bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of forage type on methane production from dairy cows
Authors: McCourt A.R. , Yan T. , Mayne C.S.
Published: June 2019

Methane (CH4) has attracted considerable attention in recent years because of its contribution to the greenhouse effect, as it has a 100-year global warming potential 23 times that of carbon dioxide (IPCC, 2001). Dairy cows are major contributors to the production of methane from the agricultural sector in Europe because of their large numbers and high emission factors. Methane production is affected by several factors, one of which is diet; for example, the type of forage offered to ruminants has an important effect on methane production (Boadi et al., 2004). The aim of this experiment was to investigate how different forage types affected methane production from dairy cows.
Farmer satisfaction: potential for genetic evaluation in Ireland?
Authors: Berry D.P. , Cromie A.R.
Published: June 2019

Previous studies have indicated genetic variation in traits describing the overall satisfaction of a farmer with daughters of a particular sire (Cue et al., 1996; Visscher and Goddard, 1995). Such traits are useful in determining cow-level factors contributing to overall farmer satisfaction as well as providing supplementary information in sire selection. The objective of this study was to evaluate whether genetic variation in a subjectively scored trait reflecting farmer satisfaction existed in Ireland and to attempt to elucidate the factors contributing to farmer satisfaction.
Characterization of dairy farm environments and their effect on cow lifespan
Authors: White I.M.S. , Coffey M.P. , Haskell M.J. , Brotherstone S.
Published: June 2019

Environmental sensitivity exists when an environmental difference has more effect on some genotypes than on others (Falconer and Mackay, 1996). Quantifying the degree of environmental sensitivity shown by individual sires allows us to identify sires as specialists (those which rank highly in certain environments) or generalists (those which rank similarly across environments). Dairy farm environments vary enormously and this affects the production and health of the cows. The aims of this study were (1) to relate detailed survey information on farm management systems to information available at the national level to provide a definition of farm environment, and (2) to assess the effect of environment on lifespan.
Genetic progress in broiler traits – implications for body composition
Authors: Fleming E.C. , Fisher C. , McAdam J.
Published: June 2019

Genetic selection has dramatically increased the potential for growth, feed efficiency and yield in meat type broilers. It is a widely held belief that these improvements in genetic potential have produced a broiler that is lower in fat content. However, some recent work has implied that the Modern broiler is actually fatter than its counterpart of 30 years ago (Wang et al., 2004). The objective of this study was to explore the impact that selection for growth rate and yield has had on broiler body composition.
The effect of base particle size in complementary feedingstuffs using early maillard reaction products on the performance of post weaning piglets
Authors: Hutchinson M. J. , McCann M .E .E , Beattie V
Published: June 2019

The animal feed industry produces various complementary feedstuffs with high levels of crude protein (CP) and synthetic amino acids designed to provide optimum nutrition to the post weaned pig. The use of synthetic amino acids has both advantages and disadvantages and other ways of delivering amino acids are of interest to the feed industry. One possible way of delivering amino acids is through the Maillard reaction; this is the chemical catalysis of the amine group of an amino acid to the carboxyl group of a sugar giving Maillard reaction products (MRP). These molecules occur during cooking, but have been shown to have a variety of other applications (Namiki, 1996) In this study, lysine (Lys), methionine (Met) and threonine (Thr) where chemically reacted with sugar molecules to give in vitro early Maillard Reaction Products (MRP). The aim of this study was to assess the effect of a solution of these MRPs with particle sizes of cereal base in a complementary feedingstuff (Matan XL, Devenish Nutrition) on overall diet performance.
Herd factors affecting somatic cell count in Irish dairy herds
Authors: Kelly P.T. , O’Sullivan K. , Berry D.P. , O’Brien B. , O’Callaghan E.J. , Rath M. , Meaney W.J.
Published: June 2019

The Irish milk payment system penalises against high milk somatic cell count (SCC). Previous studies have related farm management practices to herd SCC (Barkema et al., 1998); however similar study has never been undertaken in Ireland. Furthermore, these previous studies have generally been conducted in confined systems. The objective of this study was to investigate potential management factors affecting herd SCC in Irish, spring calving, grass based dairy herds.
The interaction between protein content and inulin inclusion on the health and performance of weaned pigs exposed to an enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli challenge
Authors: Wellock I.J. , Houdijk J.G.M. , Kyriazakis I.
Published: June 2019

Decreasing dietary crude protein (CP) supply has been shown to decrease the occurrence of post weaning colibacillosis (PWC) in pigs by reducing substrate availability to enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) (Prohászka and Baron, 1980). However, associated with the decreased risk of PWC is a detrimental effect on performance (Wellock et al., 2006). Non-starch polysaccharides (NSP), such as those derived from inulin, are a main energy source for microbial fermentation. Increasing inulin inclusion in weaner diets may therefore decrease bacterial need to ferment protein as an energy source and counteract the negative effects of protein fermentation, such as the production of harmful fermentation end products. Consequently, this may allow greater levels of protein to be included in the diet without compromising health. This in turn should allow greater levels of performance to be achieved. The aim was to investigate interactive effects of dietary CP supply and inulin inclusion on the health and performance of newly weaned pigs when artificially challenged with ETEC.
An investigation into the level of fusarium mycotoxins in samples of UK wheat straw used for bedding livestock
Authors: White C. I. , Edwards S. G. , Stewart A. H.
Published: June 2019

