bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Two single nucleotide polymorphisms within bovine butyrophilin gene (BTN/HaeIII and BTN/SchI) and their association with milk performance traits in Jersey cattle
Authors: Muszyńska M. , Szatkowska I. , Grzesiak W. , Dybus A. , Zaborski D.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Associations between two polymorphisms localized in the seventh exon of the butyrophilin gene (BTN/HaeIII and BTN/SchI) and milk production traits of Jersey cattle were analysed. A total of 171 cows were included in the study. PCR-RFLP method was used. In both polymorphisms three genotypes were identified. Statistically significant differences between polymorphic variants and milk production traits of Jersey cows were observed. Those differences concerned the percentage fat content in milk in the case of both polymorphisms and additionally the yield of milk and protein in the case of BTN/HaeIII polymorphism. The influence of the combined genotypes (BTN/HaeIII/SchI) on the examined traits was also analysed. GGHaeIII/AGSchI combined genotype was characterized by a significantly lower percentage fat content in comparison to other combinations. Moreover, incomplete linkage between the studied polymorphic sites was observed, despite relatively small distance between them.
Meta-analysis of effects of dietary vitamin E and post slaughter storage conditions on changes of redness (a*) of pork
Authors: Trefan L. , Bünger L. , Rooke J. , Blom-Hansen J. , Salmi B. , Larzul C. , Terlouw C. , Doeschl-Wilson A.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. A meta-analysis was carried out to quantify the effects of dietary vitamin E and storage conditions on colour changes of pork from M. longissimus dorsi. After standardisation procedures, redness of pork (CIE colour specification a*), one of the most important objective colour attributes, was used as an indicator for colour changes in this analysis. The analysis was based on results from five experiments, which met selection criteria. Analysis of changes of other objective colour attributes, lightness (L*) and yellowness (b*) was not possible due to lack of published data. The statistical analysis (using mixed models) found significant effects of tissue α-tocopherol concentration in M. longissimus dorsi, simplified supplemented vitamin E levels as well as storage time and storage light on redness of pork and its changes over time. The relationship between redness and α-tocopherol concentration was found to be linear, and between redness and storage time was non-linear (third degree polynomial) in one model. This model suggested that an increase of 1 μg of α-tocopherol in the muscle led to an expected increase a* value of 0.11. Another model identified significant interactions about 0.28 between α-tocopherol concentration and storage time in late storage periods. A third model found a significant difference of −0.48 between predicted a* values at lower (≤50 IU/kg feed) and higher supplemented vitamin E levels (≥100 IU/kg feed). The models predicted an initial increase for 3 days, a stable period for 5 days and then a decrease for a* values over storage time. The a* values were significantly lower by about 1.4 when samples were exposed to light in the models, the effect of light found to be constant over time. Further studies, carried out with standardized methods, are needed to increase the predictive power of the derived models and to validate the models for other muscles.
Maternal genetic effects on body weight and breast morphological traits in duck population under selection
Authors: Szwaczkowski T. , Grzech M. , Borowska A. , Wencek E. , Wolc A.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Direct and maternal additive genetic and mitochondrial variances of duck meat performance traits were estimated using AI-REML algorithm. Records of 3 099 (5 010 pedigreed birds) from six consecutive generations were included. The following four traits were investigated: body weight at 3rd week, body weight at 7th week, sternum crest length at 7th week (in cm), and breast muscles thickness at 7th week (in cm). The data were analysed via three single trait linear animal models: I – additive genetic model, II – model extended to additive maternal effects; III– as model II with mitochondrial effects as random. Adequacy of the models was examined by Akaike´s information criterion (AIC). Relatively high direct additive heritability estimates were obtained for body weight at 3rd week (0.4326–0.4546) and body weight at 7th week (0.5322–0.6088) whereas lower estimates were obtained for sternum crest length (0.1756–0.2744) and breast muscles thickness (0.1369–0.2932). The maternal heritabilities were moderate and also considerably depended on the model used. For all of the studied traits a negative covariance between direct and maternal genetic effects was found. Mitochondrial heritabilities were very low. Generally, on the basis of criteria employed, the model III can be suggested for analysis of body weight whereas for other traits model II seems to be suitable.
Molecular genetic diversity and origin of Chinese domestic duck breeds
Authors: Li H.-F. , Zhu W.-Q. , Song W.-T. , Shu J.-T. , Han W. , Chen K.-W.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The 667 bp control region of mitochondrial DNA from 8 representative domestic duck breeds in China, which were all native preserved duck breeds, and a mallard (6 Anas zonorhyncha individuals) were sequenced. The genetic polymorphism and the origin of the 8 domestic ducks were analysed. The result showed that the haplotype diversity (Hd) and average nucleotide diversity (Pi) were 0.67136 and 0.19 %, respectively. Hd and Pi of Youxian Sheldrake were the highest in the 8 domestic duck breeds. Kimura-2 parameter genetic distance between the breeds ranged from 0.00056 to 0.00414. The NJ phylogenetic tree and reduced median-joining network chart were constructed by the total 38 haplotypes and 96 sequences, which included 12 sequences of Anas platyrhynchos from GenBank, 6 sequences of Anas zonorhyncha from GenBank and 78 sequences of this study (72 domestic ducks and 6 Anas zonorhyncha). The maternal origin of the 8 domestic ducks all originated from Anas platyrhynchos.
