bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Absence of CD59 in Guinea Pigs: Analysis of the Cavia porcellus Genome Suggests the Evolution of a CD59 Pseudogene
Authors: Boshra Hani , Zelek Wioleta M. , Hughes Timothy R. , Rodriguez de Cordoba Santiago , Morgan B. Paul
Published: November 2017

CD59 is a membrane-bound regulatory protein that inhibits the assembly of the terminal membrane attack complex (C5b-9) of complement. From its original discovery in humans almost 30 years ago, CD59 has been characterized in a variety of species, from primates to early vertebrates, such as teleost fish. CD59 is ubiquitous in mammals; however, we have described circumstantial evidence suggesting that guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus) lack CD59, at least on erythrocytes. In this study, we have used a combination of phylogenetic analyses with syntenic alignment of mammalian CD59 genes to identify the only span of genomic DNA in C. porcellus that is homologous to a portion of mammalian CD59 and show that this segment of DNA is not transcribed. We describe a pseudogene sharing homology to exons 2 through 5 of human CD59 present in the C. porcellus genome. This pseudogene was flanked by C. porcellus homologs of two genes, FBXO3 and ORF91, a relationship and orientation that were consistent with other known mammalian CD59 genes. Analysis using RNA sequencing confirmed that this segment of chromosomal DNA was not transcribed. We conclude that guinea pigs lack an intact gene encoding CD59; to our knowledge, this is the first report of a mammalian species that does not express a functional CD59. The pseudogene we describe is likely the product of a genomic deletion event during its evolutionary divergence from other members of the rodent order.
Bias and equivalence of the Strengths Use and Deficit COrrection Questionnaire in a South African context
Authors: Brouwers Symen A. , Mostert Karina , Mtshali Sanelisiwe V.
Published: November 2017

Orientation: Developing personnel into skilled employees is a major focus of managers and companies. Doing this in a valid way in a cross-culturally diverse working environment may be challenging. It is, therefore, important to investigate the cultural consistency of new tools that assist managers in reaching these personnel development goals.Research purpose: Determine whether the Strengths Use and Deficit COrrection (SUDCO) questionnaire is universally applicable across the Nguni, Sesotho and West-Germanic language groups in South Africa by evaluating it statistically for bias and equivalence.Motivation for the study: South African personnel management could gain valuable insights and outcomes when they aim to improve both strengths and weaknesses.Research design, approach and method: The study employed semi-stratified sampling. A sample (N = 658) of employees in the banking sector participated in the study. The research focused on psychometric properties relating to bias, structural equivalence and reliability.Main findings: A four-factor model fitted the data best. This model described perceived organisational support (POS) for strengths use, POS for deficit correction, strengths-use behaviour and deficit-correction behaviour. A multi-group confirmatory factor analysis for the direct comparison of the SUDCO’s fit across the language groups (Nguni, Sesotho and WestGermanic) showed the 33 were unbiased against any of the three language groups and structured into the same four latent constructs.Practical implications: In personnel development, employees and managers should understand the benefits of a combined strengths and deficit approach as relating to different language groups.Contribution: The study contributes to literature a cross-culturally validated measure for the assessment of strengths and deficits.
Investigation of the risk factors for pulmonary tuberculosis
Authors: Bhat Jyothi , Rao V. G. , Sharma R. K. , Muniyandi M. , Yadav Rajiv , Bhondley M K.
Published: November 2017

Background & objectives:

Prevalence of pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) is known to be high in the indigenous tribal community Saharia in Madhya Pradesh, India. The risk factors for PTB are not well known among them. This study was done to determine various risk factors associated with PTB in the indigenous community Saharia.

Methods:

A prevalence survey was conducted among Saharias of Gwalior district of Madhya Pradesh. The population surveyed was 12,123 which was the source of cases and controls for the present study. All the bacillary-positive cases and controls in the ratio of 1:5 were included in the survey. Data were collected by the trained health workers from the patients and controls using a semi-structured pre-coded and pre-tested questionnaire which included data on risk factors including demographic factors, host-related factors and household factors. The individuals were also screened for diabetes mellitus and HIV.

Results:

Malnutrition and history of asthma were associated with an increased risk of PTB. More than 56 per cent cases were attributed to malnutrition and 12 per cent attributed to asthma. Low family income, alcohol consumption and smoking were the other contributors. The risk was higher in males as compared to females.

Interpretation & conclusions:

The study emphasized that the main contributors were social factors. Nutrition supplementation, especially in tuberculosis (TB) patients and integrated approach to improve their living conditions are needed to control TB in this community.
Temporal trends of intestinal parasites in patients attending a tertiary care hospital in south India
Authors: Praharaj Ira , Sarkar Rajiv , Ajjampur Sitara Swarna Rao , Roy Sheela , Kang Gagandeep
Published: November 2017

Background & objectives:

Intestinal parasitic infections and their associated complications are a major cause of morbidity in the developing world. This retrospective study was done to assess the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections among patients in a tertiary healthcare setting and to analyze age-, gender- and time-related trends in the prevalence of these intestinal parasites over a seven year period (2006-2012).

