bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Beef versus dairy cattle: a comparison of feed conversion, carcass composition, and meat quality
Authors: Pfuhl R. , Bellmann O. , Kühn C. , Teuscher F. , Ender K. , Wegner J.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The objective of this study was to investigate the phenotypical differences in feed conversion, carcass composition, and meat quality of two cattle breeds representing either the accretion type (Charolais) or the secretion type (Holstein). Eighteen Charolais bulls and 18 German Holstein bulls were raised and fattened under identical conditions on a high energy level with concentrates and hay. The animals were slaughtered at the age of 18 months. Charolais bulls had a body weight (BW) of 750.6 kg and an average daily gain (ADG) of 1377 g. German Holstein bulls were 84.7 kg lighter with an ADG of 1197 g. The energy expense per kg BW gain was 14% lower in the Charolais bulls compared with German Holstein. Charolais bulls gained more energy in protein than the Holstein bulls and needed less energy per kg protein gain in the hot carcass weight (HCW). The Charolais bulls showed a greater carcass weight and a higher yield grade as well as a greater cross sectional area of the M. longissimus dorsi (LD). Holstein bulls showed a greater marbling score, darker color, and more water binding capacity of the LD. The Holstein bulls gained more subcutaneous, intramuscular, and visceral fat during growth, which reflects the ability of the Holstein as a dairy breed to deposit fat as an energy source for milk production and points out the capability of Charolais for extended protein accretion. The genetic background of the recorded different nutrient utilization and turnover will be investigated in further experiments.
Association of the BoLA-DRB3 alleles with estimated breeding value for somatic cell count in Polish dairy cattle
Authors: Sender G. , Hameid K. G. A. , Korwin-Kossakowska A. , Sobczynska M.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Introducing resistance to mastitis into breeding programmes for dairy cattle seems to be one of the possible methods for limiting the increasing number of mastitis cases. Looking for candidate genes for genetic markers is one of the strategies. The BoLA–DRB3 alleles have considerable promise as potential mastitis marker. The objective of the study was to evaluate relationships between two BoLA–DRB3 alleles (BoLA–DRB3.2*16 and BoLA-DRB3.2*23) and estimated breeding value (EBV) for somatic cell count (SCC) in Polish dairy cattle. A total of 525 Polish Holstein cows in two experimental farms were evaluated for test-day SCC. The polymorphism of BoLA–DRB3 gene was identified using the MPT-PCR method. The variance components for test-day SCC were estimated by the REML method using animal model. The breeding value of SCC was calculated according to the BLUP method. Linear contrast between model-adjusted breeding values of SCC for all animals was used to test for differences between genotypes. In Polish Holstein cows population BoLA allele DRB3.2*23 was associated with increase of EBV for SCC in milk. It was observed increase of EBV for SCC from cows carrying this allele comparing to cows carrying BoLA–DRB3.2*16 (p ≤0.07) or other alleles (p ≤0.01).
Mn2+: A potent antioxidant and stimulator of sperm capacitation and acrosome reaction in crossbred cattle bulls
Authors: Bilaspuri G. S. , Bansal A. K.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Manganese is a well known antioxidant and is a potent inhibitor of in vitro oxidative stress. The aim of this work was to study the influence of Mn2+ (60 μM) on capacitation and acrosome reaction of crossbred cattle bull spermatozoa. Fresh semen was centrifuged and pellet so obtained was suspended in TALP medium (pH 7.4). The sperm suspension was divided into four equal fractions(four tubes). In the control tube, only TALP was added; whereas the remaining three tubes were supplemented with ferrous ascorbate (FeAA – 150 μM FeSO4 : 750 μM ascorbic acid) , 60 μM Mn2+ and FeAA+ Mn2+, respectively. All fractions were incubated incubated (37 °C) for 6 hr in CO2 incubator. These fractions were assessed for morphology, % hyperactivity, lipid peroxidation (LPO) and % acrosome reaction. Morphology of the capacitated spermatozoa remained unaltered with FeAA/Mn2+/FeAA+Mn2+ treatments. FeAA treatment non-significantly (p ≥ 0.05) decreased % sperm hyperactivity % acrosome reaction, but, increased the LPO level. Supplementation of Mn2+ increased % hyperactivity and % acrosome reaction significantly (p ≤ 0.05) in FeAA untreated fractions, but, non-significantly (p ≥ 0.05) in FeAA treated fractions. Malondialdehyde (MDA – end product of LPO) decreased significantly (p ≤ 0.05) with the Mn2+ supplementation both in FeAA treated and untreated fractions. It is concluded that Mn2+ protects the bull sperm against LPO/oxidative stress and facilitates the occurrence of capacitation and acrosome reaction.
