bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Alkaline phosphatase activity in Slovenian cheese made from pasteurized, thermized or raw milk
Authors: HODOŠČEK Lena , RUPNIK Saša , AHČIN Ksenja , BIASIZZO Majda
Published: November 2024

Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is an enzyme used as an indicator of adequate pasteurization. We measured its concentration following ISO11816-2 in pasteurized cow milk cheeses and in raw and thermized cheeses regardless of the animal species. The amount of ALP in all pasteurized cow milk cheeses (19 samples) was below 10 mU/g of cheese and as such in agreement with the tentative limit set by the European Union Reference Laboratory (EU-RL). The amount of ALP in raw and thermized cow cheese was 4076 and 411 mU/g of cheese, respectively. However, the concentration of ALP in raw sheep milk cheese was 8207 mU/g of cheese, due to the higher fat content of sheep milk. There was one cheese for which the heat treatment was not clearly specified by the producer. Controls of ALP activity should be carried out regularly to ensure that the legislative criteria are followed and in order to verify the correctness of cheese specifications.
Influence of sex and age at slaughter on growth performance and carcass traits of Boer kids
Authors: KAIĆ Ana , CIVIDINI Angela , POTOČNIK Klemen
Published: November 2024

The aim of the study was to evaluate growth performance and carcass traits of the Boer kids. A total of thirty-four kids were used. The animals were divided into two groups based on sex (17 male and 17 female) and slaughter age (85 ± 10.14 days (Group 1) and 139 ± 17.55 days (Group 2)). In comparison to female kids, male kids had significantly higher average birth weight (3.3 kg : 3.7 kg) and significantly higher average daily gain (163 g : 203 g). Due to greater birth weight and average daily gain, male kids reached higher slaughter weight than female kids. Although mean values of dressing percentage between sexes were not significant (P > 0.05), females (47.1%) had slightly higher values than male kids (45.2%). The increased slaughter weight accompanied the feeding period from 83 to 139 days and, although not significant (P > 0.05), showed slight increase in dressing percentage between groups. Age had positive and significant (P ≤ 0.001) influence on deposition of subcutaneous fatness. Male kids had more developed carcasses than females. Carcass length, hind leg width and shoulder width differed significantly and increased with slaughter age. Sex did not significantly affected proportions of liver, lungs, head and skin. Female kids had higher proportion of hearth (P ≤ 0.05) and spleen (P ≤ 0.001). Proportions of heart, spleen and skin at two different ages at slaughter were not significant.
Investigation of colour, texture and organoleptic properties of retailed conventional and organic chicken breast in Hungary
Authors: ALMÁSI Anita , BAKA-ANDRÁSSY Gabriella , BUDAI Zoltán , PŐCZE-KUSTOS Olga , FÜLÖP Tamás , SÜTŐ Zoltán
Published: November 2024

The large price variation paid for chicken meat originated from organic and conventional systems require up-todate knowledge of physical and sensory properties of the mentioned products. Our aim was to find differences between intensively vs. organically reared chicken breasts as they are currently presented to consumers in Hungary. A total of 30 broiler breast fillets (n = 10 per group) were purchased from 2 retail stores and a processor. Experimental groups were intensively reared (INT1 and INT2) and organically reared (ORG ). In this case no attempt was made to collect information on genotype, feed or growing conditions of the birds. We measured meat colour (L*, a*, b*), shear force, texture and sensory traits of cooked samples. L* and b* values were lower in INT1 and INT2 groups (P < 0.001), however no differences were found in redness (a*) among the 3 groups. Shear force was highest in ORG samples, which panelists also found drier and tougher. An overall preference was observed for juiciness, tenderness, initial smell and taste in INT1 group. However, panelists did not recognize significant differences between INT2 and ORG samples in most traits, except juiciness. Profile and Bi-plot diagrams were created to demonstrate sensory traits and coherences. Although, samples of organically reared birds were less popular among our panelists, its contribution to healthy, traditional dishes is undeniable.
Detection of Salmonella indiana in broiler production in the Czech Republic
Authors: SVOBODOVÁ Irena
Published: November 2024

Salmonella has been linked to many foodborne diseases across the world. Several control measures have been implemented to reduce Salmonella in poultry farms. The present study was focused on presence and serotyping of Salmonella in various samples from broilers. Salmonella isolates were obtained by standard cultivation methods. Four samples of faeces (n = 8) and twenty pooled samples of neck skins (n = 40) were found as positive. Pooled samples of chicken breast fillet (n = 20) were negative. Positive detection of Salmonella in the neck skins may be caused by contamination from the digestive tract or from the environment of the slaughter line. An interesting finding is that in all serotyped isolates (n = 24) only Salmonella indiana was present. Because S. indiana may pose a risk to human health, preventive measures have to be performed during the whole production chain.
Colostrum and milk of different cattle breeds as amino acid source
Authors: CSAPÓ János , BÉRI Béla , SÜLI Ágnes , VARGA-VISI Éva
Published: November 2024