Methods:

The presence of various intestinal parasites in a tertiary care setting over a seven year period in different age groups was determined by performing routine stool microscopy. Modified acid-fast staining was performed for stool samples collected from children less than five years of age for the detection of intestinal coccidian parasites. Statistical analysis was carried out to analyze age-related trends in relation to the prevalence of commonly detected intestinal parasites. Seasonal fluctuations in parasite prevalence were evaluated by performing harmonic regression analysis.

Results:

A total of 257,588 stool samples were received over the seven year period for examination. The highest percentage of intestinal parasites was in the 6-10 yr age group. Among the intestinal parasites, Giardia intestinalis had the highest prevalence across most age groups, except in those above 60 yr of age where hookworm became more prevalent. A significant decreasing trend with age was observed for G. intestinalis, whereas for hookworm and Strongyloides stercoralis, an increasing trend with age was seen. Significant linear temporal trends were observed for parasites such as G. intestinalis, Entamoeba histolytica and Ascaris lumbricoides.

Interpretation & conclusions:

While G. intestinalis was more common in the younger age groups, certain soil-transmitted helminths such as hookworm and S. stercoralis showed a higher prevalence in the older populations. Significant temporal trends and seasonality were observed for some of the common intestinal parasites.
A preliminary study of natural history of mild traumatic brain injury by using multidimensional approach
Authors: Munivenkatappa Ashok , Devi Bhagavatula Indira , Shukla Dhaval P. , Rajeswaran Jamuna
Published: November 2017

Background & objectives:

Spectrum of post-traumatic symptoms is frequent among mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) patients. They account for symptoms in 30-80 per cent of patients during 3-4 months and 20-30 per cent of patients six months post-injury. There are no studies from India in this area. The present longitudinal study was conducted to evaluate the natural recovery of post-traumatic symptoms in mTBI patients.

Methods:

Twenty five mTBI patients presenting with initial Glasgow coma scale score of 15 were recruited initially 2-3 wk post-injury. All patients were followed up twice, after 3-4 and 6-7 months. The patients were evaluated with neuropsychological test, post-traumatic symptoms and quality of life after injury.

Results:

Sustained attention and sensory registration were first to improve. Memory and executive domains improved partially until three months and then after complete recovery. However, a few facets of learning/memory did not improve even at six months. The post-traumatic symptoms decreased since baseline from 76 to 52 per cent at 3-4 months and further to 28 per cent at 6-7 months. The quality of life improved partially from baseline till 3-4 months and much more by 6-7 months.

Interpretation & conclusions:

The study findings showed the course of changes in cognition, traumatic symptoms and quality of life since the time of injury till 6-7 months post-injury. Though majority of post-traumatic symptoms recovered after mTBI without any intervention, but residuals were not uncommon.
Study of stem cell homing & self-renewal marker gene profile of ex vivo expanded human CD34+ cells manipulated with a mixture of cytokines & stromal cell-derived factor 1
Authors: Kode Jyoti , Khattry Navin , Bakshi Ashish , Amrutkar Vasanti , Bagal Bhausaheb , Karandikar Rohini , Rane Pallavi , Fujii Nobutaka , Chiplunkar Shubhada
Published: November 2017

Background & objectives:

Next generation transplantation medicine aims to develop stimulating cocktail for increased ex vivo expansion of primitive hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPC). The present study was done to evaluate the cocktail GF (Thrombopoietin + Stem Cell factor + Flt3-ligand) and homing-defining molecule Stromal cell-derived factor 1 (SDF1) for HSPC ex vivo expansion.

Methods:

Peripheral blood stem cell (n=74) harvests were analysed for CD34hi CD45lo HSPC. Immunomagnetically enriched HSPC were cultured for eight days and assessed for increase in HSPC, colony forming potential in vitro and in vivo engrafting potential by analyzing human CD45+ cells. Expression profile of genes for homing and stemness were studied using microarray analysis. Expression of adhesion/homing markers were validated by flow cytometry/ confocal microscopy.

Results:

CD34hi CD45lo HSPC expansion cultures with GF+SDF1 demonstrated increased nucleated cells (n=28, P< 0.001), absolute CD34+ cells (n=8, P=0.021) and increased colony forming units (cfu) compared to unstimulated and GF-stimulated HSPC. NOD-SCID mice transplanted with GF+SDF1-HSPC exhibited successful homing/engraftment (n=24, P< 0.001). Microarray analysis of expanded HSPC demonstrated increased telomerase activity and many homing-associated genes (35/49) and transcription factors for stemness/self-renewal (49/56) were significantly upregulated in GF+SDF1 stimulated HSPC when compared to GF-stimulated HSPC. Expression of CD44, CXCR4, CD26, CD14, CD45 and soluble IL-6 in expanded cultures were validated by flow cytometry and confocal microscopy.

