bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of milk samples from a milk evaluation program for the genotyping of cows
Authors: Buitkamp J. , Götz K.-U.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Milk can be an attractive DNA-resource for genotyping milking cows, e.g. for paternity control or QTL analysis within a daughter design. The use of milk collected within the established milk evaluation programs enables the collection of large numbers of samples. Nevertheless, there are limitations when using the remedies of tested milk samples, e.g. permutations of samples or partially degraded DNA. A DNA preparation method suitable for samples from routine milk recording has been developed that combines an initial centrifugation step with direct lysis of cells and purification from comparatively high volumes by using silica membrane spin columns. The method yields high quality genomic DNA from fresh samples and PCR grade DNA from remedies of tested samples. In addition the potential use of milk samples within a daughter design was evaluated. We collected reference samples from 119 Simmental dairy cows from 6 half sib families. From 89 of these dairy cows remedies of milk samples were obtained from the routine milk laboratory. Paternity could be established by microsatellite analyses for all 119 reference cases. From the 89 milk laboratory samples 86 were successfully microsatellite typed. In 81 cases the genotypes from milk and reference sample were identical. In summary it could be shown that it is possible to genotype dairy cows from test laboratory milk samples, but results have to be used carefully taking into account inherent limitations. The use of milk as compared with tissue samples as a source for DNA within daughter designs is discussed.
The influence of calf rearing methods and milking methods on performance traits of crossbred dairy cattle in Thailand – 1. Milk yield and udder health
Authors: Boonbrahm N. , Peters K. J. , Intisang W.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Forty crossbred (75–87.5% HF) dairy cows were included in a 2 x 2 factorial experiment composed of hand milking (HM) or machine milking (MM), and artificial rearing (bucket feeding, BR) or restricted suckling (RS). Calf suckling and milk feeding was done until 84 days postpartum. Milking was continued until the end of lactation. MM cows had a significantly (p < 0.05) higher daily saleable milk production (SMP) (7.49 vs. 6.97 kg/day), daily total milk production (TMP) (8.60 vs. 7.96 kg/day) and total lactation milk yield (TLMY) (2297.72 vs. 2137.41 kg) than HM cows. The RS cows had a significantly (P < 0.001) higher TLMY (2455.46 vs. 1979.68 kg), annual total milk yield (ATMY) (2277.23 vs. 1970.73 kg), lactation saleable milk yield (LSMY) (2165.90 vs. 1724.64 kg), annual saleable milk yield (ASMY) (2035.21 vs. 1721.17 kg) and daily saleable milk production (SMP) (7.98 vs. 6.47 kg/day) than the BR cows. The MM cows showed a significantly (p < 0.001) higher somatic cell score (SCS) than their HM herdmates throughout the study period. The BR cows exhibited a significantly (p < 0.001) higher SCS than RS cows
Influence of starvation and sex on some lysosomal enzymes activity in young dairy cattle
Authors: Kołątaj A. , Dymnicki E. , Oprządek J. , Jóźwik A. , Śliwa-Jóźwik A. , Oprządek A.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The study included 177 Polish Friesian cattle with an over 75% Holstein proportion – 117 heifers and 60 young bulls 250 days old. The animals were progeny of 27 AI Holstein sires. All individuals were housed in a tie stall and fed ad libitum silage, hay and concentrate until the 7th month of age. From the 7th to the 8th month of age the animals of both sexes received an ad libitum full concentrate diet. Almost in the all cases the activities of lysosomal enzymes were higher in heifers (except NAG, BGAL, AP). The 48 h starvation did not influence AAP, LAP, AP, LL, BGLU activity in bulls and BGRD, BGAL, BGLU and NAG in heifers.
Effect of Protein Sources with Different Rumen Degradability in a Diet on the Efficiency of Utilization of Metabolizable Energy by Calves
Authors: Sekine J. , Kamel H. E. M. , Hishinuma M. , Fadel El-Seed A. N. M. A. , Morita S. , Hanada M. , Kondo S.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. To evaluate the effect of dietary protein of diverse rumen degradability on the efficiency of metabolizable energy (ME) utilization by calves at the growth and maintenance levels of feeding. A total of 54 energy balance trials were conducted using 18 Holstein castrated male calves given four diets containing soybean meal (SBM), cottonseed meal (CSM), heated soybean meal (HSBM) and corn gluten meal (CGM) as a main source of protein. The trials were carried out at the ages of 13 weeks for the growth (G) level of feeding and 15 weeks for maintenance (M) followed by the 24-h measurement of fasting (F) heat production after 3-day fasting. The dg values were 0.657, 0.543, 0.463 and 0.413 for SBM, CSM, HSBM and CGM, respectively. The regression analyses of energy retention (ER, kJ/W0.75) on the intake of ME (IME, kJ/W0.75) above the maintenance level revealed no significant differences among diets and gave a following pooled equation: ER = 0.56(±0.04)IME – 311, r = 0.897 (P<0.01). The below M level resulted in the following two distinct equations for the diet with a higher dg of protein source and that of a lower dg: ER = 0.77(±0.02)IME – 403, r = 0.994 (P<0.01) for SBM + CSM. ER = 0.60(±0.03)IME – 350, r = 0.982 (P<0.01) for HSBM + CGM. We concluded that ME utilization for maintenance may be influenced by the protein sources of different dg, but not for growth.
