bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Growth, carcass traits and meat quality of different local ducks and Turkish Pekins (short communication)
Authors: Işguzar E. , Kocak C. , Pingel H.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The purpose of the research was to study growth, carcass traits and meat quality of Kara, Yesilbas and Boz ducks (as the local names), in comparison with Turkish Pekin ducks in Isparta province, Turkey. Average body weights of Kara, Yesilbas, Boz and Turkish Pekin ducks were 42.3, 44.5, 48.0 and 46.2g for day-old ducklings; 1036.5, 1154.5, 1115.3 and 1168.7g for 4 weeks old ducklings; 1660.7, 1824.7, 1894.0 and 1744.2g for 8-week old ducks; 1816.0, 1999.0, 2044.0 and 1885.5g for 12-week old ducks, respectively. Average percentages of slaughter yield were 71.5, 72.5, 73.7 and 71.3%. The percentages of breast and leg meat to the carcass were 34.34, 34.1, 33.8, 36.7%, respectively. Average percentages of crude protein content for breast and leg meat were 20.2, 20.0, 20.3, 20.7% and 20.1, 19.4, 18.8, 19.4%, respectively. The content of crude fat for breast and leg meat were 10.3, 5.8, 8.3, 14.9% and 10.6, 6.4, 8.9, 15.1% respectively. Because of the lower fat percentage, the local duck breeds could be important for a commercial crossbred program.
Comparison of growth traits of eight beef cattle breeds in the Czech Republic
Authors: Jakubec V. , Schlote W. , Říha J. , Majzlík I.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Eight beef cattle breeds, Angus (A), Blonde d' Aquitaine (BA), Charolais (C), Czech Pied (CP), Hereford (H), Limousin (L), Piemontese (P) and Simmental (S), were analysed for the following calf traits: birth weight (BW), 210- and 365-day weight ( 210W, 365W) and average daily gains from birth to 210 days (ADG1), from 210 to 365 days (ADG2) and from birth to 365 days (ADG3). Phenotypic parameters were estimated by linear model procedures including the fixed effects of year of birth (1992–1998), herd, sex (male, female), calf number (single, twin), parity and random sire effects. Literature values of heritability estimates were used to derive genetic standard deviations and genetic range for comparison of genetic variation within and between breeds. The means of Blonde d' Aquitaine were highest for all growth traits except for BW, followed by Charolais and Simmental, then Angus, Czech Pied and Limousin with intermediate values and Piemontese and Hereford with lowest growth except for BW in Piemontese and ADG1 in Hereford. Blonde d' Aquitaine also showed high standard deviations for most growth traits except for BW, whereas for Limousin and Piemontese low standard deviations were estimated and for other breeds no consistent pattern was observed. Coefficients of variation were generally high for Hereford and low for Angus. Hypothetical frequency curves were used for comparison of genetic variation within breeds and between breeds. Comparison of extreme and average breeds showed ranges of genetic levels between 79 and 154 % of the average breed level thus indicating the large overall genetic variation for growth traits in beef cattle. Between-breed selection with immediate impact, but steady erosion by time, as well as within-breed selection with slow but steady increase and renewed variation should both be applied for optimal exploitation of genetic resources in the beef industry.
Influence of the DNA amount per microinjection on the development and EGFP expression in bovine embryos
Authors: Murakami M. , Ideguchi S. , Fahrudin M. , Otoi T. , Godke R. A. , Suzuki T.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Development and fluorescence expression were evaluated in bovine embryos microinjected with ~2 pl of DNA-buffer solution containing [I] 1.6, [II] 4.8 or [III] 8.0 ng/μl of the enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) gene, respectively. The percentages of embryo cleavage and development to blastocysts for the DNA-injected groups (Groups I, II and III) were significantly (p < 0.05) lower than those in the centrifuged control group. However, no significant difference was observed among the DNA-injected and buffer-injected control groups with respect to the percentage of development to blastocysts. There was no significant difference among the DNA injected groups with respect to the percentage of total fluorescing embryos. However, the percentage of total embryos that fluoresced in all the cells (nonmosaic) was significantly (p<0.01) higher in Groups II and III than in Group I. These results using the EGFP maker indicate that nonmosaic expression of fluorescence in the microinjected embryos increased by increasing the DNA amount injected. However, those injected embryos exhibited impaired development irrespective of the DNA dose.
Verlauf von aggressivem Picken und einigen Verhaltensmerkmalen in rangordnungsinstabilen Käfiggruppen bei Legehennen (Kurzmitteilung)
Authors: Karaağaç F. , Özcan M. , Savaş T.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Title of the paper: Progress of aggressive pecks and several behavioral traits in rank-order-instable cage groups in laying hens (short communication) Higher animals establish a rank-order, which provides advantages to the social life of these animals. The rank-order moderates aggression and decreases stress-based frustration. Laying hens kept in cages are normally replaced with new ones after they die. This results in conflict in the rank-order of the animals, particularly in adult hens depending on breed and line and, as a result, causes violation among animals. This is a stress situation, which can negatively affect welfare of the animals. In this study, the effect of instable rank-order on aggressive pecking and some behavioral traits was investigated in laying hens. Fourty eight white Lohmann LSL laying hens were used as animal material. The stocking rate was 4 laying hens in all cages, except for six cages in which a stable rank-order was formed with animals who came from different cages. The behavioral traits of aggressive pecking, feeding, drinking, feather pecking, cage pecking, standing and recumbency were monitored. A significant difference in aggressive pecking was found between stable rank-order and instable rank-order groups. The laying hens in instable-rank-order group showed more frequently aggressive pecking than those in rank-order-stable group. However, the progress of aggressive pecking during the experimental period indicated an elevation of aggressive pecking in both of the groups. The reason for increased aggressive pecking in the rank-order-stable group was thought to be due to the threatening with noise of the animals in the rank-order-instable group. Feather pecking was significantly higher in the instable rank-order group than in the stable rank-order group, indicating the frustration of the hens in the former group. Feather pecking is normally defined as a comfort behavior, but is not observed in every situation. This behavior could be classified as a "sparking over activity".