Interpretation & conclusions:

Cocktail of cytokines and SDF1 showed good potential to successfully expand HSPC which exhibited enhanced ability to generate multilineage cells in short-term and long-term repopulation assay. This cocktail-mediated stem cell expansion has potential to obviate the need for longer and large volume apheresis procedure making it convenient for donors.
Sustained progress, but no room for complacency
Authors: Pandey Arvind , Dhingra Neeraj , Kumar Pradeep , Sahu Damodar , Reddy D.C.S. , Narayan Padum , Raj Yujwal , Sangal Bhavna , Chandra Nalini , Nair Saritha , Singh Jitenkumar , Chavan Laxmikant , Srivastava Deepika Joshi , Jha Ugra Mohan , Verma Vinita , Kant Shashi , Bhattacharya Madhulekha , Swain Pushpanjali , Haldar Partha , Singh Lucky , Bakkali Taoufik , Stover John , Ammassari Savina
Published: November 2017

Background & objectives:

Evidence-based planning has been the cornerstone of India's response to HIV/AIDS. Here we describe the process, method and tools used for generating the 2015 HIV estimates and provide a summary of the main results.

Methods:

Spectrum software supported by the UNAIDS was used to produce HIV estimates for India as a whole and its States/Union Territories. This tool takes into consideration the size and HIV prevalence of defined population groups and programme data to estimate HIV prevalence, incidence and mortality over time as well as treatment needs.

Results:

India's national adult prevalence of HIV was 0.26 per cent in 2015. Of the 2.1 million people living with HIV/AIDS, the largest numbers were in Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra and Karnataka. New HIV infections were an estimated 86,000 in 2015, reflecting a decline by around 32 per cent from 2007. The declining trend in incidence was mirrored in most States, though an increasing trend was detected in Assam, Chandigarh, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Sikkim, Tripura and Uttar Pradesh. AIDS-related deaths were estimated to be 67,600 in 2015, reflecting a 54 per cent decline from 2007. There were variations in the rate and trend of decline across India for this indicator also.

Interpretation & conclusions:

While key indicators measured through Spectrum modelling confirm success of the National AIDS Control Programme, there is no room for complacency as rising incidence trends in some geographical areas and population pockets remain the cause of concern. Progress achieved so far in responding to HIV/AIDS needs to be sustained to end the HIV epidemic.
Antipsychotic treatment, psychoeducation & regular follow up as a public health strategy for schizophrenia
Authors: Kumar Channaveerachari Naveen , Thirthalli Jagadisha , Suresha Kudumallige K. , Venkatesh Basappa K. , Arunachala Udupi , Gangadhar Bangalore N.
Published: November 2017

Background & objectives:

In low- and middle-income countries such as India, a feasible public health strategy could be to ensure continuous antipsychotics and psychoeducation for those with schizophrenia. Whether such a strategy favourably influences its course and outcome is not well-studied. The objectives of this study were to examine these issues in a cohort of patients with schizophrenia in a rural south Indian taluk (an administrative block). This cohort was part of a community intervention programme running in the place since the past one decade.

Methods:

A total of 201 patients were assessed after an average of four years of follow up. Psychopathology, disability and course of illness were assessed using Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), Indian Disability Evaluation and Assessment Scale (IDEAS) and Psychiatric and Personal History Schedule (PPHS), respectively. Interventions included ensuring continuous antipsychotic treatment and low-intensity psychoeducation.

Results:

One hundred and forty two [70.6%; 95% confidence interval (CI): 64.35-76.95] of the 201 patients achieved clinical remission by the end of follow up period (four years); 140 (69.6%; 95% CI: 63.29-76.07) had satisfactory outcome (42.3% best outcome and 27.4% intermediate outcome). There was a significant reduction in the proportion of patients with disability [134/201 (66.7%) at baseline; 55/201 (27.3%) at follow up; P< 0.01]. Best course pattern and least disability were seen in patients with best treatment adherence.

Interpretation & conclusions:

Treatment with antipsychotics and psychoeducation can favourably influence the course of schizophrenia and reduce disability in a substantial proportion of patients. Structured psychosocial interventions may be indicated in the significant minority who show suboptimal outcome with this strategy.
Strontium chloride hexahydrate as a candidate molecule for long-term treatment of allergic rhinitis
Authors: Altuntas Emine Elif , Turgut Nergiz Hacer , Durmuş Kasım , Doğan Ömer Tamer , Akyol Melih
Published: November 2017

Background & objectives:

Neurogenic inflammation plays a role in the pathophysiology of allergic rhinitis (AR). Strontium salts are highly effective in reducing the sensory irritation. This study was aimed to investigate the efficacy of strontium chloride (SC) on AR symptoms based on the duration of SC use before the symptoms begin.

Methods:

Wistar albino rats (n=18) were randomly divided into three groups: Group 1, received 1μg mometasone furoate (MF); Group 2, three per cent SC; and Group 3 received five per cent SC (2 μl/site). Drugs were administered to the each nasal cavity for three weeks every morning. On the days 7, 14 and 21, histamine dihydrochloride (HD) 5 μmol (2 μl/site) was administered and the frequencies of nasal rubbing and sneezing were counted for 15 min.

Results:

After 7, 14 and 21 day medication period, the groups were compared in terms of the frequency of sneezing and nasal rubbing following HD. There was a significant difference among the groups in terms of the frequency of sneezing on the day 7 (P< 0.05). Intragroup comparisons for the nasal rubbing showed significance (P< 0.05). In Group 3, there was a decrease in the number of nasal rubbings on the day 14 and 21; however, the difference was not significant.

