 94.5 %, respectively, and in male (M) mice by 43.4 %, 54 %, 47.1 % and 64 %, respectively. The percent of inhibition by leupeptin in AAA was higher in C mice by 61.9 % in F and by 40 % in M mice. In the liver, PIA was higher by about 45 % in L and by 28.5 % in C mice as compare to K ones. There were about 36% of 30.00-39.99 μm muscle fibrils in M mice and in males of L group 40.00-49.99 μm fibrils appeared at 25% (absent in 3 weeks mice). In female, all measured fibril diameters were in higher percent in L than in C group. RNA variables were higher by about 25% (in average) in C as compare to K and L groups. Functional cell size (FCS) was lowered in L and C group as compared to K by about 10 % (in average). These results indicate on faster proteins turnover in L than in C group of mice.
Association between leptin combined genotypes and milk performance traits of Polish Black-and-White cows
Authors: Kulig H.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The aim of this study was to estimate the relations between the leptin combined genotypes versus milk performance traits (yields of milk, protein, and fat, as well as protein and fat content). The investigation was performed on 860 Black-and-White cows with a different share of the of Holstein-Friesian genes, kept in Pomerania. Frequencies of the LEP-C3100T/Sau3AI genotypes were: CC/AA – 0. 315, CT/AA – 0.272 and CC/AB – 0.142. The frequencies of the remaining genotypes did not exceed 0.100. Statistically significant (P≤0.01) relation between the leptin combined genotypes (LEP-C3100T/Sau3AI) and milk, protein, and fat yield were observed. These traits were significantly higher in the CC/BB genotype cows.
Partial characterization of two ruminal bacteriophages with similar restriction patterns and different capsids morphology
Authors: Štyriak I. , Španová A. , Žitňan R.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Two bacteriophages (F5 and F6) were isolated from lysogenic Streptococcus bovis strains 46/2 and 59/2, respectively, after spontaneous induction. Both bacteriophages produced clear and small plaques (0.1–0.2 mm in diameter) on two host Streptococcus bovis strains (47/3 and 4/1) out of 12 tested. After UV-light induction, clear plaques of 1.0–1.2 mm in diameter were observed. Both bacteriophages were relatively resistant to chloroform, however, their survival in sterilised rumen fluid was not long because their complete inactivation was observed after 18 hours of cultivation in sterilised rumen fluid. Transmission electron microscopy showed great differences in the morphology of particles of these two bacteriophages. The F5 phage had an elongated slightly angular head, of a mean length of 94 nm and width of 50 nm, as well as a 180 nm long and 10–15 nm wide noncontractile flexible tail without a sheath. The bacteriophage F6 had an isometric head of icosahedral shape, 43 nm in diameter, and its noncontractile flexible tail without sheath was about 180–200 nm long and 10–12 nm wide. According to Ackermann's classification both phages belong to Siphoviridae. The genome sizes of both phages, determined by summing the molecular sizes of fragments generated by digestions with EcoRI, PstI, BglII and XbaI, were similar (about 41–43 kb). Restriction analysis of the genomes of these 2 bacteriophages by 8 restriction enzymes showed that SalI, BamHI and BspRI did not cleave the DNAs of these phages. Cleavage of the DNAs with the other five restriction enzymes showed a similar restriction pattern, however, with small differences. It is a curiosity to find two bacteriophages with the same genome size and relatively similar DNA restriction patterns having a different morphology of their capsids.
Confirmation of quantitative trait loci for somatic cell score on bovine chromosome 18 in the German Holstein
Authors: Xu N. , Paul S. , Bennewitz J. , Reinsch N. , Thaller G. , Reinhardt F. , Kühn C. , Schwerin M. , Erhardt G. , Weimann C. , Thomsen H. , Mishra S. , Kalm E.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Fifty-one half-sib families with 2768 sires were selected for this study to confirm a quantitative trait locus (QTL) detected within a previous project initiated by the German Cattle Breeders Federation (ADR). The data based on a granddaughter design were divided into two parts and were analysed using linear models and paternal half sib regression methods. The results strongly support the hypothesis that the chromosomal region around marker TGLA227 at the telomeric end of chromosome 18 harbours a QTL for somatic cell score (SCS) in the German Holstein population. Using a two-QTL model the analysis showed evidence for another QTL for SCS in that region on chromosome 18. Further fine mapping studies should be carried out to decide on the two QTL hypothesis.
