bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Different Point of View of Glutathione Peroxidase: its Relationship to the Metabolic Changes Associated with Nutritional Management in Assaf ovine breed
Authors: Castillo C. , Hernandez J. , Lopez-Alonso M. , Miranda M. , Benedito J. L.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. We considered the role played by selenium-dependent glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) in relation to the metabolic changes due to nutritional management in a flock of the Assaf breed in Spain, housed in an intensive management system. Our objective was to examine the relationship between the nutritional management of this flock during different productive stages and GSH-Px. The modifications of ASAT and CK activities, closely connected to the pathological changes in GSH-Px values, were also recorded. The animals were divided into two groups: control and experimental ewes. Our results showed that neither physiological condition nor litter size had any influence on the GSH-Px values; the main modifications were due to the diet of these animals, especially if the diet was rieh in essential fatty acids. The evolution of ASAT and CK activities, and their relationship to GSH-Px and nutrition, is also described.
The social behaviour of East Friesian dairy sheep in larger groups
Authors: Gräser-Herrmann C. , Sambraus H. H.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. East Friesian dairy sheep are on the one hand loners and individualists. In practice, however, it has become increasingly common to keep animals of this breed in larger herds too. The social behaviour was examined as well as the marching and milking order of three herds with 24, 35 and 39 lactating ewes. In all three herds a marked social ranking could be proven. The social rank was correlated with both the age and the weight of the animal. A significant relationship was found in two of the three herds between rank and milk yield. As well as this, it was proven that East Friesian dairy sheep have quite a marked marching and milking order. Each animal constantly takes on more-or-less the same position in the order. The close bond of this breed with human beings seems to be a result of intensive contact with the animals. No reason was found to prevent the East Friesian dairy sheep being kept in groups of around 40 animals. This can be done on condition that the animals have adequate room and access to the resources satisfying their needs.
Graph analysis of animals' pedigrees
Authors: Kominakis A. P.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. In the present work an attempt to apply graph analysis on visual representations of animals' pedigrees is presented. Analysis of pedigree networks of moderate size (tens or hundreds of points) can substantially contribute to revealing the relational structures between animals. Partitioning graphic representations of pedigree networks to smaller parts (blocks) by means of network decomposition methods resulted in better handling and understanding of horse genealogical data. Analysis of pedigree networks could be used to estimate shortest kinship paths among animals, determinate all predecessors and successors of selected animals and finally to estimate inbreeding coefficients of selected individuals. Detection of families and animals with major gene contribution could substantially be facilitated. Graphic representation of pedigree networks provide simultaneous, dynamic and parsimonious representation of kinship, interrelations and constituent structures.
Comfort behaviour in harco strain of cockerels with different drinkers and at different periods ofthe day (short communication)
Authors: Daniyan O. C. , Matanmi O. , Oladipo O. P. , Olukosi O. Y. A.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The effects of different drinkers and time of the day on comfort behaviour was studied in two hundred and fifty two cockerels from week 4–8. The types of drinkers used were bamboo drinker (BD), clay pot drinkers (CD) and plastic fountain drinkers (FD). Comfort behaviour was observed in the morning and afternoon and evening. The largest number of total comfort behaviour observed during the four-week period was 3089 in CD, followed by 2326 and 2216 in FD and BD respectively. Preening was the most frequently observed comfort behaviour the average being 57 % of the total comfort behaviour in all the groups, dust-bathing was the least observed, being on the average 6.0 % in all the groups. There was no significant effect of type of drinkers on comfort behaviour (acts/bird/hour). There was, however, a significant effect of time of day on comfort behaviour. The most comfort behaviour was performed in the afternoon being 35.5, 39.5 and 34.0 for BD, CD and FD groups respectively. There was no difference in comfort behaviour (acts/bird/hour) in the morning and evenings being 26.6 vs 28.32 in the morning and evening, and 28.96 vs. 25.36 in the morning and evening for CD and FD groups respectively. However the mean acts/bird/hour was significantly different in the morning and evening in BD group, being 23.5 vs. 27.96 for morning and evening respectively (p ≤ 0.05). There was a tendency of comfort acts/bird/20 min. to increase with age, correlation coefficient being 0.23, 0.85 and 0.22 in BD, CD and FD groups respectively. There was, however, no significant effect of age of birds on comfort acts/bird/20 mins over the four-week period (p > 0.05).
Early pregnancy diagnosis in ewes by means of transrectal realtime ultrasonography (short communication)
Authors: Dinc A. D. , Erdem H. , Tasal I. , Semacan A. , Ergin A.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. This study was performed to determine the optimum time for early pregnancy diagnosis with transrectal scanning in ewes. A total of 42 ewes was examined, using a real-time 5 MHz linear-transducer from day 19 to 29 (Group I, n = 22) and from day 30 to 44 (Group II, n = 20) after AI or natural mating. Ultrasonic results were compared with lambing records. Accuracy, sensitivity, specivity, positive and negative predictive values for these tests were 77.3 %, 84.2 %, 33.3 %, 88.9 %, 25.0 % in Group I, and 80.0 %, 74.3 %, 85.7 %, 90.9 % and 53.8 % in Group II, respectively. No significant differences were seen between the accuracy and positive predictive values of Group I and II. It was concluded, that the accuracy of pregnancy diagnosis by real-time transrectal ultrasonography can be high already 19 to 29 after AI or natural mating.