Interpretation & conclusions:

Our results showed that three and five per cent SC were less effective than MF for sneezing during the first week, but the efficiency was equal to that of MF after the first 14 days. Long-term use of SC was as effective as MF on nasal rubbing. SC can be as effective as MF on both sneezing and nasal rubbing on regular use over three weeks.
Crystal Vue Technology in the Study of the Uterine– bladder Interface in a Case of Abnormally Invasive Placenta
Authors: Cali Giuseppe , Foti Francesca , Minneci Gabriella
Published: November 2017

Crystal Vue is an advanced three-dimensional (3D) volumerendering technology that allows to obtain highly detailed information about internal and external structures of fetus or uterus. The picture of the month shows the employment of such emerging technique in the study of the uterine–bladder interface, clearly pointing out its disruption in a case of abnormally invasive placenta (AIP) with bladder invasion.

How to cite this article

Minneci G, Foti F, Cali G. Crystal Vue Technology in the Study of the Uterine–bladder Interface in a Case of Abnormally Invasive Placenta. Donald School J Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2017;11(3):177-178.
Generation of Monospecific Polyclonal Antibodies to Recombinant Filarial Antigen rWbL2 and Evaluation of Its Immunodiagnostic Utility in Filariasis
Authors: Gandhe Mahendra B , Gandhe Swapnali M
Published: November 2017

Introduction

Lymphatic filariasis is a mosquito-borne disease affecting nearly 120 million people across the world. Filarial antigen detection is a good indicator for mapping new filarial cases and for evaluation of filarial elimination programs as compared with the low sensitivity associated with the direct evidence of microfilaria (Mf) in blood samples. To overcome low sensitivity and night-time blood collection method for parasite detection in filariasis cases, the sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was standardized for detection of circulating filarial antigen using monospecific polyclonal antibodies raised against recombinant filarial antigen rWbL2. In the present study, the specific antibodies raised against novel recombinant antigens rWbL2 were explored to develop suitable filarial antigen assays. It was possible to come out with a filarial antigen assay that could detect WbL2 or its equivalent antigen with 40% sensitivity (by using mouse anti-WbL2 antibody as capturing antibody), 60% sensitivity (using FSIgG human filarial serum immunoglobulin G as capturing antibody), and 100% specificity. These assays show promise to detect and monitor active filarial infection and thus prove to have potential as a useful diagnostic and monitoring tool in the elimination program.

How to cite this article

Gandhe MB, Gandhe SM. Generation of Monospecific Polyclonal Antibodies to Recombinant Filarial Antigen rWbL2 and Evaluation of Its Immunodiagnostic Utility in Filariasis. Indian J Med Biochem 2017;21(2):117-123.
Ultraviolet Absorption Spectral Scan and Fluorescence Emission Spectral Scan Analysis: Potential Tests with Diagnostic Utility in Porphyria
Authors: Nimesh Archana , Agarwal Vibhuti , Garg Seema
Published: November 2017

Introduction

Symptoms of porphyria usually overlap with other clinical conditions, thereby leading to misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment, especially when patient presents with uncommon features. An accurate diagnosis of porphyria can be made only when enzyme defects can be detected, which is costly and not easily available. Classically, Ehrlich's test used to screen porphyria has certain disadvantages too. Hence, we planned this study.

Aim

To develop comparatively simpler diagnostic tests feasible at tertiary care centers to work up porphyria cases.

Materials and methods

A suspected case of porphyria was screened using Ehrlich's test. Thereafter, patient's urine and serum samples were analyzed by ultraviolet (UV) absorption spectral scan and fluorescence emission spectral scan using multimode microplate reader and compared against normal controls to validate the results.

Results

The UV absorption spectral scan revealed a small peak at 410 nm for patient's urine sample, which intensified on acidification. The UV absorption spectral scan for patient's serum also showed absorbance peak at 405 nm vs normal serum. The fluorescence emission spectral scan of urine and serum of patient revealed a sharp emission peak at 626 nm, which was not present in respective samples of control. Fluorescence emission in patient's urine sample was 10.5 times more vs normal urine.

Conclusion and clinical significance

Novel methods like UV absorption spectral scan and fluorescence emission spectral scan using patient's urine and serum samples can be developed as diagnostic tests considering their practicality and affordability. Further, an algorithm formulated based on clinical features and basic lab tests can also identify the type of porphyria.

