bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Selection index alternatives for increased marketing body weight with minimum concomitant reduction in body bone percentagerecourse to tissue dissection on Japanese quail
Authors: Shahin K. A. , Shemeis A. R. , Abdallah O. Y. , Saleh K.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Live body weight, shank length, keel length and carcass dissection data taken at 6 weeks of age were available on 103 quails from 33 sires. In a principal factor analysis, the first varimax rotated factor explaining 46.1% of the total Variation, revealed that body weight had negative loading and all bone percentages positive. The implied contrast was confirmed by the finding that body weight (h,sup>2 = 0.61) was genetically correlated negatively with weight of total bone relative to body weight (−0.23) and to carcass weight (−0.58). Noticeably, shank length (SL) had large positive genetic correlation with body weight (0.90) and practically independent relationship with body bone percentage (−0.04). Selection indexes for meat production capacity were construeted. The breeding goal was defined as body weight (BW) and body bone percentage (BBP). The descending order ofthe unrestricted indexes with respect to the correlation between the index and genetic worth was: the füll index utilising body weight, shank length and keel length (0.95), indexes based on body weight and one length measurement (0.86), body weight alone (0.78). The accuracy was reduced by 17–35% upon restraining changes in BBP to zero. This study indicated that an index of considerable accuracy and remarkable usefulness would be I3 = 4.56 BW + 244.87 SL. Use of this index should result in developing birds with higher body weight and more advantageous carcass attributes than selecting for body weight alone (L) or on the restricted füll index (II(BBP)). Such three indexes were most efficient in limiting reduction in BBP.
Additive genetic variance and covariance in some reproduetive disorders in Hungarian Holstein Friesian using multi-trait animal model
Authors: Amin A. A. , Gere T. , Kishk W. H.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Relationships between some reproduetive disorders in the first 3 lactations of Holstein Friesian cows were investigated for 1886 lactation records. Multiple-trait maximum likelihood procedure which included sire cow within sire as random effect and herd, parity, month and year of calving as fixed effects was used to estimate heritabilities and repeatabilities for the studied traits. Abortion within 60 days, retained placenta, ovarian cysts calving difficulty, dystocia, mastitis, and calving type were coded as 0 and 1 for heritability and repeatability estimations. Pooled and separate analysis were applied on the first 3 lactations. Abortion within 60 days retained placenta, ovarian cysts, calving difficulty, dystocia, mastitis, abortion no. and calving type had moderate heritability estimates which ranged from 0.15 to 0.24. Low heritability estimates and a weak sire variance component were obtained for milk fever. The most frequent disorder traits were mastitis, milk fever abortion no calving type and calving difficulty (0.37 to 0.72). Up word trend of heritability estimates with advancing order of lactation was observed for mastitis, abortion within 60 days, and abortion no. while heritability estimates for calving type, calving difficulty and dystocia had a back word trend. These results help in determining the suitable age of selection. Additive genetic variances and covariances among the studied traits have indicated reducing incidence rates if selection index procedure used in this filed. Strong negative genetic correlation between milk fever and abortion no. (−0.429) while negative phenotypic correlations between all studied traits were not more than −0.120 which was estimated for calving difficulty and abortion no.
Verwertung der im Intestinum wachsender Bullen absorbierten essentiellen Aminosäuren
Authors: Kluth H. , Gabel M. , Voigt J. , Schönhusen U.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Title ofthe paper: The efficiency of utilization of intestinal digestible indispensable amino aeids in growing bulls There are problems to determine the efficiency of protein deposition of intestinal absorbed amino aeids, because it cannot be exeluded that the amount of single or some indispensable amino acid (IAA) can influence the growing Performance of the animal. The dependence of amino acid gain on the flux of essential absorbable amino aeids into the duodenum was studied in growing bulls to calculate the utilization rate of these amino aeids. Four growing bulls (Schwarzbuntes Milchrind, BW: 240–310 kg) with duodenal T-type cannulas were fed diets varying in crude protein content. Energy level was 11,2 MJ ME/kg DM. The efficiency for the different absorbable IAA was decreased with increasing nutritional level. This is in contrast with the constant utilization factor ofthe protein evaluation system (AfB, 1995; 1997). The efficiency of utilization of apparently digestible IAA for protein retention was highest for His and Met and amounted to 33 (He), 34 (Phe and Thr), 38 (Lys and Val), 41 (Leu), 52 (Met) und 76 (His) %, respectively. The intersection ofthe regression curve (AA-deposition against apparently digestible AA) with the abscissae resulted in the maintenance requirement of absorbable amino acid. For growing bulls (BW: 300 kg) a value of 4,7 g/d histidine and 4,2 g/d methionine was determined, but more investigations are necessary in this field.
The effect of exogenous glucose on the activity of lysosomal enzymes in some organs of rabbits (short communication)
Authors: Witek B. , Kolataj A.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The 6-month-old male rabbits, New Zealand White, were given twice daily for 7 days by infusion 40% Solution of exogenous glucose in the amount of 1 ml/kg of body weight. Administration of glucose decreased significantly the activity of BGLU and AP in the liver; BGRD, BGAL, NAGL, AP and LL in the kidney; NAGL and LL in the muscle.