Estimation of genetic and phenotypic parameters of growth curve and their relationship with early growth and productivity in Horro sheep
Authors: Abegaz S. , Van Wyk J. B. , Olivier J. J.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Weight (kg)-age (days) data of 524 Horro sheep of Ethiopia were fitted to a Brody function to estimate parameters of growth curve and their genetic and phenotypic parameters. Genetic and phenotypic relationships were also estimated between growth curve parameters and weight at birth (BW), weaning (WW) six-month (WT6) and yearling (YW). For ewes Pearson correlations were also calculated between growth curve parameters and ewe productivity over first to fourth parities. Least squares means of growth curve parameters A (asymptotic mature weight, kg), B (proportion of mature weight attained after birth) and K (the rate of maturity, kg gain kg-1 body weight) were 37.6, 0.88, and 0.27∙10-2, respectively. Heritability estimates were 0.29, 0.18 and 0.14 for A, B, and K, respectively. Genetic correlations between A and B, A and K, and B and K were 0.39, −0.07, and 0.25 respectively. Genetic correlations of A and K with BW, WW, WT6, and YW were 0.27 and −0.13, 0.34 and 0.37, 0.44 and 0.61, and 0.67 and 0.66, respectively. The growth curve parameters have small but positive (r=0.05 to 0.28) relationship with indicators of lifetime productivity. Medium heritability estimates of A and K indicate that progress in improving these traits can be made through selection. WT6 and YW have medium genetic correlations with the growth curve parameters and these may allow the use of these weights as indirect early selection criteria for optimum growth curve.
The effect of colostral supplement on the serum protein fractions, health status and growth of calves
Authors: Szewczuk M. , Czerniawska-Piątkowska E. , Palewski S.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The study aimed at evaluation of the effect of colostral supplement on humoral immunity, growth and health state of calves until the 3rd month of life. Examinations were carried out on 40 Polish Black-and-White Holstein-Friesian calves. After birth, the calves were separated into two groups (20 calves each): control group – without addition of colostral supplement, and experimental one – with colostral supplement in diet. Blood was sampled from each calf on day 5 and 30 of life, and total protein, albumin, and alpha, beta and gamma globulin levels were determined in it. Evaluation of calves’ growth and development course was carried out basing on weighing and daily gain results. The favourable effect of colostral supplement on calves’ health state and body weight gains was found. No significant effect of colostral supplement on total protein level or gamma-globulin fraction level was found. The effect of colostral supplement on reduction of alpha-globulin fraction decrease was found in a time period until the 30th day of calves’ life (P≤0.01). The study so far point to the purposefulness of using this supplement, in particular in the case of colostrum deficiency or its poor quality.
Genetic diversity of Tibetan goats of Plateau type using microsatellite markers
Authors: Wang Y. , Wang J. , Zi X.-D. , Huatai C.-R. , Ouyang X. , Liu L.-S.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The 10 microsatellite markers (XBM7, XBM11, XBM16, XBM19, XBM24, XBM31, XBM84, TGLA53, SRCRSP-10 and ILS005) were selected to investigate the genetic diversity of Tibetan goat of Plateau type (NM, n=108), and the other 5 goat populations, i.e., Tibetan goat of Valley type (TG, n=36), Baiyu black goat (BY, n=36), Jianchang black goat (JC, n=36), Meigu goat (MG, n=36) and Xinjiang goat (XJ, n=32) were served as control. The mean polymorphism information content, heterozygosity and effective allele number of these 6 populations were 0.660/0.777/4.476, 0.716/0.797/4.9416, 0.631/0.673/3.061, 0.649/0.680/3.125, 0.629/0.680/3.125 and 0.561/0.793/4.840 respectively. The allele frequencies of Tibetan goat of plateau type in 10 microsatellite loci were greatly different with other 5 goat populations. The 6 goat populations were grouped into three distinct clusters: the Tibetan goat cluster (NM goat and TG goat), Sichuan goat cluster (JC goat, MG goat and BY goat), and Xinjiang goat cluster (XJ goat). These 3 distinct clusters were finally clustered together. The genetic differences among populations were in accordance with their geographical and historical origins.
Effect of housing system and milk yield on cow fertility
Authors: Sawa A. , Bogucki M.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The effect of housing system (tethered vs. loose) and milk yield of 10 358 cows on their fertility was analysed in 1 721 farms from the Pomerania and Kujawy regions of Poland. The GLM, FREQ and CORR procedures of the SAS package were used for statistical calculations. The housing system significantly affected cow fertility, which also depended, both in the first reproductive cycle and over the cows‘ lifetime, on milk production level after the first calving. A stronger relationship (unfavourable for breeders) between milk production and fertility was found for tethered cows compared to their loose-housed contemporaries. Regardless of the milk production level of first calvers, loose-housed cows showed better fertility.