Ein Vergleich des Lernerfolges von Zwergziegen bei simultaner Zweifach- oder Vierfachwahlmöglichkeit in visuellen Differenzierungsaufgaben
Authors: Franz H. , Roitberg E.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Title of the paper: A comparison of learning Performance of dwarf goats in Visual discrimination tasks with two or four simultaneously offered Stimuli A comparison of learning Performance of dwarf goats in visual discrimination tasks with two or four simultaneously offered Stimuli (two-choice and four-choice design) was carried out with the automatic learning device 'Field Monitor'. One S+ Stimulus and three identical S- Stimuli by the four-choice design, and one S+ Stimulus and one S− Stimulus (the same patterns as by four choice) by two-choice design were offered. In both experimental designs the positions of Stimuli (simple geometric figures) on the screen changed pseudo-randomly after each choice. Since the seventh test day the proportion of successfully learning kids by the four-choice design was substantially higher than that for the two-choice design. Our finding makes it questionable whether the internationally accepted two-choice design is really optimal. In our further experiments in which over 200 animals have been examined for several months the four-choice design has been involved providing a very successful learning.
H-Y antigens as Y chromosome-encoded gene products and serologically detectable male antigens (SDM) as testis- or spermatogenesis-linked autosomal gene products
Authors: Sutou S. , Kondo M. , Matsuda M. , Kawakura K. , Ohinata Y. , Mitsui Y. , Matsukuma S.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Male-specific transplantation antigen H-Y was proposed to be the testis-determining factor (TDF) in 1975, while SRY was found to be the TDF gene in 1990. What then of H-Y antigen? H-Y antigen was categorized into two entities, viz., T-cell mediated H-Y antigens (H-Y) and serologically detectable male antigens (SDM). Several HY genes such as Smcy, Uty and Dty have been identified and these are all Y-Iinked. H-Y is male-specific and clinically important in cell, tissue, or organ transplantations. Male-enhanced antigen 1 (Meal) was isolated from an expression library using polyclonal anti-H-Y antibody. We cloned and characterized mouse and bovine Meal/MEAI, the gene product of which was mainly localized in elongated spermatids. Mea2 was identified using monoclonal anti-H-Y antibody. MEA2 protein is localized in the Golgi apparatus of spermatocytes and spermatids. Colocalization of MEA2 protein with y-adaptin in clathrin-coated vesicles was demonstrated. Disruption of Mea2 resulted in spermatogenic failure. These findings suggest that Mea2 is involved in transportation of materials needed for acrosome components in spermatogenesis. Its human homologue is Golgin-160 which was detected in an SLE autoimmune disease patient. Müllerian inhibiting substance (MIS) was reported to have SDM activity. Taken together, SDM is a collective name for protein antigens associated with testis activity (MIS) or spermatogenesis (MEA1, MEA2) and may be antigenic when expressed in females. From the viewpoint of autoimmune diseases, the Identification and characterization of SDMs will be clinically important.
Erhebungen zum Hämpigmentgehalt, zu Reflexionswerten sowie zum Fettsäurenmuster des intramuskulären Fettes vom Musculus longissimus dorsi (M.l.d.) Thüringer Rinder in Abhängigkeit von Mastform und Rassetyp
Authors: Reichardt W. , Warzecha H. , Gernand E. , Hartung H. , Eckert B.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Title of the paper: Investigations into the haem pigment content, reflection results as well as into the fatty acid pattern of the intramuscular fat of the Musculus longissimus dorsi (M.l.d.) Thuringian cattle, dependent on fattening system and genotype Haem pigment content, the reflection in visible range and the fatty acid pattern of intramuscular fat (imf) from minced musculus longissimus dorsi (m.l.d.) at the 8th / 9th dorsal vertebra of the right half of the carcass were determined in 35 cattle groups with bulls, steers and heifers, representing 19 different genotypes. The cattle were fattened indoors and/or outdoors at eight farms in Thuringia. The mean values of the haem pigment content varied between the animal groups from 6.3 to 13.1 mg/g fresh meat. A clearly lower variation was found in the maxima of reflectance at 415, 545 and 580 nm. The fatty acid composition of the imf was determined mainly by the fattening system. Fattening on pasture favoured high proportions of polyunsaturated fatty acids as well as a ratio of n6- to n3-fatty acids of < 10. The imf-content was positive correlated to the proportion of C18:1 and monounsaturated fatty acids (R = 0.4** / 0.5**) as well as negative to the proportion of polyunsaturated fatty acids (R = −0.7**).
Intragenic haplotypes at the bovine CSN1S1 locus
Authors: Jann O. , Prinzenberg E.-M. , Brandt H. , Williams J. L. , Ajmone-Marsan P. , Zaragoza P. , Özbeyaz C. , Erhardt G.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. A new alternative genotyping method based on PCR-SSCP was developed for direct differentiation of the CSN1S1 alleles B and C in the coding region. In addition a PCR-RFLP test based on a MaeIII restriction site in the promoter region of CSN1S1, reported in the literature as an alternative test for the differentiation of CSN1S1*B and C was used and the alleles named b and c. Genotyping of 649 animals belonging to 17 European and Turkish cattle breeds showed differences in occurrence and frequency of the alleles. CSN1S1*B occurred in all breeds with frequencies varying from 0.50 in Anatolian Blackup to 1.0 in e.g. Ayrshire. CSN1S1*b on the other hand varied from 0.63 in Jersey, 0.97 in Ayrshire to 1.0 in e.g. Angler. Comparison of the results from both typing methods and positions in the gene showed that both mutations do not always occur together. From the resulting four intragenic haplotypes (B-b, B-c, C-c and C-b) B-b is predominant in all breeds with frequencies varying from 0.3450 in Anatolian Black to 1.0 in Angler and Scottish Highland. The number of haplotypes varied from only one in Angler and Scottish Highland, two in Ayrshire, three in Asturian Valley and Turkish Grey Steppe to all four in the other 12 breeds. Correlation between allele frequencies and the geographic origin of the breeds was significant for the MaeIII promoter polymorphism.