How to cite this article

Nimesh A, Agarwal V, Garg S, Mehndiratta M. Ultraviolet Absorption Spectral Scan and Fluorescence Emission Spectral Scan Analysis: Potential Tests with Diagnostic Utility in Porphyria. Indian J Med Biochem 2017;21(2):136-141.
Leptin, a palatability molecule ? – A Review
Authors: Xie C. , Albrecht E. , Wegner J. , Brockmann G. A. , Kazala C. , Weselake R. J. , Ender K.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Leptin is a hormone involved in the regulation of feed intake and energy balance in animals. The expression and secretion of leptin is highly correlated with body fat mass and adipocyte size. The regulation of leptin is integrated into a broad regulatory network including other hormones and cytokines. Leptin's effects on food intake and energy expenditure is thought to be mediated centrally via various neurotransmitters. Peripheral hormones, including insulin and glucocorticoids, stimulate the expression of leptin. While leptin action has been well studied in rodents and humans, its role in farm animals remains to be determined in relation to feed intake and energy metabolism. Leptin may play a role in the regulation of regional fat distribution. The deposition of intramuscular fat (marbling) is positively correlated with the palatability of beef and, therefore, investigations into the mechanisms underlying fat aecretion in this depot are underway. Studying the relationship between leptin and lipid metabolizing enzymes may provide us with clues on the mechanisms governing site-specific fat aecretion in farm animals.
Incidence of hereditary Citrullinemia and bovine Ieucocyte adhesion deficiency Syndrome in Indian dairy cattie (BOS TAURUS, BOS INDICUS) and buffalo (BUBALUS BUBALIS) Population (short communication)
Authors: Padeeri M. , Vijaykumar K. , Grupe S. , Pratp Narayan M. , Schwerin M. , Hitesch Kumar M.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. PCR based Screening of the cattle and buffaloe bulls for Bovine Lcucocyte Adhesion Deficiency Syndrome (BLAD) and Citrullinemia genetic disorders were carried out. A total of 330 cattle belonging to 4 breeds and 135 buffaloes of 3 breeds were genotyped. One young Holstein bull was detected as carrier (0.67%) for mutation at codon 86 in the argininosuccinate synthetase gene locus. Two young Holstein bulls were diagnosed as heterozygous (1.33%) for the BLAD locus. So far no carriers were detected in the indigenous cattle and buffalo breeds.
The effect of exogenous glycerol on the activity of lysosomal enzymes in the blood plasma of young bulls (short communication)
Authors: Sommer A. , Witek B. , Kołataj A.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The study was performed on 3 young bulls of the Lowland Black-and-White breed. The animals received daily, during three days about 400 g through the gastric fisrula of the glycerol. In the period 2, 4 and 8 hours after the glycerol infusion the blood was taken and in the plasma obtained the activities the enzymes BGRD, BGAL, BGLU, NAGL, AP, AAP, LAP, LL and EL were determined. Administration of glycerol had a significant influence on the activity of BGRD, BGAL, NAGL, AP, LAP and EL. The great variability of activities of enzymes has been observed.
Variation des Fleischanteiles im Bauch von Schweinen aus Mutterlinien
Authors: Baulain U. , Henne H.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Title of the paper: Variation of lean content in pig beilies of dam lines Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was applied to determine the tissue composition of 157 bellies of castrated male pigs belonging to two dam-lines of the German Hybrid Pig Breeding Programme. All pigs were taken from the routine testing scheme. The analysis of carcass traits showed that pigs of line 03 were clearly leaner than those of line 01. Only in backfat thickness no significant difference could be observed. For the belly, a clear difference of 7% was found in percentage of lean. Lean content of the belly was also estimated by means of various multiple regressions using carcass traits. Percentage of lean predicted by the official equation used in German performance testing on the one hand and by means of MRI on the other hand was different particularly in line 03. A correlation of r = 0.67 and r = 0.82 between lean content determined by means of MRI and multiple regression was found for line 01 and line 03, respectively. To study the Variation between sires, variance components were estimated. Differences between sires were higher in lean content of the belly compared to backfat thickness, a trait which has been used in selection for a long time.
Haemolytic complement activity and C3c serum concentration in pigs
Authors: Wimmer K. , Lipperheide C. , Ponsuksili S. , Schmoll F. , Hardge T. , Petersen B. , Schellander K.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Because of the importance of the complement system in disease resistance through direct lysis of target cells and support of other mechanisms of the immune System, individual Variation in haemolytic complement activity and C3 concentration in pigs prior and after vaccination were evaluated. Possible effects on the variation of these parameters were investigated. Total complement activity was determined based on complement-mediated haemolysis of antibody-sensitised erythrocytes and C3c levels were measured by immunonephelometry in Gemian Landrace pigs and an experimental pig population. Both methods revealed remarkable individual differences. The arithmetic means of total haemolytic complement activity including all pigs were 42.3 ± 28.2 U/ml before vaccination and 59.1 ± 50.6 U/ml after three immunisations. Mean plasma concentrations of C3c were between .102 ± .035 g/1 before immunisation and .126 ± .038 g/1 on day 4 after Aujeszky vaccination. Existing phenotypic variation may be in part influenced by pig genetic factors. Both haemolytic complement activity as well as C3c semm levels are potentially useful measures of complement capacity on the way to improve defence power against many pathogens by breeding.
Social Behavior and Husbandry of the Fowl – an essay