Effect of exercise on sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ transport in muscle of mouse lines long-term selected for different Performance traits
Authors: Küchenmeister U. , Langhammer M. , Renne U. , Nürnberg G. , Ender K.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Mouse lines used were long-term selected for high (DU-hTP) or low treadmill Performance (DU-ITP), or high locomotor open field activity (DU-hOF). The control line DU-Ks was maintained unselected. For each line 30 mice were used at 42 days of age. All lines were split into three groups: the first group was investigated without running exercise, the second had to run 500 m, and the third had to run until exhaustion on the treadmill. Compared to mice without running, in exhausted mice the maximal rate of SR Ca2+ uptake of the m. rectus femoris decreases were only found in the mouse lines DU-ITP, and DU-hOF (28.5 %, and 36.3 %, respectively; p < 0.05). The effect of the 500 m run was significant (p < 0.05) in DU-hTP, but not in the other lines. An effect of exhausting exercise on Ca2* ATPase was detected only in DU-hOF with increased values after the exhaustive run. The hypothesis, that exercise induced alterations in Ca2* transport in muscle of mice selected for high activity (DU-hOF) or high running Performance (DU-hTP) are attenuated compared to mice which were not selected (DU-Ks) or selected for low Performance (DU-ITP), could not be verified.
Einfluss von Rasse und Laktationsnummer auf Eutermerkmale bei Milchkühen
Authors: Wufka M. , Willeke H.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Title ofthe paper: Influence of breed and lactation number on udder traits of dairy cows For using automatic milking Systems (AMS) a distance of 33 cm between teat and floor and of 1.5 cm between two backteats is necessary. To estimate the percentage of cows of the in Germany common breeds of Holstein- Friesian (HF), Simmental (FV), Brown Swiss (BV), Gelbvieh (GV), Red Holsteins (RH) and SMR (Synthetic breed out of Friesian, Jersey and Holsteins), which don't fit to the AMS, was the aim of this trial. The interval between milking and measuring influenced the distance between the two teats highly significant (p < .01), whereas only a trend ofa decreasing teat-height could be shown. The repeatability of the different traits had been .94 for teat-height, .88 for distance between the teats and .56 for teat-length. There are highly significant differences between the teat-height. of HF (46.37 cm) , whereas the breeds GV (38.88) and FV (39.45) show a pronounced decreased distance between teat and floor. The number of the lactation influenced the teat-height in the expected way, too. The teat-distance is influenced as well by the breed, as by the lactation. Under the assumption that AMS needs udder-measurements of >33 cm teat-height and ≥1.5 cm distance between the hind teats, these requirements are not fulftlled by 9 % of Simmentais and by 7 % of the HF.
Schätzung genetischer Parameter an einem Datenmaterial der Sächsischen Rinderpopulation
Authors: Michaiolowskaja A. , Mielenz N. , Schüler L. , Bergfeld U. , Müller U.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Title of the paper: Estimation of genetic parameters in the dairy cattle population of Saxonia Population-genetic parameters of the dairy cattle population of Saxonia have been examined. The estimated heritabilities for milk quantity range between 0.35 and 0.42, for fat content between 0.48 and 0.55 and for protein content between 0.52 and 0.57. Higher heritabilities were found for 1st than for subsequent lactations. The genetic correlations between milk quantity and the fat and protein contents were significantly negative for all lactations, likewise between protein content and the protein quantity. The correlation between fat content and fat quantity has been slightly positive (rg=0.08). The analysis of genetic trends revealed a substantial increase in quantity traits, whereas a negative trend has been observed for the milk content merits.
Effects of feeder space allowance on agonistic behaviour and growth performance of broilers (short communication)
Authors: Olukosi O. A. , Daniyan O. C. , Matanmi O.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. One hundred and thirty-two 4-weeks old unsexed Anak-2000 broiler strain were used to study the effect of feeder space allowance on agonistic behaviour and growth performance of broilers from weeks 4–8. The feeder space allowance were 2.4 cm/bird, 3.0 cm/bird and 3.6 cm/bird in groups I, II and III. The agonistic behaviour observed included head pecks, steps, pushes, threats and chase during feeding and "non-feeding" periods. There was a decrease in total agonistic behaviour as feeder space per bird increased from 2.4cm/bird to 3.6 cm/bird, both during feeding and non-feeding periods. There was a significant effect (p ≤ 0.05) of feeder space allowance on mean agonistic acts/bird/hour during feeding period being highest in G1 (7.8 acts/bird/hour), and lowest in G3 (4.5 acts/bird/hour). There was no significant effect (p > 0.05) of feeder space allowance on mean agonistic acts/bird/hour during non-feeding period. In G1 and G2, there was a significant effect (p ≤ 0.05) of period of observation on mean agonistic acts/bird/hour being highest in the feeding period and lowest in the non-feeding periods. In G3, there was no significant effect (p > 0.05) of period of day on mean agonistic acts/bird/hour and no significant effect of feeder space allowance on the growth performance parameters measured at p>0.05.