The aim of the research was to compare the amino acid composition of colostrum and milk of the most current dairy cattle breed (Holstein-Friesian) and that of other breeds that occur less frequently. Breeds were kept at the same farm, other factors affecting colostrum and milk composition such as housing system and feed regime were kept at the same level. Amino acid analysis was carried out following acidic hydrolysis of proteins with an amino acid analyser with post-column derivatization. The amino acid content of colostrum differed on the third day of lactation. Holstein- Friesian cows contained more lysine, isoleucine, leucine, valine, phenylalanine, and threonine than that of Swedish red, Jersey, Brown Swiss and Norwegian red cows (P < 0.05). The decrease of the amino acid content in the function of time followed the decline of protein content. The composition of colostrum proteins showed some changes in terms of the increase of the ratio of the nonessential glutamic acid and proline, and decrease of the ratio of threonine. The amino acid composition of milk proteins of the examined breeds differed only slightly. The higher protein content of the milk of concentrated-milk-breeds was accompanied with higher essential amino acid content.
Feeding strategies for local breeds in view of product quality
Authors: PUGLIESE Carolina , SIRTORI Francesco , FRANCI Oreste
Published: November 2024

The effect of quantitative-qualitative modulation of diet on quality of meat and cured product in pig local breeds is reviewed, focusing on the effect on intramuscular fat (IMF) which is the most important of the meat traits. IMF does not develop the last among fat depots, so high level of feeding in advanced age favours subcutaneous fat deposition, whose commercial destination is often problematic also for the local pig. The compensatory growth, as consequence of re-alimentation after feeding restriction, attains better to local breeds than to conventional ones, because of the longer rearing period and the exploitation of natural resources in sylvo-pastoral system. This practice in Cinta Senese produces meat with higher cooking loss, fatter, less tender, darker and redder and subcutaneous fat richer in MUFA and PUFA n-3. However, the compensatory effect seems to depend also to the age when fattening starts. Knowledge on protein requirements in the local breeds is less available but researches on Iberian and Cinta Senese pig highlighted that only very low dietary protein content (below 9%) produced significant effect on overall fatness and on some meat traits. On other hand, that protein content is usual in the diet of sylvo-pastoral feeding system, based on grass and acorn without any aminoacidic integration.
The effects of soybean press cake on productive traits and meat quality of Italian heavy pigs intended for Parma Ham production
Authors: NANNONI Eleonora , MARTELLI Giovanna , PARAZZA Paola , ZAGHINI Giuliano , SARDI Luca
Published: November 2024

Sixty castrated male pigs (initial average body weight (BW) of 26 kg) were allotted to two experimental groups, one of which was fed a diet containing solvent extracted (SE) soybean meal, whereas the other received a diet in which SE soybean meal was entirely replaced by soybean press cake (CAKE). Pigs were slaughtered at about 160 kg body weight, according to the rules for Parma Ham production. The soybean source did not significantly (P > 0.05) affect the growth traits (average daily gain (ADG) and feed conversion ratio (FCR), slaughtering parameters (dressing out, lean meat percentage and lean cuts yields) or meat quality (pH, colour and water holding capacity). From a human nutrition standpoint, soybean press cake favourably influenced fatty acids composition of the subcutaneous fat of the thighs. Heavy pigs receiving soybean press cake showed, in fact, a significantly (P < 0.001) lower relative content of saturated fatty acids (SFA) and an increased (P < 0.05) level of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) in comparison with animals fed the diet containing SE soybean meal. No negative effects were noted with respect to ham attitude for long-term curing.
Some performance traits of the Calabrian × Large White pig in relation to the housing system (indoor and outdoor): preliminary results
Authors: CASTELLANO Nadia , CARPINO Santo , GIGANTE Gianluca , GRASSO Michela , SANTORO Laura , MATASSINO Donato
Published: November 2024

The purpose of the present research was to verify the effect of the “housing system” on some performance traits of the Calabrian × Large White crosses (CA × LW). The research was carried out on 12 subjects of which 7 were housed in “indoor” system and 5 in “outdoor” system. The available area for head was equal to 4.6 m2 for the “indoor” system and 45 m2 per head for the “outdoor” system. The subjects were monitored from birth to slaughter and the following parameters were recorded: weight at typical ages, some relieves at slaughter, fat thickness in three anatomical regions and weight of meat and adipose tissue cuts. Mathematical-statistical elaboration demonstrated that housing system tended to be significant (P < 0.10) only in the case of fat thickness at L6-S region.
Sanitary aspects of outdoor farming systems
Authors: SALAJPAL Krešimir , KAROLYI Danijel , LUKOVIĆ Zoran
Published: November 2024

Outdoor pig farming include free access to outdoor area and wide use of natural resources of soil and plants in which animals can express their natural behavior. Some management practices that may improve welfare such as outdoor rearing, holding in groups, use of bedding or other housing systems in which it is difficult to implement good sanitation may increase risk to exposure of pigs to the pathogens from the environment. Presence of pathogens or their vectors in outdoor areas in combination with poor environmental conditions may result in high prevalence of various infectious or parasitic diseases, many of which may be zoonotic. Difficulties in implementation of common biosecurity measures and health management principles in outdoor farming impede effective control of diseases. Use of breeds or strains which are adapted to harsh environmental conditions and exhibit favorable disease resistance such as local breeds or their crossbreds, appropriate feeding including plants and fungi that have detrimental effect on pathogens (parasites), and grazing management with integrated use of medicaments (anthelmintic) can be additional methods of controlling diseases in outdoor farming. The common health problems in outdoor pig farming system and their potential impact on human health are reviewed in this paper.
Successful long-term pre-pubertal immunocastration of purebred Iberian gilts reared in extensive systems
Authors: HERNÁNDEZ-GARCÍA Francisco I. , DUARTE Juan L. , PÉREZ Miguel A. , RABOSO Cristina , ROSARIO Ana I. del , IZQUIERDO Mercedes
Published: November 2024