Different allele frequencies of MC4R gene variants in Chinese pig Breeds
Authors: Chen M. , Wang A. , Fu J. , Li N.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. A missense variant of the porcine melanorcortin-4 receptor gene (MC4R) is associated with fatness and growth-related traits in pigs. The single nucleotide change of MC4R gene can be identified by TaqI PCR-RFLP. We checked the variation in nine Chinese native pig breeds, four pig breeds from France, together with a F2 population originating from a cross between Landrace and Lantang. We also analyzed the relationship of MC4R genotypes with effects on variation in growth and carcass-related traits in the F2 population of 111 animals. We found superiority of BB individuals for several related traits, such as age at 100kg weight, average backfat, etc. The results implicated the potential use of MC4R gene as a new genetic marker for the control of economically important growth and carcass traits in pigs.
Growth Curves of Turkish Saanen Goats’ Kids Grouped for Weight and Body Mass Index
Authors: Pala A. , Savaş T. , Uğur F. , Daş G.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Growth curves and weaning stress differences were investigated in Turkish Saanen kids grouped for their weight and Body Mass Index (BMI = weight/height2). Data included 884 records collected from 61 Turkish Saanen kids raised in Canakkale, Turkey. Slopes were calculated for each kid and were analyzed as data using ordinary least squares, and repeated weights for each kid were analyzed using various covariance structures. Differences between male and female kids were small and non-significant before weaning (P = 0.55), while larger (P = 0.06) after weaning. Heavy animals grew faster than light animals before weaning (P < 0.01) but lost their advantage after weaning (P > 0.05). Fat animals (high BMI) grew faster than lean animals (low BMI) before weaning (P < 0.01) while the differences slightly diminished after weaning (P = 0.04). This may be because light and lean kids were not affected from the weaning shock as much as the heavy and fat kids, which had stuttered growth after weaning. Fit statistics indicated that first-order ante dependence was the best fit covariance structure for these data. Analyses specifying random model and covariance structures did not have an advantage over an approach where slopes were manually calculated and analyzed as data using ordinary least squares.
Effect of missing sire information on genetic evaluation
Authors: Harder B. , Bennewitz J. , Reinsch N. , Mayer M. , Kalm E.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Stochastic simulation was used to analyse the effect of missing sire information (MSI) on different parameters of genetic evaluation. Eighty proven bulls producing 100 progeny and 40 test bulls producing 50 progeny were simulated. The proportion of MSI was varied in four steps from 10 to 40%. Analyses were carried out for h² = 0.10 and h² = 0.25. A sire model was used for simulation and evaluation. The variance of DYD increased with increasing proportion of MSI. Variances of sire breeding values as well as rank correlations decreased with increasing proportion of MSI. The probability that the simulated Top5 and Top10 bulls were placed under the estimated Top5 and Top10 bulls, respectively, decreased with increasing percentage of MSI. The same holds true for the probability of ranking a bull with 10 to 40% MSI under the 5% best bulls with complete pedigree. The loss of response to selection increased up to 8.6% for proven bulls and up to 12.6% for test bulls.
The relationship among pre and post slaughter traits of American Bronze Turkey
Authors: Mendes M. , Karabayir A. , Ersoy I. E. , Savas T.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. This study aimed to investigate the relations among the pre- and post-slaughter traits of American bronze turkeys. Birds were raised under three different lighting regimes. Pre-slaughter traits were measured when the birds were 15-, 20-, and 30-weeks of age. Canonical correlation analysis showed that as the birds aged the relations among the pre- and post-slaughter characters became more pronounced. Coefficients of determination (R2) were 63.6-82.8% when pre-slaughter characteristics were measured at the 15th week, 84.8–94.6% at the 20th week, and 91.3–99.1% at the 30th week, respectively.
Computer-based analysis of sow herd performance
Authors: Krieter J. , Kirchner K. , Engler J. , Tölle K.-H.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Increased herd sizes and narrowed income margins are common characteristics of modern swine farming. Therefore good management is becoming more and more important for the economic results. The paper describes a computer-based weak-point analysis of individual sow herd performance. Three stages were distinguished: (1) Tracing deviations between farm performance and a given standard in order to detect trends in the production process. It was shown that modified exponentially weighted moving average control charts are an effective tool in detecting small performances shifts. (2) Weighting the deviations by calculating the statistical and economic relevance allows the ranking of different traits independent of scales and units. (3) Finding the causes for the performance shifts. Decision tree algorithm was investigated to gain more insight in the critical points of production. A decision tree starts with the root node representing the traits which mostly influenced the target attribute (critical point), followed by internal nodes. The generated graphical decision trees are transparent and the outputs are easy to interpret for the farm manager or the consultant. Methods were applied to simulated and real sow herd datasets.