Estimation of growth curve parameters in Beetal goats
Authors: Waheed A. , Khan M. S. , Ali S. , Sarwar M.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Growth data from birth to one year of age on 120 Beetal goats, 30 animals on each farm, including Livestock Experiment Station (LES) Rakh Kheirewala, LES Rakh Ghulaman, LES Alladad and LPRI Bahadurnagar, Okara, Pakistan, were recorded and analysed for estimating growth curve parameters: predicted live weight, »a«, turning point of growth, »b« and rate of growth »k« by using Brody and Gompertz mathematical functions employing non-linear regression models. Estimates of the growth curve parameters »a«, »b« and »k« were 29.1, 0.916 and 0.108 for Brody and 23.4, 1.984 and 0.258 for Gompertz functions, respectively. The corresponding values of determination coefficient and mean absolute deviation for these models were 99.8 and 99.8 percent and 0.0061 and 0.0050, respectively. Flock significantly affected parameter »b« of Brody and Gompertz models. Sex did not affect any of the parameters in both models. Type of birth was a significant source of variation for parameter »b« in the Brody model. The determination coefficient showed that both the models efficiently explained the growth of Beetal kids.
Genetic admixture in pig population observed by microsatellite markers
Authors: Židek R. , Jakabová D. , Trandžík J. , Buleca J. , Takáčová D. , Žitňan R.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The aim of presented study was estimation of genetic relationship within and between 3 mentioned pig breeds bred in the Slovak Republic. Genetic variability at 10 microsatellite loci (SW24, SO107, SO068, SW936, sw353, so386, so355, sw72, tnfb, and SO070) was analysed in 412 pigs of Landrace, Yorkshire and Slovak White Improved breeds. Variation amount of each population was measured with average number of alleles per locus, heterozygosities, polymorphism information content (PIC) value were calculated. Phylogenetic trees were constructed by UPGMA. The average number of alleles per locus was 11.5, ranging from 7 (SW72) to 16 (SO068). The Slovak White Improved, Landrace and Yorkshire pig breeds showed out high degree of genetic diversity with mean expected heterozygosities of 0.720, 0.697 and 0.705 respectively. Genetic distance ranged from 0.060 between Yorkshire and Slovak White Improved to 0.203 between Landrace and Slovak White Improved breeds. The scatter diagram from principal component displayed genetic differentiation among all three breeds. A Bayesian method was applied for individual assigning testing. On the base of our results the group of Slovak White Improved population was strongly mixed with Yorkshire breed and the group of all Landrace individuals was presented as enclosed population.
Relationship between milk urea, blood plasma urea and body condition score in primiparous browsing goats with different milk yield level
Authors: Pazzola M. , Dettori M. L. , Carcangiu V. , Luridiana S. , Mura M. C. , Vacca G. M.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationships among milk urea, blood plasma urea, milk yield and body condition score (BCS) in primiparous goats fed at pasture. Ninety goats of Sarda breed were used and, on the basis of their yield level, divided in three groups of 30 animals each, low (LY), intermediate (IY) and high milk yield (HY). Daily milk yield, milk protein content, milk urea, plasma total protein and albumin, plasma urea and BCS were measured at monthly intervals from 45 days in milking (45 DIM) to 165 DIM. Milk yield level affected protein concentration of milk and plasma, whereas albumin showed no variation. Plasma and milk urea showed a high correlation (P<0.001) despite of the yield level; plasma urea was always lower than milk urea. BCS decreased on 75 DIM and again after 135 DIM, and it was not affected by the milk yield level. Because milk urea and plasma urea were closely correlated and not influenced by the yield level, the study pointed out that measurement of milk urea could be utilized to evaluate urea metabolism also for browsing goats.
Effect of growth promoters (probiotics) supplementation on performance, rumen activity and some blood constituents in growing lambs
Authors: Hillal H. , El-Sayaad G. , Abdella M.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The current study examined the effects of probiotics (Pronifer and More-yeast) supplementation to growing lambs. 25 crossbred (Osimi×Rahmani) growing lambs of about 6–8 months age and an average initial live body weight of 25 kg were used. Lambs divided into five groups (5 lambs for each group) and the experimental period lasted for 169 days. The control group T1 received concentrate feed mixture (CFM), group T2 and T3 received 1.5 and 3 kg Pronifer/Mg (megagram) CFM and group T4 and T5 received 2.5 and 5 kg More-yeast/ Mg CFM, respectively. Rumen liquor and blood samples were taken and digestibility trial was conducted at the end of the experiment. Results showed higher digestibility values for crude protein (P<0.05) in T3 and T4 when compared to control. Nutritive ratio was lower (P<0.05) in groups T3 and T4 than in group T2. More-yeast supplementation improved dry matter intake (P<0.001), while a reverse trend was observed with Pronifer supplementation. All treatments had little effect on ruminal liquor except ruminal ammonia concentration in T5 was lower (P<0.05) than other treatments. The differences in most blood plasma parameters due to treatment effect were not significant, except plasma urea and globulin concentrations increased (P<0.05) with T5 treatment. The obtained results appear to indicate that Moreyeast supplementation improved lambs performance and digestibility, whereas, Pronifer supplementation enhanced digestibility.