Evaluation of bone strength, keel bone deformity and egg quality of laying hens housed in small group housing systems and furnished cages in comparison to an aviary housing system
Authors: Scholz B. , Rönchen S. , Hamann H. , Sürie C. , Neumann U. , Kamphues J. , Distl O.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The objective of the study was to assess bone breaking strength, keel bone status and egg quality parameters of Lohmann Silver (LS) and Lohmann Tradition (LT) layers housed in small group systems (SG) and furnished cages (FC) in comparison to an aviary system. At the end of the 3rd, 6th, 9th and 11th laying month, approximately 40 hens were randomly chosen from each housing system and slaughtered (478 hens in total). Humerus and tibia strengths were analysed using a three-point-bending machine. Keel bone status was evaluated on a scale from 1 (severe) to 4 (no deformity). Shell breaking strength was measured every four weeks, totalling 4,887 eggs. Statistical analyses were performed using the MIXED procedure of SAS. Humerus and tibia strengths of LS layers housed in SG were significantly higher compared to LS hens kept in FC. Bone breaking strengths of humerus and tibia in LS and LT layers were highest in the aviary system and the differences to the other housing systems were significant. No significant differences in tibia and humerus bone breaking strengths were found between SG and FC for LT hens. Keel bone status was not significantly influenced by housing system or laying strain. For both hybrids, shell breaking strength was significantly lower in SG compared to FC and aviary system. The results showed that SG systems can significantly enhance bone breaking strength for LS layers in comparison to hens kept in FC. The lower shell breaking strength of eggs in SG might slightly impair economic aspects.
Carcass and meat characteristics of male chickens between Thai indigenous compared with improved layer breeds and their crossbred
Authors: Jaturasitha S. , Kayan A. , Wicke M.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The study of carcass and meat quality of four male genotypes namely: Thai native (TH), crossbred (Thai native x Barred Plymouth Rock; THB), Barred Plymouth Rock (BPR) and Shanghai (SH) chickens was conducted. Three hundred and twenty birds receiving from four equal groups were allotted in Completely Randomized Design (CRD). They were fed from one day and slaughtered at 16 weeks of age. Breast (M. pectoralis major) and thigh (M. biceps femoris) muscles were investigated for meat quality. TH had lower slaughtered weight (P<0.001) but higher lean : bone as well as less bone percentage (P<0.05) than all groups. Thigh muscle fiber of TH had higher type I and lower type IIB whereas there were similar in breast muscle fiber. Meat quality in terms of IMF, cholesterol and triglyceride contents as well as n-3 fatty acid and the ratio of n-6/n-3 of Thai indigenous male strain was more favorable compared to those all genotypes. Breast and thigh muscle were higher in shear force value and collagen content but the sensory evaluation was not significantly different. Since they were similar in sensory evaluation, the male layer and the male crossbred chickens have the potential to substitute TH in a market serving consumers who prefer chewy chicken meat.
Comparison of different lactation curve models in Holstein cows raised on a farm in the south-eastern Anatolia region
Authors: Koçak Ö. , Ekiz B.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The objective of this study was to compare the goodness of fit of seven mathematical models (including the gamma function, the exponential model, the mixed log model, the inverse quadratic polynomial model and their various modifications) on daily milk yield records. The criteria used to compare models were mean R2, root mean squared errors (RMSE) and difference between actual and predicted lactation milk yields. The effect of lactation number on curve parameters was significant for models with three parameters. Third lactation cows had the highest intercept post-calving, greatest incline between calving and peak milk yield and greatest decline between peak milk yield and end of lactation. Latest peak production occurred in first lactation for all models, while third lactation cows had the earliest day of peak production. The R2 values ranged between 0.590 and 0.650 for first lactation, between 0.703 and 0.773 for second lactation and between 0.686 and 0.824 for third lactation, depending on the model fitted. The root mean squared error values of different models varied between 1.748 kg and 2.556 kg for first parity cows, between 2.133 kg and 3.284 kg for second parity cows and between 2.342 kg and 7.898 kg for third parity cows. Lactation milk yield deviations of Ali and Schaeffer, Wilmink and Guo and Swalve Models were close to zero for all lactations. Ali and Schaeffer Model had the highest R2 for all lactations and also yielded smallest RMSE and actual and predicted lactation milk yield differences. Wilmink and Guo and Swalve Models gave better fit than other three parameter models.
Genetic evaluation for length of productive life in Slovak Pinzgau cattle
Authors: Mészáros G. , Fuerst C. , Fuerst-Waltl B. , Kadlečík O. , Kasarda R. , Sölkner J.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The proportional hazards method was used to estimate breeding values for functional length of productive life within the endangered Slovak Pinzgau population. The analyzed data set contained 21,985 cows, daughters of 254 sires. The risk of culling was higher for cows with lower milk production relative to herd average, higher age at first calving and in herds decreasing in size. In the first lactation the culling risk was highest at the beginning, and decreased during lactation. From second lactation onwards an increasing risk was observed. The effect of breed composition was found insignificant, and was not included into final model. A heritability of 0.05 was estimated for functional length of productive life. The average reliability of estimates was 0.25. No clear tendency in average breeding values by year of birth of bulls was observed.