The reproductive and milk performance merit of Butana cattle in Sudan
Authors: Musa L. M.-A. , Ahmed M.-K. A. , Peters K. J. , Zumbach B. , Gubartalla K. E. A.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Data from the Butana herd of Atbara Livestock Research Station were analyzed for the period 1949–1999. The least squares means for age at first calving, calving interval, milk yield per lactation, daily milk yield, lactation length and dry period were 45.05 ± 3.56 months, 382.38 ± 8.30 days, 1662.57 ± 108.96 kg, 6.10 ± 0.40 kg, 268.17 ± 5.56 days and 119.10 ± 8.30 days, respectively. The analysis of variance revealed that the sire and parity number influenced the studied traits, while year-season of calving influenced the milk yield per lactation, daily milk yield and lactation length. Linear and quadratic regressions on lactation length significantly influenced milk yield per lactation and daily milk yield. Heritability estimates for age at first calving, calving interval, milk yield per lactation, daily milk yield, lactation length and dry period were 0.19 ± 0.07, 0.09 ± 0.03, 0.26 ± 0.06, 0.27 ± 0.07, 0.04 ± 0.02, and 0.09 ± 0.03, respectively. This study highlighted the importance of conserving the indigenous dairy cattle breeds for future generations. The presence of significant variation and the corresponding heritability estimates give promise of reasonable genetic improvement under selective breeding with respect to milk yield characters.
Simplifications of marker-assisted genetic evaluation and accounting for non-additive interaction effects
Authors: Liu Y. , Mathur P. K.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. A computing simplification was applied to marker-assisted genetic evaluation of quantitative traits including additive and non-additive effects of QTL as well as residual polygenic effects. Different situations including QTL and the residual polygenic effect estimated as a sum or separately, and with or without non-additive effects integrated in models were evaluated. The computing simplification was used in combinations with different models and parameterizations. An example data was adopted to illustrate the simplified computing strategy and was compared with the computing method of direct inversion. Identical results were obtained from both computing strategies. The main advantage of the simplification is that it does not require inversion of non-additive relationship matrices and relationship matrices of QTL, and the number of random effects in mixed model equations is the same as any animal model with only additive effects.
Effect of light intensity on reproduction of Polish, Swedish, and Danish chinchillas
Authors: Felska-Błaszczyk L. , Brzozowski M.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The aim of this study was to determine at what level of artificial illumination the best reproduction performance can be achieved, as well as how varied light intensity affects chinchillas of different genetic groups. Reproduction performance was evaluated for 100 Polish, 52 Swedish, and 83 Danish females. Light intensity, measured with a photoelectric light meter LS-200, ranged between 0 and 100 lx. The chinchillas were assigned to 5 groups, 20-lx interval each. The analysis included: mean litter size, mean number of weaned per litter, death rate during nursing, number of litters per female per year, as well as litter size and number of weaned per female per year. For each genetic group, the highest death rate of the young was found at the lowest light intensity level, i.e. 0-20 lx, while the lowest mortality was at 41-60 lx. Both Swedish and Danish chinchillas had lower nursing mortality at a higher level of illumination (61-100 lx), while higher mortality was recorded at lower light intensity (0-40 lx), compared to Polish chinchillas. It can be concluded that light intensity affects chinchilla reproduction, since higher litter sizes and reduced offspring mortality were observed under stronger light. Danish females attained the highest number of litters per year, the largest litter size and the highest number of weaned per year at the light intensity of 61-80 lx, compared to the other genetic groups. Chinchillas proved to be sensitive to very small changes in light intensity.
Inheritance of some fertility traits in three successive generations of Holstein-Friesian cattle
Authors: Lazarevic R. , Miscevic B.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The aim of the paper was to establish reproductive traits and their heritability during the three successive generations of Holstein-Friesian cattle. Research was conducted on the duration of pregnancy, service period and fertility intensity. In each generation there were 135 first calved cows. Service period and fertility intensity refers to the following calving. Significant differences were established (P < 0.05) regarding duration of pregnancy between I and II generation. Significant (P < 0.05) influence of season on duration of pregnancy and service period was established in I generation (1991), on duration of service period and fertility intensity in II generation (1996) and on duration of pregnancy and service period in III generation (2000). Season effect (summer) was established for all traits of fertility in II generation (P < 0.05). The season (spring) had influence on duration of pregnancy (P < 0.05) and summer had an influence on duration of service period and fertility intensity, and winter effected the duration of service period (P < 0.05) in III generation. Values of heritability coefficients are pretty low for all generations. Considerably greater values for heritability were established for service period and intensity of fertility of cows per generations.
Parthenogenetic Activation of Porcine Oocytes by Calcium Ionophore A23187
Authors: Yin S. , Hishinuma M. , Hamana K. , Sekine J.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. This study was designated to clarify the influence of activation of porcine matured oocytes by calcium ionophore on in vitro development of the parthenotes. The follicular oocytes were matured, activated and cultured in North Carolina State University-23 (NCSU-23) medium supplemented with 10% porcine follicular fluid (pFF). The in vitro-matured oocytes were exposed to calcium ionophore at concentrations of 12.5, 25 or 50 μM for 3, 5, 7 or 9 min. The activation rate of the oocytes increased as concentration of ionophore decreased, being at 27–33 and 68–77 % for the oocytes treated with 50 and 12.5 μM ionophore, respectively. Almost all activated oocytes were haploid. The highest cleavage rate (76%) and developmental rate to morula (41%) were observed in the oocytes treated with 12.5 μM ionophore for 5 min. However, development to blastocyst was observed only in the oocytes treated with 25 μM ionophore for 3 and 5 min (3 and 4% of treated oocytes, respectively). We concluded that the activation treatment of the porcine oocytes with 12.5 μM ionophore for 5 min provided the highest develop-mental rate to morula, but this treatment is not sufficient to overcome a developmental block at the morula stage.