Distribution of milk flow in Holstein Friesian and Fleckvieh cows in Croatia
Authors: Mijić P. , Knežević I. , Domaćinović M. , Baban M. , Kralik D.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The aim was to investigate the distribution of milk flow rate in Holstein Friesian and Fleckvieh cattle. Researches were made in four farms in Eastern Croatia with 534 cows. 2594 tests were made with computer milking equipment, Alfa-Laval and with digital milk flow counter made by Tru-Test Company. The measuring of milk flow rates was done from 50th to 180th day of lactation. Tests showed as expected better results among Holstein Friesian then Fleckvieh cows. The optimal distribution of milk flow rate of Holstein Friesian type was 56.58 % and Fleckvieh was only 38.91 %. The results of the investigation are discussed. The milk flow rate represents an essential performance trait and should be included into the breeding program.
Genetic parameters for egg production and egg weight of laying hens housed in single and group cages
Authors: Nurgiartiningsih V. , Mielenz N. , Preisinger R. , Schmutz M. , Schüler L.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The present study was conducted to estimate the heritability and genetic correlation of monthly egg production and egg weight of 2 lines White Leghorn hens in single and group cages. A total of 2289 records (line A) and 2596 records (line D) from single cages, 518 and 541 records (for line A and D, respectively) from group cages, were analysed. (Co) variance components of single cage data were analysed using the programme VCE4 applying the REML method and a multiple trait animal model. An EM-algorithm was used to obtain (co) variance components for group cage data. Genetic correlations between single and group cages were analysed using the programme VCE4 based on sire model. Heritability estimates for monthly egg production in single cages ranged from 0.08 to 0.44 (line A); 0.04 to 0.43 (line D) and those for group cages were 0.02 to 0.42 (line A); 0.02 to 0.19 (line D). Egg weight was highly heritable for single and group cages (heritability = 0.25 to 0.54). The genetic correlations between monthly and cumulative egg production were 0.25 to 0.95 (line A); 0.26 to 0.86 (line D) for single cage and 0.24 to 0.84 (line A); 0.26 to 0.96 (line D) for group cage. Cumulative egg production in single cage were highly correlated with those of group cages (0.89 and 0.63, respectively for line A and line D). Single cage records gave higher estimates of genetic parameter than group records. However, the trend of estimates is almost the same. High genetic correlations were found between single- and group cages in most of the production periods.
A better welfare for nursing sows without increased piglet loss applying peri-parturition short term crating
Authors: Stabenow B. , Manteuffel G.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. A housing for nursing sows is presented that allows the animals to move within the pen for most of the time until weaning of the piglets and thus increases welfare. Ten days before farrowing was expected the sows (n = 80) were stalled to Scan farrowing pens without restriction. They were allowed to move around and to get into contact with their neighbour animals. Three to five days before parturition the sows were confined to farrowing crates until 4–6 days after parturition. At that time the piglets (n = 4075 from 361 litters) reliably visited the heated and protected hiding area. Compared to conventional housing systems for nursing sows we observed no increased piglet loss by crushing. Hence, temporal confinement of the sows around farrowing offers a suitable method to increase well-being without impairing the economic achievement.
Untersuchungen an den Ergebnissen der Zuchtwertschätzung von Holstein Bullen und Kühen in Deutschland
Authors: Swalve H. H. , Höver K.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Title of the paper: Examinations using the results of breeding value estimation for Holstein sires and cows in Germany Besides for selection purposes, estimated breeding values can be used to analyze genetic trends and structures in populations. Using data of 2,440,261 cows from four regions in Germany, genetic trends for all cows under test (registered and grade) were calculated for the period of birth years 1992 to 1999. For milk, fat, and protein yield annual trends on average were 111 kg, 3.2 kg, and 3.3 kg, respectively. An analysis of the use of proven sires revealed that a relatively large proportion of bulls get second crop daughters. Most of them, however, are used in a very limited way. The differential use of sires by breeders besides production is highly influenced by type proofs although in this respect clear differences exist between regions. An analysis comparing first proofs of young bulls with their later proofs based on additional second crop daughters for all German Holstein breeding organisations showed a high degree of agreement between the two proofs. However, this analysis was based on only 127 sires that were used more widely (plus > 500 second crop daughters).
13C nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy – a non-invasive in vivo method to measure muscle glycogen metabolism in pigs of different genotypes
Authors: Scholz A. M. , Mitchell A. D. , Song H. , Wang P. C.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The three ryanodine receptor 1 gene variants (NN: homozygous normal, Nn: heterozygous, nn: homozygous defective) and the degree of Hampshire origin (0 %, 25 %, 50 %) serve as model for the investigation of the in vivo glycogen muscle metabolism in 27 pigs. The pigs originate from 4 different cross-breeding lines with an age varying between 41 and 58 days and a body weight between 7.3 and 19 kg. 13C nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy was applied non-invasively in vivo and in a few pigs also post mortem to study the metabolic processes in the biceps femoris muscle after halothane exposure. In contrast to no visible effects of the halothane challenge test, the heterozygous defective allele carriers showed a drastic reduction in the level of glycogen (57 %) coupled with an increase in body temperature (1.36 °C). Overall, these changes were intermediate compared to the dramatic response in the homozygous nn genotype and to the very slow processes in NN, considering that the drastic glycogen depletion in the heterozygous genotype occurred after a rather long time of halothane exposure ( >20 min). In addition, pigs with the highest degree of Hampshire origin (50% → RN– allele frequency: ~31.5 %) showed the slowest glycogen depletion compared to pigs with a lower degree of Hampshire origin (0 or 25 %).