Some production traits of indigenous Hair goats bred under extensive conditions in Turkey. 1st communication: reproduction, milk yield and hair production traits of does
Authors: Deger Oral Toplu H. , Altinel A.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. This study was conducted to investigate the reproductive performance, milk yield, hair production, fleece characteristics and body weight after shearing of Hair goats (Anatolian Black Goats), bred under extensive conditions in Turkey. The material of the study was formed a total data of 456 Hair goats, which were between 2 and 7 years of age bred in the period of two years. Conception rate, infertility rate, abortion rate, kidding rate, single birth rate, twin birth rate, the percentage of kids born according to mated does and litter size were 97.81 %, 2.19 %, 3.59 %, 94.30 %, 97.91 %, 2.09 %, 96.27 % and 1.02, respectively. Lactation length, milk yield in lactation period, milking period and milk yield in milking period of goats were determined as 232.29 days, 100.92 kg, 132.09 days and 43.14 kg, respectively. Hair production, fibre diameter and staple length of Hair goats in the study were determined as 381.00 g, 76.70 micrones and 13.63 cm, respectively. It was found that the effects of production year and farm on the reproductive traits given by percentage weren’t statistically significant, whereas the difference among production years for litter size was significant. It was found that the effect of production year on milk production traits except for lactation length and on the hair production; the effect of farm factor on the hair production, staple length and live weigth after shearing; the effect of age on the milk production traits, hair production traits and live weight after shearing; the effect of live weight on the hair production were statistically significant (p<0.05).
Differentiation between fore and hind hoof dimensions in the horse (Equus caballus)
Authors: Stachurska A. , Kolstrung R. , Pieta M. , Silmanowicz P. , Klimorowska A.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The aim of the study was to define differences between front and hind hooves in dimensions and proportions of the measurements in horses of various breeds. 77 mares four to thirteen years old of four breeds belonging to different origin types were evaluated: Purebred Arabian horses, halfbred Anglo-Arabian horses, primitive Polish Konik horses and Polish Cold-Blooded horses. The dimensions were measured after trimming. Means in particular groups and differences between fore and hind hooves were estimated with the least square analysis of variance performed separately in each breed. In the four breeds studied, the fore and hind hoof dimensions from the lateral view of the hoof capsule have come out to be similar. The toe to heel length ratio approximates 2 : 1 in both hooves. Viewed from the solar surface, the hind hoof is wider at the heel buttress relative to the fore hoof. The greatest difference between the fore and rear hooves occurs in the capsule width, hence while recording this parameter, it should be defined which foot it concerns. The hoof width is the most highly correlated with other dimensions, as well as the correlations between the fore and hind hooves in this parameter are the highest. The hoof capsule width is the most characteristic parameter of the hoof.
Effects of Suckling Schedule on Growth Characteristics of Saanen Kids
Authors: Diken F. , Ugur F. , Tolu C. , Dosay Akbulut M.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. This study was carried out with single-born Saanen kids raised at Uvecik Research and Training Centre of Canakkale Onsekiz Mart University. In the study, the kids were raised according to two suckling program. In the first program, the kids suckled full-udder of their dams for 30 min at 08.00 and 18.00. In the second program, the right lob of the udder of the kid’s dams was milked by hand, and then the kids were allowed to suckle their dams for 30 min at 08.00 and 18.00. The kids in the both groups were weaned at 5 weeks of the study. The live weights of the kids of the first and second program were 10963.0±274.4 and 10384.9±285.1 g (P>0.05) at 5 weeks of the study and 17932.9±676.3 and 17482.7±702.8 g (P>0.05) at 12 weeks of the study, respectively. The height at withers and heart girth of the kids of the first and second program were 51.7±0.9 and 51.1±0.9 cm (P>0.05), and 61.1±0.8 and 58.5±0.8 cm (P≤0.05) at 12 weeks of the study, respectively. The live weight increase between 1-5 and 1-12 weeks of the kids of the first and second program were determined as 192.0±9.5 and 178.6±9.9 g (P>0.05), and 160.2±8.4 and 157.0±8.7 g (P>0.05), respectively. No significant difference was found between the programs in terms of roughage intake (P>0.05), concentrate feed intake (P>0.05), water intake (P>0.05), rumination (P>0.05) behaviors. In conclusion, the growth performance and behaviors of kids which were raised according to two suckling program were found similar.
The statistical power analysis of tests used in animal breeding studies on lamb birth weight in Turkey
Authors: Doğan I. , Doğan N.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. This study aims on to evaluate the statistical power of 40 published articles in Turkey. In order to maintain consistency, only the most common statistical test (t-test) was power analysed, alpha was held at a uniform value of 0.05 and Cohen’s (1977) definitions of small, medium and large effect sizes were adopted. The Sample Power software was used in all analysis. A total of 40 articles, 24 of them include the gender effect and 16 of them include birth type effect on the birth weight of lambs, were used. An average power estimate for small effect size was 0.062 and 0.05, for medium effect size was 0.534 and 0.347 and for large effect size was 0.598 and 0.854. The statistical power appears to be adequate only for large effect size criteria in these studies. If 0.80 was taken as an adequate power, the results indicate, for gender and birth type factors that none of the studies had adequate power to detect a small effect size, % 57.1 for gender factors and % 83.3 for birth type did not have adequate power to detect a medium effect size, and % 60.9 for gender factor and % 28.2 for birth type factor did not have adequate power to detect even a large effect size. The application of the power analysis is recommended.