Somatic cell count and chemical composition of milk in naturally BLV-infected cows with different phenotypes of blood leukocyte acid phosphatase
Authors: Bojarojć-Nosowicz B. , Kaczmarczyk E.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Effectiveness of the methods applied to control mastitis is low. Therefore, indices are sought which could improve cow immunity to udder pathogens. The aim of the study was to determine the relationship between the polymorphism of blood leukocyte acid phosphatase (AcP), BLV infection, the somatic cell counts and the milk composition in the first trimester of lactation. Studies were performed on a population of 65 Black-and-White cows, aged 3–6 years, from a leukemia-dominated herd. Enzootic bovine leukemia was diagnosed with ELISA and PCR tests. The following analyses were performed: the contents of total protein, lactose, dry matter, somatic cell count in milk as well as microbiological analyses. The obtained results indicate the occurrence of an association between a natural BLV-infection and mammary gland secretion disturbances in cows, whereas the relationship with the acid phosphatase polymorphism is not explicit. The obtained results encourage the continuation of studies into the role of blood leukocytes AcP in the pathogenesis of mastitis.
Effects of selenium administration on blood serum Se content and on selected reproductive characteristics of sheep (short communication)
Authors: Balicka-Ramisz A. , Pilarczyk B. , Ramisz A. , Wieczorek M.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Effects of selenium on certain indicators of sheep reproductive success and on Se level in the sheep's blood serum were studied in 2001–2002 on 100 Polish merino sheep ewes kept in a Western Pomeranian sheep farm. The 100 ewes were picked out on random and divided into two equal groups: treatment and control. The blood samples for serum Se assays were collected prior to administration of sodium selenide (before servicing) and 7 days after the treatment. The study was aimed at determining Se effects on the reproductive success (fecundity) of ewes and on selected indicators of lamb utility in a Se-deficient area. Se administration prior to servicing enhanced the herd’s reproductive success. The treatment group’s litter size was by 0.38 lamb per ewe higher than that of the control. The control group lamb body weight was lower than that of the treatment group by an average of 0.23 kg on birth and 0.31 kg 33 days later.
Analyse von Gesundheitsmerkmalen in verschiedenen Prüfabschnitten des Nachkommentests auf Station bei Deutschen Fleckviehbullen
Authors: Hilgenstock F. , Hamann H. , Rosenberger E. , Götz K.-U. , Distl O.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Title of the paper: Analysis of health traits in different lifetime classes in stationary progeny tested German Fleckvieh bulls The objective of this study was to analyse systematic environmental and genetic effects on the incidence and number of treatments due to bronchopneumonia and other diseases for five different age groups in German Fleckvieh bulls. The data set contained 1775 male calves kept under identical housing and management conditions from the age of about 25–50 days to 450 days for a stationary progeny test in growth and carcass traits. The age groups distinguished were from day 10–75 (1), 76–100 (2), 101–150 (3), 151–200 (4) and > 200 (5) of age. Fixed environmental effects tested for significance in generalized or general linear models were barn at entry, age at entry, region of origin, season of entry, diagnosis of bronchopneumonia at entry, test group within year of entry and weight at entry. Heritabilities were estimated in linear multivariate animal models using Residual Maximum Likelihood (REML). The multivariately estimated heritabilities for the incidence of bronchopneumonia were between h2 = 0.22 (first age group) and h2 = 0.07 (fourth age group). The DEMPSTER and LERNER (1950) transformation resulted in estimates of h2 = 0.34 for the first and h2 = 0.13 for the fourth age group. The additive genetic correlations varied from rg = −0.76 (2nd–5th age group) to rg = 0.78 (1st–3rd age group). The lowest value of the residual correlation was re= −0.05 (1st–4th age group) and the highest value was re = 0.16 (4th–5th age group). The multivariately estimated heritabilities for the number of treatments due to bronchopneumonia were highest in the first age group with h2 = 0.29 and lowest in the fourth age group with h2 = 0.08. The additive genetic correlations ranged between rg = 0.64 (1st –3rd age group) and rg = −0.33 (2nd–5th age group). The residual correlations were between re = −0.11 (1st–3rd age group) and re = 0.33 (4th–5th age group). Genetic differences among animals in resistance to bronchopneumonia are expressed most clearly in the lifetime period between day 40 and 150.
Associations between the AluI polymorphism of growth hormone gene and production and reproduction traits in a Hungarian Holstein-Friesian bull dam population
Authors: Kovács K. , Völgyi-Csík J. , Zsolnai A. , Györkös I. , Fésüs L.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The aim of this paper was to study the polymorphisms of bovine growth hormone gene. The authors genotyped 363 Hungarian Holstein-Friesian bull dams from 6 farms all over the country. Two variants (L and V) of the bovine growth hormone gene digested with AluI enzyme were identified in the experiment. Genotyping was carried out by PCR-RFLP method. The frequency data of L and V allele was 0.93 and 0.07 respectively. Distribution of the three genotypes were 87.05% (LL), 12.40% (LV) and 0.55% (VV). The studied population was in H-W equilibrium considering the genotype distribution. SPSS 11.0 for Windows was used to reveal the possible correlations between GH genotypes and production and reproduction traits and further statistical analyses. On the basis of statistical analyses it can be found that VV genotype cows had the longest milking period and LL had the shortest dry period. Both differences were significant. Cows with LV genotype had significantly higher test milking data than LL cows. Furthermore, LV genotype seemed to be advantageous for 305 days lactation milk yield. While milk composition traits, as 305 days milk fat and protein percent showed the opposite tendency, since LL genotyped dams produced significantly higher values in these traits.
