bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reproductive performance of scottish blackface gimmers trained to eat supplements as ewe hoggs and offered feedblocks during mating
Authors: Waterhouse A.
Published: June 2019

Hill gimmers typically perform below the flock average and are reluctant to take supplementary feed. This paper reports an attempt to evaluate the effects in the first breeding season of training young flock replacements to eat supplementary feed in the form of either concentrate pellets or feedblocks.

Four hundred and fifty-five ewe hoggs were allocated to two groups on return from away-wintering on 1 April. Untrained hoggs (U) were put to the hill immediately. The remainder were trained to feed (T) for one week before rejoining their contempories. Training and subsequent mating treatments are summarised in Table 1.
The effects of improved management based on ultrasound scanning of scottish blackface ewes from a high hill flock
Authors: Parker M. , Waterhouse A.
Published: June 2019

The objective of the study was to assess the potential benefits of using real-time ultrasound scanning in a hill sheep flock where the incidence of twinning is low. A high hill hirsel of some 320 Scottish Blackface ewes, typically lambing in the range 0.6-0.9 lambs per ewes mated, was divided across age into two groups. One group was scanned, colour marked and subsequently managed according to foetal number (the SCANNED flock). The other group was also scanned but not colour marked, and therefore managed irrespective of foetal number (the UNSCANNED flock).
Conception rates following cervical and intrauterine insemination in the ewe
Authors: Haresign W. , Curnock R.M. , Reed H.C.B.
Published: June 2019

The current technique for artificial insemination (AI) of ewes during the breeding season necessitates the synchronisation of oestrus with progestagen sponges and PMSG, and involves depositing semen into the posterior cervix at a fixed time after sponge removal. Extensive field trials over a number of years in the UK have indicated that a single insemination using fresh diluted semen 56 h after sponge removal generally results in a conception rate of 70%, while conception rates following a single insemination of frozen-thawed semen 57 h after sponge removal have ranged from 19% to 34% (mean 28%). Giving two inseminations of frozen-thawed semen at 50 h and 60 h after sponge removal increased the overall mean conception rate, but only up to 48%. This inability to achieve acceptable conception rates with frozen-thawed semen nullifies many of the potential benefits of AI in sheep flocks.

It is well established that the cervix presents a major barrier to sperm transport in the ewe, particularly when oestrus has been synchronised with progestagens and PMSG.
Laparoscopy for insemination, embryo recovery and embryo transfer in ewes
Authors: McKelvey W. A. C. , Robinson J. J. , Aitken R. P.
Published: June 2019

Embryo transfer has become a widely used technique for the more rapid dissemination of valuable genetic traits in cattle. The rapid uptake of embryo transfer technology by the cattle breeding industry has largely resulted from the development of non-surgical methods for the recovery of embryos from donor cows and for their subsequent implantation into recipient animals. These non-surgical methods not only reduce operative time but permit the repeated use of cows without the risk of formation of post-operative adhesions.

Although embryo transfer is a technique commonly used by research workers in the study of certain aspects of reproductive physiology in sheep, there are several problems associated with conventional transfer procedures in this species which have precluded its adoption by the sheep breeding industry.
Nutritional manipulation of lamb growth and its effect on body composition and carcase quality
Authors: Cropper M. , Lloyd M.D. , Emmans G.C.
Published: June 2019

The growth rate and body composition of lambs depend on their rate of feed intake and the composition of the feed given. The purpose of the experiment described here was to test predictions of the growth and composition of lambs given feeds of two protein contents at three levels of feeding.

73 Scottish Blackface wethers were abruptly weaned at 49 days of age and an average live weight (LW) of 18 (sd 2.2) kg. Six, chosen to cover the range in initial liveweight, were killed and those remaining were put into individual pens and fed in one of six ways. Two feeds with 140g CP/kg fresh weight (FW), called LP, and 220 g CP/kg FW, called HP, were used. They were formulated using barley, maize and soyabean meal, and hay at 150g/kg FW, and were calculated to yield 11.8 MJ ME/kg FW. Each feed was given ad libitum (AL) and at daily rates of 1.2 or 0.8 kg FW. The numbers of sheepstarted were: ALHP, n = 8; ALLP, n = 8; 1.2 HP, n = 12, 1.2 LP, n = 13, 0.8 HP, n = 14, 0.8 LP, n = 12. Sheep were killed from each treatment at 5 kg LW intervals from 25 to 50 kg. After slaughter the weights of gut-fill and organs were taken and the carcase physically dissected into lean, bone and fat. The chemical composition - dry matter and the ash, N, lipid and gross energy contents of the dry matter - of the whole empty body, excluding wool, was measured. Wool weights were determined. The intakes and weights of each sheep were measured twice weekly.
Choice feeding as a method of determining lamb nutrient requirements and growth potential
Authors: Cropper M. , Lloyd M. , Emmans G.C. , Hinks C.E.
Published: June 2019

The experiment described here was designed to test the proposition that lambs, given access to two feeds, as a choice, one abundant in crude protein (CP), the other deficient, can both select a diet which supports their potential growth rate and which avoids excesses of protein intake.