Straw based production systems are common in the UK compared to European, Asian and American competitors. The effects of mycotoxins in cereal feed on livestock performance are relatively well documented with pigs being particularly sensitive to mycotoxicosis. The European Commission has recently set guideline limits for fusarium mycotoxins in animal feedstuffs (Anon, 2006). Guidance limits for feedstuffs for young pigs is 900 ppb deoxynivalenol and 100 ppb zearalenone. However, any possible effects of ingestion of fusarium mycotoxins from bedding have not been enumerated. This project was designed to evaluate the potential risk of mycotoxin challenge from straw bedding in the UK.
The effects of iodine supplementation to the pregnant ewe on immunoglobulin G, vitamin E, T3 and T4 levels in the newborn lamb
Authors: Boland T.M. , Hayes L. , Murphy J.J. , Callan J.J. , Sweeney T. , Crosby T.F.
Published: June 2019

Lambs are born hypoimmunocompetent and are dependent on the absorption of immunoglobulin G (IgG) from colostrum for immunity in early life, similar to the situation with vitamin E (vit. E), which is also involved in maximising immunocompetence (Puls, 1994). High-level iodine supplementation during late gestation period of the ewe results in the production of progeny with an impaired ability to absorb colostral IgG and vit. E post partum (Boland et al., 2006). Iodine is essential in the synthesis of the thyroid hormones, thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3; McDonald et al., 2002) that regulate the metabolic pattern of most cells and play a vital role in the process of cellular differentiation, growth and development in the foetus and neonate (Stanbury, 1996). The objectives of this experiment were to determine the effects of offering supplementary iodine for the final three weeks of pregnancy on serum vit. E, IgG, T3 and T4 concentrations at 1h, 24h and 72h post partum.
The effects of herbage allowance and frequency of allocation, and silage feed value when offered to mid gestation ewes on lamb birth weight and subsequent performance
Authors: Keady T.W.J. , Hanrahan J.P.
Published: June 2019

It is essential to improve efficiency and reduce costs of production with decoupling of subsidy from production post Mid Term Review of the Common Agricultural Policy. Recent studies at this centre (Flanagan 2003, Keady et al., 2006) have shown that extended grazing (grazing during winter), either during mid, late or throughout pregnancy, provides a low cost system of wintering ewes. The aims of this study were to evaluate the effects of herbage allowance and frequency of allocation, and potential interactions during mid gestation on ewe performance, and lamb birth weight and subsequent performance. Furthermore a direct comparison of herbage allowance and grass silages of differing feed value was also undertaken.
Ruminal degradation characteristics of a beef feed produced with different grinding and pelleting sizes incubated in sacco in dry or soaked form
Authors: Laar H Van , Martínez-Luengas I , Martin-Tereso J.
Published: June 2019

Intensively fed ruminants receive highly fermentable diets to maximise production of meat or milk. However, highly fermentable diets increase the risk of acidosis, which can result in serious health and productive consequences. Accurate evaluation of feed fermentability in both rate and extent is therefore important in controlling acidosis. Differences in (rate of) fermentation between original raw materials are fairly well established and used in current feed evaluation systems (Van Laar et al., 2004). However, the effects of technological treatments, like grinding and especially pelleting of a feed on fermentability are less well explored. In this experiment the nylon bag method was used to analyse fermentability characteristics of a feed that was ground and pelleted in different ways. Additionally the effect on fermentability of pre-soaking the pellets prior to nylon bag incubation was investigated.
The effect of palm oil fatty acids on cervix regression in dairy cows during the first 40 days postpartum
Authors: Heravi Moussavi A. , Danesh Mesgaran M.
Published: June 2019

An undisturbed re-organisation of the cervix postpartum is a basic pre-condition for an undisturbed puerperium (Wehrend et al., 2003). This aspect of the puerperal involution has been insufficiently considered in the literature. It was shown that some cows developed a disorder of the cervical involution (Wehrend and Bostedt, 2003). LeBlank et al. (2002) concluded that the size of cervix in cows with clinical endometritis were associated with a decrease in pregnancy rate. With the use of the ultrasonic technique instead of using fingers of the human hand, more exact data on cervix regression can be delivered. Meanwhile, little is known about the effect of diet on cervix regression after parturition. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of palm oil fatty acids on cervix regression during the first 40 days postpartum in Iranian Holstein dairy cows using ultrasonic technique.
Performance of new hybrids of silkworm Bombyx mori (Lep.: Bombycidae)
Authors: Mirhosseini Seyed Ziaeedin , Seidavi Alireza , Ghanipour Mani , Vishkaee Sogra , Bizhannia Alireza
Published: June 2019