Erhebungen zur Fettsäurenzusammensetzung von Rückenfett bei Thüringer Schweinen sowie zum Fett von Thüringer Knackwürsten aus dem Einzelhandel
Authors: Reichardt W. , Gernand E. , Müller S. , Hartung H. , Eckert B. , Braun U.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Title of the paper: Examinations to the fatty acid composition of backfat at Thuringian pigs as well as to the fat of Thuringian cracking sausages from the retail trade The fat from the outer back bacon of Thuringian pigs (n = 751) was examined several years with regard to their fatty acid composition. The content of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) ranged at the backfat from 7.3 to 12.7% and the relationship of the n-6 and n-3 fatty acids varied from 4.4 to 11.3. PUFA contents in the backfat > 12 % were explained by high C18:2 or C18:3 contents of the food. Examination of the fatty acid composition of the fat of 21 fresh cracking sausages from the Thuringian retail trade on a random basis yielded, that the contents of PUFA and linolenic acid ranged from 6.2 to 15.8 % respectively from 0.8 to 2.0 % as well as the quotient of n-6 to n-3 fatty acids varied from 3.6 to 10.3.
Non-invasive body composition measurement of broiler chickens between 4–18 weeks of age by computer tomography
Authors: Andrássy-Baka G. , Romvári R. , Milisits G. , Sütő Z. , Szabó A. , Locsmándi L. , Horn P.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Non-invasive computerized tomography was performed on commercial broiler chickens, in both sexes, between 4 to 18 weeks of age, with the aim of body composition measurement. On the basis of 16–32 scans gathered from each bird during the scanning procedure, volumetric measurement of the breast muscle was performed. These values were at the 259; 493; 786 cm3 and 195; 460; 668 cm3 in male and female birds at the age of 6, 12 and 18 weeks, respectively. The total body fat content was characterized by the so called „fat index”, a value independent of the live weight. This indices were 7,3; 7,14; 9,48 and 8,8; 13,3; 21,6 following the above order. Total body fat and crude protein was determined both by CT and chemical analysis. The variables of the prediction equations were taken from the density values of the Hounsfield scale between −140 and +150, by summarizing the frequencies within each interval of 10 values. Several models were developed with Principal Component Analysis. The R² values of the estimations were high (R2 = 0,89; 0,88) for total body fat but moderate (R2 = 0,39; 0,44) in the prediction of crude protein content. The investigation of the tissue development in the body was carried out by means of 3D histograms.
Genetische Parameter für Merkmale der Eiproduktion geschätzt mit additiven und Dominanzmodellen bei Legehennen
Authors: Mielenz N. , Kovac M. , Groeneveld E. , Preisinger R. , Schmutz M. , Schüler L.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Title of the paper: Genetic evaluation of egg production traits based on additive and dominance models in laying hens The study was conducted to estimate additive and dominance variances for egg production traits of two commercial purebred lines (A & D) of laying hens using an animal model analysis. Breeding values estimated from a dominance model were compared to those from an additive model. In total, 8625 records of line A and 8968 records of line D from three generations were used in the analysis. Every record contained information on the number of eggs laid between 20 and 28 (EN1-2), 28 and 48 (EN3-7) and between 20 and 48 (EN1-7) weeks of age. Further average egg weight (EW), egg weight at 28 (EW1), 33 (EW2) and 40 (EW3) weeks of age were available. An additive animal model and one- and three-trait dominance models including the inbreeding coefficients as covariates were fitted to the data. Simultaneous estimates of the additive and dominance variance components were obtained using the REML method. The estimates of h2 from the dominance models for EN1-2, EN3-7, EN1-7 and EW were 0.40, 0.15, 0.28 and 0.62 for line A and 0.38, 0.16, 0.26 and 0.53 for line D. The ratios d2 of the dominance variance to total variance were moderate for EN (0.12–0.13) and low for EW (0.04–0.07) within line A but relatively low for EN (0.03–0.12) and high for EW (0.12–0.21) within line D. Between the breeding values of the best 100 hens of each generation estimated with the additive and the dominance models for EN1-2, EN3-7, EN1-7 and EW high rank correlations (0.946, 0.896, 0.945 and 0.991 in line A and 0.996, 0.899, 0.971 and 0.951 in line D were found
Schätzung genetischer Parameter für Testtagsergebnisse von Milchleistungsmerkmalen bei Bunten Deutschen Edelziegen
Authors: Bömkes D. , Hamann H. , Distl O.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Title of the paper: Estimation of genetic parameters for test day records of milk performance traits in German Improved Fawn The objectives of this study were to estimate genetic parameters for milk performance traits of German Improved Fawn by using univariate und multivariate animal models. The analysis was based on 27,778 test day records of 1,848 German Improved Fawn with 3,574 lactation records distributed over 229 flocks in Lower Saxony, Saxony and Baden-Wuerttemberg. Milk records were sampled between 1988 and 2002. The animals in our analysis were the progeny of 455 sires and 1.148 does. Heritabilities estimated with a multivariate test day model with fixed regression were h2 = 0.19, 0.16 and 0.15 for milk, fat and protein yield. For fat and protein content and Somatic Cell Score (SCS) heritabilities were h2 = 0.17, 0.14 and 0.16, respectively. The additive genetic correlations between milk yield and fat as well as protein yield of German Improved Fawn were very high and positive (rg = 0.84 and rg = 0.77). Milk yield and milk contents were genetically negative correlated with rg = −0.28 for fat and rg = −0.22 for protein content. A moderate additive genetic correlation (rg = 0.48) between fat and protein content was estimated. There were no considerable additive genetic correlations between fat yield and protein content as well as between fat content and protein yield (rg = 0.05 and rg = 0.09). Additive genetic correlations between milk, fat or protein yield and SCS were high and negative, whereas additive genetic correlations between fat or protein content and SCS were low and positive. The genetic parameters estimated from field test records allow to achieve genetic progress in milk performance traits of German Improved Fawn.