Iberian pigs are raised in Spain in extensive, free-ranging systems in which males and females are gonadectomized to avoid several management problems. However, the new animal welfare regulations restrict female surgical sterilization. The objective of the present study was to develop a feasible immunocastration protocol to prevent oestrus cyclicity from the pre-pubertal period until slaughter, typically performed in extensively reared Iberian pigs that are older and have higher weight. This early immunocastration protocol, with no need for separation of sexes before immunization, would simplify herd management in extensive systems. Six Iberian gilts (Treated) were immunized with Improvac® (Zoetis-Pfizer) at 19, 23 and 39 weeks of age and were slaughtered at 68 weeks of age. Other 6 Iberian gilts were used as Controls. Serum progesterone levels (from monthly and weekly samplings) and post-mortem utero-ovarian measurements indicated ovarian and oestrus cyclicity in Control gilts and ovarian quiescence in Treated gilts, whose reproductive tracts remained immature until slaughter. In conclusion, this 3-dose, pre-pubertal immunization protocol offers a highly effective alternative to ovariectomy of Iberian pigs for the prevention of estrus in extensive systems.
Effect of high-oxygen modified atmosphere packaging on some quality traits of meat from Iberian pigs reared under “Montanera” system
Authors: PRIOR Estrella , GARCÍA-TORRES Susana , LÓPEZ-GAJARDO Adoración , CABEZA DE VACA María , TEJERINA David
Published: November 2024

The Iberian pig is the most important autochthonous pig breed in the Mediterranean, both in population and economic importance. In addition there is an increasing demand for quality fresh meat from Iberian pigs reared under “Montantera” system, not only for the restaurants, also by gourmet consumers. So, the main aim of this work was to study the influence of high-oxygen modified atmosphere packaging during storage time (0, 6, 12, 18 and 24 days) on parameters related to meat quality of Longissimus dorsi muscle from Iberian pigs reared under “Montanera”. Results showed that during refrigerated storage time under high-oxygen , the lipid oxidation, yellowness, water loss and pH had increased while redness index and water holding capacity (WHC) had decreased. As a consequence, the sensorial characteristics were significantly affected by refrigerated storage time under high-oxygen modified atmosphere packaging.
The use of electronic nose to differentiate entire males from immunocastrates (association with levels of androstenone and skatole)
Authors: PUGLIESE Carolina , Škrlep Martin , MACAGNANO Antonella , ZAMPETTI Emiliano , BATOREK Nina , LABUSSIÈRE Etienne , ČANDEK POTOKAR Marjeta
Published: November 2024

The aim of this work was to test the ability of the electronic nose (designed and fabricated by CNR-Institute for Microelectronics and Microsystems Rome, Italy) for the differentiation of subcutaneous fat samples from entire or immunocastrated pigs. Seven pigs immunocastrated with Improvac® (IC) and eight entire males (EM) from genotype Pietrain × (Large White × Landrace) were used. After the slaughter, samples of backfat were taken for the determination of androstenone and skatole concentrations. Thighs from experimental pigs (n = 30) were processed to dry-cured ham Kraški pršut. After the “riposo” phase, subcutaneous fat was sampled from thighs for the analysis with electronic nose. The device is based on eight gravimetric sensors (quartz crystal microbalances-QCMs) oscillating at 20 MHz of fundamental frequency and coated with a proper set of organic polymers and macromolecules. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was used to discriminate IC and EM, based on the signal acquired with electronic nose. The first two components explained 93.5% of variance. The discrimination of EM from IC was good but not flawless, because four EM samples were false negative, but only one pig was false negative for both samples/repetitions. It can be concluded that the results are promising and that the tested electronic nose is able to discriminate fat samples of EM, however, due to the methodological uncertainties (sampling fat after “riposo”) results should be considered preliminary and further work is needed.
Non destructive spectral sensors for authentication of the feeding regime of Iberian hams during the salting process
Authors: DE PEDRO SANZ Emiliano , FERNÁNDEZ NOVALES Juan , GARRIDO NOVELL Cristobal , GARRIDO VARO Ana , PÉREZ MARÍN Dolores , GUERRERO GINEL Jose Emilio
Published: November 2024