Growth performance, carcass characteristics and meat quality of growing rabbits housed in cages or open-air park
Authors: Pinheiro V. , Outor-Monteiro D. , Silva S. , Silva J. , Mourão J. L.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The study was carried out to investigate the effects of two housing systems on the growth performance, carcass traits, and meat quality of growing rabbits during the terminal fattening period. The rabbits were lodged in conventional cages between 35 and 59 days of age (growing period). At this age, they were moved into two different housing systems until they were 87 days of age (fattening period). During the fattening period, 48 rabbits were housed in 12 wire cages (0.5×0.6×0.35 m) and 48 rabbits were housed in one open-air pasture pen (20×9 m). At 87 days, 12 rabbits per treatment were slaughtered and the carcass characteristics and meat quality were evaluated. During the fattening period, the rabbits reared in cages had significantly higher live weights (3 062 vs. 2 705 g), weight gains (45.9 vs. 34.2 g·d−1) and feed intakes (163.4 vs. 110.2 g·d−1) than those reared in pens. The rabbits in the open-air group had a lower percentage of dissectible fat (1.35 vs. 4.19 %), a higher proportion of hind part (34.9 vs. 33.1 %), and less hind leg muscle (79.3 vs. 81.9 %) than caged rabbits. The m. biceps femoris of the rabbits in the open-air group had a higher cooking loss (3.64 vs. 3.02 %), Warner-Bratzler Shear Force (4.26 vs. 3.29 kg·cm−2), and myoglobin concentration (0.41 vs. 0.32 mg·g−1) than caged rabbits. The housing system had no effect on the dressing out percentage, viscera proportion, and ultimate pH. Open-air housing system reduces the growth of rabbits and the fat content of carcasses and increases the redness colour of meat.
Growth and development of young game pheasants (Phasianus colchicus)
Authors: Kokoszyński D. , Bernacki Z. , Cisowska A.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Fifty game pheasants were kept to 8 weeks in confinement housing and later maintained outdoors in a partially roofed aviary. Pheasants received commercial feed mixtures ad libitum. Body weight and dimensions were determined every 4 weeks. Ten pheasants were selected for slaughter at the end of 18 and 20 weeks each. After slaughter, their heads, shanks, feathers, blood, inedible viscera and major internal organs were weighed and digestive tract separated and measured. The carcasses were dissected. Higher body weights and daily gains were found in males than in females on all test days during rearing to 20 weeks of age. Compared to females, males had significantly longer keel from 4 weeks, longer lower thighs and shanks from 8 weeks, and longer trunk with and without neck and greater chest circumference from 12 weeks of age. Older pheasants had a significantly lower proportion of feathers and blood, and higher content of inedible viscera, with significantly relatively shorter (cm 100 g b.w.−1) small intestine, caecum and rectum in males than in females. With advancing age, there was a decrease in the proportion of gizzard (significant) and liver, and in males a significant increase in the proportion of testicles.
Comparison of fattening performance and slaughter value of local Hungarian cattle breeds to international breeds
Authors: Holló G. , Nuernberg K. , Somogyi T. , Anton I. , Holló I.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The objective of the trial is to compare fattening performance, slaughter results and meat quality of bulls from international cattle breeds with local Hungarian breeds fattened under the same conditions. Altogether 62 growing bulls – Angus, Charolais, Holstein, Hungarian Grey, Hungarian Simmental, Charolais × Hungarian Grey – were fattened in small groups. The daily gain varied from 897 (Hungarian Grey) to 1 240 g/day (Angus). In general, the lower gain value is caused by the semi-intensive fattening system with low concentrate supplementation. The slaughter weight showed a similar tendency as final weight, there was a significant difference between Angus and Hungarian Grey. The killing out of Charolais (59.50 %), Angus (56.80 %) and Hungarian Simmental (57.84 %) was significantly higher than Hungarian Grey (55.13 %) and Holstein (55.03 %). Due to Charolais crossing the dressing percentage of Hungarian Grey was developed by about 1.5 %. The EU conformation scores of Charolais (9.50) and Hungarian Simmental (9.33) and the fatness scores of Angus (8.33) and Charolais × Hungarian Grey (7.33) were significantly higher than that of the other genotypes. The tissue composition of dissected carcass as well as ribs joint composition determined by X-ray computerised tomography method showed the lean meat of Hungarian Simmental and bone proportions of Holstein to be the highest, whilst Angus had the highest fat content. Charolais und Hungarian Simmental had significant higher longissimus muscle area in ribs joint compared to Angus, Holstein and Charolais × Hungarian Grey. Angus and Hungarian Grey had the highest intramuscular fat level of the three examined muscles.