Effects of missing pedigree information on dairy cattle genetic evaluations (short communication)
Authors: Nilforooshan M. A. , Khazaeli A. , Edriss M. A.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Estimating genetic merit of livestock closest to their true genetic merit is a preliminary goal in animal breeding. The accuracy of genetic evaluations depends on the recording system and the method of evaluation. Whereas applying more complicated models may improve the accuracy of evaluations inconsiderably, improving data quality is more effective. The data were on pedigree and milk performances (milk yield, fat yield and fat percentage) of 9834 dairy cows in Isfahan, Iran, with both known parents. Genetic parameters were estimated by derivative-free restricted maximum likelihood method, applying an animal model (full relationships), sire model (dam missed), dam model (sire missed) and a half-missed model (half sire / half dam). All the models were compared to animal model. Sire model had the smallest size of pedigree structure, while dam model had an inexistency of between herd relationships. The results showed underestimating additive genetic variance by sire and half-missed models and overestimating it by dam model. An important finding of this study was that there is an unfavorable interaction between missing sire and dam information that caused the lowest goodness of fit for half-missed model. Also, usually, sire missing makes more important problems to the pedigree structure and genetic evaluations than dam missing. The research revealed that, even using an animal model, there are some delicacies in introducing the relationship matrix for sex-limited traits, which requires special attention to the pedigree of sires.
Total protein, selected protein fractions and chemical elements in the colostrum and milk of mares (Short Communication)
Authors: Cieśla A. , Palacz R. , Janiszewska J. , Skórka D.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The study material consisted of the colostrum and milk of five noble half-blood mares housed under the same environmental conditions. Colostrum samples were collected 24 h after foaling, whereas milk samples were taken five times, every 30 days, with the first sampling on lactation day 30 (1st month). In the samples were determined the concentrations of total protein, pre-albumins, albumins, α- and β-globulins, immunoglobulins and calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg) and zinc (Zn). The presence of pre-albumins was observed only in mare colostrum. Total protein concentration was at the same level in the colostrum and in the milk in the 1st lactation month, whereas protein fraction concentrations underwent dynamic changes during the 1st month of lactation. When compared to the values determined in the colostrum, the level of α-globulins increased 8 times during lactation, whereas that of immunoglobulins decreased almost 4 times. The highest concentrations of Ca, Mg and Zn were found in mare colostrum, with a decrease in the concentration of all chemical elements in the 1st month of lactation, confirmed statistically in case of Mg and Zn.
Estimation of animal × environment interaction in Czech beef cattle
Authors: Vostrý L. , Přibyl J. , Schlote W. , Veselá Z. , Jakubec V. , Majzlík I. , Mach K.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The objective was the estimation of animal × environment interaction for weaning weight (WWT) of the most frequent breeds of beef cattle in the Czech Republic. The environment was represented by 3 areas: Mountain (1), Foothills (2) and Lowland (3). A pairwise analysis was carried out between the areas: 1 vs 2 (n=5 149) and 2 vs 3 (n=4 971) for the estimation of (co)variance components and genetic correlations between the environments. A multiple-trait animal model was used where weaning weights in different areas were considered as different traits. The direct and maternal heritability estimates of WWT were for area (1): 0.12 (direct) and 0.05 (maternal); for (2): 0.26 and 0.11 (direct), 0.10 and 0.11 (maternal) and for (3): 0.26 (direct) 0.03 (maternal). Direct and maternal genetic correlations were between: 1 and 2 0.98 and 0.65 respectively, with standard deviations 0.03 and 0.37 respectively, and between 2 and 3: 0.82 and 0.50 respectively, with standard deviations 0.12 and 0.31 respectivly. The magnitude of the across-areas genetic correlation indicates that the animal by environment interaction was not biologically important and can be ignored in the evaluation of beef cattle in the Czech Republic.
The relationships among lumbar region width, back muscling and musculus longissimus lumborum et thoracis area in Blonde d’Aquitaine bulls and heifers during rearing period
Authors: Stádník L. , Ježková A. , Louda F. , Dvořáková J. , Štolc L.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The objective of this study was to determine the predictive value of lumbar region width, measured with a tape (WT) and Wilkinson’s trammel (WW), and the ultrasounded musculus longissimus lumborum et thoracis (MLLT) area in the 1st lumbar vertebra, and back muscling (BM) in bulls and heifers of the Blonde d’Aquitaine (BA) breed during the rearing period for selection of breeding animals, concentrating on the MLLT area and muscling. Two generations of bulls (n=63) and heifers (n=68) of BA breed (n=61) and crossbreds Czech Pied Cattle × Blonde d’Aquitaine (C×BA) (n=70) born between December 2004 and June 2006 were included in the investigation. Measurements of the WT, the WW, the MLLT area and subjective judging of the BM were performed at 120, 210 and 365 days of age. The effects of lumbar region width in the 1st lumbar vertebra level, the level of back muscling and that of the MLLT area were used to determinate the relationships among dependent variables at the given ages of the animals. Better muscling of the back or a larger MLLT area during the entire period of rearing was determined in relation to a wider lumbar region (P<0.05–0.001), whereas more significant results were detected during measurement of the WT. Direct dependencies were confirmed by evaluation of the MLLT area at 210 and 365 days in relation to the BM at the same age (P<0.05–0.01). The trend of dependence between the MLLT at 210 and 365 days of age was stated, a larger MLLT at 210 days of age predicted a larger MLLT at 365 days of age, from 2.58 cm2 to 6.21 cm2. The values of the WT and the WW at 120, 210, and 365 days and level of the BM at 210 and 365 days of age can be also considered objective and acceptable characteristics for the selection of animals aimed at the MLLT area at the same age.