Authors: Siegel P. B.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Changing environments causes changes in the relative fitness of individuals. Understanding behaviors and how they relate to husbandry is necessary in the production of the fowl. Most behaviors that have adaptive significance are inherited in a polygenic manner and behaviorists should not be surprised at consistent differences among individuals in responses to environmental factors because fhere are good reasons for expecting them. Just as consideration is no longer given to the nervous and endocrine Systems as separate entities, internal and externa! factors must be considered in behaviors. Behavior research must consider not only the responses of the individual and the population, but also developmental aspects. An understanding of the processes involved and application of this knowledge should be of value in development of husbandry Systems not only for the fowl but for all of animal agriculture.
Total merit indices in dual purpose cattle
Authors: Sölkner J. , Miesenberger J. , Willam A. , Fuerst C. , Baumung R.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The economic efficiency of dual purpose cattle is influenced by a large number of traits which may be classified in groups of dairy, beef and functional traits. The combination of estimated breeding values for single traits in a total merit index, as long practised in some Scandinavian countries, is currently being implemented in a number of Central European states. Economic values for populations of dual purpose cattle in Austria derived from a deterministic herd model are presented. Traits in the dairy group are fat and protein yield; beef traits are daily gain, dressing percentage and carcass conformation; functional traits are longevity, persistency, fertility, calving ease, stillbirth and somatic cell count. A rough average over populations of the relative economic importance of dairy vs. beef vs. functional traits is 37:18:45 (economic weights of the traits are scaled with their genetic Standard deviations, differences in expression of traits are taken into account). Due to the covariance structure of the traits most of the gain is expected for fat and protein yield (moderate heritabilities and high positive correlation of the two traits). The proportions in expected monetary gains from the three sets of traits are 81:9:10. Omission of beef and functional traits from the index would lead to a 13 percent loss in total merit and negative responses for beef and functional traits. Inclusion of conformation as an early predictor of longevity has very little effect on total merit. The indices presented are compared with total merit indices used in other European countries.
Heterozygosity between populations – a possible alternative to measures of genetic distance
Authors: Wolf J. , Dietl G. , Peskovicová D. , Sumpf D. , Langhammer M.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. It is shown that the heterozygosity between two populations defined as the expected proportion of heterozygotes in their cross can be used as a complement to measures of genetic distance. This new measure has favourable mathematical properties (fulfils the triangular inequality) and can be well interpreted from the biological point of view. Its main importance will be in comparing (potential) crosses amongst each other.
Follicular development and preovulatory oocyte maturation in Hungarian Mangalica and Landrace gilts
Authors: Egerszegi I. , Torner H. , Rátky J. , Brüssow K.-P.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Preservation of native pig breeds of different values has got increasing public interest. Hungarian Mangalica, likewise other native races, became uninteresting because of economic reasons or other characteristics, and were replaced by modern breeds. Its population decreased rapidly and reached a critical level. However, the exceptional taste of the meat, and the robustness and motherliness do support the propagation of this breed. Nevertheless, low prolificacy and marked seasonality remains a problem. The aim ofthe present study was to find possible implications of the physiological basis with regard to the low fecundity. Therefore, preovulatory follicular development and intrafollicular oocyte maturation of Mangalica and of Landrace gilts were compared. A total of 18 pubertal Blond and Swallow Belly Mangalica and 19 Landrace gilts (8.5 to 9 month of age, body weight of 120 to 125 kg) were used. Oestrus of gilts was synchronized by feeding Regumate®, follicular growth was stimulated by administering 1,000 IU PMSG 24 h after the last Regumate® feeding and the LH peak simulated with 750 IU hCG 80 h after PMSG. Cumulus-oocyte-complexes (COCs) were recovered 34 h after hCG by endoscopic Ovum Pick Up. Follicular fluids from follicles per ovary were pooled and the morphology of COCs was determined. COCs were classified as compact, expanded or denuded. Thereafter, COCs were prepared for evaluation of nuclear configuration. Based on their nuclear status the oocytes were classified as 1) immature – germinal vesicle (GV), with diplotene chromatin; 2) meiosis resumed – G V breakdown, diakinesis, M-I to A-I; or 3) mature – T-I and M-II. The average number (+SD) of preovulatory follicles was 6.8 + 1.4 in Mangalica and 19.6 ± 6.6 in Landrace gilts (p<0.05). Differences were obtained conceming the morphology of recovered COCs between breeds. The per cent of oocytes with compact cumulus was higher in Mangalica compared to Landrace gilts (31 vs. 16 %) but less oocytes possess expanded cumulus (62 vs. 78 %, p<0.05). The meiotic configuration of oocytes was unlike between Mangalica and Landrace gilts. The rate of oocytes with mature chromatin configuration (Telophase I /Metaphase II) was higher (27 vs. 62 %, p<0.05) in Landrace sows. It is assumed that both diminished follicular development and protracted intrafollicular oocyte maturation may be involved in low fecundity in Mangalica.
Heritability of reproduetive traits in Asturiana de los Valles beef cattle breed
Authors: Goyache F. , Gutierrez J. P.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Heritability was estimated for four reproductive traits in the Asturiana de los Valles breed in order to evaluate the possibility of include this information in the breed's current improvement program. The estimations were done using an animal model except for calving ease score. For this last trait, a threshold model under a sire model was fitted, with the sire effect as the only random effect in the model besides the residual. Estimated heritabilities for calving interval age at first calving, gestation length, as dam traits, and calving ease were 0.12, 0.27, 0.15 and 0.42, respectively. The estimated heritability for calving interval and age at first calving could justify a sire selection program in the Asturiana de los Valles breed taking account their female offsprings' reproductive characteristics. Heritability estimates for gestation length and calving ease suggested a close genetic relationship of these two traits and birth weight. Further research is needed to estimate the genetic (co)variances between these three traits to allow the use of this information in a breed improvement program to reduce dystocia without affecting preweaning growth traits.