Parameters of glucose tolerance test traits in dairy cattle
Authors: Freyer G. , Staufenbiel R. , Fischer E. , Panicke L.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Numerous studies in dairy cattle focused on measuring the content of hormones, metabolites and enzyme activities in blood. Response on glucose challenge in 620 dairy bulls within a defined period of 340 … 450 days of age is targeted on within this paper. The time response course after glucose challenge was the basis for selecting corresponding response traits. Deviation from normal distribution was taken into account by means of comparing parameters of original data, after logarithmic transformation and breeding values obtained from both. The residual plots did not confirm the necessity of logarithmic transformation. After evaluating fixed effects trait-specifically, individual breeding values for glucose tolerance test traits were estimated. Heritability coefficients were promising for using these traits in cattle breeding. Trait specific heritability coefficients for G0 was 0.22 and 0.26, for Ga 0.23 and 0.18, for GHL 0.31 and 0.39 from logarithmic and original trait observations, respectively.
Influence of ESR1L and FSHB genes on litter size in Czech Large White sows (short communication)
Authors: Humpolíček P. , Urban T. , Horák P.`
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The effects of the candidate genes for reproduction, the estrogen receptor gene (ESR1) and the follicle-stimulating hormone beta subunit gene (FSHB), on the performance of Large White sows in the three different herds have been examined. A total number of 271 sows (in case of the ESR1 gene) and 171 sows (in case of the FSHB gene) were genotyped with PCR-RFLP method and analysed to determine whether polymorphisms of the genes influence the efficiency of Large White sows. The influence of these genes in the first, the first to the fourth and the second to the fourth litters was investigated. To discover the genes' associations with reproduction traits, mixed linear models were used. The influence of ESR1 and FSHB genes was not very conclusive in the studied populations. The influence of these genes was different depending on the herd, in which the sows were bred or on the set of analyzed litters.
Genetic Analysis of Several Disease Categories Using Test Day Threshold Models in German Holstein Cows
Authors: Hinrichs D. , Stamer E. , Junge W. , Kalm E.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. In the present study trajectories for the disease categories udder diseases, metabolic diseases, all diseases, fertility diseases, and ovarian problems, are described. Variance components were estimated where the considered period of lactation varies between 50 and 300 days. Furthermore, the impact of the number of daughters per sire was analysed with disease information from the first 50 days of lactation. In total 18 data sets were analysed with a test day threshold model. The average disease frequencies were between 6.5% and 2.7% for udder diseases and they were between 1.7% and 0.4%, and 15.3% and 6.0% for metabolic diseases and 'all diseases', respectively. For udder diseases the estimated heritabilities vary between 0.12 and 0.25 depending on lactation length and the number of daughters per sire. For metabolic disease heritabilities were estimated within the interval of 0.12 to 0.24. Depending on the lactation length the heritabilities of all diseases were fairly constant (0.03 to 0.04). The heritabilities of all diseases increased if fertility diseases were excluded. Those estimates vary between 0.15 to 0.19.
Evaluation of associations of the polymorphism in the placentaspecific promoter 1.1 of the CYP19 gene in Black-and-White and Jersey cattle with milk production traits (short communication)
Authors: Jędrzejczak M. , Szatkowska I. , Zych S. , Grzesiak W. , Czerniawska-Piątkowska E. , Dybus A.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The relationship between the SNP of the cytochrome P450 gene (CYP19-PvuII) and milk production traits of Black-and-White and Jersey cattle were analysed. A total of 437 cows were included in the study. A PCR-RFLP was used to genotype. The frequencies of genotypes and alleles for the Black-and-White cows were as follows: 0.8985 – AA, 0.0977 – AB, 0.0038 – BB, and 0.9474 – CYP19A, 0.0526 – CYP19B. In the Jersey, all cows were genotyped as CYP19AA (no polymorphism). There weren’t any associations between CYP19-PvuII polymorphism and milk production traits of the investigated cows.