The effect of cholesterol-enriched diet on the activity of some lysosomal enzymes in the liver and blood plasma of rabbits
Authors: Konecka A. M. , Jezierski T. , Śliwa-Jóźwik A. , Jóźwik A. , Kołątaj A.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. White New Zealand male rabbits (n = 12) were fed by high-cholesterol diet for 7 weeks. The activity of some lysosomal enzymes in blood plasma and in the liver was determined. The cholesterol-enriched diet resulted a significant of AP, LL, BGAL and BGLU activity up increase in the blood plasma to 131 %, 186 %, 308 % and 184 % as compared with those in control group of animals (n = 10). In the liver a significant increase of EL activity to 189 %, NAG to 172% and BGAL to 196 % was observed. The activity of LAP and LL decreased significantly to 76 % and 60 % of the control level, respectively.
Genetic parameters of production traits of Hungarian Pig populations evaluated in separate and joint (field and station) tests
Authors: Csató L. , Nagy I. , Farkas J. , Radnóczi L.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Genetic parameters for various backfat measurements (BF1FT, BF2FT, BF3FT, BF1ST, BF2ST, BF3ST), average backfat thickness (ABFFT), loin muscle area (LMAFT), fat depth between the 3rd and 4th lumbar vertebrae (SF1FT), fat depth between the 3rd and 4th ribs (SF2FT), lean meat percentage (LMPFT) were estimated. The analysis was based on the national database of the field and station tests, using animal model in Hungarian Large White (LW), Hungarian Landrace (LR) breeds, and A-line of the Ka-Hyb hybrid (MLW) between May 1996–February 2001. Heritability for BFFT traits ranged between 0.15–0.35. Similar interval was received for ABFFT (0.20–0.36) but reasonably higher estimates were observed in BFST traits (0.41–0.75). SFFT heritabilies (0.18–0.37) were close to those of BFFT traits while somewhat higher values were found in LMPFT (0.26–0.45) and LMAFT (0.31–0.58). Genetic correlations were generally positive among all fat depth measurements and negative with LMPFT. Genetic correlations between LMAFT-LMPFT were positive but contradictory results were found between LMAFT and fat depth measurements. The genetic correlations between BFFT traits and their station test counterparts (BFST) varied between 0.12–0.64.
Genetische Beziehungen für das Merkmal Lebenstagszunahme in einem Dreirassenkreuzungsprogramm beim Schwein
Authors: Fischer R. , Müller U. , Bergfeld U.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Title of the paper: Genetic association for daily gain (lifetime) in an crossbreeding program The aim of this investigation is an analysis of the crossing structure of a three-race crossing program and the genetic relations with respect to the trait average daily gain. For this purpose we examine the genetic relations for their usefulness for a estimation of genetic parameters and breeding values. Finally a parameter estimation is carried out. The data basis consists of 1757 German Large White performances, 34980 Landrace performances and 2775 Pietrain performances in pure breed as well as 92757 performances of the crossings of the mother lines and altogether 13854 Pietrain crossings (1997 PI x DL and 11857 PI x DEDL). The heritabilities for the variable daily gain are in the range from 0.17 to 0.31. The genetic correlations between the mother races and their crossbreedings are around 0.9. Between the pure Pietrain and the Pietrain crossings these values reach only 0.7. Within the two groups of crossings with Pietrains the genetic correlations are almost one. From the genetic point of view it is possible to put together the mother races and their crossings as well as the Pietrain crossings. Thus, for this trait it is sufficient to consider a three variable model with separate investigation of the mother races, the Pietrains and the Pietrain crossings.
Prediction of the in vivo Body Composition of Pigs Based on Cross- Sectional Region Analysis of Dual Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry (DXA) Scans
Authors: Mitchell A. D. , Scholz A. , Pursel V.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the use of a cross-sectional scan as an alternative to the total body DXA scan for predicting the body composition of pigs in vivo. A total of 212 pigs (56 to 138 kg live body weight) were scanned by DXA. The DXA scans were analyzed for percentage fat and lean in the total body and in 14 cross-sections (57.6 mm wide): 5 in the front leg/thoracic region, 4 in the abdominal region, and 5 in the back leg region. Regression analysis was used to compare total body and cross-sectional DXA results and chemical analysis of total body fat, protein and water. The relation (R2) between the percentage fat in individual slices and the percentage of total body fat measured by DXA ranged from 0.78 to 0.97 and by chemical analysis from 0.71 to 0.85, respectively. The relation between the percentage of lean in the individual slices and chemical analysis for percentage of total body protein and water ranged from 0.48 to 0.60 and 0.56 to 0.76, respectively. These results indicate that total body composition of the pig can be predicted (accurately) by performing a time-saving single-pass cross-sectional scan.