Twenty four Suffolk x Greyface wether and females, at a mean liveweight of 20.2 kg (s.e. 0.6) were individually housed and their feed intake and liveweight recorded weekly.

The four pelleted feeds used were highly digestible and had estimated energy yields of 10.5 MJ ME/kg freshweight. The basal feed (A) was made from equal parts barley and sugar beet pulp plus a vitamin/mineral mix. It contained 91 g CP/kg FW. Feed D was made by substituting fishmeal for the barley in feed A such that it contained 383g CP/kg. Feed B contained one third D and two thirds A and contained 182g CP/kg. Féed C contained two thirds D and one third A, giving a CP content of 266g CP/kg. Thus each of the four feeds A, B, C and D could be described in terms of either the proportion of feed A or the crude protein which it contained.

Four lambs were offered feed A alone, and four lambs received feed B only. Twelve of the lambs were given ad 1ibitum access to both the basal feed A and one of the three other feeds B, C and D, for ten weeks. Four lambs were offered a choice between feed B and feed D for four weeks.
Energy and protein supplementation for shorn in-lamb ewes fed silage
Authors: Stone C R , Appleton M
Published: June 2019

Increased food intake of ewes has been noted at experimental and research centres as a consequence of shearing in mid-pregnancy (Great House EHF, 1972/3, Drayton EHF, 1976, 1977, Grassland Research Institute 1976). This should allow a greater reliance on cheaper home-grown forage to supply nutrients during the latter stages of pregnancy. Silage alone or with small amounts of energy and/or protein supplementary feed, may provide the nutrients to support shorn in-lamb ewes through to lambing.

One hundred and four shorn Border Leicester x Welsh Mountain ewes, penned in groups of 26, were offered silage ad libitum from housing in mid-January until lambing in early April. Six weeks before lambing, supplements were introduced. The treatments were either no supplement (Nil), rolled barley (B), white fishmeal (FM) or rolled barley plus white fishmeal (B + FM).
Sward height controlled by ewe and lamb grazing
Authors: Griffiths Margaret S , James C
Published: June 2019

Previous work has shown that a sward height of 3-5 cm for sheep is the most efficient way of maintaining a balance between new .growth and decayed material. An unreplicated experiment was carrried out during 1985 using 77 cross-bred ewes and their Suffolk x twin lambs to graze a perennial ryegrass sward (Lolium perenne) cv Wendy between 29 April and 22 July (weaning). Animal performance was monitored and grazing behaviour noted. Sward height measurments were taken twice weekly with an HFRO sward stick on a 0.4 ha plot (P) and on the remaining 5.8 ha field (F). Grazing commenced on each area when the sward height reached 4 cm ± 1 and was maintained at this height on P by adjusting animal numbers. Physical data was recorded from a minimum core flock of 5 ewes and 10 lambs. Area F was set stocked at 12.4 ewes/ha. Areas F and P received 198 kg N/ha in total, applied at monthly intervals between early April and July. Net herbage accumulation was recorded at 21 day intervals under exclusion cages on each area.
Determination of herbage intake of suckling lambs using long-chain n-alkanes as markers
Authors: Hayes R.V. , Lamb C.S. , Colgrove Patricia M.
Published: June 2019

The n-alkanes of grass outioular wax (odd-chain, C25- C25) can be used simultaneously with dosed n-alkanes (C28or C32) as markers for estimating the herbage intake of grazing sheep if the faecal recoveries of both herbage and dosed markers are the same. In adult sheep the accuracy of herbage intake estimation is not affected by the inclusion of concentrate in the diet as long as the intake and alkane concentrations of the concentrate are known. If, similarly, the ingestion of milk does not interfere with the relative absorption of dosed and herbage alkanes the herbage intake of suckling lambs at pasture could be estimated. To evaluate the potential of the technique in suckling lambs the faecal recoveries of odd-chain herbage n-alkanes and of dosed dotriacontane (C32) were determined in lambs offered eves’ milk and freshly cut herbage.

From 2 weeks of age seven individually-housed male lambs received 1 kg/day homogenised ewes’ milk (166 g/day dry matter (DM)) in 4 feeds from an automatic feeder. The milk Has obtained by daily hand-milking of East Friesland ewes and was stored at -20° until used. Freshly cut perennial ryegrass was offered to the lambs ad libitum from the age of 4 weeks. A 6-day total collection of faeces was carried out when the lamba were 10 weeks of age.
A method for the automatic recording of the eating behaviour, intake and liveweight of individual cows housed in groups
Authors: Rees C.P.
Published: June 2019

An automated method of monitoring the feeding and liveweight characteristics of dairy cows has been developed with the following properties.

1

Minimal disturbance of animal behaviour

2

Use of proven, commercially available components

3

Easy to operate

4

Records data on

i)

forage intake

ii)

concentrate intake

iii)

liveweight

iv)

frequency and duration of meals
Consumer responses to beef of different fatness levels and the effect of electrical stimulation
Authors: Cook G L , Hardham L E , Dilworth A W , Harrington G
Published: June 2019

Several expert committees have recommended reductions in intake of saturated fat for health reasons and in Britain this advice has been accepted by Government. There will be increasingly more fat-conscious consumers demanding leaner meat and in order to supply this demand retailers will select leaner carcasses and adopt new cutting methods. The trend within the beef industry is towards leaner cattle, coupled with increased production rates in abattoirs. This has led to concern about possible damage to eating quality.