Detection of gene expression and enzyme activity of Cytochrom P450 arom (aromatase) in preantral and early antral bovine follicles depending on culture conditions in vitro
Authors: Pöhland R. , Lenz S. , Vanselow J. , Tomek W.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. This study reveals that cultivation of preantral and early antral (< 500 μm) follicles in culture medium containing FCS results in an expression of cytochrome P450 arom. (aromatase). The enzymatic activity of aromatase, measured in terms of the estradiol synthesis, was proved to be present in follicles greater than 100 μm, could further be stimulated by FSH in follicles greater than 300 μm diameter. The enzyme protein and the gene expression were studied by means of western blot and immunohistochemistry as well as by means of realtime PCR. Neither the protein nor the corresponding mRNA could be found in uncultivated follicles and in FCS-free cultivated follicles. Estradiol synthesis could not be determined under FCS-free conditions. The expression of the FCS effect was dependent on the follicle size.
Economic weights for conformation traits in Mountain sheep
Authors: Fuerst-Waltl B. , Baumung R.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Between October 2004 and April 2005, data of 304 and 504 Mountain sheep rams and ewes, respectively, were collected at seven auction sales for sheep breeding stock. Conformation scores of all animals were assessed before the auction started. In Mountain sheep, the scores 1 (worst) to 9 (best) are assigned for the conformation traits type, frame, form, feet and legs and wool. For the analysis of auction price, effects accounted for were the fixed effects of conformation traits, auction and lamb(s) sold with ewe (ewes only) as well as the covariate success at exhibitions. Auction had a significant effect on price in rams (P<0.05) and ewes (P<0.001), while for exhibition success only a trend (P<0.10) could be observed in ewes. Ewes sold with lambs did not achieve significantly higher prices. Within conformation traits, only type was found to have a significant effect in both sexes (P<0.01 in rams and P<0.001 in ewes). In rams, frame had a significant effect on auction price (P<0.001) while only a trend could be observed for form and feet and legs (P<0.10). Contrary to these results, in ewes higher scores for form and wool led to significantly higher prices (P<0.05 and <0.001, respectively). By means of the obtained Least Squares Means for score classes, economic weights for conformation traits were derived. The economic weights per genetic standard deviation, ewe place and year range from approximately € 0.9 to € 4.9 in ewes and € 1.3 to € 4.8 in rams.
Effects of ESR1, FSHB and RBP4 genes on litter size in a Large White and a Landrace Herd
Authors: Wang X. , Wang A. , Fu J. , Lin H.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The polymorphisms of ESR1, FSHB and RBP4 genes were detected by PCR-SSCP, PCR and PCR-RFLP in a Large White and a Landrace herd in Beijing, China and the influence of ESR1, FSHB and RBP4 on litter size traits was analyzed using three models. We found polymorphisms for the three genes in Large White besides for ESR1 and RBP4 genes in Landrace. The results showed that the most genotype effects are of ESR1 among these three genes.
Effect of a low-growth rate on the frequency of osteochondrosis in Danish Landrace pigs (short communication)
Authors: Arnbjerg J.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. To determine the importance of feeding a low energy but high fiber containing feed ratio on the incidence of Osteochondrosis (OCD) in young Danish Landrace pigs 24 piglets were fed a low energy (788.6 joules/kg) but high fiber ration during the growth period up till 5.5 months of age. Nine piglets were fed the same feed until they had a weight of 89–94 kg (7.75–10.25 months of age). The pigs were slaughtered, the legs radiographed, the joints were macroscopically examined, and the findings recorded. The radiographic and macroscopic findings typical for osteochondrosis were greatly reduced in severity and frequency when compared to earlier studies of the same genetic pool of the same age-group given a standard Danish feed ratio recommended for growing pigs (1289.6 Joules/kg). This low growth rate regime might not be economic best for the producer of pigs used in the slaughter industry because of the unfavorable growth rate, but could be useful for the breeding stock to prevent OCD lesions in the growing fase of breeding pigs.
Assignment of solute carrier family 2 (facilitated glucose transporter), members SLC2A2, SLC2A3, SLC2A5, SLC2A8 and SLC2A12 to porcine chromosomes by somatic cell and radiation hybrid panel mapping (Brief report)
Authors: Liu K. , Zhao S. , Liu B. , Fan B. , Li C. , Yu M.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The transport of glucose plays an important role in cellular glucose homeostasis and metabolism [1]. Due to the hydrophilic character of glucose, the transport of glucose in and out of cells requires specific carrier proteins. The mammalian facilitative glucose transport family, which contains the energy-independent transporters (gene symbol SLC2A, protein symbol GLUT), catalyzes the entry of glucose into mammalian cells by facilitative diffusion down a concentration gradient. Thirteen members of mammalian GLUT family have been now characterized [1]. In swine, the chromosomal locations for the five genes (SLC2A2, SLC2A3, SLC2A5, SLC2A8 and SLC2A12) have not yet been determined. In this study, as the first step to better understand of the roles of these GLUTs in pigs which could subsequently be beneficial for pig production, we report the mapping of the five genes using both porcine somatic cell hybrid panel (INRA-SCHP) and radiation hybrid panel (IMpRH).