Genetic and environmental factors of macroelements concentration in blood serum and osseous tissue of lambs in north-west Poland
Authors: Baranowski P.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The aim of the study was to determine the concentration of Na, K, Ca, Pig and Mg in blood serum and osseous tissue of the lambs of various breeds at age of 14 days. The studies were carried out on 221 lambs in various sheepfolds in Northwest Poland. The material for the studies comprised the blood serum and osseous tissue ash of the 4th and 5th caudal vertebrae. The values of macroelement concentrations in osseous tissue were expressed in mmol/l in 1g of dry matter. The highest (P ≤ 0.01 and P ≤ 0.05) Na concentration was found in the serum of Ile de France lambs (152.31 mmol/l ± 7.50), of K and Pig in the Kent lambs (5.52 mmol/l ± 0.48; 3.37mmol/l ± 0.51), and Ca and Mg — in the Polish Merino lambs (2.42 mmol/l ± 0.27; 1.25 mmol/l ± 0.09). The Ca/P ratio was similar (0.70 ± 0.09), whereas the Ca/Mg ratio was the highest for the Polish Merino lambs (2.35 ± 0.27). Osseous tissue Na concentration was similar (2.25mmol/l ± 0.43). The highest osseous tissue concentration of K was found in the lambs: Kent and Polish Merino (1.29 mmol/l ± 0.23) and Ile de France (1.36 mmol/l ± 0.27). The lowest Ca was recorded in the lambs Kent and Merino (9.50 mmol/l±1.72), the highest – in Blackheaded (19.74 mmol/l ±2.02). The lowest Pig concentration was found in the osseous tissue of the Polish Merino (9.70 mmol/l ±1.76). The concentration of magnesium ranged between 0.83 mmol/l ± 0.11 in the serum of Kent lambs and 1.02 mmol/l ± 0.15 in the serum of the Leine lambs. The lowest Ca/P ratio was observed in the osseous tissue of the Kent lambs (0.50 ± 0.10), whereas the highest was found in the Ile de France lambs (1.17 ± 0.17). A wide range (P ≤ 0.01) of the Ca/Mg ratio were recorded, from 11.40 ±1.72 in Kent to 20.37 ± 2.09 in Blackheaded. Basing on the concentrations of Na, K, Ca, Pig and Mg in the blood serum of 14-day-old lambs, no conclusions should be drawn as to the content of the elements in the osseous tissue.
Beziehungen zwischen Milchleistung und Fruchtbarkeit in einer Schwarzbuntpopulation nach intensiver Steigerung der Milchleistung
Authors: Seeland G. , Henze C.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Title of the paper: Relations between milk yield and fertility after strong increased milk yield The purposes of the study were to estimate genetic parameters for milk production and fertility traits. The study included data on about 75,000 first and 40,000 second parity cows of German Friesian. The estimated coefficients of heritability for milk, fat and protein yield were in comparison to other previous estimates relatively high. In contrast to that, heritability of fat and protein content was very low. As expected, heritability of fertility also was very low, ranging from 0.009 to 0.127, depending on trait. Genetic correlation between milk, fat and protein yield, and fertility traits were high and unfavourable and characterize an antagonistic relation. The estimated environmental correlation coefficients are negible. The genetic coefficients of regression between milk yield and fertility are low and vary between the pair of traits. Low genetic coefficients make the effect of antagonism less strong.
Genetische Analyse von Klauenmaßen aus der Eigenleistungsprüfung von Jungbullen
Authors: Hinrichs D. , Kuhlmann T. O. , Stamer E. , Kalm E.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Title of the paper: Genetic analysis of claw measurements from the performance test of young bulls The present study deals with the analysis of the claw measurements length of dorsal wall, length of heel, high of heel, diagonal, angle of dorsal wall and hardness of claw horn from the performance test of young bulls. Data collection take place at one fore leg and one hind leg from 798 young German Holstein bulls (black and white, red and white) and 89 young Angler bulls. The analysis of the systematic fixed effects was followed by the estimation of genetic parameters. A breeding value estimation was done with some of the claw traits and rank correlation for the breeding values of the claw traits and some official exterieur breeding values and the length of productive life were calculated. Heritabilities ranked from 0.00 (hardness of claw horn, upper point of measurement of hind leg) to 0.45 (diagonal of the foreleg). Genetic correlation between fore leg and hind leg vary between 0.14 and 0.99. Rank correlation of the claw trait breeding values ranked from –0.65 to 0.64. Rank correlation between official breeding values and claw trait breeding values vary from –0.27 to 0.37.
Analysis of plasma IGF-I hormone level and its correlation with live weight and age in Holstein-Friesian heifers
Authors: Szabó M. H.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The aim of this study was to evaluate the changes and relation of live weight and IGF-I plasma concentration during the rearing period in HF heifers. Number of animals was 85 kept in similar housing and feeding conditions. Blood samples were collected monthly at the same hour of the day and weight of the calves were scaled simultaneously up to the 14th month of age. Plasma IGF-I concentration was measured by RIA procedure. Data were analysed by STATISTICA, SPSS 10.0 version and POST HOC TEST programs. Results of this work allow to conclude that change of plasma IGF-I c.c. and live weight show similar trend. Rearing phase of calves shows three peaks: 1st at birth; 2nd closed to sexual maturity; 3rd closed to first service. IGF-I-profile can be taken as similar for all individual and animals can be categorised into groups with low or high hormone concentrations. There is only negative correlation (r = −0.24) between IGF-I levels at birth and at 4 months of age. Bulls have special effect on IGF-I c.c. at birth, at 5th, 13th and 14th months of age (P < 0.1). On contrary to previous findings IGF-I level and weight of calves correlated negatively (r = −0.31, P < 0.05) in the whole population, while within progeny groups positive and negative correlation may occur, too. Negative correlation prove the compensation ability of animals in growth rate. In comparison with the overall mean of IGF-I c.c., the subpopulation below average has lower live weight, too and with high IGF-I level a higher live weight is bound.