Fütterungs- und nicht fütterungsbedingte Einflüsse auf den Milchhamstoffgehalt von Milchkühen – 2. Mitteilung: Nicht fütterungsbedingte Einflussfaktoren auf den Milchhamstoffgehalt von Milchkühen
Authors: Richardt W. , Jeroch H. , Spilke J.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Title of the paper: The impact of nutrition and non nutrition factors on milk urea concentration. II. The impact of non nutrition factors on milk urea concentration The object of this study was to determine the impact of non nutrition factors stage of lactation, parity, milk protein yield, somatic cell count, season and herd on milk urea concentration. For parity one to fife 239, 242, 238, 235 and 237 mg urea/l milk was calculated using least-squares-means. Parity has a Statistical significant but small influence on the milk urea concentration. There was a strong positive relationship between the stage of lactation (day in milk) and milk urea concentration. The regression coefficients for day in milk within the three lactation periods were 0.34, 0.04 and 0.06. This means that the milk urea concentration increases by about 10 mg/1 over 30 days in the first lactation period. The fixed effects for first and second lactation period versus third lactation period were −31.6 and −2.1. Protein yield has a significantly positive influence on milk urea concentration. The regression coefficients for milk protein yield within the three lactation periods were 42.5, 43.2 and 31.2. This means that the milk urea concentration would increase by about 4 mg/l in first lactation period if the milk protein yield increased by 0.1 kg/day. The effect of somatic cell count on milk urea was significantly negative. The regression coefficients for somatic cell count within the three lactation period were −0.017, −0.019 and −0.015. This means that the milk urea concentration will decrease by 1.7 mg/l in first lactation period if the somatic cell count increases by IE5/ml. The relationship between dietary crude protein/energy balance, milk protein yield, stage of lactation, somatic cell count and milk urea concentration can be described by an equation (third paper).
Genetic and environmental relationship among udder conformation traits and mastitis incidence in Holstein Friesian into two different environments
Authors: Amin A. A. , Gere T. , Kishk W. H.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Type-performance of udder of Holstein-Friesian was analyzed using multi-trait animal model in two different environments (Hungary and Egypt). Udder traits were: udder height and depth. Teat traits were teat length, attachment and placement. Multi-trait animal model was used to compute estimates of additive variance and covariance components. 2507 records of 549 cows and 6011 records of 2018 cows were collected from Egypt and Hungary respectively. Heritability estimates of udder and teat characteristics ranged from 0.35 to 0.45 and from 0.32 to 0.59 in Hungarian and Egyptian cows, respectively. Heritability estimates of udder traits in both environments were higher than the corresponding estimates for teat traits. Udder characteristics of Egyptian Holstein-Friesian (EHF) had inheritance power higher than for Hungarian Holstein-Friesian (HHF). Mastitis was moderately correlated with udder height and teat traits in each environment. Additive genetic variance and heritability of the most studied traits increased with the advancing order of lactation in each environment. Heritabilities of mastitis were low. Sire and dam variance components of all studied traits were higher in EHF than HHF herds. Mastitis was strongly correlated negatively with udder depth of EHF than HHF. The genetic analysis results of the present study, indicate that udder characteristics should be taken into consideration during planning of selection strategies for improving dairy cattle performance. Enhancing management levels of Egyptian environmental conditions is very essential for improving general performance of the most exotic dairy cattle breeds. EHF has great chances for genetic improvement to mastitis resistance through selection, based on udder descriptive performance.
The role of the myostatin protein in meat quality – a review
Authors: Kobolák J. , Gócza E.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The myostatin protein is a regulator factor in the normal muscle that determines the maximum amount of muscle mass that is typical of that species. If the myostatin gene is mutant, the negative regulating function of the gene does not work. This leads to an increased muscle growth resulting in muscle hypertrophy and hyperplasia. That phenomenon occurs in beef cattle production as well, e.g. in Belgian White-Blue breed where the "double-muscled" phenotype is common due to the successful selection. In the view of quality meat production, this is an outstanding trait, since these animals produce not just more, but better: leaner and tenderer meat. Crossing with Belgian White-Blue cattle shows that although the gene is recessive and monofactorial, its effect is apparent even in heterozygotes due to its partial dominance: the meat:bone ratio and meat yield is better than those of the other breed. In animals with a Culard phenotype this trait manifests with others: there are less fat and suet deposited and the amount of connective tissues between muscles are also decreased.
Bestimmung des Körpergewichtes mit Hilfe des Brustumfanges beim Fleckviehjungrind
Authors: Willeke H. , Dürsch T.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Title of the paper: Prediction of the body weight of Simmental heifers using heart girth measurements The decision of the date of the first insemination of heifers is mainly based on the weight. In most of the dairy farm no scale exists, therefore a trial had been started to estimate a regression equation for the prediction of the body weight by the heart girth measurement. On seven farms the weight, heart girth and hip height of 324 heifers had been collected. The age of the heifers had been between 8 and 26 months. Additionally the results of heart girth and weight of 347 heifers out of 8 farms had been included. The analysis of the farm influence, adjusted by age, showed high significant effects in hip height, heart girth and weight. Heifers, grown up on farms with higher milk yield, had a larger size. For predicting the body weight of Simmental heifers using the heart girth measurement (BU) the following equation had been analyzed: ŶGEW = 137.6–2.647 * XBU + 0.024 * XBU2. The R2-value is 0.94.