Preliminary results on associations between leptin gene (LEP) and some reproduction performance traits of boars
Authors: Kmieć M. , Kulig H. , Konik A.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Studies on porcine genome contributed to identification of polymorphic loci of the genes that may influence the level of reproduction-related traits. The LEP gene codes for leptin – a protein secreted to blood from adipocytes, important for food intake, energy expenditure, and immune response; the protein also influences some functions of mammalian reproductive system. The aim of this study was to determine the polymorphism of HinfI in the leptin gene and its effect on selected qualitative and quantitative traits of the semen. The analyses included 54 AI boars, which had been derived from crossing Duroc with Pietrain breeds. The genotypes were established with PCR-RFLP. Two alleles LEP/HinfI were identified: LEP (152 bp) and LEPC (68 and 84 bp) with the frequencies 0.713 and 0.287 respectively. The genotype frequencies were as follows: LEPTLEPT — 0.5185, LEPTLEPC — 0.3889, LEPCLEPC — 0.0926. The results obtained here demonstrated significant (P ≤ 0.05 and P ≤ 0.01) predominance of LEPCLEPT and LEPTLEPT boars in respect to ejaculate volume, percentage and number of live sperms and concentration of sperms.
Stability of milking order in goat over a long period (short communication)
Authors: Górecki M. T. , Wójtowski J.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The aim of this paper was to assess if goat milking order was stabile over a long period and if milking order is influenced by horned ness, age, body weight, breed, social status and milk productivity. Milking order was studied in three periods: the second half of 1999, and the first and second halves of 2000. To verify the results statistically, a variance analysis (ANOVA), the least squares method and Spearman's rank correlation were used. The observed milking order of goats was non-random and very similar in the two consecutive years. Milk yield correlated with the milking order in two of the three periods (higher–yielding goats entered the milking parlour first). Social status as well as age affected milking order only in one period (dominant and younger animals came to the milking parlour earlier). In one period it was observed that body weight influenced the milking order at a marginally significant level (p = 0.0598). Heavier goats were milked before lighter ones. It can be suggested, that milk productivity is the strongest predictor of the animal position in the milking order. However, habits seems to influence milking order stronger than measurable traits. The own results were compared with other studies on milking order in cattle, sheep and goats.
The influence of age and the reproductive status to the blood indicators of the ewes
Authors: Antunović Z. , Šperanda M. , Steiner Z.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The influence of age and the reproductive status has been researched in the blood serum of 75 Merinolandschaf ewes. We have detected statistically very high concentrations of Ca in the blood serum of pregnant and non- pregnant ewes comparing to those in lactation, while the opposite way has been noticed for the concentrations of P-inorganic and Na. Statistically much higher concentrations of K have been found in the lactating and non-pregnant ewes comparing to the pregnant ones. Statistically much higher concentrations of albumin and cholesterol have been detected in the blood of pregnant ewes comparing to the non-pregnant ones, while the opposite way has been noticed for the concentrations of total proteins. GGT activity was statistically much higher in the blood of ewes in lactation comparing to the non-pregnant ones and the CK and ALT activity in the pregnant ones comparing to those in lactation. The ewes up to one year old had statistically very significant high concentrations of P-inorganic, Na, Fe, glucose, AP, GGT, CK activities and in the older ewes the concentrations of cholesterol and total proteins. Due to that, it is necessary to, before the metabolic profile specification of ewes, take into consideration age and the reproductive status of the animals. For the age there have to be taken the concentrations of P-inorganic, Na, Fe, glucose, cholesterol and total proteins as well as AP, GGT, CK activities and for the reproductive status the concentrations of Ca, P-inorganic, Na, albumin, total proteins as well as the ALT, CK, GGT activities. These researches give basis for the regular therapy application and carrying out the prevention of the metabolic disturbances of ewes in the aim of reducing economy losses.
A statistical analysis of population variability in Bronze Turkey considering gene conservation
Authors: Szőke S. , Komlósi I. , Korom E. , Ispány M. , Mihók S.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Genetic variability is very important in small populations. We examined an indigenous Bronze Turkey population which is bred for gene conservation in order to see if the current mating system maintains genetic variability. The present generation was surveyed using microsatellite markers and a computer model was used to simulate changes in the population over 100 generations. The data was analysed using the concept of entrophy from information theory instead of genetic variance so that we could measure genetic variability more accurately. The results indicate that the breeding method currently in use, rotational line mating, is acceptable with respect to preserving genetic variability, but new selection methods may provide additional protection against the loss of alleles.