A trial was carried out to investigate the eating quality of lean beef cuts produced from leaner animals or by more severe trimming and to investigate the possible compensatory effects of electrical stimulation on quick chilling.

At each of 20 abattoirs, 12 steers were selected and slaughtered together. Four were Hereford x Friesian, four were Continental x Suckler and four were Friesian/Holstein.
Influence of Different Levels of Dietary Energy on Performance of Double Suckled Cows and Calves
Authors: Khan M.A.S. , Topps J.H. , Broadbent P.J.
Published: June 2019

The winter feeding of beef cows represents a high, proportion of the costs of calf production. Attempts to minimise cost include the use of beef (♂) x dairy cows (♀) which have the ability to suckle two calves and to mobilise body reserves during periods of underfeeding in early lactation. Khan and Topps (1985) observed that cows in good condition at calving could maintain milk production and raise two good calves when given 110 MJ ME/day in a diet which included a source of undegradable protein. Subsequently a preliminary experiment was carried out with three single suckled and nine double suckled cows to examine the effect of energy level on the performance of cows and calves.

Three single suckled cows and nine double suckled cows i.e. six with a natural plus foster calf and three with twin calves produced by embryo transfer were used in this experiment. The levels of energy that were examined were 70 or 90, 80 or 100 and 90 or 110 MJ ME/day for single and double-suckled cows respectively, supplied in diets containing ammonia treated straw, barley and fishmeal. Nine of the cows were placed into trios according to calving date and age, with a trio consisting of a cow with a natural calf, a cow with a natural and foster calf, and a cow with twin calves. Each trio was allocated at random to one of the three levels of energy. Similarly, the remaining three cows with a natural and foster calf were allocated at random to 90, 100 or 110 MJ ME/day. The calves were given good quality hay ad libitum and free access to a concentrate mixture up to a maximum intake of 2 kg/head/day. The concentrate mixture consisted of (g/kg) 800 barley, 150 soyabean meal and 50 molassine meal. The experiment started on the 22nd day of lactation and was of 20 weeks duration for most of the cows.
The effect upon the intake of grazing calves of infection with the gastrointestinal nematode ostertagia ostertagi
Authors: Bell Sharon L. , Frost A.I. , Jeffrey Yvonne , Thomas R.J.
Published: June 2019

Parasitic gastroenteritis (PGE), largely attributable to the abomasal parasite
Ostertagia ostertagi is a cause of major economic loss in the cattle industry. It has been suggested from studies on infected housed animals, together with pair fed controls, that the characteristic loss of weight occurring as a consequence of PGE is due mainly to loss of appetite, (Dargie, 1980). Thus in the present study the intention was to measure the effect of parasitism on intake under natural grazing conditions.

2 groups of 20 Freisian steer calves (175 kg at turnout), were grazed from May to September 1984 on adjacent 5 acre paddocks which had been contaminated the previous autumn by cattle Infected with 0. ostertagi. The allocation of calves to each group was such that the mean weight and range of weights within each group were similar. At turnout each calf in group A received a (Morantel slow release bolus), group B being untreated controls. The calves were weighed and sampled regularly for faecal egg counts.
Performance of friesian bulls fed intensively with compound feeds
Authors: Blake J.S. , Thickett W.S. , Brigstocke T.D.A.
Published: June 2019

Over a period of 2 years from 1982 to 1984, six feeding trials were carried out on a total of 307 Friesian bulls to investigate the effects of energy and protein levels in compound feed. All animals were fed ad-lib compound diets with free access to barley straw and water. In four of the six trials the bulls were implanted with Ralgro (zeranol, Crown Chemical Company Limited), once at the start of the trial and again after 90 days. The various dietary treatments in the different trials are given below. Theoretical undegradable dietary protein was calculated using the known degradability of raw materials in the compound feed.
An Alternative to stalls and tethers, a straw-based housing system for dry sows using a computerised sow feeder
Authors: Smith Paul , Gorman N , J Payne
Published: June 2019

Many existing sow stall and tether houses, besides not conforming with the Pig Welfare Code are thermally inadequate and require major alterations. A possible alternative system, comprising loose-housed sows with rations allocated from an electronic sow feeder was evaluated.

A building comprising single-skin concrete blocks and insulated roof originally housed 74 dry sows in stalls bedded with straw. The building was gutted and re-fitted to accommodate loose-housed sows. Minimal repairs were undertaken on the concrete floor, and some new blockwork was erected, deep straw was incorporated into the new lying areas.
The influence of dietary energy on carcass fat in sows and the relationship of fat content to P2 measurements.
Authors: Lee Pauline A.
Published: June 2019

There is little available information on the influence of dietary energy on fat stores in the sow or on the relationship between these stores and backfat thickness measured at the P2 site. The present study was therefore designed to determine the influence of dietary energy intake in pregnancy on the fat stores of the sow after three parities including its relationship with P2 measurements taken at slaughter. In addition a comparison was made between ultrasonic measurement of P2 on the live animal and P2 measurements taken on the carcass.