Case study of a Hungarian breeding program using imported Booroola rams
Authors: Árnyasi M. , Zsolnai A. , Komlósi I. , Fésüs L. , Jávor A.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The first major gene for prolificacy identified in sheep was the Booroola (FecB) gene. Since the recognition of its existence, the Booroola Merino has spread all over the world. In Hungary, a new breed – called Hungarian Prolific Merino – had been established based on the crossing of Hungarian Merino ewes and Booroola Merino rams, and was acknowledged in 1992. The only way to determine the FecB genotypes has been the measurement of the ovulation rate over a long period. In 2001, the Booroola mutation was identified. Mutation on the bone morphogenetic protein receptor – 1B gene was found to be associated with the increased ovulation rate in the Booroola Merino ewes. 138 ewes and 46 rams in the Hungarian Prolific Merino population were tested for this mutation by PCR-RFLP and their FecB genotypes were determined. One copy of the FecB allele increased (P < 0,05) the ovulation rate by 0.89 ova and two copies increased by an average of 2.27 ova. Effectiveness of the FecB genotype estimation based on phenotype measurement was also compared to the results of direct DNA testing, and was found to have up to 80% accuracy.
Influence of recipient dams of different breeds on performance of Japanese Black calves produced by embryo transfer
Authors: Kurihara A. , Sekine J. , Hishinuma M. , Suzuki T. , Otoi T.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. To clarify the effect of breed of recipient dams on the performance of calves produced by embryo transfer(ET), a total of 35 ET-calves were divided into 4 groups by the breed of recipient of Holstein-Friesian dams (HF), crossbred (Holstein×Japanese Black) dams (F1), Japanese Black dams (JB) and also JB dams without colostrum but received an artificial colostrum as a negative control (NC). Twenty calves produced by artificial insemination to JB dams were also provided as a positive control (PC). Calves in JB, HF, F1 and PC were placed with their dams for the first 7 days of age. Those in the NC group were kept in an individual pen. All calves were moved to individual pens on day 8, and were given the same commercial milk replacer. Calves were weaned at 61 days of age. Mean live weights at birth were not significantly different among groups except for calves of HF that were greater than other groups (p < 0.05). Mean daily gains also showed no significant differences among groups including PC and NC. All calves were in good healthy condition, which was also supported by changes in the level of blood parameters, irrespective of the breed of their dams. It is concluded that there was no appreciable effect of the breed of recipient dams on calf performance. The artificial colostrum powder feeding did not show any adverse effect on the performance of ET-calves, although serum protein and globulin tended to be lower.
Wachstumsleistung und Anpassung von Saugkälbern aus der Mutterkuhhaltung mit einer unterschiedlichen Hämoglobinkonzentration des Blutes
Authors: Steinhardt M. , Thielscher H.-H.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Title of the paper: Growth performance and adaptation of suckler calves with a different hemoglobin content of blood from a cow-calf operation To characterize physiological variables in suckler calves of different developmental quality and fitness (hemoglobin content of blood low HbG1, moderate HbG2 and high HbG3) at early gowth with uniform husbandry system on suckler calves (36 German Red Pied, 5 German Black Pied, 17 male and 24 female) measurements of body weight and blood composition were done repeatedly at 9–14, 18–25, 28–35, 40–52 and 59–77 days of age. Mean birth weight was not different between groups. Growth performance of calves of HbG1 was smaller then that of calves of HbG2 and of HbG3. Hematological variables of the calves in the three groups changed with growth in different ways. Significant mean value differences between groups could be found for Hb, Hk, MCHC, O2CAP, O2CONT, and plasma iron concentration at all testing points, for O2SAT at 28–37 days and for COHb at 59–77 days of age. Mean Noradrenalin concentrations were significantly greater in calves of HbG1 then in those of HbG2 and of HbG3 at 9–14 days and 18–25 days of age. Relationships between the quality of erythropoiesis and iron access were assessed considering the changes of the physiological variables and the initial situation in calves at the first days of life.