Protein-leakage during heparin – induced in-vitro capacitation of bull sperm
Authors: Kaur Dhanju C. , Kaur R. , Cheema R. S.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Freshly ejaculated washed spermatozoa of six cross-bred bulls were capacitated by incubating in TALP medium supplemented with BSA, heparin and hepes buffer at a sperm concentration of 6 × 109 s/ml at 37ο C for 6 h. A control was also run in 0.85% saline. Percentage motility was observed at two h interval. Sperm smears were stained with giemsa and observed under oil emulsion to study different stages of acrosome reaction. After six h of incubation, sperm membrane proteins were extracted from capacitated- and uncapacitated- spermatozoa using deoxycholate in Tris-HCl (0.02M). Spermatozoa, incubation media (IM) and sperm membrane extract (SME) were analyzed for total proteins which were further fractionated by SDS-PAGE. Antisera raised against SME of bull # 1, 2 and 3 were used for identification of antigens in SME of all the bulls using immunodiffusion technique. After incubation of spermatozoa for 6 h, there was 15–21% and 55–62% decline in motility of capacitated- and uncapacitated- spermatozoa respectively. A total of 62–87% spermatozoa showed acrosome reaction (swelling, vesiculation and shedding of acrosome) in all the bulls. A statistically significant (P<0.05) decrease in protein content of spermatozoa was observed during capacitation. The percentage extraction of protein and percentage leakage of proteins into medium showed a significant correlation with percentage acrosome reaction in respective bulls. A higher and positive correlation of rate of acrosome reaction with protein content of capacitated- and uncapacitated- spermatozoa and IM indicates that percentage capacitation in correlation to fertility can be predicted from the protein content of spermatozoa and proteins released into the medium. Protein profile revealed that from 12.5 to 70 kDa proteins get exposed during capacitation. There was leakage of 4–7 proteins, mainly of medium (70–130 kDa) and low mol wt (<12.5–35 kDa) from capacitated spermatozoa, whereas only 2–5 proteins of high (160–>240 kDa) and low (<12.5–25 kDa) mol wt proteins get leaked out from uncapacitated spermatozoa. Immunodiffusion reaction of SME of bull # 1, 2 and 3 also suggested the removal/exposure of antigens from sperm surface during capacitation and acrosome reaction.
Mapping of CARD4 gene to pig chromosome 18 (Brief report) (Kartierung des CARD4 Gens auf dem Schweinechromosom Nr. 18)
Authors: Van Cleave P. S. , Glenn K. L. , Rothschild M. F.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The caspase recruitment domain family, member 4 gene (CARD4) is a member of the CATERPILLER (caspase recruitment domain, transcription enhancer, r (purine)-binding, pyrin, lots of leucine repeats) family. In humans, CARD4 has been shown to be involved in the innate immune system responsible for cytosolic recognition of bacteria. This gene also contributes to the inflammation processes seen in asthma (HYSI et al., 2005) and intestinal bacterial infections (KIM et al., 2004). The human CARD4 gene is located on chromosome 7. It contains 14 exons and spans approximately 4.4 kb. The objective of this study was to determine the chromosomal location of CARD4 in the pig by linkage and RH mapping.
The influence of milk withdrawal, stable routines and separation from dam on suckling behaviour of Hereford calves
Authors: Mayntz M. , Sender G. , Andersson A. , Sederström R.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The influence of milk withdrawal, stable routines and separation from dam on suckling behaviour of beef calves was tested in an 8x8 Latin square experiment. Length of the meal and length of the longest bout were measured to describe the meal as a whole. Length of pre-stimulation, increasing ejection, declining ejection, and afterstimulation were measured to describe the structure of meal. Eagerness of suckling was described as relative suckling time and non-suckling. Milk withdrawal increased length of meal and longest bout, but did not influence structure of meal. Milk withdrawal resulted in cistern-milk being available already before ejection and thereby in longer bouts during pre-stimulation. Milk withdrawal had no influence on eagerness of suckling. Stable routines had no influence on meal as a whole, but increased pre- and decreased after-stimulation and tended to result in somewhat longer bouts during pre-stimulation. There was no influence of stable routines on eagerness of suckling. Separation from dam had no influence on meal as a whole or structure of meal, but increased eagerness of suckling for the whole meal and for almost all periods. The experimental results partially sustained results from a field study.