There were three treatments with 15 sows per treatment which were rationed by live weight to receive approximately 30, 26, 23 MJ DE/day at 120 kg (Table 1). During lactation all sows were fed to a scale recommended by the ARC (1981) After weaning their third litter the sows were slaughtered and the left side of the carcass dissected into shoulder, ham, loin and belly joints as described by Fortin (1980). These were weighed, minced and analysed for fat content by the Folch method. P2 measurements were taken ultrasonically on the live animal, by probe on the hanging carcass and by straight measurement on the dissected loin.
Effects of level of feeding after mating on ‘fat’ and ‘thin’ sows
Authors: Walker N.
Published: June 2019

Pregnant sows in poor body condition require a high feed intake to restore body fat reserves. However, a high intake in the period following conception may increase embryo losses. The first objective of this experiment was to determine whether a high feed allowance after conception has any effect on litter size compared with a normal allowance. The second objective was to investigate the effects of body condition at conception and feed rate in early pregnancy on the components of maternal gain.

Multiparous cross-bred sows of Large White and Landrace lineage were classified subjectively at farrowing according to body condition as either fat (F) or thin (T). A single diet containing 12.5 MJ DE/kg and 150 g CP/kg was fed throughout the experiment. The fat sows were fed more generously than the thin sows during the 28 day lactation with mean intakes of 5.3 and 4.8 kg/day. This was to maintain the differential in body condition between the two groups. After weaning all sows were fed 3 kg per day until mating. Within the fat and thin groups sows were allocated at random to either 4 or 2 kg of feed per day for 30 days after mating.
Effect of using vasectomised boars for additional matings on sow reproductive performance
Authors: Davies O D
Published: June 2019

Vasectomised boars are already in use on some commercial farms for detecting and synchronising oestrus, especially in gilts. Increasing the number of matings a sow receives during oestrus has been found to increase subsequent litter size and conception rate (Reed 1982, Tilton and Cole 1982). If vaginal-uterine stimulation is the underlying cause for this reproductive improvement, then similar effects should be possible using vasectomised boars.

A total of 200 Large White/Landrace cross sows were weaned at 4 to 5 weeks and housed adjacent to mature fertile boar where physical contact was possible through a barred gate. The sows were inspected for signs of oestrus each morning and, if receptive, were given a single mating with a fertile boar. Approximately 3 hours later, alternate sows were penned with a vasectomised boar and one service was supervised. These sows remained with the vasectomised boar overnight and were then remated with the original boar. The control sows were also remated with a fertile boar, 24 hours after the first service.

From weaning to service all sows were offered 2.7 kg of a 155 g/kg crude protein, barley based sow nut. After service this was reduced to 2.2 kg per day.
The water intake of weaned pigs from 3 to 6 weeks of age
Authors: Gill B.P. , Brooks P.H. , Carpenter J.L.
Published: June 2019

The use of drinking water as a vehicle for the medication of early weaned pigs offers an advantage over infeed medication in that water intake postweaning is substantially higher than feed intake. A precondition for effective water medication is the accurate assessment of water intake. At present there is little published information on the water demand of early weaned piglets reared under contemporary conditions of housing and nutrition. The objective of this study was to establish whether the water intake of early weaned piglets could be predicted from easily measured variables such as feed intake and liveweight.
An analysis of piglet mortality with behavioural observations
Authors: Edwards S.A. , Malkin S.J. , Spechter H.H.
Published: June 2019

Preweaning mortality generally accounts for 10-20% of all piglets born alive. A better understanding of the reasons for this mortality should help reduce losses.

Data from 493 litters born over a period of 18 months were analysed to investigate the timing, apparent cause and predisposing factors of piglet mortality.

To examine in more detail the way in which deaths occur a continuous video recording was made for the first 48 h. after farrowing for 31 litters. The way in which any deaths happened and the events leading up to them were then examined in detail.
An evaluation of split litter suckling as a method of reducing pre-weaning mortality in pigs
Authors: Furniss S R , Sutton B , Furniss S J
Published: June 2019

Pre-weaning mortality in pigs in the United Kingdom is estimated to be 11.6% ie the loss of around 2 million piglets every year. If only the cost of piglet production is considered this represents a loss to the industry of approximately £28 million each year. In fact the revenue foregone from finished pigs is much greater (MAFF,1985).

Over 50% of the losses of liveborn piglets occur in the first 48 to 72 hours after birth. Around 75% of mortalities are due to the two, often related causes, overlying by the dam and starvation (English and Morrison, 1984).

Mortality is inversley related to birth weight, small piglets being affected by competition from their larger litter mates and having lower energy reserves. To reduce piglet mortality care must therefore be concentrated, especially on small weakly piglets in the first 48 hours of life.
Methods of feeding growing pigs to maximise feed intake
Authors: Lightfoot A.L. , Armsby A.W. , Widdows C.F.
Published: June 2019

An experiment was carried out to determine which feeding method maximised feed intake of growing pigs and to record growth rates, feed conversion efficiency and backfat measurements. There is an increasing tendency for dry fed pigs to be fed ad libitum or to appetite in order to increase growth rates and throughput of building.