The authentication of the feeding regime followed by Iberian pigs during the stage prior to their slaughtering is critical and necessary for each of the stages of the production process of the ham. The high price of this product demands the study of non-destructive methods that can be applied by the industry and its members. This paper reports on the performance of a handheld micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS)-based spectrometer (1600–2400 nm) for in situ and non-destructive authentication of the feeding regime (“Acorn” vs. “Feed”) on meat (Adductor muscle) and skinfree fat of Iberian hams at two different stages of the processing – before and after salting. A total of 560 spectra (280 spectra before and 280 after salting) from 140 Iberian pigs hams raised under different feeding regimes (60 fed on “Feed” and 80 fed on “Acorn”) were recorded on meat and fat tissue. Various mathematical and scatter correction treatments were tested and used to develop Partial Least Squares Discriminant Analysis (PLS2-DA) models for the authentication of the feeding regime for meat and fat tissue, before and after salting. PLS2-DA models developed for meat and fat tissue showed excellent results reaching values of 98.3–100% of correct classifications. The methodology presented here, based on discriminant analysis using a portable NIRS device provides the industry with a reliable, fast and affordable means of authenticating the feeding regime of Iberian hams throughout the critical salting process.
Healthy trends affect the quality of traditional meat products in Mediterranean area
Authors: FLORES Mónica , OLIVARES Alicia , CORRAL Sara
Published: November 2024

The actual trend in the meat industry is the development of healthy meat products with reduced fat and salt contents. In high quality products such as traditional sausages which are characterized by an absence of fermentation and long ripening times, it is essential to get a meat product with a high aroma quality but at the same time healthy composition. This reduction represents an added value to the production and consumption of traditional sausages because flavour is one of the most important characteristics for consumers. The problem associated to salt and fat reduction in dry sausages is the loss in sensory properties, especially in aroma. The reason is that sodium has a synergetic effect with the food matrix, enhances the sensory characteristics and produces the release of volatile aroma compounds from the food matrix. On the other hand, fat affects the generation of volatile compounds from which it is a precursor and modifies flavour perception due to the changes in the interaction and release of volatile compounds. Few references have studied the effect of salt and fat reduction in the aroma of traditional dry cured sausages. This manuscript summarized the effect of salt and fat reduction in flavour development of traditional sausages and its effect on aroma perception. Traditional foods should be adapted to new trends without losing their identity and sensory characteristics.
Effect of salt reduction on the length of the resting stage of Italian typical dry-cured ham
Authors: SCHIVAZAPPA Cristina , PINNA Anna , VIRGILI Roberta
Published: November 2024

A pilot batch of dry-cured hams salted with a reduced amount of salt and placed in cold resting rooms for 85, 115, 145, and 160 days, was compared with conventionally processed Parma dry-cured hams (n = 9), taken at the end of resting period (lasting 80–100 days). The protracted time spent in the resting stage of reduced-salt hams, produced an increase in NaCl content of muscle Biceps femoris and a reduction of moisture and water activity (aw), achieving values similar to conventionally processed dry-cured hams. In the experimental condition adopted in this study for reducedsalt hams, the inner aw value, regarded as a safety threshold in traditional Parma dry-cured hams (aw ≤ 0.96 at the end of resting), is attained after 140–150 days of resting stage and about 18–19% weight loss.
Effect of salting duration on salt content and proteolysis in Kraški pršut dry hams after the resting phase
Authors: ŠKRLEP Martin , ČANDEK POTOKAR Marjeta , BATOREK Nina , PREVOLNIK Maja , VELIKONJA BOLTA Špela , LISJAK Klemen
Published: November 2024

The objective of the present study was to reduce salt content in Kraški pršut dry ham by means of shorter salting period. Three groups of hams (equilibrated for weight, fatness and pH) were salted for 15 (HS), 11 (MS), and 8 (LS) days. After the end of salting, hams were submitted to resting (87, 91, 94 days for HS, MS and LS group, respectively). Processing losses were recorded at the end of each phase. After 102 days (end of resting), semimembranosus (SM) and biceps femoris (BF) muscles were sampled for determination of dry matter (DM, g/100g), salt (NaCl, g/100g DM), total nitrogen (N, g/100g DM), non-protein nitrogen (NPN, g/100g DM and proteolysis index (IP, %). Shortened salting was accompanied by lower ham weight losses at the end of this phase (P < 0.0001) but did not affect the losses in the resting phase and in total. As a result, slightly lower DM was observed in LS compared to HS hams (29.5 vs. 30.9, P = 0.13 in BF and 37.4 vs. 40.7, P = 0.08 in SM). A 7 day shorter salting period (LS) resulted in notable salt reduction (36.4% and 27.8% for BF and SM, respectively), while 4 day reduction (MS) had lesser impact (11.7% and 6.0% for BF and SM, respectively). There was no effect of salt reduction on the IP at the end of resting period. However, in SM a difference between LS and HS hams was significant for N (13.1 vs. 11.9, P < 0.01) and NPN (1.79 vs. 1.54, P < 0.01).
Effect of husbandry systems on the environmental impact of pig production
Authors: DOURMAD Jean-Yves , CASABIANCA François
Published: November 2024

Pig production is pointed out as a major contributor to main environmental issues, either at a global (global warming, energy used) or a local level (eutrophication, acidification…). Many studies have been conducted in recent years in order to quantify the effects of farming practices on the environmental impact of pig production. Amount and composition of pig manure are highly dependent on feed composition, animals housing and manure management, which also affect gaseous emissions. More recently, methodologies, such as life cycle assessment, have been developed for the environmental evaluation of contrasted pig farming systems. This allows a multi-criteria evaluation of systems including climate change, eutrophication, acidification, energy use, land use… The aim of the present paper is to review the different methodologies and data available for the environmental evaluation of pig production with a special attention to the specificities of traditional systems.
Application of quality labels in support of conservation of local breeds – a challenge for Slovenian Krškopolje pig
Authors: KASTELIC Andrej , ČANDEK-POTOKAR Marjeta
Published: November 2024