Genetic predisposition for productive life is associated with functional inactivation of a AP2-binding site in the promoter of the stress protein 70.1-encoding gene in cattle
Authors: Schwerin M. , Sanftleben H. , Grupe S.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The complex pattern of action for cell viability makes the heat shock protein (HSP) loci to potential candidate genes for stress susceptibility. In the bovine hsp70.1 gene a functional AP2 box variant affecting a significant decrease of cellular stress response, was described. To monitor the distribution of this promoter variant in phenotypically different populations a diagnostic PCR-RFLP assay was developed. As an indicator for individual stress susceptibility the phenotypic trait "productive life" was measured based on the assumption that animals having longer "productive life" might be superior in coping with stress during lifetime. Association of the observed promoter variant with the estimated breeding value "productive life time" was studied in a Holstein sire population and a granddaughter design. Our observations suggest that this polymorphism affects productive life in cattle. Animals with a normal AP2 box are characterised by an increased stress tolerance concluded from their prolonged productive life. These results are supported by the observed different distribution of the hsp70.1 promoter variant in cows of different lactation numbers and degree of selection. Frequency of the mutant hsp70.1-AP2 box allele is significantly lower in cows selected as dams of sires and in cows with an increased lactation number. Additionally, cows with a mutant hsp70.1-AP2 box variant exhibited an increased hazard for culling.
Mangalica – an indigenous swine breed from Hungary (Review)
Authors: Egerszegi I. , Rátky J. , Solti L. , Brüssow K.-P.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Nowadays there is an increased demand to preserve the biological diversity in wild and farm animals. In this paper the history, utilisation and reproductive performance of the endangered native Hungarian swine breed Mangalica are reviewed. This fat-type race was the most typical since the middle of the nineteenth century. However, Mangalica nearly disappeared in the 1970-ies due to changing dietary habits and breeding of modern industrial pig breeds. The valuable characteristics of Mangalica, like resistance and excellent adaptability to extreme housing conditions, motherliness and delicious meat taste are recognised anew.
Effects of milk protein loci on content of their proteins
Authors: Graml R. , Pirchner F.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Allele specific milk proteins were measured in 4544 samples from 2054 Fleckvieh (FV) cows in two succeeding years and in one year from 1809 Braunvieh (BV) cows partly crossbreds with Brown Swiss. The cows were from 454 and 403 sires, and in 316 and 46 farms, respectively. The allele specific milk proteins were measured photometrically. Gene action was mainly additive, but the aS1-CN BC was 2 to 4 % above the mean of the homozygotes and the heterozygotes at the CSN2 locus deviated from –2 to + 8 % from the means of the respective homozygotes. The extent of expression of the alleles varied. At CSN1S1 higher expression was shown by the B alleles in heterozygotes, and by the C alleles in homozygotes. At the CSN2 locus the statistically highly significant order of degree of expression was C>B>A. At the LGB locus allele both breeds showed higher expression than allele B and the difference between the expression of the two alleles in heterozygotes is twice of that observed in homozygotes. The CSN1S1 and CSN2 loci affected the synthesis of all caseins. The CSN3 locus shows statistically significant influence on κ-CN in FV. κ-CN appears to be influenced in particular by C2N2 alleles. The LGB locus shows much influence on the ß-LG content but little on caseins. The effects of CSN1S1 and CSN2 loci on the contents of αS2-CN and k-CN indicate epistasis. Polygenic influence accounted for one third to one half of the overall genetic variance of contents of Ca-sensitive caseins. k-CN shows much greater polygenic influence (two thirds to four fifth of the genetic variance) and ß-LG less (1/6 and less). The action of LGB was specific with none or very little influence on the caseins. Moreover, ß-LG was also unaffected by the casein loci. The effects of the alleles on the contents were similar in the two breeds. Repeatabilities were 2/5 to almost 3/5, heritabilities 1/4 to 1/3 with the exception of αS2-CN and k-CN where it was lower.
Phenotypic differentiation of exterior traits in local Criollo Goat Population in Patagonia (Argentina)
Authors: Lanari M. R. , Taddeo H. , Domingo E. , Pérez Centeno M. , Gallo L.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The Neuquén-Criollo goat is a significant genetic resource, adapted to the singular harsh environment of North Patagonia. Its present gene pool was built up from different breeds since the Spanish colonization being Angora the latest introduced. High phenotypic diversity and their geographical distribution suggest a subdivision of this goat population into four close sub-areas. As phenotypic characterization was carried out on 827 Criollo adult goats. Analyse were based on fourteen quantitative (morphostructural) and eight qualitative (morphological) variables. Correspondence analyses for qualitative and canonical discriminant analysis for quantitative traits were performed, using hair types as classification variable. Results were consistent in differentiating the four considered sub-areas. Neuquen Criollo breed could be characterized in two ecotypes: Short and Long hair goats, a mixed type area and a crossbred area fulfil the types distribution. Principal divergence factors would be isolation, natural and artificial selection, transhumance and exotic breeds introduction.