Defining and evaluating heat stress thresholds in different dairy cow production systems
Authors: Brügemann K. , Gernand E. , König von Borstel U. , König S.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of heat stress in dairy cows on test-day records for production traits and somatic cell score (SCS) in the state of Lower Saxony, Germany. Three different production systems were defined: A production system characterized by intensive crop production (=indoor housing), a pasture based production system, and a maritime region. Heat stress was assessed by two temperature-humidity indices (THI) modelled as random regression coefficients in an analysis of variance: One (THIBo) was defined as an average of hourly THI, calculated from hourly recorded temperatures and humidities, the other (THIRa) was based on daily maximal temperature and daily minimal humidity. In all production systems, THIBo=60 and THIRa=70 were identified as general thresholds denoting a substantial decline in test-day milk yield. For daily fat and protein percentage, no universally valid thresholds were identified. In contrast for SCS, especially in the maritime region, heat stress as well as cold stress thresholds were found. Regression analysis was used to study the change in test day milk yield in response to THI of those THI ranges with an obvious decline in milk yield. Regression coefficients were −0.08 kg/THIBo and −0.16 kg/THIRa for the crop production system, −0.17 kg/THIBo and −0.23 kg/THIRa for the pasture based system, and −0.26 kg/THIBo and −0.47kg/THIRa for the maritime region. Based on statistical information criteria, identified thresholds for THIBo should be given preference over THIRa when applying genetic studies on heat stress in German Holstein cows.
Milk quality, manufacturing properties and blood biochemical profile from dairy cows fed peas (Pisum sativum L.) as dietary protein supplement
Authors: Tufarelli V. , Naz S. , Khan R. U. , Mazzei D. , Laudadio V.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Pea (Pisum sativum L.), a protein-rich legume seed well adapted to many climatic areas and widely used for feed and food, was fed to Italian Friesian breed cows for 16 weeks to assess its effects on milk yield and production, renneting properties and metabolic responses. Cows within each group were assigned to two isonitrogenous and isoenergetic concentrates based on corn plus soybean meal or peas. Individual milk samples were collected from two consecutive milkings, composited, and then analysed for fat, protein, casein and lactose contents and somatic cells count as well as blood and milk urea and milk technological characteristics. Cow blood samples were taken and plasma were analysed for metabolites, biological enzymes, β-hydroxybutyrate (BHBA) and non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA). Peas supplementation had no effects on metabolic blood profile as well as on milk composition traits and clotting aptitude. Milk and blood from cows fed peas indicated a reduction (P<0.05) of their urea concentrations compared to those fed soybean meal. Our findings indicate that peas can replace soybean meal as protein source in diet of dairy cows without unfavourable effects on milk quality and cheesemaking properties.
Breed-specific patterns of hepatic gluconeogenesis and glucocorticoid action in pigs
Authors: Yang X. , Liu R. , Albrecht E. , Dong X. , Maak S. , Zhao R.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. In the present study, Erhualian and Pietrain pigs were employed to investigate the breed-specific patterns of hepatic gluconeogenesis by detecting the related enzyme mRNA expression, and to analyse the relationship with the hepatic glucocorticoid receptors and 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (11β-HSD1) expression. Furthermore, hepatic DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1) expression was determined to detect DNA methyltransferase state difference between the two breeds. The results demonstrated that the Erhualian pigs exhibited significantly lower plasma lactate acid concentration, but higher liver lactate acid content than the Pietrain pigs. A significantly higher expression of pyruvate carboxylase (PC), fructose-1, 6-bisphosphatase (FBP) and the mitochondria phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PCK2) mRNA were observed in Erhualian pigs. The Erhualian pigs demonstrated a significantly higher expression of glucocorticoid receptor and 11β-HSD1 mRNA than the Pietrain pigs, though there was no difference in the hepatic cortisol content between the two breeds. The hepatic DNMT1 mRNA expression in the Erhualian pigs was significantly lower, and the DNMT1 protein content in Erhualian pigs tended to be decreased compared with Pietrain pigs (P=0.066). The results suggest that the Erhualian pigs demonstrated higher hepatic gluconeogenesis capacity in comparison to the Pietrain pigs. The up-regulation of hepatic glucocorticoid receptor and 11β-HSD1 expression may be involved in the enhanced hepatic gluconeogenesis in Erhualian pigs. Moreover, the down-regulation of DNMT1 in Erhualian pigs implies possible involvement of DNA methylation in a breed-specific pattern of hepatic gluconeogenesis.
Genetic parameters for growth of young beef bulls
Authors: Vostrý L. , Veselá Z. , Přibyl J.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The average daily gains of young bulls on test stations (ADGT) were analysed for the most frequent breeds of beef cattle in the Czech Republic using a multiple-trait animal model. Body weights at birth (W0), at 120 days of age (W120) and at weaning at 210 days (WW) were considered in this model as pre-weaning growth. The tested models comprised some of the random effects: direct genetic effect, maternal genetic effect, permanent animal environment effect, permanent maternal environment effect, and some of the fixed effects: dam’s age, sex, herd-year-season, linear and quadratic regression on age at the beginning of the test. For optimization of the models Akaike information criterion (AIC), residual variance and likelihood ratio test were used. Coefficients of direct and maternal heritability across breeds of about 0.25 for W0, about 0.17 for W120, about 0.17 for WW and about 0.29 for ADGT were estimated by all models. All criteria selected models including the permanent animal environment effect, which was the most important effect in the model.