Silkworm hybrids are produced in efforts to improve the yield of silkworm rearing, whereas these genetic characteristics greatly differ among groups of hybrids (Raju and Krishnamurthy, 1995). So, the identification and evaluation of the performance of hybrids in different seasons are very important for silkworm breeding and sericulture. In this research, we evaluated the performance of 15 new silkworm hybrids, which evolved in the Iran Silkworm Research Center from pure lines in order to select the most-production hybrids for commercial application.
Chemical composition, dry matter and protein degradability coefficients of pistachio hulls silage treated with urea and molasses
Authors: Vahmani P. , Nasserian A.A. , Valizadeh R. , Arshami J. , Nasirimoghadam H.
Published: June 2019

Pistachio hulls are pistachio processing by-products produced during de-hulling of pistachio nuts soon after harvesting. Total pistachio by-products in Iran have been increased at an average rate of about 300000 Tons per year. Chemical composition of Pistachio hulls contained 12%CP, 5%EE, 34% NDF, 21% ADF, and 9% ash (DM basis). The dry matter content of fresh Pistachio hulls is about 28%. Reducing the moisture content of this by-product with dryer systems is a cost effective process and can not be applied by most of the producers. Finding other alternative methods for preserving and using this by-product is highly required. The objective of the present study was to assess changes in Pistachio hulls silage (PHS) quality associated with the inclusion of different levels of urea (U) and molasses (M), and to compare in situ DM and protein degradability of PHS with dried pistachio hulls (DPH).
Effect of heat processing on ruminal and post-ruminal disappearance of essential and non-essential amino acids of Iranian whole soybeans
Authors: Fathi Nasri M. Hassan , Danesh Mesgaran Mohsen , Valizadeh Reza , Nikkhah Ali
Published: June 2019

Whole soybean (SB) is used as a high energy-protein supplement for dairy cows, but the protein is highly degradable by rumen microbes. Various chemical and physical processing has been suggested to decrease ruminal protein degradability, that heat processing is the most commonly used physical method. Modern systems for protein evaluations in ruminants are moving in the direction of predicting absorption of amino acids from the small intestine, so the determination of intestinal digestibility of amino acids is of special importance particularly in heat-treated feedstuffs. The objective of this research was to elucidate the effects of roasting and steep-roasting on ruminal and post-ruminal disappearance of essential and non-essential amino acids (EAA and NEAA) of Iranian SB.
Opioid circuitry and the aetiology of equine oral stereotypy
Authors: Hemmings A. , McBride S.D , Hale C.E
Published: June 2019

Stereotypic behaviour is generally attributed to a dysfunction of the basal ganglia, although confusion exists as to whether altered function stems from the dorsal (Caudatus and putamen) or ventral regions (nucleus accumbens). In rodents, imbalanced basal ganglia opioid physiology leads to enhanced efferent neural transmission from only the dorsal striatum to cortex. However, in horses performing oral stereotypy (crib-biting), neural alterations in dopamine receptor density have been recorded in both dorsal and ventral striatal regions (McBride and Hemmings, 2005) suggesting that both projections may be altered in the stereotypy phenotype. Indeed, if stereotypies are considered to stem from highly motivated appetitive behaviours, it seems probable that ventral elements of the basal ganglia ‘reward’ circuitry should also be involved If this is the case, then stereotypy performance has potentially rewarding consequences and could thus be employed as a coping strategy. To further address the issue of dorsal versus ventral striatum involvement in the equine oral stereotypy phenotype, comparisons of opioid receptor physiology between crib-biters and control horses were performed.
Using different levels of hydrolyzed bagasse pith in early lactation Holstein cows nutrition
Authors: Naserian Abbasali , Saremi Behnam , Eslami Moosa
Published: June 2019

In recent years sugarcane had been farmed in large quantities in Iran especially in Khoozestan state due to proper climate. By-products that remain after processing of sugarcane are Lignocellulosis materials contain more than 20% lignin. 700000 ton bagasse pith is produced yearly at Khoozestan that might be used in animal nutrition because industrial usage is limited. Supplying fiber requirement of ruminants in Iran because of hot and dry climate needs attention to new sources of fiber. Bagasse had been used intact in some countries or just with molasses and urea in fattening farms. Bagasse had been used in low milk production cows (1). A new technology (Steam treatment) had open new zones to apply bagasse as steam treated bagasse in ruminant nutrition and had been shown that it is more digestible (2). This study was conducted to use hydrolyzed bagasse pith in high producing dairy cows in early lactation.
Physically effectiveness of beet pulp in dairy cows 2: Intakes, digestibility and chewing activity, and performance of Holstein dairy cows
Authors: Teimouri Yasari Asadollah
Published: June 2019

Many non-forage fibrous sources (NFFS) such as beet pulp (BP) contain more NDF than some forage sources, and have been successfully used in dairy rations to replace a portion of the effective or physical effective fiber (peNDF) that is normally provided by forages. However, BP has limited forage replacement value and effectiveness factor of 0.40 (fraction of NDF) versus 1.0 for forages (Mertens, 1997). In addition, Mertens (1997) suggested that the physically effectiveness factor of ground and pellet were 0.40 and 0.30, respectively. However, the effects of BP when substituted with different feed sources in TMR are variable that depend on chemical composition, types and physical characteristics. The objective of this experiment was to measure the effects of three types of BP on intakes, digestibility, and chewing activity and performance of Holstein dairy cows.
Variations in cows’ plasma and milk carotenoid concentrations following changes in carotenoid intake level
Authors: Calderón F.C. , Chauveau-Duriot B. Ch , Pradel P.P. , Martin B.M. , Prache S.P. , Graulet B.G. , Doreau M.D. , Nozière P.N.
Published: June 2019