The Breeding Values of German Holstein Sires and the DGAT1 Polymorphism
Authors: Citek J. , Rehout V. , Hradecka E. , Vecerek L. , Panicke L.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The effect of the genotypes and alleles at nucleotide positions 10433 and 10434 of the DGAT1 gene on the breeding values for milk performance of German Holstein sires born in 1993 (n=66), and in 1998-2001 (n=200) was analyzed. The differences in breeding values had in both years the same trend. In the younger sires, the breeding value for fat percentage was higher by 0.42 % in the Lysine homozygotes compared to the Alanine homozygotes (P<0.001). A higher milk breeding value in the Alanine homozygotes (811 kg) was found compared to the Lysine homozygotes (256 kg) (P<0.001), and the fat yield breeding value was higher in the Lysine sires (DGAT1K/DGAT1K 29.6, DGAT1A/DGAT1A 15.9). The breeding value for the protein percentage was higher in the sires carrying the Lysine variant (0.02) than in the Alanine homozygotes (- 0.03, P<0.05), and the protein yield was higher in the Alanine homozygotes (DGAT1K/DGAT1K 10.9, DGAT1A/DGAT1A 25.0, P<0.001). Because of the high emphasis of the index on the protein yield, the relative breeding value for milk was 110 among Alanine homozygotes, and 104 among Lysine. Comparing old and young sires, the genetic background against which the effect of DGAT1 is evaluated has changed. The selection on breeding value for protein yield increased the prevalence of DGAT1A/DGAT1A genotypes in protein and milk yield, and in relative breeding value for milk. In the old group, there was the highest protein yield in the heterozygous sires DGAT1KA, it could be explained by another genetic background of the tested female population. Because the breeding value for fat percentage of heterozygous sires has lain within the values of homozygotes in both old and young sires, we assume the intermediary heredity on the locus. The differences of genotypic and allelic frequencies among old and young sires were not significant, however, there was certain tendency of increase of allele A (0.60 old sires, 0.64 young). On the results of this paper, the locus of DGAT1 offers information for evaluation of breed animals.
Der Einfluss der Fütterung auf die Zusammensetzung verschiedener Fettdepots von Jungbullen der Rassen Ungarisches Grauvieh und Holstein Friesian – 2. Mitteilung: 1H- Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) Untersuchungen
Authors: Holló G. , Nuernberg G. , Bogner P. , Kotek G. , Nuernberg K. , Holló I. , Seregi J. , Ender K. , Repa I.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Title of the paper: Effect of feeding on the fatty acid composition of different fatty tissues of Hungarian Grey and Holstein Friesian bulls. II. 1H-Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) investigations In this attempt the relaxation times using 1H-NMR spectroscopy from three different (subcutaneous, perinephric and internal fat) fat depots of Hungarian Grey and Holstein Friesian extensive or intensive fattened young bulls were measured. The relaxation properties were compared with the analysis of fatty acid compostion. The different diets and the sample location have a higher influence on the relaxation times than the breed. In fat samples from extensive groups the T1-relaxation time was longer, while the T2-relaxation time was significantly shorter in intensive fed groups. The T2-relaxation time, as well as the relaxation time of T21- und T22-components were the shortest in extensive fed animals, while the proportion of T21-component was the highest in kidney fat, furthermore the difference was statistics proved. The T2-relaxation time showed a close negative relationship with the ratio of saturated fatty acids (SFA). The ratio of v21 and v22 depends on chemical composition of fat samples. In fat tissues with a high SFA percentage caused a higher proportion of v21. It is suggested that differences in fatty acid compositon of fat samples caused also alteration in the relaxation time.
SNP analysis, genotyping and mapping of the porcine PTHR1 gene to chromosome 13 (Brief report)
Authors: Tetzlaff S. , Ponsuksili S. , Murani E. , Schellander K. , Wimmers K.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The parathyroid hormone/parathyroid hormone like hormone type I receptor (PTHR1) belongs to the family of G protein-coupled receptors for peptide hormones, including parathyroid hormone (PTH) and parathyroid hormone like hormone (PTHLH), which participate in epithelial-mesenchymal interactions during the formation and differentiation of epithelial organs (FOLEY et al., 2001; CHOMDEJ et al., 2004). The function of PTHR1 and its ligands suggest its candidacy for traits related to the development of bones and joints but also of mammary gland. The porcine gene was screened for SNPs and assigned to SSC13.
Hair whorls of Holstein Friesian heifers and affects on growth and behaviour
Authors: Broucek J. , Kisac P. , Mihina S. , Hanus A. , Uhrincat M. , Tancin V.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The aim of this study was to investigate whether the growth, number of crossed squares in the open-field test and time of traversing the maze in the maze are affected by the height position of they facial whorl in heifers which were kept in experimental conditions. Fifty-eight Holstein heifers were used. The hair whorl position was determined as hair whorl high, middle and low. Heifers with a high whorl had significantly higher body weight at days 360 (P<0.05) and 540 (P<0.01) and average daily gains from birth to 21 months (P<0.001) and from the 6th to 21st months (P<0.01) of age. We did not find any significant differences among hair whorl position groups either in open-field tests or in the maze. The present results show that the growth is influenced in the investigated dairy cattle by height of their facial whorl.
