Showing papers in "Archives Animal Breeding in 2000"

Vocalization of European wolves ( Canis lupus lupus L.) and various dog breeds ( Canis lupus f. fam.)

Abstract: . Barking in domestic dogs still remains a topic of controversial discussions. While some authors assess dogbarking an acoustic means of expression becoming more and more sophisticated during domestication, others name this sound type "non-communicative". Vocal repertoires as works on individual sound types are rare, however, and there has been almost no work done on Iow-intensity, close-range vocalizations, yet such types of vocalization are especially important with the more social canids, hence, with the human-dog-communication and understanding of dogs. Most of the investigations published so far are based on auditive sound impressions and lack objectivity. The principal method used in this study was sonagraphic. This facilitates the identiftcation of sounds and reveales, whether subjective Classification can be verified by objectively measured parameters. Finally, meanings, funetions and emotions were examined for all the major sounds described and are discussed in terms of relationships between sound structure and Signal function, signal emission and social context as behavioural response, and overlapping Channels of communication. Ontogeny of acoustic communication in 11 European wolves has been compared to various dog breeds (8 Standard Poodles, 8 Toy Poodles, 15 Kleine Munsterlander, 11 Weimaraner Hunting Dogs, 16 Tervueren, 12 American Staffordshire Terriers, and 13 German Shepherds, 12 Alaskan Malamutes, and 9 Bull Terriers) from birth up to 8 (12) weeks resp. 4 (12) months of age. Noisy and harmonic sound groups were analysed separately as overriding units. Following parameters were used: fmax=maximum of spectrographic pietured sounds (Hz), xfo=mean of the lowest frequency band of harmonic sounds (Hz), xfd = mean of the frequency of strongest amplitude of noisy sounds (Hz), delta f = frequency range of sounds (Hz), duration of sounds (ms). Statistical analysis was run on "Statistica", Release 4,0. Within the sound type barking 2 to 12 subunits were classified in the different breeds, aecording to their context-speeifie spectrographic design, and behavioural responses. Categories of function / emotion include f.e. social play, play soliticing, exploration, caregiving, social contact and "greeting", loneliness, and agonistc behaviours. "Interaction" was the most common category of social context for masted barkings (56% of oecurences). Especially close-range vocalizations, conceming the major sound type of most domestic dogs, the bark, evolved highly variable. However, the ecological niche of domestic dogs is highly variable, just as the individual differences in the dogs are, which seem to be breed-typical to a great extent. Thus, complexity within the dog's vocal repertoire, and therefore enhancement of its communicative value, is achieved by many subunits of bark, some standing for specific motivations, informations and expressions. Complexity within the dogs'vocal repertoire is extended by the use of mixed sounds in the barking context. Transitions and gradations to a great extend oeeur via bark sounds: harmonic, intermediate and noisy subunits.

Total merit indices in dual purpose cattle

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.

Body measurements as selection criteria for growth in South African hereford cattle

Abstract: . Birth weight (BW), weaning weight (WW), yearling weight (YW) and seven body measurements (cannon bone length at birth (CB); hip height at weaning (HHW); hip height at yearling (HHY); body length at weaning (BLW); body length at yearling (BLY); scrotum circumference at weaning (SCW) and scrotum circumference at yearling (SCY), measured in a Hereford stud (1497 animals) over a period of 19 years, were used in estimating genetic (co)variances, heritabilities and correlations. Nine different multitrait animal model evaluations were carried out whereby (co)variance components were estimated using the REML VCE 3.0 package. Estimates from different evaluations were pooled, weighing each estimate by the inverse of the sampling variance to calculate weighted mean variance ratios among the different traits. Generally, structural traits tended to have lower heritability estimates (CB = 0.24; HHW = 0.28; HHY = 0.33; BLW = 0.22; BLY= 0.14 ) when compared with literature values , while estimates for production traits compared well with estimates reported for the South African National Evaluation. Weights and linear body measurements were positively correlated (0.4−0.9). Negative correlations were found for scrotum, circumference at weaning and yearling with BW and CB respectively. SCW and BW: −0.54; SCY and BW: −0.65; SCW and CB: −0.66; SCY and CB: −.58. It is concluded that CB could serve as an early indicator of mature size and weights at different ages.