Slovenia has only one preserved indigenous local pig breed, the Krškopolje pig which has a black coat colour with a white belt across shoulders and forelegs. The breed became endangered despite in situ gene bank implementation in the early nineties of the 20th century. At that time around 40 farms were still raising Krškopolje pig. A promotion and support for organic farming along with the subsidies for the use of Krškopolje pig increased the interest for the breed. An important milestone is also the year 2003 when individual marking of all newborn piglets was introduced. Presently there are 77 registered farms of Krškopolje pigs with about 200 breeding sows in total, 100 gilts (older than 200 days) and 48 boars. In the latest available status (August, 2013), the farms had from 1 to 13 sows with median value of 2. Only 11 (14%) farms have 5 or more sows in their herd (one farm usually has over 20 sows). Although the situation improved during the last years, the breed is far from being safe. In order to develop a sustainable use of Krškopolje pig and thus its preservation, it would be necessary to develop economically sustainable exploitation through valorisation of its products. Strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats are discussed under Slovenian circumstances of agricultural production.
Managing local breed is a hard way to find a compromise between collective needs and individual aims: the case of the Nustrale pig breed
Authors: MÜLLER Thomas , LAUVIE Anne , CASABIANCA François , MAESTRINI Oscar
Published: November 2024

Most of the time the management of local breeds involve non territorial tools (designed to be used in whatever breed management situation), but also have to face stakes linked to a specific territory. Moreover, management of local breed is often organized at a collective level (the whole animal population) and individual breeders are the owners of the animals, each of them with his own expectations. Thanks to the case study of the Nustrale pig breed in Corsica, we show how those apparent contradictions are dealt with by both breeders and other stakeholders of the breeds’ management, and what kind of tensions are still to overcome.
Iberian dry-cured ham consumption in Spanish households
Authors: LARA VÉLEZ Pablo , DE PEDRO SANZ Emiliano
Published: November 2024

The available data for consumption of Iberian dry-cured ham in Spain (2008–2012) shows the behavior of the industry over a period ridden by the economic recession; showing higher levels of consumption between 2009 and 2012 when compared to those registered in 2008 but with a decrease in consumer spending. Specific events used as reference worth mentioning are the sharp increment in consumption in the second half of 2009, the drop at the end of 2010 and the increase in 2013 accompanied by, for the first time, increase in consumer spending. One of the most positive aspects has been the ongoing increase of consumption in non-traditional periods of the year. The period of time analyzed also outstands due to an increment of sales and purchases via more dynamic and modern channels (supermarkets and hypermarkets) in comparison to the more traditional shops and specialized stores.
Exchange of data to improve dairy cattle health: farmers’ and veterinarians’ needs
Authors: FUERST-WALTL Birgit , WEISSENSTEINER Roswitha , FUCHS Klemens , GSTOETTINGER Franz , HOERMANN Max , JANACEK Roman , KOBLMUELLER Markus , MAYERHOFER Martin , PERNER Josef , SCHAGERL Monika , SCHODER Gottfried , WITTEK Thomas , ZOTTL Karl , OBRITZHAUSER Walter , EGGER-DANNER Christa
Published: November 2024

Within the Comet K-Project ADDA - Advancement of Dairying in Austria - the basis for an integrated data management tool shall be established. A first step is the assessment of stakeholder needs. For this purpose, internet surveys were developed to gather feedback from farmers and veterinarians about the use of currently available herd management tools as well as the present status of documentation and recording of relevant data. Two questionnaires, pure online surveys for farmers and veterinarians, were designed end of 2014. The questionnaires, comprising of 23 (farmers) and 22 (veterinarians) questions were distributed end of February 2015 and could be completed until April 10, 2015. In total, 9,961 dairy farmers with performance recording and 1,022 contracted veterinarians of Austrian Animal Health Service member farms were contacted. The response rate was 19.1 % in farmers and 20.8 % in veterinarians. Currently, a large proportion of external information to be used for herd management is received on paper or in pdf-format and is thus not further processible. Hence, both farmers and veterinarians desire the integration of different data in platforms for data exchange or internet platforms. The highest interest of both groups is shown in bacteriological milk analyses and other lab data. When asked for necessary developments, more than 66 % of veterinarians request developments enabling them to download raw data. Farmers have the highest interest (78.1 %) in better integration of data of already existing systems (e.g. milking, feeding, performance recording) in order to avoid multiple recording. The combination of data from different data sources could support both, veterinarians and farmers, in their day-to-day work. However, data security aspects need be payed particular attention.
Novel aspects in characterisation of Carniolan honey bee (Apis mellifera carnica, Pollmann 1879)
Authors: BOŽIČ Janko , ZURC Jelena , ZORC Minja , SUŠNIK BAJEC Simona , PREŠERN Janez , DOVČ Peter , KORDIŠ Dušan , KRIŽAJ Igor , LEONARDI Adrijana , MOČNIK Robert , NAKRST Mitja , PODGORŠEK Peter , PREŠERN Janez
Published: November 2024