Use of inbred sires to exploit epistatic variance (short communication)
Authors: Pirchner F.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The genetic variance of inbred sires is increased and variance due to additive x additive effects proportionately more than that due to additive ones. In case of inbreeding by mating sire to daughters the time interval elite sire – son needs not to be elongated so that the genetic progress could be increased by this procedure. This pertains even more to the procedure. where inbred sires are produced from sib mating. Use of such sires should increase the genetic gain via the sire son path by about 10 %.
Variances of direct and maternal genetic effects for milk yield and age at first calving in a herd of Friesian cattle in Egypt
Authors: Salah Khattab A. , Atil H. , Badawy L.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. A total of 2095 lactation records of Holstein Friesian cattle kept at Dalla Farm in Egypt during the period from 1988 to 1992 were used in this study. Those data were used to estimate variances from direct and maternal genetic effects. The data was analyzed by using Multiple Traits Derivative Free Restricted Maximum Likelihood (MTDFREML) according to BOLDMAN et al. (1995) using repeatability Animal Model. Two models were used: Model 1 includes month of calving, year of calving, parity as fixed effects, days open and days dry as covariates and direct genetic, maternal genetic, covariance between direct and maternal genetic, permanent environmental and residual as random effects; Model 2 is similar to Model 1, but excluding additive maternal and covariance between additive direct and maternal effects. Estimates of heritability for 305 day milk yield (305 dMY) were 0.22 and 0.23, for Model 1 and Model 2, respectively. Heritability estimates for age at first calving (AFC) were 0.77 and 0.82 for Model 1 and model 2, respectively. The removal of additive maternal genetic effects and covariance between direct and maternal genetic effects from the model increased estimates for heritability of additive genetic effects by 0.01 and 0.05 for 305 dMY and AFC, respectively. Then, the additive maternal genetic effect and covariance between direct and maternal genetic effects do not seem to make important contributions to the phenotypic variance for milk yield and age at first calving, and these effects are probably not important for genetic evaluations.
Genetic parameter of birth and weaning weights for Friesian calves by using an animal model
Authors: Atil H. , Khattab A. S. , Badawy L.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Birth and weaning weights of 556 Friesian calves by 41 sires out of 318 different dams over a 11 years period were obtained from a herd of Friesian in Sakha Experimental Farm, Ministry of Agriculture, Egypt were used. The records were analyzed by Multiple Trait Likelihood Method (MTDFREML) by using a repeatability animal model (BOLDMAN et al., 1995). Convergence was attained after 699 iterations. The fixed effects included in the model were season and year of calving, parity and sex and the random effects were direct and maternal genetic, permanent maternal environmental and error. Direct heritability estimates for birth weight (BW) and weaning weight (WW) are 0.28 and 0.13, respectively, while, maternal heritability estimates for the same traits are 0.14 and 0.06, respectively. Repeatability estimates are 0.75 and 0.15 for BW and WW, respectively. Phenotypic and genetic correlations are 0.89 and 0.80, respectively. Estimates of calve breeding values ranged from −3.12 to 4.11 kg for BW and ranged from −4.10 to 5.11 kg for WW. Sire breeding values ranged from −3.40 to 2.99 kg for BW and ranged from −2.50 to 4.47 kg for WW. Dam breeding values ranged from −6.80 to 5.54 kg for BW and ranged from -6.10 to 6.39 kg for WW.
Variation in the chemical composition of muscles in young pheasants during their growth
Authors: Večerek V. , Suchý P. , Straková E. , Vitula F. , Mikundová M.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The paper reports on the changes in the chemical composition of breast and thigh muscles in intensively fed chickens of common pheasant, discussing the results obtained from the perspective of the production of high-quality pheasant meat. Young pheasants were fed for 90 days. Unlike breast muscles, thigh muscles showed a significant (P ≤ 0.05) decrease in water content between Day 50 and Day 90 (falling from 757.20 to 728.61 g/kg) which was associated with increasing dry matter content in muscles (from 242.80 to 271.39 g/kg). From a dietetic point of view, one positive finding is that both breast and thigh muscles from young pheasants aged 40 - 90 days contained low levels of fat, ranging from 6.12 g/kg to 8.33 g/kg, and from 20.36 g/kg to 51.37 g/kg, respectively. However, at the end of the monitored period (i.e. between Day 70 and Day 90) fat content in muscles significantly increased (P ≤ 0.01). Differences between average levels of ash (minerals) in breast muscles during the monitored period were not statistically significant. The average levels of ash in thigh muscles decreased statistically very significantly (P ≤ 0.01) on Day 50 (11.75 g/kg). In breast muscles a statistically significant decrease (P ≤ 0.05) was detected on Day 90 (11.67 g/kg). The above-mentioned changes in the chemical composition of muscles in young pheasants may arise due to qualitative age-related changes such as decreasing proteosynthesis and enhanced fat biosynthesis in muscles. This conclusion is supported by profound changes in the parameters of chemical composition related to muscle dry matter which are presented in this paper.