Reproductive and physiological traits of Egyptian Suffolk rams as affected by selenium dietary supplementation and housing heat radiation effects during winter of the sub-tropical environment of Egypt (Short Communication)
Authors: Marai I. F. M. , El-Darawany A.-H. A. , Ismail El.-S. A.-F. , Abdel-Hafez M. A. M.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The present investigation was a part of a research project that aimed to study the reproductive and physiological traits of the rams as affected by selenium dietary supplementation and, housing heat radiation effect which is the change in animals perception of warmth between the different parts of the building or between indoors and outdoors of the farm measured by the difference in temperature-humidity index (THI) values. To carry out such work, the animals were divided into four groups (A, B, C and E) of nearly equal average body weights and were raised in one shed, but divided to southern and northern parts. Two groups (A and B) were housed in the southern part of the farm (facing the bright sun day light), while the other two groups (C and D) were housed in the northern part of the farm (facing the cold air flow). One group in each part of the farm was kept without treatment as control (A or C) and the second (B or D) was treated with selenium (0.1 ppm/ kg dry matter [DM] of ration as sodium salenate) orally. The results showed that dietary selenium supplementation improved significantly (P<0.01 or 0.05) most of the ram traits, during winter. Regarding the housing heat radiation effect, the results showed that the southern part was higher than the northern part of the farm with 0.8 THI unit and such change improved significantly (P<0.01 or 0.05) the ram traits, during winter. With regard to the interaction between the studied two factors, there were no significant effects except for the scrotal circumference and scrotal length which were high (P<0.01) in the rams supplemented with selenium and raised in the southern part of the farm, under the sub-tropical environment of Egypt.
A comparison between different selection indices for some productive traits on Egyptian buffaloes
Authors: Mourad K. A. M. , Khattab A. S.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. A total of 2 262 normal lactation records of Egyptian buffaloes kept at Mehallet Mousa Farm belonging to Animal Production Research Institute, Ministry of Agriculture during the period from 1985 to 2003 were used to estimate phenotypic and genetic parameters for total milk yield (TMY, kg), lactation period (LP, day), birth weight (BW, kg) and weaning weight (WW, kg). In addition, eleven selection indices were constructed. Data were analyzed using multi trait animal model (MTAM). The model included individuals, permanent environmental and errors as random effects, month and year of calving and parity as fixed effects. Heritability estimates were 0.172, 0.134, 0.046 and 0.257 for TMY, LP, BW and WW, respectively. Genetic correlations among all traits studied are positive highly significant and ranged from 0.50 to 0.99. Permanent and temporary environmental correlations among all traits studied are similar to genetic correlations, while the correlations between WW and all traits studied are negative. Eleven selection indices were constructed, index I1 which incorporating TMY, LP, BW and WW or index I2 which incorporating TMY, LP and WW are the best (RIH =0.86), both indices are recommended to improve productive traits in Egyptian buffaloes.
Performance traits of purebred Ossimi and Rahmani lambs and their crosses with Finnsheep born under two accelerated mating systems
Authors: Marai I. F. M. , Daader A. H. , Bahgat L. B.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The aim of the study was to carry out crossing of the local breeds with a known prolific breed with the hope to be a beginning to develop improved synthetic lines under the sub-tropical conditions. In the present study, the data represented 4 genotypes: 2 pure Egyptian local fat-tailed breeds [Ossimi (O) and Rahmani (R)], one back-cross [1/4 Finnish Landrace (F) 3/4 O] and one 3-breed-cross [1/4 F 1/4 O 1/2 R]. The lambs resulted from two accelerated systems: 3 lambings/2 years and 2 lambings/1 year. The results showed that in 3 lambings/2 years and 2 lambings/1 year systems, the crossbred lambs were significantly (P<0.01 or 0.05) higher in most of the growth traits, carcass characteristics and weight of ewe lambs at first mating, and were significantly (P<0.01) lower in percentages of the tail and bone and age of ewe lambs at first mating than in their maternal (local) breeds. Spring born lambs were significantly (P<0.01 or 0.05) higher than those born in the other seasons of the year in body weights at 16 and 24 weeks of age and daily gain weight during 0–<8 weeks in 3 lambings/2 years system, and in daily gain weight during the period 8–<16 weeks of age in 2 lambings/1 year system. When using some indices based on combining a number of economic traits of the study (including slaughter weight, feed efficiency, dressing percentage, percentage of lean in the carcass, conception rate, lambing rate and average litter size) to compare the crossbreds with the local ones, the obtained values were not in favour of the crossbreds, which may throw some shadows on feasibility of applying crossing of the Egyptian local sheep with the Finnsheep. Comparison between the two mating systems showed that the 3 matings/2 years surpassed the 2 matings/1 year system in all the indices developed. When calculating the productive efficiency per one year by combining the traits: survivals ratio – that equals: 1 − (mortality rate at 8 weeks) – and frequency of lambing per one year, the values were 15.0 and 13.2 % in the two systems, respectively, confirming the previous results.