Die Fleischbeschaffenheit von Schweinekreuzungen mit besonderen Qualitätseigenschaften im Vergleich zum heutigen Standard- und Markenschweineangebot*

Abstract: . Title of the paper: Meat Quality in Pig Crosses with special quality characteristics as compared to present Standard and Brand Pork Supply In a field experiment in Niedersachsen products of six sire lines mated to BHZP hybrid sows of one herd were compared. They were fattened in 4 BEG-farms and slaughtered at the Premium abattoir Zeven, where meat quality traits were measured on about 3000 pig carcasses (300–800 per genetic group). It is shown that the present market Standard from stress susceptible PI(PP)-boars produces 20% PSE carcasses and the present quality brand Standard from PI*HA(NP) boars still 10%, whereas all stress resistent (NN) products range below 2% PSE. Hampshire crosses cause higher water –, reduced protein contents and lower final pH values among their progeny because of their disturbed glucose metabolism (RN-defect gene). Only in progeny of Danish Duroc boars the intramuscular fat content reached the desired 2%, German products ranged between 1.2–1.5 %. Recommendations for breeding more uniform endproducts with higher quality Standards are given.

Comparison of biochemical blood traits after long-term selection on high or low locomotory activity in mice

Abstract: . In a long term experiment laboratory mice were selected for high (line DU-hTP) or low (line DU-ITP) paternal treadmill Performance to differentiate the endurance fitness. In generation 54 six enzymes and seven Substrates were investigated in the blood plasma of males and females in DU-hTP (n = 104) and DU-ITP (n = 141). Compared with line DU-ITP in line DU-hTP significantly higher enzyme activities, increased glucose concentration and lower level of triglycerides were found. The components of total cholesterol were divergent between the two lines and positively effected in DU-hTP for higher HDL-cholesterol. Animals with high endurance fitness showed a higher gain in the HDL-cholesterol concentration with increased total cholesterol level in the blood than gain of LDL + VLDL-cholesterol concentration.

Die Wirkung von psychischem Streß auf das Immunsystem. Ein weiterer Grund für tiergerechte Haltung (Übersichtsreferat)

Abstract: . Title of the paper: The effect of psycho stress on the immune System. Another reason for pursuing animal welfare (Review) Stress can be seen as the body's most important and complex reaction to ensure survival. Thus, stress must be considered a fundamentally positive type of adaptive reaction and concepts of stress have to be integral parts in considering animal well-being. It is widely recognized that acute and chronic stress have an impact on the neuroendocrine and immune system, the latter being of special interest with respect to health and welfare of animals. This review intends to provide an integrative approach to the complex relationships between stress, behaviour, neuroendocrine and immune system of farm animals. Physiological mechanisms that mediate the effects of stress on immune function including basic mechanisms of neuroendocrine-immune network and principles of immuno-modulation are presented and discussed in consideration of their practical impact for livestock production.

Mast- und Schlachtleistung sowie Fleisch- und Fettqualität von Pietrain-Schweinen unterschiedlichen MHS-Genotyps und Geschlechts – 2. Mitteilung: Fettsäurenmuster der Depotfette Rückenspeck, Flomen und intermuskuläres Fett sowie der Gesamt- und Phospholipide des M. long, dorsi

Abstract: . Title of the Paper: Fattening and carcass Performance and meat- and fat quality of Pietrain pigs of different MHS-genotype and sex. II. Fatty acid pattern of the adipose tissues back fat, leaf fat and intermuscular fat and of the total- and phospholipids of the M. long, dorsi In this investigation the fatty acid pattern of the adipose tissues back fat (devided in dorsal and ventral compartment), leaf fat and intermuscular and the total and phospholipids of the M. long, dorsi of different MHSgenotypes and sexes of the Pietrain race have been compared. There were available 60 animals with equal numbers of the three MHS-genotypes (NN, Np, pp) and both sexes (castrates, gilts) (liveweight at the end of fattening: 150 kg). The decreasing presence of the stress allele p (pp > Np > NN) as well the castrates compared with the gilts were combined with increasing content of saturated and monounsaturated fatty acids and decreasing content of polyunsaturated fatty acids in all adipose tissues and in the total and phospholipids of the M. long, dorsi and thus with better technological quality. The results should additionally cause the selection stress resistent pigs of the Pietrain race.

Study on Friesian Herds Raised in Egypt and Germany I. Estimate of non-genetic effects and genetic parameters

Abstract: . Data on 2422 and 27756 Friesian cows in Egypt and Germany, respectively, were used to estimate genetic and non-genetic effects on initial milk yield in 70 days (IMY), 305-day milk yield (305-dMY), lactation period (LP) and calving interval (CI). Data were collected in the period from 1987 to 1992 in Egypt and from 1979 to 1993 in Germany. Least Squares analysis shows the significant effect of season and year of calving and parity on all traits. Least Squares analysis indicates that winter and spring calvers had the higher value in all traits studied than summer and autumn calvers of Friesian cows in Egypt, while in German Friesian cows, the autumn calvers had the higher value in all traits studied than summer and spring calvers. The results show that the milk yield increased with increased lactation Orders. Partial linear and quadratic regression coefficients indicate that age at calving was negatively associated with CI, while it showed positive association with LP and 305-dMY in Friesian cows in Egypt, while in German Friesian cows age at calving was negatively associated with LP and CI, while associated positively with milk yield. Heritabilities were 0.24, 0.22, 0.14 and 0.16 for IMY, 305-dMY, LP and CI, respectively of Friesian cows in Egypt and were 0.34, 0.24, 0.08 and 0.09 for IMY, 305-dMY, LP and CI, respectively in German Friesian cows. All phenotypic and genetic correlations between different traits studied were positive and significant.