Fattening, carcass and meat quality traits of hybrid pigs as influenced by MHS genotype and feeding systems
Authors: Kusec G. , Baulain U. , Henning M. , Köhler P. , Kallweit E.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Within the scope of a growth study fattening, carcass and meat quality traits of MHS gene carriers (Nn) and homozygous negative (NN) castrated male pigs (n=96) kept under two different feeding systems were investigated. The experimental group was intensively fed during the whole fattening period (age 10 to 26 weeks). According to feeding recommendations for barrows, the control group was also fed intensively from 10th to 17th week (growth phase) while feed was restricted from 18th to 26th week (finishing phase). As expected, feeding system affected fattening performance significantly. Intensively fed pigs showed a higher daily feed intake in the finishing phase and in the complete fattening period while no differences could be found in the growth phase. Daily gain was higher in the intensive group than in control during the finishing phase and complete fattening period (Δ = 285 g and Δ = 125 g, resp). Feed conversion ratio was superior in restricted feeding: intensively fed pigs took 230 g more feed/kg live weight. NN pigs had a higher feed intake and higher daily gain than Nn genotypes. Carcass quality was also influenced by feeding system: pigs of the experimental group which were on average 14.4 kg heavier than those of the control group had clearly more backfat and percentage of lean was significantly lower. A significant effect of MHS genotype on leanness was not observed. Within intensive feeding system Nn pigs tended to be leaner than NN pigs. In meat quality significant differences between feeding groups were found only for electrical conductivity and for intramuscular fat. For both traits higher values were measured in the experimental group. But meat quality was clearly affected by MHS genotype: in gene carriers significantly lower pH1 values and higher conductivity after 24 h were found in loin and ham. In tendency, intensively fed NN genotypes had a higher intramuscular fat content than intensively fed Nn pigs.
Growth and milk performance of yak in southern Qinghai area (short communication)
Authors: Luo X.-L. , Zu J. , Li Q. , Wei Y. , Zhao X.-Q.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The Study carried out in Xueshan Township, Guoluo prefecture, Qinghai Province, P. R. China from 1997 to 1999 on 1) Growth regulation of yak from born to adult and 1/4 wild yak from born to one and half year; 2) The effect of nursing or not on the growth and development of dam; 3) Meat performance of local yak; 4)Milk productivity of female yak. It can be served as the theory basis from which crossbreed improvement of yak and government decision could be drawn.
Effects of Vitamin E by dietary supplementation and of Calcium Ascorbate by post mortem Injection in Muscle on the Antioxidative status and on Meat quality of Pigs
Authors: Lahucky R. , Kuechenmeister U. , Bahelka I. , Novotna K. , Vasickova K. , Ender K.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The effects of addition of vitamin E to pig diet and of calcium ascorbate injection in meat on the antioxidative status and meat quality (longissimus muscle) of pigs were investigated. The treatment consisted of supplementation with vitamin E (500 mg α-tocopheryl acetate/kg diet) for a minimum of 30 days to growing-finishing pigs before slaughter. Furthermore, meat samples (longissimus muscle) were injected with 10% by weight of a 1.5% calcium ascorbate solution. The dietary supplementation of fat soluble antioxidant vitamin E significantly (P<0.05) increased the concentration of α-tocopherol in meat (longissimus muscle). Lipid oxidation measured as TBARS, and antioxidative capacity (Fe2+/ascorbate induced) of meat were significantly (P<0.05) influenced by the supplementation with vitamin E, and the pH1 and driploss was improved. Water soluble antioxidant calcium ascorbate, injected in meat, increased the concentration of calcium (P<0.05) and ascorbic acid (P<0.05), and stabilized the colour ("a" value; P<0.05) in chill-stored meat and improved (P<0.05) the antioxidative capacity (Fe2+/ascorbate induced). Further research is needed to optimise the dosage.
Effect of selenium and vitamin E supplementation on reproductive performance of young boars
Authors: Kołodziej A. , Jacyno E.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The studies were carried out on 40 young boars of the synthetic line 990. On their 70 days of age, the boars were divided into two groups; the control group received 0.2 mg Se and 30 mg vitamin E while the experimental group received 0.5 mg Se + 60 mg vitamin E per 1 kg of feed mixtures. The feeding test was carried on from 70 days until 180 days of age. During the experiment the boars were subjected to live evaluations, i.e. testes volume, libido level, semen characteristics, as well as selenium concentration and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity in blood serum and seminal plasma. The boars of the experimental group, compared with the control, showed significantly (P ≤ 0.05) higher sperm concentration and total sperm count, significantly lower (P ≤ 0.05) percentage of spermatozoa with major or minor morphological changes, elevated (P ≤ 0.05) percentage of spermatozoa with normal acrosome, and significantly higher (P ≤ 0.01) ORT values. GSH-Px activity was higher (P ≤ 0.05) in seminal plasma of the control group boars.