Connection of milk flow curve to the somatic cell count in bovine milk
Authors: Mijić P. , Knežević I. , Domaćinović M.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The modern equipment introduction into cow milking created technical possibilities for studying the milk flow curve and for using the results in cattle selection. In preventing mastitis, besides curing, other parameters of the milk flow curve could be used preventively. Research showed that cows that had the milk flow curve with a short duration of increasing flow rate (dIFR ≤ 0.40 min) and a larger quotient between the peak and down phase (QPD > 1.20) had also the least somatic cell count in milk (LSCC = 3.47, and 3.30 respectively). Such relation is favourable because increasing the relation, the duration of quick and uniform milking extends, and the duration of peak flow rate shortens. That also show correlation coefficients which were between the logarithmic somatic cell count in milk (LSCC) on one hand and the peak flow rate (dPFR), that means the quotient of peak and down phase (QPD) on the other hand negative (r= −0.25** and –0.27**). Breeding-selective procedures could create bull fathers and mothers with the most desirable milk flow curve and the duration of certain milking phases, whereby the somatic cell count in milk would be the least. Therefore it would be necessary to define desirable proportions of the milk flow curve with a special attention to the cow’s health udder.
Genetic Analysis of Several Economically Important Disease Traits in German Holstein Cows
Authors: Hinrichs D. , Stamer E. , Junge W. , Kalm E.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. In the present study several disease categories were analysed. Data recording ends after 50, 100, or 300 days in milk. Furthermore, the impact of increasing numbers of daughters per sire (improved genetic structure of the data) was examined and genetic correlations between disease categories were estimated. Diseases were clustered into fertility diseases, udder diseases, metabolic diseases, and claw and leg diseases. In addition, all diseases were analysed simultaneously. Frequencies of the disease categories were moderately high and vary between 7% and 78%. The most frequent disease categories were fertility diseases and udder diseases. Heritabilities for all diseases varied between 0.03 and 0.05, and were 0.02 to 0.05 for fertility diseases, 0.06 to 0.08 for udder diseases, 0.08 to 0.16 for metabolic diseases, and 0.01 to 0.03 for claw and leg diseases, respectively. The genetic correlation between disease categories ranged from – 0.18 to 0.82.
Relationships between backfat thickness and parameters of reproduction in the Czech Large White sows (short communication)
Authors: Čechová M. , Tvrdoň Z.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Relationships between backfat thickness and litter performance for individual parities were analyzed on performance-test data under field conditions of 8,285 Large White sows from 39 farms. Backfat thickness measured by ultrasound was corrected for a live weight of 90 kg. Young gilts with a higher backfat thickness achieved higher litter performance and a higher number of litters. Litter size increased from the first until the fifth parity.
Identification and characterization of an AFLP marker associated with carcass composition in the pig (Brief report)
Authors: Muráni E. , Ponsuksili S. , Schellander K. , Wimmers K.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphism (AFLP) is a DNA fingerprinting technique that allows genotyping of DNA polymorphisms, mainly single nucleotide substitutions (SNP), across the whole genome with high multiplex ratio and without the need of their prior knowledge. We have successfully combined AFLP with selective genotyping for mapping of quantitative trait loci (QTL) in a F2 resource population based on Duroc and Berlin Miniature pig (DUMI) (WIMMERS et al., 2002). Here we report application of this approach for the identification of loci associated with carcass composition in a herd of commercial German Landrace pigs.
Cytogenetic mapping and STR polymorphism of two candidate genes (DRD2 and HTR1D) for behaviour traits in four canids (short communication)
Authors: Szczerbal I. , Nowacka-Woszuk J. , Racka M. , Klukowska-Roetzler J. , Schelling C. , Dolf G. , Switonski M.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The dopamine D2 receptor (DRD2) and serotonin receptors 1D (HTR1D) are candidate genes for behavioural traits. In the present study, we show chromosomal location and polymorphism of these genes in four species from the family Canidae: dog (CFA), red fox (VVU), arctic fox (ALA) and the Chinese raccoon dog (NPP). Using fluorescence in situ hybridisation (FISH) the DRD2 gene was localized in the following chromosomes: CFA5q12-13, VVU12q21, ALA10q14 and NPP3q14 and the HTR1D gene was mapped to: CFA2q25, VVU2q22, ALA8q25 and NPP10q25. A microsatellite marker (TG)n in intron 3 of the DRD2 gene and (CA)n motif located in a 3’-flanking region of the HTR1D gene were polymorphic in all studied species. The obtained results can be helpful in further studies on effects of polymorphisms of these genes on behaviour traits in canids.
Five novel single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the prophet of PIT1 (PROP1) gene in bovine (Brief report)
Authors: Pan C. , Lan X. , Chen H. , Hua L. , Guo Y. , Zhang B. , Lei C.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The prophet of Pit1 (PROP1) gene encodes a paired class homeodomain transcription factor of 226 amino acids and is organized of 3 exons. PROP1 is necessary for the specification, differentiation and proliferation of cells. Its function is essential for anterior pituitary organogenesis, and heritable mutations in this gene are associated with combined pituitary hormone deficiency (CPHD) in human patients and animals (SAVAGE et al., 2003; CARVALHO et al., 2006). To date, no polymorphisms of the bovine PROP1 gene were described. In the present experiment, the 5' flanking region, the coding region and partial introns of bovine PROP1 were scanned for single nucleotide polymorphism (SNPs) in five cattle breeds of China.