Dairy products composition and quality are strongly influenced by the nature of the diet fed to cows, including their composition in micronutrients, among them carotenoids. These compounds are pigments that develop provitamin A and antioxidant functions, take part in the maintenance of cell communication, enhance the immune function, and UV skin and macula protection (Van den Berg et al., 2000). In dairy products, besides to having nutritional and sensorial properties, they have been recognized as tracer compounds indicating animal feeding management (review of Nozière et al., 2006). Factors controlling their concentration in cow’s milk must therefore be highlighted. The aim of this study was to determine the variation in plasma and milk carotenoids concentrations when cows shifted from a low-carotenoid diet to diets containing various levels of carotenoids.
Study for the validation of the n-alkane technique to estimate intake and digestibility of acorns and pasture by “Alentejano pigs”
Authors: Ferraz de Oliveira M.I. , Mendes C.A. , Ribeiro T. , Cancela d’Abreu M.
Published: June 2019

The sustainable animal production systems, based on pastures require the knowledge of animal and vegetation responses to different management strategies (Oliván and Osoro, 1997). The lack of knowledge about the grazing behaviour, intake and diet digestibility of “Alentejano pigs” explored under “Montanheira”, leads to many doubts about the most adequate production strategies. N-alkanes are components of plant cuticular wax and have been successfully used as markers for estimation of intake in ruminants (Dove and Mayes, 1991), however few studies with pigs have been published, particularly “alentejano pigs”. In the “Montanheira” system, the main components of the diet are acorns and pasture. Therefore this trial was conducted to validate the use of the n-alkane technique to estimate intake and digestibility of the particular diet composition of “Montanheira” (acorns and pasture) by “Alentejano pigs”.
Feed intake and digestive responses of dairy cow fed lucerne hay varying in particle size
Authors: Alijoo Younes , Valizadeh R. , Naserian Abbasali , Eftekhar Shahroodi Fereidoon
Published: June 2019

Chemical composition and physical characteristics of diet influences its optimal utilization in dairy cow. Neutral detergent fiber measures the chemical characteristics, but not the physical characteristics of fiber such as particle size and density (Mertens, 1997). Both the amount and physical form of fiber are important in the diet of lactating dairy cow for maintaining normal milk fat content, chewing and digestive activities. A sufficient supply of long particles or NDF must be included in the ration to increase chewing activities, maintaining the rumen pH and providing an optimal rumen environment in order to avoid metabolic disorders. Current NRC guidelines (NRC, 2001) have proven useful information in defining animal requirements and feed composition but do not provide detailed recommendation on physical form of ration. The objective of this experiment was to determine the effect of lucerne particle size on feed intake and digestibility in dairy cow in early lactation period.
Measurement of microbial protein synthesis in Iranian buffalo rumen (Mazandran Province) by purine derivatives excretion method
Authors: Vakil Faraji Yashar , Zahedifar Mojtaba , Kaveh Jafari Khorshidi
Published: June 2019

Rumen microbes are rich in nucleic acid: around 18% of total nitrogen is present on nucleic acids or 11% in purines. Rumen microbes constitue the major source of protein supply to the ruminant. The purines from the rumen microbes are metabolized and excreted in the urine as their end products: hypoxanthine, xanthine, uric acid and allantoin. In buffalo and cattle because of high xanthine oxidase activity in intestine and blood, hypoxanthine and xanthine convert to uric acid therefore only uric acid and allantoin excreted in urine way (Chen, X. B., Ørskov, E. R., 2003). This research carried out to use excretion of purine derivatives namely allantoin and uric acid as a parameter to estimate the microbial protein synthesis in the rumen of native swamp buffalo in north of iran, Mazandaran Province.
Effects of wood ash, calcium hydroxide and polyethylene glycol treatments on the nutrient availability and on the biological activity of tannins using gas production technique
Authors: Nozella E.F. , Bueno I.C.S. , Godoy P.B. , Vitti D.M.S.S.
Published: June 2019

Phenolic compounds, mainly tannins, depress the nutritive value of many feedstuffs. Tannins are hydrosoluble polymers which form complexes, essentially with proteins. These complexes are broken under conditions of high acidity (pH <3.5) or high alkalinity (pH =7.5). The aim of this work was to investigate the effects of different treatments on chemical composition and tannin bioassay of tanniniferous plants from the Northeast of Brazil.
Nutrient composition of wheat grain and wheat bran in East Azerbaijan province of Iran
Authors: Janmohammadi Hossein , Taghizadeh Akbar , Pirani Nasrollah , Shoja Djalil , Nikkhah Ali
Published: June 2019