Mast-, Schlachtleistung und Fleischqualität verschiedener Schweinerassen bei Stall- und Freilandhaltung (Kurzmitteilung)
Authors: Micklich D. , Matthes H.-D. , Hartung M. , Möhring H.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Title of the paper: Fattening, slaughter performance and meat quality of different pig breeds in indoor or outdoor housing (short communication) Relationships between outdoor housing and some meat quality parameters were investigated. Studies were carried out with the pig breeds Schwerfurter Fleischrasse, Deutsches Sattelschwein und Duroc. Fattening, slaughter performances and meat quality were compared by indoor or outdoor housing. Between different breeds in most parameters there were significant differences. Regarding the influence of outdoor housing with grazing the study showed improve results by meat quality parameters only in meat colour and water keeping.
Herzfrequenz, Aktivitäts- und Ruhezeiten sowie Wachstumsleistung von in Gruppen mit Tränkeautomatenfütterung gehaltenen Milchrindkälbern während der Aufzucht im Winter und Frühjahr
Authors: Steinhardt M. , Thielscher H.-H.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Title of the paper: Heart rate, activity and resting times and growth in group reared feeder-fed dairy calves reared at transition from winter to spring To characterize the food entrainable oscillator and/or light entrainable oscillator determined rhythmicity of physiological variables of feeder-fed dairy calves reared at transition from winter to spring (35 German Holstein Friesian, 2 German Red Pied, 17 male and 20 female) long term heart rate recordings were taken at 5 , 15, 40 and 60 days of age using Polar Sport Tester, from which the number and duration of activity (ZDA) and rest periods (ZDR) and the total activity (GZA) and rest times (GZR) could be established. For these periods characteristic heart rate values were calculated (HFA and HFR) and they were analysed for daytime periods of three hours duration at different life ages. HF of feeder-fed dairy calves showed substantial interindividual variation and a high individual specificity. Mean HFA and HFR were significantly smaller at 15 and 40 days then at 5 and 60 days of age. HFA and HFR showed a high correlation and the mean values of HFA and HFR were allways significantly different. More profound increases of HF (HFA-HFR) could be observed at feeding and service times. Individual level of HFA and HFR changed regularly with daytime, but mean values were significantly different between daytime periods only at some age points. Deviation of HFA and HFR from the mean of the individual daytime heart rate recording followed a circadian rhythm that became more obvious with advanced development and adaptation of the animals in case of HFA and HFR. For the means of the deviations of HFA and HFR significant differences between the daytime periods could be found. The mean ZDA and the quotient GZA/GZR were greater at 40 and 60 days of age then at 5 and 15 days of age. ZDA and ZDR showed great variation and presented rhythmic changes during the course of the day. The means of ZDA and ZDR were significantly different between the daytime periods of three hours duration at the age points excluding that of ZDA for 15 days of age. Results show the establishment and the prevalence of a circadian rhythm of heart rate at the early growth period in feeder-fed dairy calves reared at transition from winter to spring and how this was superimposed by feeding activity around the programmed daytimes of feed access at the start of rearing.
Central nervous regulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and its impact on fertility, immunity, metabolism and animal welfare – a review
Authors: Manteuffel G.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The paper reviews mechanisms of neuronal control of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis with a view on its impact on performance and welfare. The limbic hippocampal and amygdaloid input to the paraventricular hypothalamic nucleus constitutes the basic intracerebral axis by which emotional stimuli affect the stress response. This axis is the backbone of the HPA feedback loop where hippocampus and amygdala are plastic elements and add the ability of experience dependent adaptation and (emotional) learning. As a result large individual differences of the stress response may occur. The system mutually interacts with the immune system and with hypothalamic cell groups which control metabolism and fertility, explaining the influence of stress on these performance parameters. It is concluded that for the reliable assessment of emotional welfare in (farm-) animals a multitude of physiological and behavioral measures are needed which take into account the highly crosslinked nature of the system.
Schätzung genetischer Parameter für Testtagsergebnisse der Milchleistung bei ostfriesischen Milchschafen mit Bayes-Methoden für longitudinale Daten
Authors: Horstick A. , Distl O.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Title of the paper: Estimation of genetic parameters for test day results of milk performance in East Friesian milk sheep using Bayesian methods for longitudinal data The objectives of this study were to estimate genetic parameters of milk performance traits in East Friesian milk sheep by using test day models with random regresssion. The analysis was based on 7545 test day records of 918 East Friesian milk sheep with 1380 lactation records. The data were provided by the sheep breeding organizations of Lower-Saxony, Westphalia, and Bavaria. The milk recordings were collected in the years 1992 to 2000. The average values of the heritability estimates by using random regression models were for the milk yield h2 = 0.25 ± 0.03, for the fat content h2 = 0.46 ± 0.09, and for the protein content h2 = 0.63 ± 0.12. The range of heritability estimates in dependence of the days in milk was for milk yield h2 = 0.03 to 0.70, for fat content h2 = 0.30 to 0.70, and for protein content h2 = 0.44 to 0.92.