Correlations between daily weight gain, lipid peroxidation and glutathione status of liver and kidney in different pig genotypes
Authors: Balogh K. , Weber M. , Heincinger M. , Kollár G. , Mézes M.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Four pig hybrids (Pannon, Hungahib-39, Középtiszai and Dalland) were fattened up to 100±2 kg body weight. Feed intake and body weight were measured and daily weight gain was calculated. Malondialdehyde (MDA) and reduced glutathione (GSH) content, and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity were measured in liver and kidney. Daily weight gain was significantly lower in Pannon and Hungahib-39 hybrids. Amount of MDA was significantly higher in the liver of the hybrids with higher daily weight gain, and similar tendency was found in kidney. GSH content of liver did not differ significantly among the hybrids. The kidney of the Középtiszai hybrid had significantly lower GSH concentration than the others. GPx activity was the lowest in liver and kidney of Középtiszai hybrid. There was no significant correlation between daily weight gain and MDA content in liver, but positive correlation was found in the kidney of Pannon and Hungahib-39 hybrids. Daily weight gain showed significant correlation with GSH content of liver of Középtiszai hybrid. Between daily weight gain and GPx activity negative correlations were found in all hybrids and tissues, but none of them was significant. GSH content showed negative significant correlation with MDA content of liver of Középtiszai and in kidney of Pannon hybrid. Correlation between GSH content and GPx activity was positive and significant in the liver and kidney of Pannon hybrid. The results showed that different daily weight gain of pig hybrids has effect on the lipid peroxide and glutathione status of liver and kidney.
The efficiency of propolis in post-colostral dairy calves
Authors: Kupczyński R. , Adamski M. , Falta D. , Roman A.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The study aimed at an assessment of a possibility of calves’ health status improvement in neonatal period by preventive application of 10 % ethanol extract of propolis (EEP). An influence of EEP on selected biochemical and haematological parameters of blood, body weight gains and diarrhoea symptoms intensity was determined. Propolis contains a range of biologically active compounds and exhibits numerous beneficial properties. Ethanolic extract is a form of propolis that is usually used in prevention. Forty five calves were used in the experiment. The assessment of clinical symptoms of diarrhoea, dehydration and vitality was conducted and calves (without symptoms of diarrhoea) were divided into 3 groups (15 calves in each): control, and two experimental (2 and 4 ml of EEP/day). The results of the study point that EEP may be a useful mean improving health status of calves. After an application of propolis in a dose of 4 ml/day higher daily gains were noted when compared to the control calves. Although no obvious influence of EEP on haematological parameters was noted, the positive influence on erythropoiesis and Fe content was observed. Higher EEP dose caused a significant decrease in lactic acid (LA) level. No influence on macroelements and electrolytes in blood serum was noted.
Genetic and non genetic effects for lactation curve traits in Holstein-Friesian cows
Authors: Boujenane I. , Hilal B.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The objective of this study was to determine the genetic and non genetic effects on lactation curve traits determined by the incomplete gamma function of Wood (1967) for Holstein-Friesian cows in Morocco. Data analysed included 49262 monthly records of the test-day milk yield from 4888 lactations of 3932 cows at their 1st, 2nd or 3rd parity collected during 1990 and 1999 in 232 herds enrolled in the official milk recording. In general, lactation curve traits (A, B, C, peak time [Tmax], peak milk yield [Ymax], persistency and 305 day milk yield [MY305]) were affected by herd, parity, age at calving, season of calving and year of calving. Heritability estimates were low and varied from 0.01 for parameter A to 0.10 for Ymax. Genetic and phenotypic correlations among traits varied from −0.79 to 1.00 and from −0.80 to 0.96, respectively. Genetic correlations between MY305 and parameter C were negative, but those between MY305 and all the other lactation curve traits were positive. It was concluded that selection for high peak milk yield and persistency will result in higher 305 day milk yield.
Influence of fish oil, palm oil and glycerol on milk fatty acid composition and metabolism in cows during early lactation
Authors: Kupczyński R. , Kuczaj M. , Szołtysik M. , Stefaniak T.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The aim of the study was to determine an influence of diet additives in a form of protected palm oil, protected fish oil or unprotected fish oil with glycerol in Polish Holstein-Friesian cows on milk fatty acid composition, metabolism, milk yield and milk composition. Milk production, milk fat, and milk protein did not differ statistically between the groups. A significant increase (P<0.01) in glucose level in blood was noted after application of unprotected fish oil with glycerol. The lowest concentration of β-hydroxybutyrate and non-esterified fatty acids, with the highest cholesterol and triacylglycerol concentration was observed in protected fish oil. An increase in the content of long-chain acids was observed in milk fat of cows receiving protected fish oil when compared to the group receiving palm oil and unprotected fish oil with glycerol. Concentration of trans-vaccenic acid (TVA) was higher (P<0.01) in protected fish oil and unprotected fish oil with glycerol when compared to palm oil group. These changes were corresponded by concentration of cis-9, trans-11 conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) (1.71, 1.68 and 0.61 g/100 g of total fatty acids, respectively). Irrespectively of the form of fish oil administration, an increase in milk eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) content was noted. The present experiment provides evidence that milk fatty acids can be manipulated via dietary fish oil or unprotected fish oil and glycerol application.