In Iran, East Azerbaijan province is one of the most important farm animal production area and feedstuffs such as wheat grain (WG) and wheat bran (WB) together with alfalfa hay, barley grain, and wheat straw are the most common ingredients of animal rations. In recent years, production of WG and its main by-product, WB, have considerably been increased. Organic matter and mineral contents of WG in a given area can be influenced markedly by climate, soil and fertilizer treatments, growth stage and agronomic factors. Nutrient composition of WB also depends on variety of WG and mill processing conditions. Therefore, it is necessary to determine the nutrient composition of WG and WB to use in formulating balanced rations. The objective of present study was to determine nutrient composition of WG and WB in East Azerbaijan.
Changes in chemical composition and in vitro DM digestibility of urea and molasses treated whole crop canola silage
Authors: Balakhial A. , Naserian A.A. , Heravi Moussavi A. , Eftekhar Shahrodi F. , Valizadeh R.
Published: June 2019

Forage quality is a key factor in dairy cattle nutrition. High moisture forages are so susceptible to loss their nutrients during ensiling. Canola is one of the oilseed plants that belong to Brassica species. Canola forage has high level of moisture in its tissues and must be wilted to 60 -65% moisture before ensiling. On the other hand, molasses and urea as two silage additives can be effective in improvement and preservation of canola forage quality. Molasses is commonly used to provide readily available energy for lactic acid fermentation. Addition of molasses can increase dry matter content of silage that related to relatively high dry matter content of molasses (Baytok and Aksu, 2005). Meanwhile, silage protein content can be increased and proteolysis decreased with the addition of urea. Application of urea to harvested forage before ensiling can restrict the fermentation processes and release ammonia to potentially enhance nutritive value of the ensiled crop and reduce deterioration during storage. The main objective of this study was to evaluate effects of different levels of urea and molasses on chemical composition and in vitro DM digestibility of whole crop canola silage.
The concentration of oxygen and its depletion in bovine red clover-boluses
Authors: Lee MRF , Minchin FR
Published: June 2019

The enzyme polyphenol oxidase (PPO) may be responsible for increases in both dietary-nitrogen utilisation and the concentration of polyunsaturated fatty acids in ruminant products when animals eat red clover (Lee et al., 2004). The enzymatic reaction requires the presence of oxygen and therefore is assumed to be inhibited in the anaerobic rumen. However, no information exists as to the concentration of oxygen in red clover-boluses and whether this could sustain the aerobic enzyme’s activity in the reticulo-rumen. This study investigated the concentration of oxygen in red clover-boluses measured in vitro or in vivo in the rumen of two rumen-fistulated cows.
Gestation length in first calving Aberdeen Angus x Limousin and Limousin x Aberdeen Angus heifers mated using a synchronised artificial insemination programme
Authors: Hyslop J. J.
Published: June 2019

Recent changes to beef production subsidy schemes in the UK has focussed attention on the fertility and reproductive output of suckler beef systems in an attempt to ensure future financial sustainability. Adoption of modern cattle breeding technologies may be more common in the future than they have been in the past as a result of this renewed focus on commercial profitability rather than subsidy reliance. However, relatively little information is available on the biological parameters encountered when modern breeding approaches are employed within commercial crossbred suckler beef management systems in the UK. Previous work (Penny, 2005) has detailed the development of either a triple or double synchronised artificial insemination (AI) programme suitable for use with both multiparous suckler cows and first calving heifers managed as a commercial spring calving suckler herd. The objective of the current report is to detail the effects of breed type and calf sex on average gestation length (GL) in first calving crossbred suckler replacement heifers when mated using a synchronised AI programme.
Effect of water quality on in vitro fermentation of sorghum and barley for poultry diets
Authors: Niba A.T. , Beal J.D. , Kudi A.C. , Brooks P.H.
Published: June 2019

Low pH and high lactic acid concentration of fermented feed has been reported to be responsible for the antimicrobial activity of fermented feeds (Brooks et al., 2001). For example, to prevent the growth of Salmonella spp. in liquid feeds, a threshold lactic acid concentration of 75mM is required (Beal et al., 2002). Therefore, factors that are likely to affect the production of lactic acid during fermentation will have important implications for the ability of such feeds to withstand colonisation by pathogens. The objective of the present study was to investigate the effect of water quality on the fermentation pattern of sorghum and barley.
Growth-promoters utilization in diet for broilers chicken
Authors: Castro Renata Lima , Ramos Lidiana de Siqueira Nunes , Lopes João Batista , Carvalho Diego da Paz , Carneiro Tadeu Sampaio , Brandão Tatiane Menezes , Silva Silvana Maria de Medeiros Sousa , Vitti Dorinha Mirian Silber Schmidt
Published: June 2019

In the productive chain of broiler chicken the sanitary problems are minimized with the use of alimentary additives. The official Brazilian Health Department has established criteria for the use of antibiotic in broilers chicken diet and the use of probiotics, prebiotics and simbiotics has increased (Miltenburg, 2000). This paper was developed to evaluate the effect of different growth-promoters in diet for broilers chickens from 1 to 21 days age on weight gain, feed intake and feed conversion and to study the economic viability of addition of those promoters.
Science of conservation for populations at risk
Authors: Woolliams J. A.
Published: June 2019