Limited information is available on how the modern genetically improved pig will respond to high levels of feeding and whether ad libitum feeding will encourage higher feed intake than feeding to appetite either wet or dry.
The effect of a flavour compound on the intake of silage by wether lambs
Authors: Henderson A.R. , Anderson D.H. , Baines D.A. , Phillips P
Published: June 2019

The intake of ensiled forages by lambs is frequently much lower than the intake of corresponding dried forages (Sormunen - Cristian, 1985). The latter is generally positively correlated with digestibility but a comparable relationship for ensiled forages is confounded by the many changes in composition which result from the activity of plant enzymes and bacteria during ensilage. The major fermentation pathways are well documented but much less is known about the changes in minor components and the effects these may have on the intake of silage.

Two extraction techniques, Grob headspace stripping (Grob and Zurcher, 1976) and Likens Nickerson extraction (Likens and Nickerson, 1964) were employed to study the components of grass and silages. Headspace chromatograms are presented along with the composition of the silages.
The effect of method of alkali treatment on straw digestion by cattle
Authors: Ferreiro H.M. , Sutton J.D. , Boodoo A. , Napper D.J.
Published: June 2019

Alkali treatment increases the digestibility of straw but processing methods and the effectiveness differ widely. The aim of this study was to compare an on-farm method producing chopped straw (C) with an industrial process producing coarsely ground straw (Viton) (G) (Wilson and Brigstocke, 1967).

Four dry Friesian cows, each with a large rumen cannula and a simple cannula in the proximal duodenum, were given (kg dry matter (DM)/day): 3.4 concentrate (180 g crude protein/kg DM) and 3.1 C or G alkali-treated straws in one meal daily in a simple change-over design. A single batch of spring barley straw was used and was treated with about 40 g NaOH/kg either by an on-farm process giving particles about 10 cm long (C) or by an industrial process giving coarsely-ground straw in a pellet (Viton) (G). Spot samples of digesta were taken from the duodenum for measurement of digestion in the stomach, using chromic oxide paper, and for measurement of the rate of passage of indigestible residues using magenta-stained straw. Eating behaviour and reticular movements were measured by use of balloons (Balch, 1971). Straw DM digestibility was measured over 48 h in vitro and by dacron bags (in situ) (Ørskov and McDonald, 1979).
The effect of different distributions of the same total dietary between late pregnancy and early lactation on the performance of twin-bearing suckler cows
Authors: Topps J.H. , Broadbent P.J. , Methu J.N. , Xaba B.B.
Published: June 2019

The advent of twinning in suckler cows, through the application of multiple ovulation and embryo transfer techniques has provided a means of increasing the biological efficiency of the suckled calf system of beef production. However, even with improvement in output the need remains for twin-bearing suckler cows to be fed economically. This can be achieved by making effective use of summer and autumn grazing which on most farms provides a high plane of nutrition and allows the cows to increase their body reserves. This generous level of feeding may be followed by more stringent and controlled feeding in winter and early spring, when conserved feeds, grain and by-products are fed. This restriction leads to a reduction in feed costs and also to a depletion of the accumulated resrves.
Selection for improved carcass composition in Suffolk Sheep : Interim Results
Authors: Simm G , Dingwall W S , Murphy S V , FitzSimons J , Brown W R
Published: June 2019

It is likely that returns from lamb production in future will depend, much more than at present, on producing leaner carcasses. There are several short-term changes in management which could produce leaner carcasses. However, In the longer term genetic Improvement, particularly by within-breed selection In terminal sire breeds, is likely to provide permanent, cumulative and cost-effective benefits In carcass composition. In the early 1980s a research project was started at the Edinburgh School of Agriculture, using Suffolk sheep, to examine the genetic potential for Improving carcass composition In terminal sires. The work commenced with an evaluation of techniques for in vivo measurement of carcass composition (Simm, 1987) and derivation of selection indices to incorporate In vivo measurements (Simm and Dingwall, 1989). Since 1985 In vivo measurement and Index selection have been practised In the experimental flock, which now numbers about 220 ewes. This paper reports the interim results of selection.
Effect of ignoring major genes when predicting response to selection
Authors: Simpson S.P.
Published: June 2019

Selection is an important component of animal breeding theory. Directional selection is used extensively in animal breeding programmes as a method of obtaining genetic improvement. Much of the theory used to explain the consequences of selection assumes that the quantitative traits under consideration, eg. leanness or index scores, are under the control of many genes with small effects (polygenes). However, many traits are under the control of both polygenes and a major gene. Conventionally, the expected response to index selection is taken to be R=ih2σp, where σP is the phenotypic standard deviation of the index, h2 its heritability and i the intensity of selection. The intensity of selection is the expected mean of the index scores of the selected animals and has been tabulated by Falconer (1989).
Growth of carcass joints and tissues in steers of three breed types fed two dietary energy levels
Authors: Keane M. G. , More O’ Ferrall G. J. , Connolly J.
Published: June 2019