Beziehung zwischen mittels Dualenergie-Röntgenabsorptiometrie bestimmter Körperzusammensetzung und Fruchtbarkeit von Jungsauen
Authors: Hoffschulte H. , Scholz A. M.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Title of the paper: Relationship between body composition measured by dual energy x-ray absorptiometry and reproduction performance in gilts This study was conducted to evaluate the relationship between body composition and reproduction traits in gilts. A number of 176 gilts of different genotypes were categorized in three different groups. Group 0 consists of gilts that were disqualified for breeding according performance test results or showed no occurrence of oestrus. Group 1 consists of all gilts, which farrowed after an artificially insemination. Group 2 was composed of gilts that were artificially inseminated but did not give birth to a litter. Body composition was determined in vivo using dual energy x-ray absorptiometry at a live weight of about 90 kg. Initial reproduction data from group 1 were also evaluated. Results of the performance test showed considerable variation among the different groups. Group 1 was significantly heavier and the daily gain was significantly higher than in group 0. However, results of breeding index and value were clearly below the results of the other two groups. The body fat content was significantly higher in gilts with a litter (>1.65 absolutely) than in gilts without a litter (group 2) and in disqualified gilts (group 0). Group 2 gilts showed the smallest body fat mass. However, the relation between DXA fat percentage and litter size for group 1 showed in tendency that the litter size might decrease with an increasing fat content of gilts. Therefore, an optimum body fat content for conventional breeding gilts of European or American origin needs to be determined for a maximum fertility.
Sexual behavior and hormone levels of Kıvırcık ewes after estrus synchronization during and out of the breeding season
Authors: Ekiz E. E. , Ozcan M.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The aim of the study was to investigate the sexual behavior and hormonal changes in Kıvırcık ewes synchronized during and out of the breeding season. Feeding, individual and eliminative behaviors of the ewes were also recorded. Group I ewes were synchronized during the breeding season and Group II ewes were synchronized out of the breeding season. At the end of synchronization protocol, ewes were exposed to Kıvırcık rams (day 0, hour 0) and behavioral observations were started. Jugular blood samples were collected at the end of each observation period. Among sexual behaviors, head-turning and non-firm standing were displayed more frequently than soliciting, anogenital sniffing, sniffing scrotum and firm standing in both groups. Squatting and tail-fanning were not observed regularly. Defecation and sexual behaviors did not differ between groups. Group I displayed more lying (P<0.001), standing (P<0.001), and urination (P<0.001) whereas Group II displayed more eating (P<0.001), rumination (P<0.001), drinking (P<0.01) and walking (P<0.001). Estradiol levels around estrus did not differ between groups and showed a wave like pattern. While serum progesterone was at the basal level before and during estrus, it started to increase at 50 h and reached a level >0.5 ng/ml at 122 h in both groups. Estrus onset was 30.0±1.38 and 26.5±2.27 h, for Group I and II, respectively. Estrus duration was 19.0±2.20 and 18.0±2.86 h, for the same groups, respectively. In conclusion, Kıvırcık ewes synchronized during the anestrous period showed similar behavioral and hormonal responses, as in the breeding season.
Körpermasseentwicklung von Absetzferkeln bei unterschiedlichen Tier-Fressplatz-Verhältnissen
Authors: Hoy S. , Weirich C. , Knoop S.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Title of the paper: Investigations on live weight development of weaner pigs fed with different pigletfeeding place ratios Investigations with a total of 656 weaner pigs in 14 rounds fed either with a pig-feeding place-relation of 1 : 1 (Piglet-Feeder, Tipp-Feeder) or 5 to 8 : 1 (tube wet feeders) under standardized conditions of a research station in groups of 20 each or under farm conditions in groups of 32 each have shown that piglets with a pig-feeding place-relation had higher daily gain by 25 g up to 48 g during the raising period on average of the groups compared with tube feeder groups. The live weight development of weaner pigs in groups with a piglet-feeding place-ratio of 1 : 1 was more homogeneous compared with groups with a wide weanling-feeding place-ratio (5 to 8 : 1) characterized by lower coefficients of variation for the daily gain by 5.8 % up to 13.2 %.