Apis mellifera carnica is a honey bee subspecies, first described by Pollmann in 1879. Its original habitat since the last glaciation is Balkan Peninsula with neighbouring regions. Slovenia is often mentioned as a homeland of Carniolan honey bee although it is evident that natural habitat of A. m. carnica, is much bigger and that Slovenia sits at the western edge of its areal. Due to its soft temper, adaptation to extreme low temperatures, good honey production in spring and summer (mainly produced on coniferous trees), Carniolan honey bee is in many countries well accepted and popular honey bee variety. In this study we present a different approaches for characterization of Carniolan honey bee in its home country, Slovenia and compare some traits with populations in the neighbouring countries. In this review we present genetic data (microsatellites and mtDNA sequences), bioinformatics analysis of available DNA sequence data, phenotypic characterisation using cubital index and lengths of tibia and proboscis, proteomic analysis of royal jelly as well as analysis of dancing behaviour.
A genome-assisted MOET design for inbreeding prevention in the endangered Murnau-Werdenfelser cattle
Authors: SIMČIČ Mojca , MEDUGORAC Ivica
Published: November 2024

Murnau-Werdenfelser cattle are an indigenous breed from Upper Bavaria in Germany. The population is endangered and is supported by the Bavarian government. The aim of the study was to select optimal unrelated mating partners for the Multiple Ovulation and Embryo Transfer (MOET) procedure and to present a new genomic technology to breeders. Samples from 143 animals of the Murnau-Werdenfelser breed were genotyped with the Illumina BovineSNP50 BeadChip using standard procedures. Genome-wide realized relationships in the form of an identity by descent (IBD) matrix among 143 individuals were estimated based on 50,864 SNP markers. In order to facilitate the discussion with breeders and to provide a basis for mating decisions, the individual DPSdistance matrix was presented in two-dimensional (2D) space. Based on the positions of both parents in the 2D plot, the potential positions of all offspring were derived. For each included donor dam, a separate 2D plot was prepared. Breeders accepted this graphical method well and used it smoothly for selection of the optimal MOET mates.
Estimation of inbreeding in Slovenian Brown-Swiss population
Authors: OBŠTETER Jana , LOGAR Betka
Published: November 2024

Breeding programs require control of the level (F) and rate (ΔF) of inbreeding in order to avoid inbreeding depression. Increasing availability of genomic information has enabled a more accurate estimation of F and ΔF. This study aimed to investigate classical (Fped) and genomic inbreeding coefficients (FROH) in 214 genotyped Slovenian Brown-Swiss animals. Fped was obtained from pedigree analysis using PEDIG and FROH was estimated based on runs of homozygosity (ROHs) analysis using PLINK. The results show that year-averaged FROH exceeds year-averaged Fped for all the studied years. ΔFROH>1MB (0.00918) was ~3 times higher than ΔFped (0.00334) and was close to the suggested limit that still allows sustainable population management. While detected ROHs reveal more ancient as well as recent inbreeding, the majority reflects inbreeding dating back ~12 to ~3 generations. When stratified by ROH lengths, FROH reveals some differences in most highly inbred chromosomes according to shorter and longer ROHs suggesting some changes in selection goals during breed’s history.
Microsatellite multiplex method for potential use in Black Slavonian pig breeding
Authors: MARGETA Polona , MARGETA Vladimir , GVOZDANOVIĆ Kristina , GALOVIĆ Dalida , DJURKIN KUŠEC Ivona , KUŠEC Goran
Published: November 2024

Previous studies on Black Slavonian pig breed were focused on the main coat color MC1R locus and on development of the method for Black Slavonian cross-breeds identification, based on coat color genotype. Microsatellites have been used for population studies in pigs for last 25 years and are convenient markers for evaluating the genetic diversity of pig breeds, for parental analysis and identification of pigs as well as traceability of different pig breeds meat in meat products. We developed a PCR multiplex, containing 9 microsatellites in a single reaction. The method was tested on 50 Black Slavonian pig samples (30 homozygous and 20 heterozygous for MC1R locus). For the 9 microsatellite loci analyzed, 79 alleles were detected. The number of detected alleles was high for all loci, with the number of alleles per locus ranging from 5 for S0026, Sw24 and Swr1941 to 22 alleles for S0005. Our results demonstrate that described MS multiplex method may provide a reasonable amount of genetic information to be suitable for use in Black slavonian pig breeding programs in the future.
Fat-to-protein ratio: evaluation of metabolic disorders and milk yield
Authors: VLČEK Michal , CANDRÁK Juraj , KASARDA Radovan
Published: November 2024