In vitro production of bovine embryos using flow-cytometrically sexed sperm
Authors: Kątska-Książkiewicz L. , Ryńska B. , Bochenek M. , Opiela J. , Jurkiewicz J.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The investigation aimed to compare the effect of fresh and frozen-thawed X and Y fractions of flow-cytometrically sorted bovine spermatozoa on in vitro fertilization of bovine in vitro matured oocytes and subsequent blastocyst development. Sperm cells sorted in MoFloSX cytometer were used either for IVF or frozen and stored in liquid nitrogen. Immature oocytes recovered from ovaries of slaughtered animals and matured in vitro in TCM-199 containing 20% estrus cow serum and additional granulosa cells were fertilized in vitro with fresh or frozen-thawed fractions of sorted sperm. Simultaneously, control, fresh or frozen/thawed sperm was used for IVF. A total number of 2712 IVM oocytes were fertilized with sorted and control sperm of 6 bulls. Embryo cleavage rates were significantly affected by bull (P<0.0001), sperm sexing (P<0.0001) and sperm freezing (P<0.01). Blastocysts development was affected by sperm freezing (P<0.04) and sperm sexing (P<0.01). The significant differences were shown between unsorted and sorted sperm, however no differences in embryo cleavage rates and blastocysts rates were observed between X- and Y-sperm fractions, both fresh and frozen/ thawed. There were significant differences in cleavage rates among fresh, control sperm (52.7%), X fraction (26.8%) and Y fraction (24.7%). Similar differences in cleavage rates were shown for frozen/thawed control sperm (52.8%), X fraction (33.9%) and Y fraction (26.2%). The female blastocysts were frozen for further transfer, while the hatched male blastocysts were analysed by PCR revealing 76.2% accuracy. The results suggest that there were significant differences in cleavage rates and blastocyst rates due to sperm sorting in comparison to unsorted sperm and no differences between effectiveness of X and Y fractions of spermatozoa.
Comparison of amino acid and fatty acid composition of duck breast muscles from five flocks
Authors: Wołoszyn J. , Książkiewicz J. , Skrabka-Błotnicka T. , Haraf G. , Biernat J. , Kisiel T.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. A total of 60 drakes out of three flocks of conservative Miniduck (K2), Polish Pekin (P33), native Pekin population type A3 and two breeding strains (A55, P66), aged seven weeks, were used for comparison. The content of protein, lipids, moisture, essential amino acids, fatty acids and cholesterol were estimated. There were differences among flocks in all biochemical parameters. The muscles of A55 and P66 comprised more protein and less moisture than P33 and A3 muscles. The P33 breast muscles comprised the least of lipids (0.8% v/s 1.16–1.32%), however A55 of cholesterol (71.21mg/100g v/s 82.23–111.82 mg/100g). The isoleucine (ILE) and valine (VAL) were amino acids which limited the biological value of meat proteins from breast muscles of A3, P33 and K2, however tryptophan (TRP) for A55, P66 muscles. The unsaturated fatty acids (UFA) were predominant for all flocks (50.12–60.64%), the P66 muscles contained the most of UFA and P33 the most of saturated fatty acids (SFA). The highest level of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) was established in K2 muscles. The PUFA/SFA and n-6/n-3 PUFA ratios were 0.63–0.84 and 3.22–5.85 respectively. The lipids of A55 were characterized by the best fatty acid profile among the investigated muscles. Taking into consideration the nutritive value of proteins, cholesterol content and profile of fatty acids, A55 breast muscles appeared to be the most favourable from the human health point of view.
The content of polyunsaturated fatty acids in intramuscular fat of beef cattle in different breeds and crossbreeds
Authors: Šubrt J. , Filipčík R. , Župka Z. , Fialová M. , Dračková E.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The effect of crossbreeding on the content of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) in intramuscular adipose tissue of the Musculus longissimus pars thoracis of slaughter bulls was studied. The differences among 8 genotypes of bulls was most significant (p<0.01) in C18:3, C20:4, C22:4, C22:5 and C22:6. The content of linolenic acid (C18:3) in the Czech Spotted Cattle (control group) was 0.526%, the highest in the Czech Spotted x Piedmont cattle crosses (0.659 %), and the lowest in crosses with the Belgian breed (0.186 %). We evaluated the content of C18:3 (n-6 and n-3) and among the genotypes the differences in the content were insignificant. Compared with the control group all the evaluated genotypes showed a higher representation of C18 n-3, which does not apply to the isomer C18 n-6. At low percent values we detected insignificant differences in changes in content of isomers C22:5. Factors such as the age of the animals and the carcass weight had no effect on the structure of fatty acids. More important was the content of the intramuscularly adipose tissues. With increasing content of intramuscularly adipose tissue the values of C18:3 (n-3 and n-6) and C22:5 (n-3 and n-6) decreased as did the content of other acids belonging to PUFA (p<0.01).
Application of flowcytometrically sexed spermatozoa in different farm animal species: a review
Authors: Klinc P. , Rath D.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The most efficient way to shift the sex ratio of offspring is to select spermatozoa according to the sex chromosomes. The difference of their DNA-content can be used by flowcytometry to produce populations of either sex at high accuracy. As the method is based on single cell identification, the output of cells is limited, although major improvements were made by high-speed flowcytometry and improved cell orientation in front of the UV-Laser. The state of art is described in this review for the main farm animal species. For bovine AI sex-sorted-frozen spermatozoa are already available on commercial basis, whereas in other species, especially in pigs, the high demand of spermatozoa can hardly be satisfied. However, in combination with other biotechniques like IVF, ICSI, GIFT and special insemination protocols litters of acceptable size were produced under laboratory condition. As in horses and sheep current research is focused in pigs on long time storage of the sex sorted spermatozoa in liquid nitrogen.