Effects of inbreeding on number of piglets born total, born alive and weaned in Austrian Large White and Landrace pigs
Authors: Köck A. , Fürst-Waltl B. , Baumung R.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. In this study records of 58 925 litters of Austrian Large White and 17 846 litters of Austrian Landrace pigs were analysed. Regression models were used to determine the effects of litter, dam and sire inbreeding on total number of born, born alive and weaned piglets in Large White and Landrace. In both populations, litter and dam inbreeding showed a negative effect on all traits. Sire inbreeding had no effect in Large White, whereas a significant positive effect was observed in Landrace. On average, inbred sires with an inbreeding coefficient of 10 % had 0.45 more piglets born total and 0.43 more piglets born alive in comparison to non-inbred sires. In a further analysis the total inbreeding coefficients of the animals were divided into two parts: »new« and »old« inbreeding. »New« inbreeding was defined as the period of the first five generations. It was shown that the observed inbreeding effects were not only caused by recent inbreeding. Reproductive performance was also affected by »old« inbreeding. Finally partial inbreeding coefficients of four important ancestors in each population were calculated to investigate if inbreeding effects are similar among these ancestors. The results revealed a varation of inbreeding effects among the four ancestors. Alleles contibuting to inbreeding depression were descendent from specific ancestors.
Effects of the stage and number of lactation on milk yield of dairy cows kept in open barn during high temperatures in summer months
Authors: Novak P. , Vokralova J. , Broucek J.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Objective of this paper was evaluating the effect of high temperatures on production of milk of dairy cows in southern Moravia (Czech Republic, East Central Europe). We tested hypotheses that the milk efficiency of dairy cows kept in free-stall open barn without supplemental cooling is influenced of a month of summer period, lactation stage (LS) and lactation number (LN) of dairy cows. 193 Holstein cows were used. Three stages were stated according to the days in milk at the July 1: Stage 1-peak (0-50 d); Stage 2-mid lactation (51-120 d); Stage 3-late lactation (121-200 d). We found 63 summer (SumD) and 14 tropical days (TropD), 86 days with the temperature-humidity index (THI) above 72.0, and 26 days with the THI above 78.0, from May to September. The average monthly milk yields were statistically differed (P<0.001) among LS, also among LN. We found significant interactions between LS and LN (May, P<0.05; June, P<0.01; July, P<0.001; August and September, P<0.01). The average monthly milk yields of Stage 1 were gradually increased from May to July (from 33.94 ± 8.99 kg on 36.62 ± 6.62 kg), then decreased to September (30.05 ± 5.69 kg). Depression of milk was significant between July and August (36.62 ± 6.62 kg vs. 32.26 ± 5.88 kg; P<0.01). Milk yield in the Stage 2 was the highest in May (41.55 ± 7.93 kg) and then gradually decreased until October (27.69 ± 5.12 kg). Comparisons of months, LS and LN for whole observed period from May to October differed very highly significantly, there were recorded interactions month:LS (P<0.001), month : LN (P<0.01), and LS : LN (P<0.001). Dairy cows of Stage 1 were affected by the high temperatures in milk production for 305 days lactation significantly more than cows from Stage 2 (8 954.4 ± 1 526.9 kg vs. 9 614.1 ± 1 488.6 kg; P<0.05).
Effect of first lactation milk yield on efficiency of cows in herds with different production levels
Authors: Sawa A. , Krężel-Czopek S.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Lifetime performance was analysed in 6 981 Black and White cows with different proportion of Holstein Friesian inheritance from the active population in the Kujawsko- Pomorskie province according to first lactation yield. It was shown that from the viewpoint of lifetime efficiency, the optimum milk yield of first calvers depends on the milk yield level of the herd. In herds with ≤5 000 kg milk production, the best efficiency was shown by the cows that produced 6 001–7 000 kg milk as first calvers. A decrease in lifetime milk yield, reduced life span and length of productive life, and lower fertility should be taken into account for more efficient first calvers. In herds with 5 000–6 500 and >6 500 kg milk production, lifetime milk yield and milk yield per day of (productive) life increased with increased first lactation milk yield, while fertility deteriorated.
Inbreeding effects on exterior traits in Polish konik horses
Authors: Wolc A. , Balińska K.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Conformation traits of 284 Polish konik mares used in breeding until 2005 were analyzed including pedigree information on 477 individuals. Average inbreeding coefficient was in SK Dobrzyniewo 5.9 %, in SK Kobylniki 5.1 %, and 5.6 % in SO Sieraków. No significant effect of inbreeding on conformation traits was observed. Heritability was estimated as: 0.65 (±0.13) for height at whither, 0.22 (±0.14) for circuit of chest and 0.65 (±0.13) for circuit of cannon. Negative phenotypic trend was observed for girth circumference and positive for circuit of cannon. No significant genetic trends were observed for the analyzed traits, which agrees with the assumption of breeding program in genetic reserve flocks.
Comparison of a GE Lunar DPX-IQ and a Norland XR-26 dual energy X-ray absorptiometry scanner for body composition measurements in pigs – in vivo
Authors: Lösel D. , Kremer P. , Albrecht E. , Scholz A. M.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. In the context of future growth and performance testing, this study compares corresponding body composition results measured by two dual energy X-ray absorptiometry systems. To test the capability of each device to detect differences among experimental groups widely varying in body composition, 77 pigs from 6 purebred/crossbred groups were used for the experiment. Each pig was scanned consecutively on a Norland XR-26 and on a GE Lunar DPX-IQ. Coefficients of determination were: R²=0.92 for bone mineral content (BMC), R²=0.90 for bone mineral density (BMD), R²=0.94 for lean mass (LEAN), R²=0.92 for fat mass (FAT), R²=0.88 for lean percentage (%LEAN) and fat percentage (%FAT). However, Norland yielded larger values for %FAT and smaller values for %LEAN, BMC, and BMD than Lunar (P<0.001) with the extent of deviation depending on the specific trait and on the breeding group. The deviation in BMC was greater than the deviation in BMD, suggesting different bone detecting algorithms. Both systems revealed similar differences among the breeding groups, and ranked them in the same order based on numerical values. Differences in calibration, bone detection, and software algorithms, however, require a prior crosscalibration to make the body composition data from both systems directly comparable. Finally, they can be used across research centres for the determination of relative and absolute body composition differences among animal groups and individuals.