Conservation is a long term activity, and the objectives of the activity must be clear and justified for it to be sustained in the long-term. Whilst the obligations for conservation-related activities are clearly set out in the Convention on Biological Diversity (“Rio” convention or CBD), the scale of activities will depend on the scope and quality of the case. A market-led justification for conservation of livestock is fraught with difficulty since if markets supported the full scope of existing genetic variation there would be no need for conservation. This does not imply that a long-term economic case cannot be made, but it does focus the arguments onto the future importance of the range of livestock breeds. Therefore beyond the benefits of visual diversity on the quality of life, there is a need for evaluating the scientific justification for conserving livestock breeds.
Growth and nutrition of cattle early in life: long-term consequences for beef production
Authors: Greenwood P.L. , Cafe L.M.
Published: June 2019

This paper reviews research on consequences of cattle nutrition and growth during foetal and neonatal life for subsequent growth, efficiency, carcass, yield and beef quality characteristics (Greenwood and Cafe 2007). It includes findings from our recent studies on consequences of growth during pregnancy and to weaning (Greenwood et al., 2006). The reader is also referred to reviews on consequences of prenatal development in livestock by Bell (2006), and on consequences of bovine foetal, pre-weaning and early post-weaning nutrition and growth by Greenwood et al., (2005).
Fit and fat; a horse carer’s perspective
Authors: Abraham D , Dumbell L C
Published: June 2019

Obesity in horses and ponies, is according to many equine related charities (Blue Cross, BHS) becoming an increasing welfare problem. Recent studies have linked equine obesity and insulin resistance with development of debilitating laminitis (Vick et al., 2007). Poor nutritional management and sedentary lifestyles are to blame for the growing proportion of obese horses (Buff et al., 2005). The horse carer is responsible for the health and welfare of the horse and as such should monitor the weight, condition and exercise regime to ensure appropriate fitness levels to maintain health and performance. Indeed, Johnson (2002) reports that certain management practices tend to promote the development of obesity in mature horses as they enter their teenage years. Horse owners must therefore consider management practices throughout the horse’s life, as the provision of starch-rich and fat-supplemented rations to healthy horses that are relatively inactive may promote the development of obesity increasing the risk of laminitis (Johnson, 2002). The aims of this research were to ascertain the condition score and fitness levels of horses and ponies when diagnosed with laminitis, as reported by the horse carer and to gain insight into how these factors may influence the health and welfare of the domestic horse.
Prediction of conception at 1st artificial insemination using a combination of energy balance indicators
Authors: Valergakis G E , Oikonomou G , Arsenos G , Georgiadis M P , Banos G
Published: June 2019

Declining reproductive performance is a major problem for the global dairy industry (Lucy 2001) whereas magnitude and duration of postpartum negative energy balance of dairy cows are considered as the main reasons (de Vries and Veerkamp 2000). Moreover, various energy balance indicators, such as body condition score (BCS) and plasma βhydroxybutyrate (BHB) concentration, have been correlated with reduced reproductive performance (Pryce et al 2001, Taylor et al 2003, Patton et al 2007, Walsh et al 2007). Such information has been already used to adjust herd management practices in order to prevent negative effects on reproduction. Furthermore, the ability to predict reproductive performance of cows with reasonable accuracy would also be very useful to dairy farmers. In such case, important management decisions (e.g. length of voluntary waiting period, starting dates of synchronisation programs and price of semen used), could be made for each individual cow. The aim of this study was to investigate whether combining certain energy balance indicators would yield useful predictions of cow reproductive performance at 1st artificial insemination (AI).
Key indicators and decision-making trees to analyse reproduction problems linked to environmental factors: data from a commercial dairy unit
Authors: Knapp E , Chapaux P , Istasse L , Touati K
Published: June 2019

Reproduction performances in cattle regularly decreased with time. For example, the number of inseminations per pregnancy increased in dairy herds from 1.43 to 1.75 and the calving interval (CI) from 385 to 412 days in 10 years (Leroy et al., 2006). Such a reduction is responsible for rising income losses for breeders. In Belgium, an increase of the age at first calving (AFC) by 3 months and of the CI by 20 days induced a gross margin reduction of about 500 € /cow/year.
Equine limb and oral fibroblasts in in vitro models of cell proliferation and wound contraction
Authors: Watts E , Rose M T
Published: June 2019

Wound healing in horses is particularly problematic compared to other species and limb wounds often exhibit complications such as exuberant granulation tissue, poor wound contraction and unsightly scars. In comparison, oral wounds heal without scar formation. Therefore, in vitro experiments were conducted to investigate the differences between equine oral and limb fibroblasts in terms of proliferation and their ability to contract a collagen matrix, a commonly used in vitro model of wound contraction.
Effect of level of concentrate supplementation on methane emission of Holstein and Holstein-Jersey dairy cows
Authors: Yan T , Ferris C P , Mayne C S
Published: June 2019

Enteric fermentation in ruminants is an important source of methane (CH4) production. In the UK, ruminants contribute approximately 20% of all CH4 emission, with most arising from cattle. This presents a considerable challenge for the dairy industry in the battle against global warming, and reduced CH4 emission is likely to be a major target for government policy within the next few years. The objectives of the present study were to evaluate the effects of level of concentrate supplementation and cross-breeding of Holstein cows with Jersey sires on CH4 production.
Effect of spice supplementation on in vitro methane production using ground wheat as a substrate
Authors: Khan M M H , Chaudhry A S
Published: June 2019