A new ACRS-SNP in the 5’ flanking region of the bovine insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1) gene (Brief report)
Authors: Zych S. , Szewczuk M. , Czerniawska-Piątkowska S. , Szatkowska I.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. A number of polymorphisms within the bovine insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1) gene were described at this time. One of these mutations, a low polymorphic (CA)n microsatellite in the 5’ flanking region of the gene, has been reported by KIRKPATRICK (1992). A T>C transition was identified in the P1 promoter region of the bovine IGF1K gene (GenBank Acc. No. AF017143; GE et al., 2001). LIEN et al. (2000) identified a 4-bp deletion (TTTG) and nine point mutations within non-coding regions of the gene (GenBank Acc. No. AF210383-387). In our study, the sequencing of (CA)n microsatellite fragment revealed another single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the 5’ flanking region of the bovine IGF1 gene. The DNA sequence has been deposited to GenBank under accession number DQ975234.
Marker assisted selection of heifers improved milk somatic cell count compared to selection on conventional pedigree breeding values
Authors: Kühn C. , Reinhardt F. , Schwerin M.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Although mastitis in cattle is an important factor for dairy economy and animal welfare and although udder health parameters have a substantial genetic variability, in many countries there is little or no improvement of udder health in the conventional commercial breeding programs. Strategies implementing information about Quantitative trait loci (QTL) via genetic marker information seem to offer new prospects to improve this situation. In a proof-of-principle approach, we show that selection of German Holstein heifers prior to first calving based on marker information regarding a confirmed QTL affecting somatic cell score (SCS) on bovine chromosome 18 (BTA18) (MAS strategy) indeed enabled prediction of halfsibs with a high (q) or a low (Q) number of somatic cells in milk already early in the first lactation. Compared to a strategy relying on conventional breeding values only (CON strategy), selection including marker information resulted in a stronger discrimination between and a higher uniformity within the MAS-Q and -q groups compared to the CON-Q and – q groups selected by conventional selection strategies. The selected heifers, which are clinically unaffected, however genetically different in their capacity of mammary gland protection against pathogens, will serve as tools for a comprehensive expression analysis to highlight molecular processes underlying a different genetic predisposition to mastitis susceptibility. Thus, functional mechanisms resulting in a decreased susceptibility of the Q individuals can be identified to further improve selection on udder health in cattle.
TIGER: A software system for fine-mapping quantitative trait loci
Authors: Baes C. , Reinsch N.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The localisation of quantitative trait loci which contribute significantly to phenotype variation of economically important traits in domestic species has become an important goal in animal genomics. Several such loci have been roughly identified using linkage analyses; however the focus has now shifted towards fine mapping and pinpointing causal mutations. In the context of a cooperative national research project, the software system TIGER was developed. TIGER is a UNIX script linking several individual Fortran programmes and is used for comprehensive variance component analysis of fine mapping data. Starting with raw genotype data, pedigree and marker map information and ending with a residual maximum likelihood-based test for each putative quantitative trait locus position, the software provides the user with an "all in one" package capable of linkage analysis, linkage disequilibrium analysis and combined linkage/linkage disequilibrium analysis. The software system has been employed in 4 fine mapping projects on 4 distinct cattle chromosomes.
Genetic characterization among some Austrian and Hungarian cattle breeds
Authors: Manatrinon S. , Fischerleitner F. , Baumung R.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Microsatellite analysis was used to estimate genetic diversity and relationship of 180 individuals belonging to two native endangered Austrian cattle breeds, Carinthian Blond (CB) and Waldviertler Blond (WV), and Hungarian Grey (HU) from Hungary. Twenty-five markers were used, and a total of 213 alleles were detected, of which 54 alleles (~25 %) were private alleles. Three breeds are clearly separated from each other with a correct assignment higher than 90 %. No bottlenecks were detected in any of the populations. A small amount of gene flow among the three populations occurred in the past. The closest genetic relationship is between Carinthian Blond and Waldviertler Blond (NEI et al.’s distance DA, [1983]; DA=0.11). However, Carinthian Blond showed higher mean number of alleles per locus (6.76), number of private alleles (17) and expected heterozygosity (0.663) than Waldviertler Blond (6.04, 9 and 0.631, respectively). The negative values of fixation index FIS (−0.018 and −0.037 for CB and WV, respectively) indicated that inbreeding is avoided, a sign for a successful conservation breeding program.
Untersuchungen zum Beschäftigungsverhalten von weiblichen und kastrierten männlichen Mastschweinen
Authors: Elkmann A. , Hoy S.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Title of the paper: Investigation on occupational behaviour of female and castrated male fattening pigs In four rounds 144 fattening pigs of both sexes were brought in four pens (two of them were littered, two without any litter). Their occupational behaviour was recorded at the time of bringing the pigs into the pen, at the beginning, at the middle and at the end of the fattening period using an infrared-video-technology and a time lapse video recorder. In every pen three occupational tools (pendular beam, cross of chains and lifting beam) were offered to the pigs. At the 1st recording the behaviour of all pigs was analysed, at the other fattening periods the behaviour of six focal pigs of both sexes per pen was analysed always over 24 h. At the time the pigs were brought into the pens no significant differences between the two sexes could be observed concerning the latency until the pigs had the first contact to the different occupational tools, whereas both sexes needed longest for their first contact to the cross of chains. During the other fattening periods the duration of occupation with the cross of chains (♂=0.06 %; ♀=0.08 %, p<0.086) and the pendular beam (♂=0.15 %; ♀=0.2 %, p<0.087) by the female pigs tended to be longer than the one shown by the castrated male pigs. Thereby both sexes used the cross of chains longer for occupation than the pendular beam and the lifting beam. The female pigs occupied themselves significantly longer with the straw in the littered pens, the floor in the pens without straw, the pen’s equipment and the pen mates than the castrated male pigs did. In contrast the castrated males used the trough significantly longer for occupation. In this study female pigs were more active, whereas the castrated male pigs spent a significantly longer time feeding and tended to spend more time lying and had better daily gains.