The aim of the paper was to evaluate the occurrence of metabolic disorder based on the fat-to-protein ratio and the effect of fat-to-protein ratio on the milk yield. In total, 680 records of test day (from 3 to 150 days) of 188 cows originating from 4 farms in west part of Slovakia between years 2013 and 2016 were collected to perform the study. The statistical analyses were carried out by SAS software. The highest prevalence of ketosis risk (19.08 %) was found in first month after calving, while the frequency of acidosis risk increased gradually from the start (10.53 %) to the middle of lactation (26.60 %). In the analysed group of cows the average milk yield at level 35.83 kg day−1 was found. The selected effect of herd, parity, year, calving season, days in milk and fat-to-protein ratio explained 55.67 % of the milk yield variability. Due to the effect of fat-to-protein ratio the decrease of milk yield 1.2 kg day−1 was observed. Based on the results the fat-to-protein ration can be regarded as good estimator of metabolic disorders occurrence.
Analysis of non-return rate in Italian Holstein Friesian bulls
Authors: VAROTTO Alice , FINOCCHIARO Raffaella , KAAM Johannes B.C.H.M van , MARUSI Maurizio , CIVATI Giorgio , CASSANDRO Martino
Published: November 2024

Until recently non-return rate 56 days (NR56) for Italian Holstein Friesian bulls had been published only for artificial-insemination (AI) organizations. Since December 2015, the information about sire fertility has been published also for the farmers. The objectives of this research were to assess the importance of information about the cow’s age at insemination and editing of age of bulls for improving prediction of bull fertility. The intent was to revise the old model, even if NR56 is a phenotypic assessment of bull’s prospective fertility and not a genetic evaluation. Factors considered for the revision of the model were date of insemination, age of cows at the time of mating and number of matings. Data included 3,726,450 records from 3,210 bulls and 1,312,901 cows in 7,395 herds from January 2011 till January 2016. Results revealed that alternative models ignoring AI organization and using only last five years of insemination, multiple services and editing on age of bull improved accuracy of predictions.
The influence of ram on litter size in Suffolk sheep
Authors: SCHMIDOVÁ Jitka , MILERSKI Michal , SVITÁKOVÁ Alena , NOVOTNÁ Alexandra , VOSTRÁ-VYDROVÁ Hana , VOSTRÝ Luboš
Published: November 2024

The proportion of variance for service ram effects was estimated for number lambs born and weaned. The database with 11,311 lambings in purebred Suffolk was used. The basic model equation for the analysis of variance of litter size contained effects of ewe´s age at lambing, contemporary group of ewes at lambing, ewe´s permanent environmental effect and ewe´s direct additive genetic effect. The other models were extended by contemporary group of ewes during mating (harem), and additive genetic and permanent environmental effect of service ram. Variance components were estimated by the Gibbs sampling method. The proportions of variance for the service ram effect for number of lambs born and weaned were 4.1 % and 2.6 %. The annual genetic trends were 0.4 % of lambs born and 0.2 % of lambs weaned for female fertility. Male contribution on litter size was 0.2 % of lambs born and 0.1 % of lambs weaned. The results demonstrated that service rams in Suffolk sheep have low influence on litter size of their mates.
The effect of ewe mineral status on the lambs mineral supply
Authors: SZIGETI Erika , KÁTAI János , KOMLÓSI István , OLÁH János , SZABÓ Csaba
Published: November 2024

The aim of our study is to examine the mineral status of Tsigai ewes and their lambs based on wool mineral content, and the relationship between ewes wool and milk mineral content and the lamb wool mineral concentration. Ten Tsigai sheep nursing single lamb was randomly selected on the 6–10th day of lactation. Sampling was carried out in March. Wool samples free of visible contamination were obtained from the withers of the ewes and the lambs using bended scissors. Approximately 10 ml of milk samples were collected by hand milking. Ca, Mg, Na, Cu, S, P, Se and Zn content were determined by ICP-OES (Perkin-Elmer, Optima 3300 DV). Statistical analyses were carried out by SAS (SAS Institute Inc., Cary, NC) GLM procedure. Wool mineral content did not show deficient supply in case of ewes. Young lamb’s wool mineral composition is distinct from those measured in adult ewes. This fact and the lack of significant correlation between ewe and lamb mineral status indicates strictly regulated mineral passage through placenta.
Evaluation of factors affecting somatic cell count in milk
Authors: FLERE Damjana , PREVOLNIK POVŠE Maja , ŠKORJANC Dejan , JANŽEKOVIČ Marjan , JERETINA Janez
Published: November 2024

Somatic cell count (SCC) is an important indicator of health status of mammary gland, which affects also technological quality of milk. The aim of the present work was to analyse factors influencing SCC (breed, parity, calving season and year, herd and cow productivity). The analysis comprised AT4 milk recording data for the 5-years period for Slovenia (n≈3.2×106 recordings). A subset of 10 % randomly selected herds (n≈220,000 recordings) was used for evaluation of important factors. According to our results, cow productivity, parity and breed are the most influential factors affecting SCC. Higher milk yield (per day or per standard lactation) is related to lower SCC. Among breeds, the highest SCC was observed for Holstein breed, followed by Brown and Simmental breed and Simmental crossbreeds (Simmental × milk breeds). Significant increase in SCC was recorded with parity. Other studied factors showed smaller or negligible effect on SCC.
Economic importance of milk traits in Czech Holstein cattle under various milk payment systems
Authors: KRUPOVÁ Zuzana , MOTYČKA Jiří , KRUPA Emil , MICHALIČKOVÁ Monika
Published: November 2024