Factors which affect the carcass composition of beef cattle include breed type, plane of nutrition and slaughter weight. With increasing weight, the relative proportions of the carcass joints and tissues change and if these changes were known or could be predicted then cattle could be slaughtered at the desired carcass composition. Dairy bred calves for beef production can be classified into three breed categories -straightbred Friesians, early maturing beef breed x Friesians and late maturing beef breed x Friesians. The objectives of the present study were to compare the changes in carcass composition associated with changes in slaughter weight in Friesian (FF), Hereford x Friesian (HF) and Charolais x Friesian (CF) steers and to determine the effects of dietary metabolisable energy (ME) content.
Factors affecting yields of milk constituents in dairy cows
Authors: Rook A. J. , Sutton J. D. , France J.
Published: June 2019

Milk producers in the UK are paid according to their production of milk fat, protein and lactose. The production quota system also includes an element restricting fat production. It is therefore important to be able to predict the changes in production of milk solids arising from changes in feed inputs. There are few published predictive models for this purpose (e.g. Sporndly 1989, Emery, 1978) and none under UK conditions. This is a preliminary study to identify and quantify some of the factors affecting yields of milk constituents as a first stage in the development of predictive models.
Sex and feeding level effects on the eating quality of fresh pork
Authors: Ellis H. , Webb A.J. , Avery P.J. , Smithard R. , Brown I.
Published: June 2019

There is increasing concern within all sectors of the UK pig industry with meat quality and particularly the eating quality of pork. Against this background, a collaborative study involving 6 organisations was carried out to investigate the relative influences of a number of production factors on the eating quality of fresh pigmeat. The results relating to two of these factors, namely feeding regime and sex of pig, are reported here.
Effect of fishmeal supplementation on rumen function and silage intake
Authors: Gill M. , Poppi D.P. , Evans R.T. , Sargeant A.
Published: June 2019

The intake of silage has been shown to either increase (England & Gill, 1985), decrease (Gill et al., 1987) or remain unchanged (Steen, 1985) in response to increasing levels of fishmeal supplementation. The aim of this experiment was to investigate the effect of two levels of fishmeal supplementation on voluntary intake, together with studies on digestion in the rumen, to try to elucidate the different mechanisms involved.
The effect of short term intra-ruminal infusions of lactic acid on the voluntary intake of silage and hay fed steers
Authors: Cole M. , Gill M.
Published: June 2019

Lactic acid is the predominant organic acid found in well preserved silages, accounting for up to 150 g/kg dry matter. However, lactic acid has been shown to have a depressive effect on the voluntary intake of hay and silage by cattle (Thomas et al, 1980; Montgomery et al, 1963). The objective of the present study was to investigate how the response of cattle to short term intra-ruminal infusions of lactic acid might be mediated, using fistulated steers adapted to diets of chopped hay or silage by measuring the patterns of feed consumption during the day, together with changes In the concentration of metabolites within the rumen.
Effect of dietary monensin and tetronasin on rumen fermentation in sheep
Authors: Newbold C. J. , Wallace R. J.
Published: June 2019

Tetronasin is an ionophore which improves feed conversion efficiency in ruminants (Bartleet al, 1988). Its nutritional effects are at least partly derived from its influence on nitrogen and energy metabolism in the rumen. The mode of action of tetronasin is therefore similar to monensin and although it is more potent than monensin, it has a similar spectrum of antimicrobial activity (Newboldet al, 1988). The aim of the present study was to compare the effects of the inclusion of tetronasin or monensin in the diet on the rumen fermentation.

Three mature sheep weighing approximately 50 kg and fitted with rumen cannulae were fed 1 kg/d of a mixed diet of hay, barley, molasses, fishmeal and vitamins/minerals (500, 299.5, 100, 91 and 9.5 g/kg dry matter respectively) in two equal meals. A control diet (no addition, C), tetronasin (10 ppm in the diet, T) or monensin (33 ppm, M) were compared in a 3 x 3 Latin square. Periods were 28 days long with samples taken on two consecutive days during the last 5 days. Samples of rumen fluid were withdrawn at 0, 1, 2, 4 and 6 h after the morning feed for the determination of pH, volatile fatty acids (VFA) L-lactic acid and ammonia concentrations.
Evaluation of the use of a small leaved clover as an alternative to fertiliser-N on tetraploid and diploid perennial ryegrass swards grazed to controlled sward heights by ewes and lambs
Authors: Vipond J.E. , Swift G. , FitzSimons J. , McClelland T.H. , Milne J.A. , Hunter E.A.
Published: June 2019

Lamb performance at grass falls in July/August on upland farms. Allowing sward height to rise has been recognised as having an ameliorating effect [Keeling, 1987). The objective of this trial was to determine the influence of both sward quantity (sward height) and sward quality [sward type) on ewe and lamb performance from mid April to September. A further objective was the evaluation of clover as an alternative to nitrogen fertiliser.