Distribution of αS1-casein "welsh" variant in some Slovak and Czech sheep breeds
Authors: Banykó J.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Occurrence of the αS1-casein D allele (formerly "welsh" variant) in sheep breeds Tsigai, Improved Valachian and Slovak Merino was investigated by means of isoelectric focusing in ultra thin polyacrylamide gel. This variant in herds of the above mentioned breeds was observed as follows: Improved Valachian 3.64%; Tsigai 5.57%; Slovak Merino 12.45%. In the last mentioned breed in a single animal αS1-casein was not found at all (0.34% of the total). There is no mention of existence of null allele of sheep αS1-casein in literature so far. In case of the Tsigai breed in one individual (0.24%) the "welsh" variant in homozygous form was observed.
Estimation of direct and maternal effects on body weight in Mehraban sheep using random regression models
Authors: Kesbi F. G. , Eskandarinasab M. , Shahir M. H.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. In the present study the growth data of Mehraban sheep were used to estimate direct and maternal additive genetic effects together with direct and maternal permanent environmental effects on body weight from birth to 270 days of age using random regression models. The fixed effects of the model were age of dam, type of birth and contemporary groups. Animal, dam, animal and maternal permanent environmental effects were considered as random effects. The models were fitted to the data using Legendre polynomials for age of lambs. Changes in residual (measurement error) variance with age were modeled by a variance function. Direct heritability estimates for the later ages with the least records tended to be overestimated, particularly heritability beyond 180 days. Maternal heritability estimates increased after birth to a maximum around 120 days of age and decreased thereafter. The results showed that covariance between weights of lambs for a considerable range of ages can be modelled properly using random regression.
Polymorphism of leptin gene (LEP/TaqI) in horses according to their breed and utility type (Brief Report)
Authors: Borowiec-Chopek Ż. , Pikuła R.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Leptin gene (LEP), the product of which is an important factor controlling body weight, fat reserve and feed intake, is of great interest for geneticists (XIE et al., 1999; KURYŁ, 2000). Due to different origin of horse breeds and distinct objectives of their breeding, a question arises whether the polymorphism of leptin is going to be also characteristic for horses depending on their breed and utility type? In the present research, investigations were undertaken with the aim to detect mutations in leptin gene (LEP) in horses bred in Poland and to determine genetic structure of horses of different breeds and utility types basing on leptin gene (LEP) polymorphism.
Genotyping of the polymorphism within exon 3 of prolactin gene in various dairy breeds by PCR RFLP (Brief report)
Authors: Ratna Kumari A. , Singh K. M. , Soni K. J. , Patel R. K. , Chauhan J. B. , Sambasiva Rao Krs
Published: November 2017

Abstract. In mammals, especially dairy cattle the prolactin has important functions like the development of mammary gland affecting milk yield and composition. It has been mapped to chromosome 23 in Bovine (HALLERMAN et al., 1988). A silent A→G transition mutation at the codon for amino acid 103 in exon 3 of bovine prolactin (bPRL) gene gives rise to a polymorphic Rsa I site, has become a popular genetic marker used for genetic characterization of cattle populations by means of PCR-RFLP (MITRA et al., 1995; CHRENEK et al., 1998; DYBUS, 2005). The present study reports on the genotype frequencies observed in various Bos taurus and Bos indicus dairy cattle breeds.
Association of polymorphisms of the GHRHR gene with growth traits in cattle (Brief report)
Authors: Zhang C. , Chen H. , Zhang L. , Zhao M. , Guo Y. , Zhang C. , Lan X. , Hu S.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The hypothalamic hormone, growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH), is the principal stimulator of pituitary growth hormone (GH) synthesis and secretion. Its pituitary receptor is well characterized as a member of the superfamily of G protein-coupled receptors (MAYO et al., 1992). GHRH and its receptor provide important functions in the regulation of the GH axis and in the development and proliferation of pituitary somatotropes (LIN-SU et al., 2002). By now, polymorphisms of bovine GHRHR were not reported. In the present experiment the 5' flanking region, the coding region and partially introns of GHRHR were screened to detect the SNPs in the predominant cattle breeds of China.