Effect of alternative rearing methods on the behaviour and on the growth and slaughter traits of growing rabbits
Authors: Jekkel G. , Milisits G. , Nagy I.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The aim of this study was to compare the behaviour and the production and slaughter traits of growing rabbits reared in different alternative rearing systems and in conventional fattening cages. The experiment was carried out with 312 Pannon White growing rabbits between 5 and 11 weeks of age. According to the pen size, floor type and stocking density 8 experimental groups were created. For analyzing the different behavioural patterns 24 h video recordings were performed weekly by using infrared cameras. The body weight and the feed consumption of the rabbits were also measured weekly. At 11 weeks of age all of the animals were slaughtered and dissected. For the comparison of the behaviour and production of the experimental and control animals the Dunnett-test was used. It was established that the different alternative rearing methods have a significant effect only on the social and stereotype behaviour of the rabbits. The daily weight gain was highest in the control animals, while lowest in the rabbits reared on deep litter. The feed consumption, the feed conversion ratio and the slaughter characteristics were not affected by the rearing method. It was concluded that from the ethological point of view housing rabbits in pens – particularly on deep litter – has a favourable effect on both of the social and stereotype behaviours’ frequency. However, when rabbits are reared on deep litter, some consumption of the litter material should be calculated, but it does not decrease the pellet consumption and the final liveweight of the animals significantly.
Annotation and in silico localization of the Affymetrix GeneChip Porcine Genome Array
Authors: Naraballobh W. , Chomdej S. , Murani E. , Wimmers K. , Ponsuksili S.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Expression microarrays including the Affymetrix GeneChip Porcine Genome Arrays are valuable tools for studying genes and functional networks relevant for the expression of complex traits and the responsiveness of the organism to various treatments. An updated annotation and, for the first time, localization on the porcine physical genome map of »Affymetrix GeneChip Porcine Genome Array probe sets« was made through a workflow of 3 pipelines of comparisions addressing various NCBI (National Center for Biotechnology Information) and EnsEMBL (Ensembl project) databases. »BLAST« (Basic Local Alignment Search Tool) comparisons of Affymetrix probe set consensus sequences with the EnsEMBL Sscrofa 9 cDNA database provided 23 799 probe sets with hits. After annotation 19 730 gene symbols were obtained using the data management system BioMart. Comparison of the Affymetrix probe set consensus sequences with the porcine genome sequence (EnsEMBL Sscrofa 9 LatestGP database) revealed 23 298 probe sets with BLAST hits. In the third pipeline in addition to EnsEMBL Sscrofa 9 cDNA and genomic sequence databases also human, mouse and pig NCBI reference sequence RNA databases were interrogated in an integrated approach where also a threshold of bit score >50 or >90 % identity over >100 bp was applied in order to filter questionable annotations and localizations. Gene symbols and gene names were queried from HGNC (human genome organization (HUGO) gene nomenclature committee), EASE (EASE: the Expression Analysis Systematic Explorer) and Entrez Gene revealing 20 269 annotated probe sets. 20 467 probe sets were in silico mapped addressing various sources: EnsEMBL Sscrofa 9 LatestGP, pre-EnsEMBL Sscrofa 8.52 LatestGP, NCBI pig reference sequence RNA and genomic databases and PigQTLdb (Pig Quantitative Trait Locus [QTL] database). Using the new annotation and localization data in functional genomics studies will facilitate improving the understanding of the control of quantitative traits in pigs.
Evaluation of the effect of twin births on the perinatal calf mortality and productive performance of Holstein dairy cows
Authors: Hossein-Zadeh N. G.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Calving records from the Animal Breeding Center of Iran collected from January 1993 to December 2007 and comprising 1 163 594 Holstein calving events from 2 552 herds were used to evaluate reported perinatal calf mortality, 305-d milk yield, 305-d fat yield of milk and 305-d fat percentage of milk in single- and twin-births. A logistic regression model was constructed to analyze calf mortality between singletons and twins. Also statistical analyses of 305-d milk yield, 305-d fat yield of milk and 305-d fat percentage of milk were performed using the general linear models procedure. Greater odds of calf mortality existed for calves born from primiparous cows than from multiparous cows (P<0.001) and for calves born as twins than singletons. The odds of calf mortality increased over years from 4.2 % in calving year Y1 (1993–1997) to 5.1 % in calving year Y3 (2003–2007) (odds ratio [OR] = 1.14; P<0.001). The odds of calf mortality was greater after twin births, with 16.7 % of the twin calving events reporting calves as dead compared to 5.2 % for singleton births (OR=5.62; P<0.001). For same-sex twin pairs, the odds of calf mortality was greater (P<0.01; OR=1.72) for male than for female twin pairs. Also, twin-calved cows had greater 305-d milk production, fat yield and fat percentage of milk than single-calved cows (P<0.05). In general, development of practical management strategies to cope with the negative effects associated with twinning on dairies is critical, especially if the trend toward increased twinning in the dairy cattle population continues.