Evaluation of tonic immobility in common pheasant hens kept in different housing systems during laying period
Authors: Hrabcakova P. , Bedanova I. , Voslarova E. , Pistekova V. , Vecerek V.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Common pheasant (Phasianus colchicus) hens kept in different housing systems during laying period were exposed to a tonic immobility test. At the end of the laying period, the shortest duration of the tonic immobility, and thus the lowest fear level, was found in birds kept in enriched cages, i.e. cages equipped with 2 perches and a hiding place. The duration of the tonic immobility in hens kept in enriched cages was significantly lower (P<0.05) than in hens kept in conventional cages where other measures against feather pecking were used (beak-trimming and using spectacles, respectively).
Measurement of changes in body composition of piglets from birth to 4 kg using quantitative magnetic resonance (QMR)*
Authors: Mitchell A. D. , Ramsay T. G. , Scholz A. M.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The purpose of this study was to use quantitative magnetic resonance (QMR) to measure changes in the body composition of piglets during growth from birth to 4 kg body weight. Using QMR, 60 pigs were scanned an average of 5 times starting at 2.7±1.3 days of age (1.95 kg) and finally at 13.1±4.3 days (4.14 kg). Regression analysis revealed that the rates of total body growth and fat and lean deposition were linear throughout this period. Subsequently, a second group of 235 pigs (109 males and 126 females) were scanned twice, first at 2.7±1.2 days of age and then at 13.4±3.1 days of age. The mean (±SD) rate of total body growth was 230±57 g/day. The rates of fat and lean deposition were 40±13 g/day and 191±52 g/day, respectively. The rates of both fat and lean deposition were highly correlated (P<0.001) with total body growth rate (R2=0.81 and 0.93, respectively) and the coefficient of determination between the rates of fat and lean deposition was 0.71 (P<0.001). The results of this study demonstrate that QMR is a useful method for measuring changes in body composition in neonatal pigs. Furthermore, the results indicate that during the period of growth from birth to 4 kg, the rates of both fat and lean deposition are linear and highly correlated with total body growth.
Insight into the in-cloud formation of oxalate based on in situ measurement by single particle mass spectrometry
Authors: Zhang Guohua , Lin Qinhao , Peng Long , Yang Yuxiang , Fu Yuzhen , Bi Xinhui , Li Mei , Chen Duohong , Chen Jianxin , Cai Zhang , Wang Xinming , Peng Ping'an , Sheng Guoying , Zhou Zhen
Published: November 2017

Abstract. While ground-based works suggest the significance of in-cloud production (or aqueous formation) to oxalate, direct evidence is rare. With the in situ measurements performed at a remote mountain site (1690 m above sea level) in southern China, we first reported the size-resolved mixing state of oxalate in the cloud droplet residual (cloud RES), the cloud interstitial (cloud INT), and ambient (cloud-free) particles by single particle mass spectrometry. The results support the growing evidence that in-cloud aqueous reactions promote the formation of oxalate, with  ∼  15 % of the cloud RES and cloud INT particles containing oxalate in contrast to only  ∼  5 % of the cloud-free particles. Furthermore, individual particle analysis provides unique insight into the formation of oxalate during in-cloud processing. Oxalate was predominantly (> 70 % in number) internally mixed with the aged biomass-burning particles, highlighting the impact of biomass burning on the formation of oxalate. In contrast, oxalate was underrepresented in aged elemental carbon particles, although they represented the largest fraction of the detected particles. It can be interpreted by the individual particle mixing state that the aged biomass-burning particles contained an abundance of organic components serving as precursors for oxalate. Through the analysis of the relationship between oxalate and organic acids (−45[HCO2]−, −59[CH3CO2]−, −71[C2H3CO2]−, −73[C2HO3]−), the results show that in-cloud aqueous reactions dramatically improved the conversion of organic acids to oxalate. The abundance of glyoxylate associated with the aged biomass-burning particles is a controlling factor for the in-cloud production of oxalate. Since only limited information on oxalate is available in the free troposphere, the results also provide an important reference for future understanding of the abundance, evolution, and climate impacts of oxalate.