Factors affecting first lactation performance of Sahiwal cattle in Pakistan
Authors: Rehman Z. U. , Sajjad Khan M. S. , Bhatti S. A. , Iqbal J. , Iqbal A.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. To study the environmental and genetic factors affecting productive and reproductive traits, data on 5,897 cows from five main recorded herds (for 1964–2004) of Sahiwal cattle in Pakistan were used. A general linear model was applied on the data. The 305-day milk yield, total milk yield, lactation length, age at first calving, dry period, calving interval and service period averaged 1,393 ± 12 kg, 1,429 ± 11 kg, 235 ± 2, 1,390 ± 4, 244 ± 3, 464 ± 3 and 1,78 ± 3 days, respectively. The age at first calving was effected by herd, year and season of birth. The 305-day and total milk yields were affected by herd, year, season of calving, age at first calving, service period and lactation length while all other first lactation traits were affected by herd, year, season of calving and 305-day milk yield. Animal model heritability estimates for these traits were 0.11 ± 0.029, 0.11 ± 0.028, 0.09 ± 0.027, 0.02 ± 0.019, 0.05 ± 0.019, 0.12 ± 0.027 and 0.04 ± 0.020, respectively. Rate of decline in first lactation milk yield was 7 l per year over the last 35 years with genetic trend close to zero. Lactation length and service period decreased and age at first calving increased by 2, 1 and 6 days per year, respectively. Herd differences for most of the traits were significant. Improved feeding and management may improve performance traits of Sahiwal cattle. Accurate recording of pedigrees and performance traits would help improve genetic param
Mapping and association of GAD2 and GIP gene variants with feed intake and carcass traits in beef cattle (short communication)
Authors: Guo H. , Liu W.-S. , Takasuga A. , Eyer K. , Landrito E. , Xu S-Z. , Gao X. , Ren H.-Y.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Glutamate decarboxylase 2 (GAD2) is a major autoantigen in insulin-dependent diabetes, while glucosedependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) is a gastrointestinal hormone. Both genes are involved in insulin secretion and play a role in the regulation of feed intake and metabolic rate in animals. In the present study, we assigned the bovine GAD2 and GIP by RH mapping to BTA 13 and BTA 19, respectively. We discovered SNPs from these genes by a PCR-sequencing approach. We identified one SNP (T/C transition) from the 14th intron of the bovine GAD2 gene and another SNP (A/C transversion) from the 4th intron of the bovine GIP gene. Genotyping over 300 animals from five different beef populations revealed that the average allelic frequency for the GAD2 allele A was 0.48 and allele B 0.52, while for the GIP allele A 0.80 and allele B 0.20, respectively. There were significant associations observed between the GAD2 and GIP gene variants and Average Daily Feed Intake (ADFI) (p<0.05) in beef cattle. In addition, the GAD2 SNP was also associated with Meat Percent (MP) (p<0.05), whereas the GIP SNP was also significantly associated with Backfat Thickness (BF) (p<0.05) and Ratio of Feed-to-Meat (RFM) (p<0.05). There were no significant effects found for other traits. Although both SNPs could be used as candidate markers for MAS to improve feed intake and carcass traits, further investigations in large populations and in other breeds are recommended in order to understand the effect of the GAD2 and GIP polymorphisms on these quantitative traits in beef cattle.
Activity behaviour and social interactions of pigs raised outdoors and indoors
Authors: Høøk Presto M. , Andersson H. K. , Folestam S. , Lindberg J. E.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Activity behaviour and social interactions of pigs in indoor and outdoor systems fed different levels of amino acids were studied on 96 crossbred pigs (Hampshire × Swedish Landrace × Swedish Yorkshire). The pigs were born outdoors and raised indoors in conventional pens or outdoors on pastures and given recommended (R), 7 % lower (R-7) or 14 % lower (R-14) levels of amino acids, in a phase feeding system with a low-energy diet provided ad libitum. Pigs in the outdoor system walked significantly more (p=0.012) and tended to be rooting more (p=0.098) than indoor pigs. Amino acid level did not affect the activity behaviour and social interactions of the pigs. Indoor pigs given diets R-7 and R-14 were drinking significantly more often than indoor pigs receiving the R diet, but had less contact with other pigs (p=0.020 and p=0.002, respectively). For outdoor pigs no such effect of amino acid level was found. Queuing for feed decreased with increasing age of the pigs, both indoors and outdoors (p=0.009). Rooting decreased and sleeping increased with the age of indoor pigs (p=0.014 and p=0.001, respectively), whereas no consistent trend for outdoor pigs was found. Sniffing, nibbling, pushing (p=0.001 for all) and tail manipulation (p=0.002) occurred more often indoors than outdoors. The results show that pigs in an outdoor system are more active and perform more natural behaviours, such as foraging and rooting, than pigs in an indoor system. Furthermore, roughages, such as pasture, and large areas may play an important role in occupying pigs and therefore contribute to less aggressive behaviours.
Zu den Auswirkungen der Rangposition auf die Fruchtbarkeitsleistung von Sauen
Authors: Hoy S. , Bauer J. , Borberg C. , Weirich C.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Title of the paper: Impact of rank position on fertility of sows The investigations were carried out with 460 sows from two farms (farm A: housing the sows in small groups of 8 animals each, farm B with a large group of 100 sows) and a total number of 901 matings. The number of agonistic interactions was registered for each sow during 48 h after mixing soon after weaning the piglets. The individual rank place in the social hierarchy was calculated on the basis of wins and defeats and the sows were divided in high and low ranking sows. At farm B the rank position was estimated on the basis of the daily feeding order at two electronic feeding stations (first half = high ranking, second half of the sows in the feeding order = low ranking). Additionally, the following parameters were recorded for each sow: parity, farrowing rate and litter size (total and alive born piglets). The analysis showed that sows with a high rank position had a significantly higher farrowing rate (89.8 %) compared to pen-mates with low rank places (83.9 %, p<0.05)(farm A). Sows with a high rank position reached a significantly higher litter size of total born piglets (12.51, 16.14 piglets per litter respectively) than the low-ranking pen-mates (12.00, 14.83 piglets/litter respectively – farms A and B). In tendency the difference concerning the litter size between sows with high and low rank position was larger in sows with parity 2 than in sows with a higher parity number (farm A). When mixing sows, the time and the conditions (e.g. group size, space allowance per sow) have to be considered to prevent the negative influence of (low) rank order on fertility.