Comparison of reproduction and carcass traits in light type of ducks of four conservative flocks over eight generations
Authors: Książkiewicz J. M.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Ducks of four conservative flocks: Khaki Campbell (Kh1), Orpington (01), crossbreds of those two breeds (Kh0) and Miniducks (K2) being kept without selection over 8 generations were used for analysis. The mean values of reproductive and carcass traits were determined and illustrated by linear regression equations. In the first year of study a significant differentiation was noted among flocks in: number of eggs, from 101 (K2) to 156 (Kh1); egg weight, from 70 (K2) to 75 g (Kh0) and hatchability from fertilized eggs, from 62 (Kh0) to 72% (K2). Upward time trends in egg weight and hatchability from fertilized eggs were noted in all flocks of birds, whereas in egg number in Kh1, 01 and K2 flock; and in egg fertilization in Kh1 and Kh0 flocks. In the second year a lower egg number and egg weight were found, as well as lower egg fertilization and hatchability. Differentiation in meatiness mean values between flocks was found over 8 generations of both sexes at 7 weeks of age in body weight and in breast and leg muscles yield in the carcass. Upward time trends in leg muscle yield and skin with subcutaneous fat content in the carcass were noted in all flocks of ducks of both sexes while in body weight at 7 weeks of age in the females of Kh1 and K2 flocks. Contrary, downward time trends in the body weight at 3. week of age and in breast muscle yield at 7. week of age were found in birds of both sexes and all conservative flocks.
Activities of Proteolytic Lysosomal Enzymes in Blood and Liver of Growing Cattle
Authors: Panicke L. , Schmidt M. , Czegledi L. , Lendeckel U. , Wegner J. , Rudolph P. E. , Staufenbiel R.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The activities of proteolytic lysosomal enzymes were investigated in serum, leucocytes, liver and muscle of German-Holstein heifers. Altogether there were 119 investigations: 19 9 months, 80 12 months and 20 16 months old female young cattle. Lysosomal enzymes in leucocytes were proven inappropriate for investigation because of very high variation coefficients. The enzymes investigated in serum, liver and muscle only had variation coefficients ranging from 20 to 40% in most cases. The closest connection between activities of individual enzymes was observed in the liver where activities, except for that of lysosomale esterase (EL), were highly correlated with each other. High correlations were calculated between 9 and 16 months old heifers.
The Use of HEL9 and INRA035 Microsatellites as Specific Markers for Bali Cattle
Authors: Handiwirawan E. , Rachman Noor R. ,   Muladno, Schüler L.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Bali cattle are one of Indonesian native cattle’s that famous for their ability to adapt to tropical harsh conditions. For the last 25 years, indiscriminate crossbreeding using artificial insemination (AI) organizing mainly by government might be has contaminated the purity of Bali cattle. In order to utilize as well as to conserve Bali cattle it is necessary to develop an accurate and simples method to detect the purity of Bali cattle. This experiment is the continuation of a long term experiments in developing methods to detect the purity of Bali cattle i.e. phenotypic variations, blood protein polymorphisms, hair structure, chromosome and DNA microsatellite variation analyses. The specificity of HEL9 and INRA035 microsetellites in Bali cattle as well as in Banteng (Bos sondaicus) as their ancestor was tested. The results show that A and B alleles at INRA035 microsatellite locus are monomorphic and can be used for a specific markers for Bali cattle. Allele A at locus HEL9 that has high frequency (92.90%) in Bali cattle and 100% in Banteng can also be used as a supporting marker.
Parameter und Trends der Stutbuchaufnahme des Mecklenburger Warmblut Pferdes
Authors: Dietl G. , Hoffmann S. , Albrecht S.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Title of the paper: Parameters and trends of mare inspections of Mecklenburger Warmblut Horse Genetic and phenotypic parameters and genetic trends were estimated for traits of mare inspections of Mecklen-burger Warmblut by means of REML. The data were recorded at mare inspections from 1991 to 2002 and included evolution data of 3654 mares. Total pedigree size was 9073 animals. The number of observation per level of the factors place by date of evaluation was very variable and often sparse. Therefore, this factor was treated as random. Age and year of affiliation into the herdbook were treated as fixed effects in the BLUP model. Estimated heritabilities ranged from low (0.08) to medium (0.48) and estimates of genetic and phenotypic correlations were generally positive, some of them above 0.8. The pattern of correlation was very similar to literature values from the Hannoveraner breed with exception of the traits saddle position and rear limbs. The genetic trends were significantly positive for traits horse points, quality of conformation and total score. Genetic differences were significant between warm blood breeds and age classes. Influences of factors year, month, age and place were significant in the majority of traits.
comparison of protein polymorphisms in milk produced by two dairy farms in West Pomerania
Authors: Czerniawska-Piątkowska E. , Kamieniecki H. , Pilarczyk R. , Rzewucka E.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The aim of the study was to compare the frequencies of protein polymorphisms in milk produced by cows with various proportion of HF genes within their genotypes, managed in two farms. Frequency analyses of beta-lactoglobulin (BLG) and three casein fractions (CSN1S1, CSN2, and CSN3) in individual genetic groups of animals were carried out in milk of 342 cows. Also, milk content of casein and whey proteins was assayed. The highest level of casein was found in farm B, in all the genotypic groups of cows, while the proportion of whey proteins in milk was highest in farm A, in the genotypic group of cows with 25% to 50% of HF genes. As far as the remaining groups of cows are concerned, the level of whey proteins was equal in both studied farms. A genetic differentiation of polymorphisms in milk protein was found in the analysed farms. Frequency of kappa-casein B (CSN3 B) genetic variants, which are desired in processing, was higher in farm A.