GHRH/HaeIII gene polymorphism and its associations with milk production traits in Polish Black-and-White cattle (short communication)
Authors: Dybus A. , Grzesiak W.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The objective of this paper was to evaluate the relationship between the polymorphism of the GHRH and milk production traits of Polish Black-and-White. A total of 881 cows were included in the study. A PCR-RFLP method was used to genotyping. The frequencies of the genotypes and alleles were as follows: 0.0545 for AA, 0.3133 for AB and 0.6322 for BB, and 0.2111 for GHRHA and 0.7889 – GHRHB. There were no significant associations between GHRH/HaeIII polymorphism and milk production traits of the analysed cows.
Genauigkeit der Dualenergie-Röntgenabsorptiometrie (DXA) zur Ermittlung der Körperzusammensetzung von Schweinen in vivo
Authors: Scholz A. M. , Förster M.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Title of the paper: Accuracy of dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) for the determination of the body composition of pigs in vivo New methods for the measurement of the body composition in vivo (or post mortem) like DXA need to be evaluated before routine use in livestock research or performance testing. Two body weight groups of pigs I) 30–50 kg (n=61) and II) 70–90 kg (n=62) were studied in this analysis. The whole bodies of the pigs were analyzed by a GE Lunar DPX-IQ scanner in vivo for the amount and percentage of fat, lean tissue, bone mineral, and the bone mineral density as well. Three days later, pigs were slaughtered and after a 24 h cooling period, the reference parts (shoulder, loin, side, and ham) of the left carcass half were dissected into lean meat, fat, bone, tendons, connective tissue and skin according to the EU reference method. Generally, DXA variables explained a high proportion of variation (R²>0.8; √MSE=70–784 g) in the tissue masses of the reference parts (fat, muscle, bone) in both weight groups. The fat percentage of the reference parts and the DXA whole body results (in vivo) showed a very high relationship with a maximum R²=0.82 (√MSE=1.47%) for group II. Slightly lower was the relationship between the lean meat content (%) of the reference parts and DXA results in vivo (R2=0.72; √MSE=1.75) for group II. The bone percentage was predicted with R²=0.3 (√MSE=0.64), caused by the very different analysis methods. Generally, DXA is a suitable method for growth studies in the above body weight range. In order to predict the percentage of muscle (lean meat) or fat tissue accurately by DXA, pigs should weigh >50 kg, since the soft tissue percentages of group I resulted in R²≤0.38 (√MSE≤2.55).
Tracking the development of serum biochemical parameters in two laying hen strains – a comparative study
Authors: Gyenis J. , Sütő Z. , Romvári R. , Horn P.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. A follow-up, comparative study was designed for the description of differences between two divergent laying hen strains, a Leghorn type and a medium heavy body (MHB) genotype (Hy-Line Brown), in chemical body composition and serum biochemical parameters determined at 3, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 18, 20, 25, 30, 52 and 72 weeks of age; each time 5 birds of both genotypes were analysed and exterminated for body composition analysis. Resulting from the genotype-associated differences, the bodyweight of the populations differed from week 20 on. In the chemical body composition dry matter content was similar, while crude protein was higher on weeks 3, 8, 10, and after 18 weeks in the Leghorns. Crude fat content was higher in the brown birds (weeks 8, 10, 25, 30). Total serum protein and albumin showed slightly increasing trends, while serum creatinine concentration showed a downward trend in both genotypes, the MHB birds having higher values. Triglyceride concentration showed a drastic step-up at 17 weeks by changing to the pre-layer diet, coupled with marked between-genotype differences. This quick increase was matched by concentration drops in total and HDL cholesterol, the serum HDL cholesterol of Leghorns being always lower. Sodium concentration showed an increasing tendency with body DM content (R2=0.914, P<0.001, n=115). The Leghorns tended to show minimally higher Ca concentrations. The γ-GT activity was always higher in MHB birds, indicating a less effective hepatic adaptation to the peak production. Applying discriminant analysis to classify the genotypes, 94.4% of the original grouped cases was correctly classified, using all variables.
Effect of separate and mixed rearing according to sex on fattening performance and carcass characteristics in Japanese quails (Coturnix coturnix Japonica)
Authors: Kul S. , Seker I. , Yildirim O.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of sex of Japanese quails (Coturnix coturnix Japonica) on fattening performance and carcass characteristics. The quail chicks were divided into three groups, made up of 96 males or 92 females or 36 individuals of each sex, resulting in a total of 256 chicks. The chicks in the groups were raised using the same feeding regime (24% CP, 2900 kcal/kg ME) and housing conditions for 42 days. There were significant (P<0.01) differences between male and female groups in weekly live body weight (lbw) gain values on day 35, in average live body weight gain on days 35 and 42, and in lbw gain values between days 14 and 42. Slaughter weight and liver weight were significantly different between groups (P<0.01). The differences between the two sex in mixed group in average body weight gain, average lbw on days 35 and 42, average lbw gain, lbw gain between days 14 and 42, slaughter weight, hot carcass yield, and liver weight were found significant (P<0.01). Lbw, lbw gain, feed consumption, slaughter weight, hot carcass yield, weights of heart, liver and giblets were higher in female quails while feed conversion rate was lower. As a result, these data suggest that separate raising of male and female Japnese quails might be more advantageous.