Three contrasting perennial ryegrass based swards were established in May 1987 for use in 1988 and 1989: a late heading diploid variety (D). CONTENDER and a late heading tetraploid variety [T) CONDESA sown alone or with S184 small leaved white clover [TO]. [D] swards represent the control being the normal upland pasture type. [T] companion ryegrass varieties have higher palatability and intake characteristics and, producing fewer tillers, are a compatible companion grass to white clover. Small leaved white clover was used owing to its higher persistency and dry matter production under continuous sheep grazing.
The effect of ruminal metabolites of brassica-derived glucosinolates and s-methyl cysteine sulphoxide (smco) on the voluntary intake and metabolism of sheep
Authors: Duncan A.J. , Milne J.A.
Published: June 2019

Both glucosinolates and S-methyl cysteine sulphoxide (SMCO) have been implicated in the suboptimal intakes observed among lambs consuming forage brassicas. However, the effects on animal performance of the compounds administered in isolation have been marginal (Barry et al, 1982) and the toxicity of the compounds may be enhanced by interactions between their physiological effects. In order to test this, an experiment was conducted in which rumen metabolites of both SMCO and the predominant kale glucosinolate, sinigrin, were administered in combination to sheep and effects on voluntary intake and blood chemistry were examined. SMCO is hydrolysed in the rumen to dimethyl disulphide by a bacterial enzyme while sinigrin undergoes hydrolysis in crushed plant tissue to allyl isothiocyanate and allyl cyanide under plant enzyme catalysis.
Effect of a B agonist on the Partition of protein between wool and other tissues in sheep
Authors: Nash J E , Greenhalgh J F D , Birnie M
Published: June 2019

In growing lambs a high proportion of protein retained (0.2-0.3) may be stored in wool. Protein retention is known to be increased by treating sheep with B agonists and there are indications that the extra protein is stored mainly in the carcass (Williams, 1987; Fiems, 1987). Wool growth rate at any time is determined by the relative availability of nutrients to all body tissues and is affected by, for example, pregnancy. It is also dependent on the kinetics of all competing biochemical reactions, which are altered by hormones (Black and Reis, 1979).

To investigate the partition of protein between wool and other body tissues, a nitrogen balance trial was carried out with lambs fed on a diet with or without the B agonist, Cimaterol (Boehringer Ingelheim, Ingelheim, West Germany).
Agronomical and environmental implications of soil enrichment with p and k and heavy metals from animal slurries
Authors: de Haan F.A.M.
Published: June 2019

A few decades ago in The Netherlands in the same way as in a number of other West-European countries a development started of excessive growth of animal husbandry. While in former agricultural production where animals were involved more or less a balance existed between the number of animals to be held on a certain farm, and the area available for feed and fodder production, this balance was now disturbed by the import of huge quantities of feed and raw materials for feed production. This has led to the situation that a mineral excess from animal manure exists for The Netherlands as a whole. In specific parts of the country, especially the sandy area, mineral availability has grown to excessive amounts. The environmental problems involved are related to:

-leaching of nitrate to groundwater at a concentration level which causes unsuitability for drinking water purposes;

-accumulation of phosphorus in the soil profile, and in case of P-saturation of the soil, leaching to groundwater and surface water, thus inducing eutrophlcation problems;

-leaching of K to groundwater at a concentration level exceeding the potassium standard;

-accumulation of heavy metals in soil, especially Cd, Cu and Zn, at a level which may induce malfunctioning of soil, both with respect to water quality, and to crop yield and crop
composition.
Effect of level of concentrate feeding on the intakes and digestion of grass silages differing in cutting date
Authors: McAllan A B , Sutton J D , Beever D E , Napper D J
Published: June 2019

The accurate prediction of the replacement rate of forages by concentrate supplements together with digestive changes induced is essential for the prediction of responses in milk components to changes in feed input. Generalised hypothesis suggest that one feed substitutes for another in proportion to the amounts voluntarily consumed when given alone (Blaxter, 1980) but this is not always the case (Thomas, et al 1981). Little information is available on the metabolic constraints on intake or the effect of supplements on digestive factors that may be limiting intake. The present experiments were designed to study digestive factors that may be limiting the intake of different grass silages in cows given different levels of supplements.

Two formic acid (3 1/tonne) treated silages were prepared from perennial ryegrass harvested in the first week of June (early cut, EC) and at the end of June (late cut, LC). Four diets consisting of the two silages each supplemented with 3 kg (EC3; LC3) or 9 kg (EC9; LC9) dry matter of a dairy concentrate were offered to four lactating Friesian cows in a four by four Latin Square arrangement. The cows were fitted with a large (10cm u.d.) rumen cannula with a simple cannula in the proximal duodenum. The concentrates, which included (kg/tonne) 370 barley, 183 wheat, 139 wheat middlings and 139 maize gluten feed were given in two equal portions/d with silage available ad libitum.
The role of aid organization
Authors: Sansoucy Rene
Published: June 2019

Experience over three decades of international projects aimed at assisting developing countries has shown that direct transfer of technology from developed countries has widely failed in the sector of Animal Production as in many other sectors. At best this transfer of technology has led to systems requiring high levels of imports in capital, feeds, genetically high producing animals and equipment, which require external technical assistance. These imported inputs which are usually highly subsidized have to a certain extent sometimes allowed a substantial improvement in output levels (eg. in poultry production). In some cases self-sufficiency has been attained, but never self-reliance. This has maintained or increased the dependency of developing countries. Therefore there is a need to base projects on a technology which is more appropriate and may be acceptable and profitable to the beneficiaries.
Education in temperate countries
Authors: Morris T.R.
Published: June 2019

This paper is about training young people to serve in agriculture and related industries (including food storage, preparation and distribution) in developing countries. Two types of training are considered: that needed by graduates who are citizens of the European Community (EC) to fit them to work in tropical countries and that needed by students coming from developing countries (predominantly, but not exclusively, tropical or sub-tropical) to take postgraduate courses in the UK.