Polymorphism of the GPX-5 gene and characteristics of boar semen
Authors: Mackowski M. , Switonski M. , Mackowska J. , Perz W.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Two polymorphisms at intron 1 of the glutathione peroxidase 5 (GPX-5) gene, namely A>G substitution (1B and 2B alleles) and deletion/insertion (1C and 2C alleles), were studied in a group of 140 AI boars. Alleles 2B and 1C were the most frequent ones – 0.72 and 0.93, respectively. Only two genotypes for each polymorphic site could be analysed with regard to three characteristics of semen: volume, sperm concentration and total sperm number in the ejaculate. Altogether, data on 13172 ejaculates were used in this study. It was found that 1B2B genotype was related to higher sperm concentration, while other traits demonstrated variable relationships with the genotypes, depending on the analysed breed. It may suggest that the GPX-5 gene is linked to an unknown QTL controlling sperm production.
Nutzung einer terminorientierten Besamung beim Rind auf der Grundlage einer Prostaglandin – GnRH-Behandlung
Authors: Becker F. , Kanitz E. , Schneider F. , Nürnberg G. , Kanitz W.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Title of the paper: Practical application of timed artificial insemination in cattle using a GnRH and Prostaglandin treatment Three experiments were conducted to establish a regime of oestrous synchronization and artificial insemination at a predetermined time in dairy cattle. In experiment 1, dairy heifers (n = 43) were synchronized by administering PGF2α on day 5, 8, 11 or 14 and the LH surge was recorded. Release of the LH surge ranged from 57.0 ± 8.6 h to 76.3 ± 10.0 h depending upon the day of induced luteolysis. The release of LH was followed by ovulations. The day of PGF2α administration did not affect the interval from LH peak to ovulation. In experiment 2, heifers (n = 30) were synchronized on days 8, 11 or 14 of the oestrous cycle. Animals received an injection of GnRH 65 h after induction of luteolysis. Uniform intervals from PGF2α application to LH surge were observed in animals given PGF2α on day 11 and 14. Variation for this parameter decreased also in the group of animals where luteolysis was induced on day 8. There were no significant differences due to treatment in the mean interval from LH-peak to ovulation. In experiment 3, fixed time insemination was tested on the basis of data from Experiments 1 and 2. Synchronized heifers and high yielding cows received GnRH 65 hours after PGF2α administererd between d 8 and 14 of the oestrous cycle. Artificial insemination was carried out 13 h after GnRH application. Pregnancy rates show, that fixed time artificial insemination, independent of the recorded onset of estrus can result in high pregnancy rates. Pregnancy rates in animals at different locations were higher after induction of ovulation and timed artificial insemination (79.0, 76.0 and 47.1, 53.3 %) than in control groups with insemination after detected estrus (69.8, 63.2 and 38.6, 45.0 %).
Schätzung genetischer Parameter für Landschafrassen
Authors: De Vries F. , Hamann H. , Distl O.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Title of the paper: Estimation of genetic parameters in land sheep breeds The objective of the present study was a genetic statistical analysis of performance traits recorded at the day of licensing in land sheep breeds. The performance traits score for muscle mass, type and wool quality were analysed for the breeds German Polled Heath, German Grey Heath, Bentheim, German White Heath and Coburg from breeding regions in Lower Saxony and Westphalia. Systematic fixed effects of herd-year-season, test day, sex, birth rearing type and the linear covariate age at licensing were included in the statistical models to estimate the variance and covariance components. There were high additive genetic correlations between muscle mass and type. The estimates of additive genetic correlations between wool quality and type or wool quality and muscle mass were moderate. The heritabilities estimated separately for each breed ranged between h2 = 0.06 and h2 = 0.16 for muscle mass and between h2 = 0.04 and h2 = 0.09 for type. The biggest range of heritabilities was estimated for wool quality with h2 = 0.03 to h2 = 0.14.
Influence of systematic effects on fertility traits in Swiss Brown cows
Authors: Bielfeldt J. C. , Badertscher R. , Tölle K.-H. , Krieter J.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The study was conducted to investigate the influence of systematic effects on fertility traits in Swiss Brown cows. Days to first service (DFS), days open (DO), calving interval (CI), non-return rate 90 (NRR90), and conception rate to first service (CRFS) were analysed. The data set included records from 82,755 cows out of 1,674 farms in Eastern and Central Switzerland. The observation period lasted from January 1988 to May 2002. Housing system, lactation number, region, zone, calving/insemination season, (all fixed), and 305-day milk yield (covariable) were tested significant at a level of p < 0.05. The random effect of herd*year accounted for between 5.2 and 16.9 % of the total variance. Improved fertility results were consistently investigated in loose housing systems. DFS (67.8 vs. 71.0 days), DO (86.3 vs. 96.0), and CI (378.7 vs. 386.7) were shorter, NRR90 (66 vs. 61 %) and CRFS (52 vs. 44 %) were higher in loose housing systems compared to tie-stall barns. Cows in the first lactation had longer time intervals and lower success rates compared to cows in the second and third lactation. In higher lactation numbers, the reproductive performance consistently decreased. Cows in Eastern Switzerland had the first service 1 day later (69.7 vs. 68.8) compared to animals in Central Switzerland, otherwise the time intervals (DFS –0.9 days; CI –0.8 days) as well as the success rates (NRR90 +3 %; FSCR +4 %) were better. NRR90 and FSCR were highest in the insemination season from April to June (67 and 52 %, resp.). FSCR was lowest from January to March (48 %) and NRR90 had the lowest values from October to December (60 %).