Feed Intake Behaviour of different Pig Breeds during Performance Testing on Station
Authors: Baumung R. , Lercher G. , Willam A. , Sölkner J.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The aim of the study was to compare the feed intake behaviour of the two main pig breeds used as dam lines in Austria, Large White and Landrace, and to clarify whether there is an effect of MHS-type on feeding patterns in Pietrain. Feed intake behaviour of 1.593 pigs of three different breeds (618 Large White, 486 Landrace, 489 Pietrain) kept in group pens (maximum 13 pigs per pen) was analyzed. Different traits such as visits per hour and per day, time in the feeding station per hour and per day, feed intake per hour and per day and feed consumption rate were used to describe feed intake behaviour for the observation periods testing day and testing period. By using Generalized Linear Models differences in feed intake behaviour between the breeds were assessed. LS-Means were used to describe feed intake patterns for each breed. Large White and Landrace animals showed clearly different feed intake strategies: Large White can be characterized by a high number of visits in the station combined with shorter time spent in the station and lower consumption rates. Landrace animals tend to visit the feeding station less often per hour but compensate this with staying longer in the feeding station resulting in a higher feed intake per meal. The effects of MHS-type on feeding patterns of Pietrain, were small. Finally the relationships between selected growth and carcass traits (average daily gain, feed conversion ratio, lean meat content, meat quality index, intramuscular fat content) and selected feed intake behaviour traits (average feed intake per day, average time per day, average feed consumption rate) were analyzed using regression analysis. Average feed intake had a significant influence on all performance traits except the meat quality index.
Effect of inbreeding on growth and reproduction traits of Beetal goats (short communication)
Authors: Sajjad Khan M. , Ali A. , Hyder A. U. , Chatta A. I.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Level of inbreeding and its effects on growth and reproductive traits were measured in Beetal goats using 4554 kidding records (1968–2004) from an experiment station in Pakistan. Level of inbreeding varied over the years; was zero in 1974 then increased 0.42% per year till 1987 when all the bucks and some of the does were replaced with unrelated animals. From 1988 till 2000, inbreeding again increased 0.21% per year and declined thereafter due to introduction of unrelated bucks. The average level of inbreeding over the years varied from zero to 7.3%. 42.7 % of all investigated animals were inbred, half of which had inbreeding greater than 6.25%. About 3.4% of animals were 25% or more inbred. Regression analysis indicated that birth weight (p<0.05), weaning weight (p<0.01) and pre-weaning daily gain (p<0.01) had improved in inbreds while post-weaning daily gain (p<0.01) deteriorated. Deterioration in weight at first service and at first kidding did not reach statistical significance. Kidding interval increased (p<0.01) due to inbreeding. Within inbreds, however, decline due to inbreeding was observed for birth, weaning and yearling weight but slopes were not different from zero, statistically. Rate of decline in weight at first service and at first kidding however, was different from zero (p<0.01). Effect of inbreeding on growth and reproductive traits in Beetal goats was not very pronounced in the flock. Planned matings are however, suggested to avoid accumulation of inbreeding and appearance of its deleterious effects.
The novel SNPs of the IGFBP3 gene and their associations with litter size and weight traits in goat (Brief report)
Authors: Lan X. Y. , Pan C. Y. , Chen H. , Zhao M. , Li J. Y. , Yu J. , Zhang C. L. , Lei C. Z. , Hua L. S. , Yang X. B.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3) gene is a structural gene responsible for the multiple effects of insulin-like growth factors (IGFs) playing a key role in mammalian growth, development and reproduction (BALE et al., 1992; HASTIE et al., 2004). Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) have been described in the bovine IGFBP3 gene which was associated with production traits, as well as in the buffalo (MACIULLA et al., 1997; PADMA et al., 2004). No polymorphism was detected in the sheep IGFBP3 gene (KUMAR et al., 2006). In present experiment most of the coding region and part of introns of IGFBP3 were scanned for SNPs in predominant goat breeds of China. Associations of SNPs of IGFBP3 with litter size and weight traits were analyzed.
Dietary supplement of the rumen protected methionine and milk yield in dairy goats
Authors: Poljičak-Milas N. , Marenjak T. S.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The experiment was conducted on three farms of dairy goats. The experimental groups of animals were during the four months period supplemented with 5g Mepron®, (Degussa, Germany), daily. Milk yield, milk protein and milk fat content were recorded throughout the experiment. The milk production was statistically higher in the experimental group of animals on two farms, farm 1 and farm 3 in the first control period, a month after the application, whereas on farm 2, the higher milk production was present in the third and forth control period, two and three months after the application. During the experiment there was no statistically differences in milk protein and milk fat content between experimental and control groups on farm 1 and farm 2, whereas on farm 3 the milk fat content was statistically lower during the Mepron® supplementation. In conclusion, the higher milk production in the first control period on farm 1 and 3 with great probability referred to the influence of Mepron®. The higher milk production on farm 2 in the third and fourth control period coincided with introduction of alfalfa hay in daily ration, that may have enriched the amino acid supply.