Genetic evaluation of Hanoverian warmblood horses for conformation traits considering the proportion of genes of foreign breeds
Authors: Schröder W. , Stock K. F. , Distl O.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Conformation data of in total 29 053 Hanoverian warmblood mares were used to determine whether genetic evaluation for conformation in the Hanoverian could benefit from the inclusion of the proportion of genes of foreign breeds in the model. For our analyses, we considered all Hanoverian mares born from 1992 to 2005 with available studbook inspection data. Genetic parameters were estimated univariately for eight routinely scored conformation traits (head, neck, saddle position, frontlegs, hindlegs, type, frame, and general impression and development), and height at withers from studbook inspections, in a linear animal model using Residual Maximum Likelihood (REML). Genetic evaluation was subsequently performed using Best Linear Unbiased Prediction. To investigate the effect of correcting for the proportion of genes of foreign breeds, two different models were used for the analyses. In Model 1, the fixed effect age at studbook inspection, and the random effect date-place interaction were considered. In Model 2, proportions of genes of Thoroughbred, Trakehner and Holsteiner were additionally included as fixed effects. Heritabilities of analyzed conformation traits and withers height ranged in both models between 0.10 and 0.57, with standard errors of ≤0.01. Pearson correlation coefficients determined between breeding values of corresponding traits using Model 1 and 2 were highly positive (>0.99), indicating little effect of the model on the results of genetic evaluation. According to the results using a model which includes the proportion of genes of Thoroughbred, Trakehner and Holsteiner as fixed effects will not relevantly improve genetic evaluation for conformation in the Hanoverian.
Verification of a QTL on BTA1 for temperament in German Simmental and German Angus calves (Short Communication)
Authors: Glenske K. , Brandt H. , Prinzenberg E.-M. , Gauly M. , Erhardt G.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. A QTL on BTA1 near BMS574 was described for temperament in cattle. Eight German Simmental and six German Angus half sib families with all together 962 calves born in four consecutive years were used to verify the importance of this QTL. BMS574 and four flanking microsatellites (INRA117, DIK634, BMS4020 and DIK4957) were used in the study. Microsatellite INRA117 was monomorphic in both breeds and replaced. The number of alleles varied from two to 16 within breeds. Allele frequencies differed between the breeds and ranged from less than one percent to 99 %. All calves have been tested and scored for their behaviour in three different tests (tethering test, weighing test, separation- and restraint test). In addition, in German Simmental the status of polledness, horned or scurs respectively was recorded. A variance analysis separated by breeds was conducted for all microsatellites and the scores. The allele 169 of BMS1928 showed a significant effect on the score during weighing in German Simmental. Effects of BMS574 approached P-values near the 5 %-level in both breeds. So the study confirmed the importance of the proximal region of BTA1 in genetic background of behaviour in suckler cow calves.
The effect of the body condition of late pregnant sows on fat reserves at farrowing and weaning and on litter performance
Authors: Beyga K. , Rekiel A.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of the body condition of late pregnant sows on fat reserves at farrowing and weaning, including the scale of the relevant changes in that period, and on the reproductive performance of sows and the results of piglet rearing. The experiment involved 97 hybrid sows (Polish Large White × Polish Landrace [PLW×PL]) divided into two groups, according to backfat thickness: I – (P2+P4)/2>20 mm (10 primiparous, 36 multiparous) and II – (P2+P4)/2≤20 mm (19 primiparous, 32 multiparous). It was carried out between pregnancy day 104 and weaning after 21 days of lactation. During late pregnancy, at weaning and at the end of lactation, the body weight of sows, fatness (points P1, P2, P3, P4) and longissimus muscle depth at point P4M were determined. Feed consumption during lactation, reproductive performance traits and the results of piglet rearing were also analyzed. Higher backfat thickness percentages and body weight noted in group I sows vs. group II sows (P≤0.001) during late pregnancy were maintained at farrowing and weaning. At weaning, the values of longissimus muscle depth were significantly (P≤0.001) higher in group II than in group I. The level of changes in fat reserves differed between late pregnancy and farrowing for P4 (P≤0.01) and (P2+P4)/2 (P≤0.001); fat reserve loss was noted in group I, while an increase in adipose tissue was observed in group II. Body weight losses (%) during late pregnancy and at weaning were non-significant in sows of both groups. Based on feed consumption levels, group I sows were characterized by a lower appetite during lactation than group II sows. A regular trend in feed intake was noted in lactating sows of both groups: feed consumption increased in week 2, compared with week 1, while a decrease was noted in week 3 in comparison with week 2. Significant differences were reported in favour of group I vs. II (P≤0.05) as regards the piglets stillborn, litter weight at weaning, the average piglet weight at weaning and placental weight. Multiparous sows as compared to primiparous sows were characterized by significantly (P≤0.05) larger total number of piglets born and the number of piglets born alive. The difference in the litter weight at birth was found to be highly significant (P≤0.01).