Ruminants lose about 8 to 12 % of their food energy as methane (CH4). Eructation of CH4 from ruminants may contribute to the climatic change and global warming. Reducing CH4 production can be of direct economic benefit because it coincides with greater energy-use efficiency of feeds by the animal. To reduce CH4, antibiotics have been used in addition to their use for growth and disease prevention. However, the European Union has banned the use of antibiotics in animal feeds from January 2006, so there is a need to find alternative methods to reduce CH4 production. It has been shown that tannin and unsaturated fatty acid can play important roles to reduce CH4 production in ruminants (Patra et al., 2006; Giger-Reverdin et al. 2003). Some spices are high in tannin and others are high in fatty acids. In the present study, the chemical composition of five spices and their role in reducing in vitro CH4 production were assessed. Ground wheat (wheat) is a highly fermentable feed as it can produce large amount of gas, and it was therefore used as a substrate to compare the effects of spices on in vitro rumen fermentation in this study.
Novel epistatic QTL for chemical body composition and accretion as well as feed efficiency in pigs
Authors: Duthie C-A , Simm G , Doeschl-Wilson A , Kalm E , Knap P , Roehe R
Published: June 2019

Most quantitative trait loci (QTL) studies have focussed on the identification of individual QTL effects (additive, dominance and imprinting) in the absence of interactions (epistasis). There are numerous reports in the literature for QTL associated with growth and body composition of pigs, however much less effort has focussed around the identification of epistatic QTL for these traits. Growth and body composition of pigs are probably influenced by numerous QTL located throughout the genome as well as interactions between QTL. Therefore the objective of this study was to investigate the contribution of epistasis to the genomic regulation of growth and body composition of pigs.
Forage based fattening of male buffalo calves (Bubalus bubalis) under farmers’ managed condition in Dang district, Nepal
Authors: Devkota N R , Ghimire S
Published: June 2019

Buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) are an important component of livestock in Nepal. Its population has been estimated as 4,204,886 in 2005/06 (MOAC, 2006). Buffalo calves are seldom raised for meat in Nepal (Rana et al., 2000). In cases where they are raised, they are confined until six to eight months of age, as their dams will not give milk without them (Rana et al., 2000). Scientific information on fattening of male buffalo calves is scanty. A field based study was conducted to access the body weight of male buffalo calves raised under forage based and forage based plus limited concentrate supply at different ages, to determine the cost effectiveness of fattening technology under farmers’ managed condition.
Preliminary genetic analysis of beef carcass data
Authors: Coffey M P , Wall E , Banos G , Roehe R
Published: June 2019

Selective breeding of farm livestock is one of the most cost-effective ways of improving the performance and efficiency of livestock enterprises. Genetic improvement of British beef cattle over a ten year period was recently estimated to be worth approximately £23, and the benefits continue to rise (Amer et al., 2007). While these returns are impressive, they could be improved by increasing the rate of improvement in the purebred population, for example by increasing the relevance of estimated breeding values (EBVs) to beef production by using final carcass weight and grading information. This study will examine the feasibility carcass weights and classifications from UK commercial abattoirs for the genetic evaluation of cattle for carcass weight, carcass fatness class, and carcass conformation class.
An evaluation of the effect of nutritional strategy in early lactation on performance and energy status of Holstein Friesian dairy cows
Authors: Young F J , Law R A , Gilmore H S , Patterson D C , Wylie A R G , Mayne C S
Published: June 2019

Improving the sustainability and overall longevity and health of modern Holstein Friesian (HF) dairy cattle is essential in order to maintain overall farm profitability. Prolonged negative energy balance in early lactation can result in metabolic stress, as well as long term problems with fertility (Pryce et al., 2004). In addition, maximising the efficiency of nitrogen (N) utilisation by strategies such as reducing the crude protein content of the diet is of crucial importance in minimising the environmental impact of dairying. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of a range of nutritional strategies on milk production, energy balance and efficiency of N use in early lactation.
Physical effectiveness of ensiled apple pomace and its effects on rumen passage rate of digesta in Holstein dairy cows
Authors: Ghoreishi S F , Pirmohammadi R , Yansari A Teimouri
Published: June 2019

Apple pomace (AP) is the by-product obtained when apples are pressed to make juice and is produced in huge (97,000 tons/year) amounts in Iran. It’s characterized by low starch and high NDF concentrations and accompanied by appreciable quantities of poorly identified components, including soluble carbohydrates and pectin. Optimal utilisation of diets by dairy cows is influenced by the chemical composition and physical characteristics of the ration. Physical characteristics can influence animal health, rumen fermentation and utilisation, animal metabolism, and milk fat production independently of the amount or composition of chemically measured components (Mertens, 1997). Water holding capacity may affect rumen liquid pool size and the rate and extent of rumen digestion (Allen and Mertens, 1988). The purposes of the current study were to determine the physical effectiveness of ensiled apple pomace (EAP) and its effects on passage rate from the rumen of Holstein dairy cows.
Effect of yeast and mannan-oligosaccharides on in vitro fermentation of different substrates
Authors: Bagheri M , Ghorbani G R , Rahmani H R , Khorvash M
Published: June 2019