Comparison of body measurements of beef cows of different breeds
Authors: Bene S. , Nagy B. , Nagy L. , Kiss B. , Polgár J. P. , Szabó F.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Body measurements of 110 beef cows of 9 breeds (Hungarian Simmental, Hereford, Aberdeen Angus, Red Angus, Lincoln Red, Shaver, Charolais, Limousin and Blonde d’Aquitaine) were taken in December 2004. The absolute, relative measurements and measurement indices moreover correlations between age, live weight and measurements were evaluated and compared for the mentioned breeds. Animals in study were born between 1989 and 2002, kept on the same condition on peat-bog soil pasture at Keszthely. Significant differences (P<0.05) were found among breeds in most of the body measurements. Blonde d’ Aquitaine was the heaviest in live weight (638 kg), highest as for the height at withers (142.5 cm), height at rump (146.6 cm) and length of the body (151.5 cm). Limousin had longest measurements as for the length of the rump (47.4 cm) and width of the rump (58.3 cm). Shaver had the longest width between shoulders (52.9 cm) and width of the head (25.1 cm) while Lincoln Red the longest length of the head (52.8 cm). The correlations between live weight and measurements were medium or strong positive (r = 0.40–0.83), between age and measurements slight positive (r = 0.01–0.46), among the different measurements medium or strong positive (r = 0.22–0.81).
Foot pad health, plumage condition, integument and claw length of Lohmann Silver laying hens kept in small aviary housing systems, furnished cages and an aviary housing system
Authors: Rönchen S. , Scholz B. , Hamann H. , Distl O.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. In the 3rd, 6th, 9th and 12th laying month, foot pad health, plumage condition, integument and claw length were evaluated in 432 Lohmann Silver laying hens kept in three different housing systems: a small aviary housing system (Eurovent 625a-EU, EV) with different perch levels, a furnished cage system (Aviplus, AP) and an aviary (Voliere Natura, AV). Foot health was scored for hyperkeratosis and lesions on a scale from 1 (normal) to 5 or 4 (severe). Plumage condition was assessed with scores from 1 (worst) to 4 (best) for different body regions. Integument was assessed for lesions and claw length of the middle toe was measured. Mild foot pad hyperkeratosis was the most frequent finding in hens of all housing systems. Sole pad hyperkeratosis was less frequent in AP and occurred more often in EV and AV. Significantly more often hyperkeratosis in the region between toe and claw was observed in AP. Toe pad lesions and lesions between toe and claw were scored lowest in AV and highest in AP. An aggravation of plumage in the course of the laying period was observed in all hens. Hens showed a significantly better total plumage condition in AP compared to EV. Within housing system, group size had a significant influence on plumage condition. Plumage was better in smaller groups. Lesions of the integument were rarely detected. Claws were significantly shortest in AP, longer in AV and longest in EV. Perch design in EV was not significant for all traits except for comp lesions.
Profile Analysis and Growth Curve for Body Mass Index of Broiler Chickens Reared Under Different Feed Restrictions in Early Age
Authors: Mendeş M. , Dinçer E. , Arslan E.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of different feed restrictions which were applied in early period on change of Body Mass Index of Ross 308 broiler chickens. For this aim we used to two different statistical methods, namely Profile analysis and Growth curves. The daily body weight and weekly body length change of chickens was collected from 7 days of age to 42 days of age. Profile analysis was used to compare differences among the groups and the Gompertz growth function was regressed from these data to estimate the growth parameters. The group profiles were not found parallel in terms of Body Mass Index (P<0.001) as a result of the Profile analysis. Therefore once concludes that the difference in Body Mass Index (BMI) of the animals between weeks depends on feeding regime (profiles are not parallel). The value of A and b parameter values were 0.02368 and 0.83436 for ad libitum group (AD), 0.02216 and 0.75251 for 20 % feed restriction based on ad libitum group (YK), 0.02235 and 0.79656 for HG group, respectively. Inflection point (k) for HG group was fount smaller than that of the AD and YK groups. All parameter estimates and growth characteristics for chickens based on Gompertz growth model were significant (P<0.05).
The effect of feeding with low-protein feed mixes on the growth and slaughter value of young male Pharaoh quails
Authors: Tarasewicz Z. , Gardzielewska J. , Szczerbińska D. , Ligocki M. , Jakubowska M. , Majewska D.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Experimental material consisted of one-day Pharaoh quail chicks, which were separated into three experimental groups. The birds of group I received a fodder, the nutritive value of which was consistent with recommended feeding standards for growing quails, whereas for those of group II and III the protein level was lowered in all feed mixes appropriated for the whole rearing period. During the experiment, individual body weight, feed consumption, and bird deaths and their health culling were controlled. At the age of 42 days, 11 males of each group, with a body weight similar to the group mean, were slaughtered. In blood samples collected, the level of amylase was assayed, as well as quail slaughter value was calculated and depot fat and extramuscular fat contents were determined. Meat chemical determinations were made (dry matter, protein and fat contents), as well as physicochemical (pH, colour, water binding capacity) and sensory ones (cooked meat and bouillon). Basing on the performed examination, it was found that a lowered level of protein in fodder did not affect quail body weight, slaughter yield, or breast part and leg participation in body weight. Carcass fatness decreased and meat water binding capacity improved. The values of majority of other examined meat qualitative traits were similar to those obtained in control group.