It is assumed that postgraduate students coming from overseas will return home at the end of their training and will contribute to the improvement of agricultural production in their own country. However, it has to be admitted that this assumption is not always well founded. Some candidates regard escaping from their own harsh environment as a primary objective when seeking funds for overseas study. On completion of his course the student may seek to stay in the UK or to find work in another developed country, though immigration rules and the conditions attached to most studentships are designed to prevent this happening.
Current european advances in the measurement of stress in pigs
Authors: Lawrence Alistair B
Published: June 2019

The pig industry in the UK now faces considerable public disquiet over the types of environments in which modern pigs are kept and the husbandry procedures they are subjected to. In response to this industry and Government have encouraged scientific research into pig welfare to obtain information by which to objectively assess well-being. The aim of this visit was to review current advances in the study of stress, a concept that has long been central to welfare research. A broad range of techniques for measuring stress are reviewed with special reference to the information they yield on the mechanisms and functions of stereotypic behaviour in sows. There is increasing reliance on the experimental analysis of behaviour and on methodologies that allow simultaneous recording of behavioural, physiological and neurological events. There is also greater attention on the adaptation of physiological systems to chronic stress. Recently it has been demonstrated that whilst close confinement of sows does not result in chronically elevated levels of Cortisol or heart rate, it does result in an increased sensitivity of these systems.
Chemical composition of fresh pork and bacon from pigs of different breed types, sexes and origins
Authors: Lowe D B , Kempster A J , Fogden M W , White C F
Published: June 2019

Consumers are becoming increasingly aware of the importance of the dietary composition of the food they eat, and are demanding that it is labelled effectively. This demand has major implications for the meat industry because meat is a highly variable product and can be processed in many ways. One area currently under review is the methodology used to determine the water added to pig meat during processing (based on the fat-free nitrogen (FFN) content of fresh meat).
Effect of pre-mating nutritional status and post mating progesterone supplementation on early pregnancy in Large White gilts
Authors: Ashworth C. J.
Published: June 2019

A rising plane of nutrition prior to mating increases ovulation rate in pigs (Anderson and Melampy, 1972), but this potential for increased Utter size is negated by the subsequent detrimental effect of high plane feeding on embryo survival. The mechanism underlying this effect may involve an increased rate of steroid clearance from the liver in animals on a high plane of nutrition (Symonds and Prime, 1989). The resultant lower circulating steroid levels would be expected to elevate pituitary gonadotrophin levels and consequently increase ovulation rate. However, after mating, such low steroid (particularly progesterone) concentrations may compromise embryo survival.

A further factor which may affect the ability of a gilt to carry a large number of fetuses to term is the spacing of fetuses within the uterus. Dzuik (1985) proposed that a uniform distribution of fetuses would optimise litter size, fetal growth and survival.
Effects of feeding silage and sugar beet pulp, separately, mixed or in an ensiled blend, upon milk production in british friesian dairy cows
Authors: Ferris C. P. , Mayne C. S.
Published: June 2019

There is increasing interest in the addition of dry feed materials to grass at ensiling, primarily as a means of reducing effluent production, although other benefits claimed include improvements in silage fermentation and animal performance.

A large number of studies have demonstrated lower effluent outputs and improvements in silage fermentation due to the inclusion of materials such as cereals and sugar beet pulp, although experiments examining the effects on animal performance are limited.

Recently, Jones and Jones (1988) observed higher liveweight gains from beef steers fed silage produced by ensiling grass with molassed beet feed compared to animals fed the same quantity of beet feed mixed with silage produced from untreated grass at the point of feeding. The major objectives of the present study were to evaluate the possible use of sugar beet pulp as an absorbent material in silage making and to examine the effects of its inclusion with grass at ensiling on animal performance.
The effect of a bacterial inoculant on the digestibility of grass silage and energy intake by young growing cattle
Authors: Ready T. W. J. , Steen R. W. J.
Published: June 2019

In a series of studies undertaken at Hillsborough involving both small scale and production experiments with growing cattle and dairy cattle, an inoculant based on a single strain of Lactobacillus plantarum (Ecosyl), has produced considerable benefits in terms of silage intake and animal performance. The present studies were designed to evaluate the same inoculant using difficult to ensile herbage due to the use of high rates of nitrogen application and the use of permanent pasture.

Nine silages were harvested using double chop forage harvesters from the second regrowth of three swards, namely permanent pasture which had received 100 kg N/ha (PP) and perennial ryegrass which had received either 100 (100) or 150 (150) kg N/ha. Herbages from each sward were treated with either no additive (C), formic acid (F) (2.5 1/t) (850 g/kg Add-F) or the inoculant (I) (3 1/t) (Ecosyl) (10-6C.F.U/g grass) and were ensiled in 126 mini silos of 0.7 t capacity. The silages were offered to 36 three month old Friesian entire male calves (mean initial liveweight 130 kg) in a change-over design experiment consisting of three 3 week periods.