Effects of Supplementation of Fructooligosaccharide and/or Bacillus Subtilis to Diets on Performance and on Intestinal Microflora in Broilers
Authors: Li X. , Qiang L. ,   Liu, Xu C.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. A total of 720 newly-hatched Arbor Acres broilers were selected to investigate the effects of fructooligosaccharide (FOS) and B. subtilis on performance and microbial gut concentration in broilers. The result indicated that dietary supplementation with FOS or Bacillus in comparison to an antibiotic had selective effects on increasing caecal concentration of beneficial bacteria such as Lactobacillus and decreasing concentration of harmful bacteria such as E. Coli and Salmonella. However, supplemental aureomycin had non-selective effects on caecal microflora which inhibited all bacteria. Moreover, the combination of FOS and B. subtilis had much better improvement on caecal micro-ecosystem for broiler than they were used solely. Dietary addition of FOS or B. subtilis improved performance of broilers to the levels of those fed the diet with aureomycin and the combination of FOS and bacillus had better effects on reducing diarrhea rate and promoting growth than they were used solely.
Effects of two different diets on carcass and meat quality traits of Chato Murciano pigs
Authors: Peinado B. , Almela L. , Duchi N. , Poto A.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. A total of 40 castrated male pigs of the Spanish autochthonous Chato Murciano breed were used for this study to evaluate the influence of two diets. One group of 20 pigs was fed with a high protein/low fat (HP/LF) diet and slaughtered with life weight (LW) of 125.03 kg. The other group of 20 pigs was fed with a low protein/high fat (LP/HF) diet and slaughtered with 121.91 kg LW. The effects of diet on carcass and meat quality traits were studied. Meat samples were taken from the longissimus lumbar (LL) muscle. The HP/LF diet produced a faster growing rate and higher daily weight gain, and measurements in the LL muscle showed higher values of ultimate pH (pHu), colour parameters, and higher content in Ca, Mg, Zn, K and Na. The LP/HF diet led to higher values of Fe and Cu. The difference in the LL muscle intramuscular fat (IMF) levels was noteworthy, with values of 3.21 % in the HP/LF group and 11.00 % in the LP/HF group; however, the dorsal fat thickness measurements showed no differences. The fatty acid composition of the IMF was 42.43 and 42.29 % of saturated fatty acids (SFA), 50.34 and 51.35 % of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) and 7.20 and 6.24 % of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) for the HP/LF group and LP/HF group respectively, with only statistically significant differences in the MUFA levels (P≤0.05).
Occurrence of endoparasites in heifers imported to Poland from the Netherlands (Short Communication)
Authors: Pilarczyk B. , Pilarczyk A. , Kozak W. , Ramisz A.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites was studied in 106 heifers imported to Poland from the Netherlands. Prevalence of gastrointestinal nematodes and Eimeria protozoans was determined from coproscopic examinations using Willis-Schlaf flotation. The species composition of coccidia was determined from morphological characters and the time of oocyst sporulation. Fluke liver eggs were detected by decantation. The study showed the mean prevalence of Eimeria protozoans in the heifers imported from the Netherlands to Poland to be 17.92 %; the mean prevalences of Cryptosporidium sp. (11.32 %), gastrointestinal nematodes (55.66 %) and Fasciola hepatica (32.08 %), respectively. The following 6 coccidia species were isolated from faecal samples: E. bovis, E. aubernensis, E. ellipsoidalis, E. subspherica, E. zürni, and E. brasiliensis. The prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in the cattle imported from the Netherlands to Poland was very high, therefore it is purposeful to mandatorily examine the imported cattle for the presence of those parasites.
Statistical modeling for growth data in linear mixed models – Implications derived from an example of a population comparison of Golden Hamsters
Authors: Spilke J. , Mielenz N. , Krause S. , Schüler L.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Using statistical modeling to determine the structure of expectation and covariance employed during analysis is a common feature of analytical research. This paper describes the necessary methodology for, and illustrates those techniques that are of special importance in, practical modeling and evaluation scenarios (likelihood ratio test, analytical criteria, residual analysis). Our approach is demonstrated upon a population comparison, taken on various measurement dates, that focuses on a wild population and a laboratory population of Golden Hamsters. The selected example is particularly suited due to the fact that – aside from the actual growth function of interest – additional fixed (e.g. effect of different mating periods, litter size) and random factors (e.g. maternal environment, repeated performances per animal) must be considered. The modeling shows significant efficiency regarding the improvement of the analytical criteria. The recommended evaluation model leads to a very close match of the observed ordinary least square residuals and of the variance and covariance functions, respectively, that have been derived from the estimated covariance structure.