The impact of various pricing systems on the economic values of milk traits in Czech Holstein cattle was comprehensively evaluated. Milk yield, milk components, somatic cells score (SCS) and clinical mastitis incidences were evaluated under the average production and economic conditions of the year 2015. The flexible bio-economic model of the program package ECOWEIGHT 6.0.4 was used for calculation. Under the evaluated pricing systems marginal economic values of milk components ranged from 37.92 to 253.05 € and from 126.46 to 461.71 € per % of fat and proteins per cow per year, respectively. High variability was also found for economic importance of SCS (from −14.71 to 800.94 € pre score pre cow and per year). Marginal economic values for milk yield (0.103 € per kg) and clinical mastitis (83.86 € per incidence), both per cow and per year remained without the change over all pricing systems. To standardize the marginal economic values and to calculate the actual relative economic values of traits the actual genetic standard deviations are needed.
Calendering of non-isothermal viscoelastic sheets of finite thickness: A theoretical study
Authors: Zahid Muhammad , Souayeh Basma , Ali Fateh , Farmer M. , Rahmat Fiza , Ilyas Muhammad
Published: November 2024

In this article, the sheeting of pseudoplastic material under non-isothermal conditions has been studied. It is an excellent forecasting instrument for sheeting, where the thickness of the sheet is relatively thin in relation to the roll size, according to theoretical study based on the lubrication theory. At the calendering process, the detachment point is determined by taking the material parameter’s impact into account. The governing equations are derived for the constitutive equation of the Carreau fluid with momentum and energy equations. Suitable non-dimensional parameters are used to develop the non-linear partial differential expressions into ordinary differential systems. The maximum pressure, roll separating force, normal stress effect, and power delivered to the fluid by rolls are among the engineering-relevant quantities that are determined. Moreover, a graphic analysis is conducted to examine the impact of different material parameters on the temperature profile, pressure gradient, velocity profile, and pressure distribution. The results specific mechanism is explained in depth.
Quranic Law and Its ‘Biblical’ Intertexts
Authors: Lowry Joseph E.
Published: November 2024

This article examines intertextual relationships between quranic and biblical law. It focuses primarily on three instances (fasting, torts, and dietary regulations) in which the Quran grounds its substantive legislation through references to biblical law. The Quran’s invocations of the Bible, even if those invocations mark intertexts that implicate texts of biblical literature more broadly, represent a quranic strategy of self-positioning and theological elaboration. Vague references may aim simply to enhance the Quran’s authority as a text that belongs generally to biblical literature and tradition or to integrate the quranic community into biblical history. Specific references can function polemically in regard to discrete topics, privilege the Quran as a fresh biblical dispensation on a given matter, or give biblical sanction of various kinds to specific legislation. Some specific biblical references also highlight instances of legal repeal, a significant component in the Quran’s distinctive theology. As with the Quran’s retelling of biblical narratives, its references to biblical law serve to mark the quranic community as a biblical community. As a methodological matter, the Quran’s selection, interpretation, deployment, and juxtaposition of biblical materials must always be assumed to be valid. In the service of its own theology, the Quran is fully autonomous and has complete interpretive agency.
Optimal power dispatch in microgrids using mixed-integer linear programming
Authors: Rodrigues Lautert Renata , Cambambi Cláudio Adriano C. , Ortiz Mauro dos Santos , Wolter Martin , Canha Luciane Neves
Published: November 2024

As greenhouse gases emissions continue to rise, society is actively seeking methods to reduce them. Microgrids (MGs), which predominantly consist of renewable energy sources, play a significant role in achieving this objective. This paper proposes an optimized methodology for power dispatch in MGs using mixed-integer linear programming (MILP). The MGs include photovoltaic systems, wind turbines, biogas (BG) generators, battery energy storage systems (BESS), electric vehicles (EV), and loads. The model features an objective function focused on cost minimization, power balance, and the necessary limits and constraints for the system’s safe operation. Real-time pricing is employed for energy transactions between the MGs and the main grid. The results demonstrate a cost-efficient operation for the proposed system comprising two MGs and the main grid. During periods of negative power balance, the demand was met by discharging the BESS, EV’s battery, or purchasing energy from the grid. The BESS was charged when energy prices were low and discharged during peak demand periods and high energy prices. The intermittent nature of renewable sources necessitates an efficient management system to ensure reliable operation. Additionally, storage systems help mitigate the variability in generation. The BG generator was another crucial component for power supply due to its flexibility. Integrating these components into the system improved reliability and ensured a secure and balanced operation.
Batteries for fast frequency containment response: market impacts on outage dynamics
Authors: Sauer Christoph , Scherer Cipriani João Pedro , Maier Cocco Gabriel , Pinheiro Humberto , Wolter Martin
Published: November 2024

Traditional sources like hydro and thermal plants have a well-defined response for inertia and frequency containment during load outages, whereas inverter-interfaced battery systems offer more flexibility as ancillary services. This paper investigates interactions between sources of Frequency Containment Reserve (FCR) after an outage. By integrating a node model, market model, and inverter controller model, the German power plant fleet is simulated, incorporating various energy sources and k-factors. This setup evaluates how different battery participation rates in the FCR market influence system behavior and prices during an outage. The results show that battery storage systems, operating as grid-forming systems like Virtual Synchronous Machines, are particularly efficient for stabilizing frequency due to fast responses. This paper contributes to understanding how battery storage enhances grid stability and market efficiency.