Ethologische Untersuchungen zur Beschäftigung von Ebern in Besamungsstationen mit Stroh
Authors: Rohrmann S. , Hoy S.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Title of the paper: Ethological investigations on occupation with the bedding of boars in Artificial Insemination stations Continuous video recordings with infrared video technique and computer supported analysis with OBSERVER program took place with 78 Piétrain boars in three A.I. stations during 3 x 24 hours. The mean percentage of occupation with the bedding during 24 hours was 7.4 ± 4.4 % (= 106.6 minutes) with a minimum of 1.5 % and a maximum of 18.6 %. The factors A.I. station, season and pen size had a significant influence on occupation with straw as bedding material. The percentage of occupation with bedding in winter was 1.8 % higher than in summer. The percentage of occupation with bedding increased with increasing pen size (from 5.5 % to 11.9 %). The differences between the A.I. stations (between 6.4 % and 10.1 % on average) were caused by management, especially by the frequency of the timers feeding, bedding and watering. The more frequent the boars were caused to stand up by feeding, bedding and watering the higher was the percentage of occupation with the bedding.
Macroelements concentration in the osseous tissue of caudal vertebrae in domestic sheep lambs and of mandibular bone in roe deer bucks coming from the northern and the southern region of Western Pomerania in Poland
Authors: Baranowski P. , Klata W. , Baranow-Baranowski A.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The aim of the studies was to compare Na, K, Ca, Png and Mg concentrations in the blood serum of lambs coming from the northern and the southern region of Western Pomerania, as well as to compare the concentration of these elements in the osseous tissue of caudal vertebrae in sheep lambs and of mandible in roe deer bucks populating the areas of the same agrocenoses – cultivated fields and meadows. The studies were carried out in the same year on the blood serum and the osseous tissue of the 4th and 5th caudal vertebrae of 99-days-old Polish Merino lambs (± 2 days) of both sex and on the mandibular osseous tissue of 62 roe deer bucks (Capreolus capreolus) of an "ecological field population". Fifty lambs, with the average body weight of 7.26 kg ± 1.49, came from a fold in the coastal zone of the Western Pomeranian Province (53°59' N; 15°18' E), and 49 lambs, with the average body weight of 7.64 kg ± 1.87, from an area far removed by approximately 130 km to the south (53°25' N; 14°81' E). The feeding of lamb dams was standardized. In the blood serum of lambs from the north, higher concentrations of K (P ≤ 0.05) and Ca, Png and Mg (P ≤ 0.01) were recorded, as well as a lower concentration of Na (P ≤ 0.05). The osseous tissue of caudal vertebrae of these lambs contained significantly less Na, Ca, Png and Mg (P ≤ 0.01) and more K (P ≤ 0.01) compared to the lambs from the south. The age of bucks was not a source of variation for the content of examined macroelements in the osseous tissue of their mandibles. Higher concentration of Ca (P ≤ 0.01) was recorded in the mandibular osseous tissue of bucks aged 1–2 and 3–5 years compared to similar ones from the southern part. The concentration of Mg in the osseous tissue of bucks aged 3–5 and 6–9 years was significantly lower compared to individuals from the south. The results of the own studies showed significant differences in the abundance of the blood serum and the osseous tissue of young lambs in examined macroelements according to the area of Western Pomerania region. One may not exclude that the source of that variation is geological substrate of agrocenoses, being a food base of domestic ruminants. Higher concentration of calcium in the mandibular osseous tissue of bucks from the north compared to animals from the south confirms the fact of significant effect of the natural intensive light with limited abundance of substrate in that element on its concentration in organism. On the other hand, its lower concentration in the osseous tissue of lambs from that area points to the necessity of supplementing their dams in that element during pregnancy. These results prove simultaneously the food selectivity of roe deer and their ability to unconstrained supplementation of possible deficiencies, which may serve as a recommendation for ecological agriculture.
A note on inbreeding in dairy cattle breeding
Authors: Freyer G. , Hernández-Sánchez J. , Cassell B. G.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Starting from the study at the beginning of the East German "Heterosisfeldversuch", where PANICKE et al. (1975) considered the possibilities of a targeted use of inbreeding and heterotic effects, we show and discuss results of inbreeding studies in the USA dairy cattle breeding. Several research groups worldwide presented effective tools for managing inbreeding in dairy cattle. Their efforts underline the need of inbreeding studies. Contemplating inbreeding is necessary for any breeding decision to avoid inbreeding depression and for improved genetic analyses, e.g. in QTL- estimation. A novel methodology (HERNANDEZ-SANCHEZ et al., 2004a and b) is suggested for estimating inbreeding at the three levels of population, individual and locus.