Results of yeast effects on in vitro rumen fermentation are inconsistent (Sullivan et al., 1999; Yang et al., 2004). In addition, there is no data on the effect of mannan-oligosacchrides (MOS) and their interaction with yeast on rumen fermentation. This trial was conducted to study the effects of yeast and MOS on rumen fermentation of different substrates.
Effect of pig growth rate and health status on meat eating quality
Authors: Zammerini D , Miller H M , Marriott D T , Richardson R I , Whittington F M , Wood J D
Published: June 2019

Growth rate is an important performance indicator in pig production and therefore influences profitability. There is also evidence that faster growing pigs have superior tenderness (MLC, 1989), possibly linked to faster muscle protein deposition through the activity and expression of proteolytic enzymes. Slow growth could also result in higher boar taint levels in entire male pigs because they will be older and sexually more mature at slaughter (MLC, 1989). The current project was therefore undertaken to investigate the effect of variations in growth rate on tenderness and boar taint.
Using meta-analysis to determine the influence of dietary factors on pork quality
Authors: Trefan L , Bünger L , Doeschl-Wilson A
Published: June 2019

Consumption of pork is declining in the UK, while demands of costumers for improved pork quality are rising. Various experimental studies suggest that dietary supplements such as vitamins and minerals could help to improve pork quality without negatively affecting other aspects of the production cycle (e.g. growth, welfare). However, results from different experiments are inconsistent, suggesting different magnitudes of effects caused by the same dietary supplementation. Meta-analysis (MA) is a statistical tool designed to combine results from different studies in a statistically sound manner to produce robust quantitative estimates of the impact of specific factors on traits of interest. In this study we tested the feasibility of meta-analysis for determining how supplementation of vitamin E as antioxidant reduces lipid oxidation and improves redness of pork over time, extending thus its shelf-life.
The behaviour of finisher pigs of three genotypes during routine handling using standard or modified weighing apparatus
Authors: Clarke H , D’Eath R B , Miller H M
Published: June 2019

The effect of stress on pigs prior to slaughter is of welfare and economic importance, and can negatively impact on meat quality. Strategies to reduce the stress of finishing pigs have previously tended to concentrate on a single breed. This research aims to target this lack of knowledge by assessing differences between genotypes when being handled.
Influence of mixing on the initiation of piglet feeding and post weaning growth performance
Authors: Reynolds F H , Forbes J M , Miller H M
Published: June 2019

Weaning is a stressful period for the piglet, invariably typified by low voluntary feed intake and reduced performance. Moreover, if siblings are separated and mixed with other litters, stress increases and the learned stimulus of the group to feed is disturbed (Brooks et al., 2003). This experiment was part of a larger investigation into the voluntary feed intake of the piglet in the immediate post weaning period. We investigated the difference between mixed litter origin or sibling groups on latency to initiate feeding and performance to day six post weaning. We hypothesised that mixing litters would increase latency to first feeding and reduce growth rate in the first few days after weaning.
Responses to multiple chain enrichment in post weaned pigs
Authors: Benton H C , Bleach E C L
Published: June 2019

The social stressors associated with the abrupt weaning process on commercial farms can result in significant welfare issues for pigs; including behavioural problems and aggression, decreased immunological responses, reduced live weight gain and efficiency of feed conversion (van de Weerd and Day, 2008). Slats and slurry systems in commercial housing systems for grower pigs provide a barren environment which may exacerbate these problems. Enriched environments have been shown to reduce aggression in pigs, particularly where devices that have manipulative and destructive properties are used (Scott et al, 2007). However, studies often include a single device that does not permit all animals to interact with the enrichment at any one time. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of multiple metal chain enrichment on levels of aggression in growing pigs.
A comparison of behaviours of common squirrel monkeys (Saimiri sciureus) between enclosure designs at Cotswold Wildlife Park and Woburn Safari Park
Authors: Tosar N , Litten-Brown J C
Published: June 2019

The ability of a species to adapt to their captive conditions depends on how well the enclosure resembles its natural environment (Mallapur and Choudhury, 2003). Enabling captive animals to exert some control over their environment (e.g. feeding habits) allows for high animal welfare standards which has recently been achieved through environmental ‘enrichment’ using complex and diverse enclosure designs (Carlstead, 1996). The principal method of assessing a captive animal’s welfare is by observing their behaviours and comparing it to its wild relatives (Carlstead, 1996). Building on previous work (Williams and Litten-Brown, 2008), the objective of this study was to determine whether enclosure design has an effect on the behaviours of captive common squirrel monkeys (Saimiri sciureus).
Effects of supplemental vitamin E and packaging system on the shelf life of venison from red deer (Cervus elaphus) finished off grass or concentrates
Authors: Fisher A V , Richardson R I , Wheeler K P A , Davies M H
Published: June 2019

On exposure to oxygen, venison discolours at a faster rate than lamb, beef or pork (Trout and Gutzke, 1995) and a short shelf life is a problem for meat retailers. Increasing antioxidants in meat through the diet, and the type of packaging system used, can substantially improve shelf life. This study determined the effects of supplemental vitamin E and packaging system on colour stability and fat rancidity in venison from red deer finished off grass or concentrates.