Non Methane Hydrocarbons variability in Athens during winter-time: The role of traffic and heating
Authors: Panopoulou Anastasia , Liakakou Eleni , Gros Valérie , Sauvage Stéphane , Locoge Nadine , Bonsang Bernard , Psiloglou Basil E. , Gerasopoulos Evangelos , Mihalopoulos Nikolaos
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Non-methane hydrocarbons (NMHCs) play an important role in atmospheric chemistry, contributing to ozone and secondary organic aerosol formation. They can also serve as tracers for various sources such as traffic, solvents, heating and vegetation. The current work presents, for the first time to our knowledge, time-resolved, uninterrupted data of NMHCs, from two to six carbon atoms, during a period of five months (mid-October 2015 to mid-February 2016) in the Great Athens Area (GAA), Greece. The measured NMHC levels are among the highest reported in literature for the Mediterranean area and the majority of the compounds demonstrates a remarkable day to day variability. Their levels increase by up to factor of four from autumn (October–November) to winter (December–February). Local meteorology and especially wind speed seems to control the variability of NMHC levels, with an increase up to a factor of 10 occurring under low wind speed (
Temperature dependence of the Brewer global UV measurements
Authors: Fountoulakis Ilias , Redondas Alberto , Lakkala Kaisa , Berjon Alberto , Bais Alkiviadis F. , Doppler Lionel , Feister Uwe , Heikkila Anu , Karppinen Tomi , Karhu Juha M. , Koskela Tapani , Garane Katerina , Fragkos Konstantinos , Savastiouk Volodya
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Spectral measurements of global UV irradiance recorded by Brewer spectrophotometers can be significantly affected by instrument-specific optical and mechanical features. Thus, proper corrections are needed in order to reduce the associated uncertainties to within acceptable levels. The present study aims to contribute to the reduction of uncertainties originating from changes in the Brewer internal temperature, which affect the performance of the optical and electronic parts, and subsequently the response of the instrument. Until now, measurements of the irradiance from various types of lamps at different temperatures have been used to characterize the instruments' temperature dependence. The use of 50 W lamps was found to induce errors in the characterization due to changes in the transmissivity of the Teflon diffuser as it warms up by the heat of the lamp. In contrast, the use of 200 or 1000 W lamps is considered more appropriate because they are positioned at longer distances from the diffuser so that warming is negligible. Temperature gradients inside the instrument can cause mechanical stresses which can affect the instrument's optical characteristics. Therefore, during the temperature-dependence characterization procedure warming or cooling must be slow enough to minimize these effects. In this study, results of the temperature characterization of eight different Brewer spectrophotometers operating in Greece, Finland, Germany and Spain are presented. It was found that the instruments' response changes differently in different temperature regions due to different responses of the diffusers' transmittance. The temperature correction factors derived for the Brewer spectrophotometers operating at Thessaloniki, Greece, and Sodankylä, Finland, were evaluated and were found to remove the temperature dependence of the instruments' sensitivity.
Verification of ECMWF System 4 for seasonal hydrological forecasting in a northern climate
Authors: Bazile Rachel , Boucher Marie-Amélie , Perreault Luc , Leconte Robert
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Hydropower production requires optimal dam and reservoir management to prevent flooding damage and avoid operation losses. In a northern climate, where spring freshet constitutes the main inflow volume, seasonal forecasts can help to establish a yearly strategy. Long-term hydrological forecasts often rely on past observations of streamflow or meteorological data. Another alternative is to use ensemble meteorological forecasts produced by climate models. In this paper, those produced by the ECMWF (European Centre for Medium-Range Forecast) System 4 are examined and bias is characterized. Bias correction, through the linear scaling method, improves the performance of the raw ensemble meteorological forecasts in terms of continuous ranked probability score (CRPS). Then, three seasonal ensemble hydrological forecasting systems are compared: (1) the climatology of simulated streamflow, (2) the ensemble hydrological forecasts based on climatology (ESP) and (3) the hydrological forecasts based on bias-corrected ensemble meteorological forecasts from System 4 (corr-DSP). Simulated streamflow computed using observed meteorological data is used as benchmark. Accounting for initial conditions is valuable even for long-term forecasts. ESP and corr-DSP both outperform the climatology of simulated streamflow for lead times from 1 to 5 months depending on the season and watershed. Integrating information about future meteorological conditions also improves monthly volume forecasts. For the 1-month lead time, a gain exists for almost all watersheds during winter, summer and fall. However, volume forecasts performance for spring varies from one watershed to another. For most of them, the performance is close to the performance of ESP. For longer lead times, the CRPS skill score is mostly in favour of ESP, even if for many watersheds, ESP and corr-DSP have comparable skill. Corr-DSP appears quite reliable but, in some cases, under-dispersion or bias is observed. A more complex bias-correction method should be further investigated to remedy this weakness and take more advantage of the ensemble forecasts produced by the climate model. Overall, in this study, bias-corrected ensemble meteorological forecasts appear to be an interesting source of information for hydrological forecasting for lead times up to 1 month. They could also complement ESP for longer lead times.
A LOW-COST PANORAMIC CAMERA FOR THE 3D DOCUMENTATION OF
CONTAMINATED CRIME SCENES
Authors: Abate D. , Toschi I. , Sturdy-Colls C. , Remondino F.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Crime scene documentation is a fundamental task which has to be undertaken in a fast, accurate and reliable way, highlighting evidence which can be further used for ensuring justice for victims and for guaranteeing the successful prosecution of perpetrators. The main focus of this paper is on the documentation of a typical crime scene and on the rapid recording of any possible contamination that could have influenced its original appearance. A 3D reconstruction of the environment is first generated by processing panoramas acquired with the low-cost Ricoh Theta 360 camera, and further analysed to highlight potentials and limits of this emerging and consumer-grade technology. Then, a methodology is proposed for the rapid recording of changes occurring between the original and the contaminated crime scene. The approach is based on an automatic 3D feature-based data registration, followed by a cloud-to-cloud distance computation, given as input the 3D point clouds generated before and after e.g. the misplacement of evidence. All the algorithms adopted for panoramas pre-processing, photogrammetric 3D reconstruction, 3D geometry registration and analysis, are presented and currently available in open-source or low-cost software solutions.