Analyse des Einflusses der gewählten Faktoren auf die Wurfgröße bei Nerzen mit Berücksichtigung verschiedener Farbschläge (Kurzmitteilung)
Authors: Sulik M. , Seremak B. , Matyja A.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Title of the paper: Analyze of effect selected indices on litter size of minks in relation to colour variety (short communication) The studies were carried out in 2003–2004 on a farm located in West Pomerania, Poland, with an annual production output exceeding 75,000 pelts. The breeding stock comprised 25,000 females and 4,000 males, managed in genetic groups comprising 40 females related to each other and 8 males related to each other, For the experiments, we selected at random 1769 females in 7 colour varieties: Black Cross, Buff Sapphire, Perl, Sapphire, Sprinkler, Scan Black, and Scan Brown. The following reproduction indices were analysed: litter size at birth and at weaning, litter size in relation to number of services and birth date. Moreover, all the indices were estimated in relation to the year of the female's reproduction management. The Buff Sapphire proved to be the most fertile variety, and produced 7.6 born and 7.3 weaned offspring. This result was tested statistically and the differences were highly significant compared to the Sapphire, Sprinkler, and Black Cross, which yielded 6.4–6.5 born and 5.9–6.3 weaned offspring. In the second year of reproduction management, all the varieties but Sapphire exhibited increased number of litters. The date of birth significantly affected litter size; the largest litters were obtained in the 16th week of year.
Eleven single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were found at coding region of hypocretin receptor1 (HCRTR1) gene in cattle (Brief report)
Authors: Zhang L. , Zhang A. L. , Chen H. , Zhang C. L. , Zhang L. Z. , Zhu Z. Y. , Lei C. Z. , Lan X. Y. , Wang X. Z.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The hypocretin receptor1 (HCRTR1) gene encodes a Orexin A receptor (SAKURAI et al., 1998). It belongs to the class Ι subfamily within the superfamily of G-coupled receptors and is coupled to Ca2+ mobilization. Via HCRTR1, Orexin A is involved in the control of feeding, sleep-wakefulness, neuroendocrine homeostasis and autonomic regulation (VOISIN et al., 2003; TAKESHI SAKURAI, 1999). These characters are important in animal production. In human, a 408 isoleucine to valine mutation in HCRTR1 showed significant association with polydipsic–hyponatremic schizophrenia (MEERABUX et al., 2005). By now, no polymorphisms of the bovine HCRTR1 gene were reported.
Campylobacter spp.: Risk factor analysis in fattening pig farms
Authors: Wehebrink T. , Kemper N. , Grosse Beilage E. , Krieter J.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. There is a lack of information about the prevalence and origins of the important zoonotic pathogen Campylobacter spp. in the different stages of the pig production chain. The aim of this study was to gather further information about the sources of infection with Campylobacter spp. and their qualitative and quantitative importance in pig production. For statistical analysis, 1,040 results from the bacteriological examination for Campylobacter spp. were evaluated with questionnaires from four farrowing and twelve fattening units. The prevalence was determined via faeces and swab samples with regard to certain farm production parameters. Thereby 30.8% of the sows and 80.9% of their piglets were carriers of Campylobacter spp.. In the fattening unit, the prevalence at the beginning of the fattening period was 89.2% and at the end 64.7%. As a result of the small sample size in the farrowing unit it was not possible to perform a risk analysis which yielded significant conclusions. In the fattening stage, the following risk factors had a significant effect (p≤0.05) on Campylobacter spp. prevalence: sampling time, number of fattening places per herd, mixed farming, floor space design, feed origin, antibacterial and anthelmintic treatment. These results show that housing and management have a possible influence on the Campylobacter spp. prevalence and should be investigated further.