Einfluss der Vatertierrasse auf die Verzehrsqualität von Schweinefleisch

Abstract: . Title ofthe paper: Eating quality of pork in well-chosen crossbreds The aim of the investigation was to present the effects of selected sire lines on the sensory quality of pork. By using a constant dam line (Large White * German Landrace) six sire breeds were included Hampshire, Duroc, Pietrain-NN, Pietrain-nn, Hampshire * Pietrain-nn, Duroc * Hampshire). 18 gilts and 18 castrates of each terminal crossbred were fattened aecording to the guidelines ofthe progeny-testing. In the traits evaluating the Status of PSE (pH,, electrical conduetivity, colour, drip loss) the descendants ofthe Pietrain-nn boars clearly decrease. Regarding different characteristics for the loss during heating (cooking loss, grilling loss, Rendement Napole) Duroc and Pietrain-NN sires cause positive and Hampshire sires negative effects. With respect to sensory traits and intramuscular fat content the descendants of Pietrain-nn are the worst and those of Duroc are the best. The latter however provide, together with Duroc * Hampshire offspring, the fattest carcass.

Effect of Vitamin E on changes in Phosphorus Compounds assessed by 31 P NMR Spectroscopy and ATPase from postmortem Muscle samples and Meat quality of Pigs

Abstract: . The effect of addition ofvitamin E (a-tocopherol) to pig diets on muscle metabolism of phosphorus Compounds, ATPase activity and meat quality was studied. Experimental pigs were fed with a diet supplemented with vitamin E (200 mg α-tocopherol/kg diet) for 60 days before slaughtered (110 kg live weight). Longissimus muscle (LD) Vitamin E level was more than twice higher (P Dietary vitamin E administered for 60 days to finishing pigs may have beneficial effects on muscle energetic metabolism, electrical conduetivity, and drip loss.

Selection index alternatives for increased marketing body weight with minimum concomitant reduction in body bone percentagerecourse to tissue dissection on Japanese quail

Abstract: . Live body weight, shank length, keel length and carcass dissection data taken at 6 weeks of age were available on 103 quails from 33 sires. In a principal factor analysis, the first varimax rotated factor explaining 46.1% of the total Variation, revealed that body weight had negative loading and all bone percentages positive. The implied contrast was confirmed by the finding that body weight (h,sup>2 = 0.61) was genetically correlated negatively with weight of total bone relative to body weight (−0.23) and to carcass weight (−0.58). Noticeably, shank length (SL) had large positive genetic correlation with body weight (0.90) and practically independent relationship with body bone percentage (−0.04). Selection indexes for meat production capacity were construeted. The breeding goal was defined as body weight (BW) and body bone percentage (BBP). The descending order ofthe unrestricted indexes with respect to the correlation between the index and genetic worth was: the full index utilising body weight, shank length and keel length (0.95), indexes based on body weight and one length measurement (0.86), body weight alone (0.78). The accuracy was reduced by 17–35% upon restraining changes in BBP to zero. This study indicated that an index of considerable accuracy and remarkable usefulness would be I3 = 4.56 BW + 244.87 SL. Use of this index should result in developing birds with higher body weight and more advantageous carcass attributes than selecting for body weight alone (L) or on the restricted full index (II(BBP)). Such three indexes were most efficient in limiting reduction in BBP.

A comparative gross and lipid composition of Murrah breed of buffalo and cross-bred cow's milk during different lactation stages

Abstract: . A comparative gross and lipid composition of the milk from buffalo and cross-bred cows, depicted that total lipid contents in buffalo milk are comparatively higher in early, mid lactation and almost two fold in late lactation than in cow. The total proteins, lactose and SNF (Solids-not-fat) Contents are comparatively higher in buffalo than in cow's milk. The calcium, phosphorus and ash Contents are comparatively higher in mid and late lactation than early lactation in both the species. Amongst lipids, triglycerides constitued the major fraction and phosphatidylcholine and sphingomyelin are the major phospholipids followed by phosphatidylserine and phosphatidylinositol in both the species and remained almost invariable during the whole of lactation period. The short chain fatty aeids (C4 to C10) are higher during mid than early and late lactation wheras total unsaturated fatty acids are lower during early and mid lactation than late lactation in both species.

Additive genetic variance and covariance in some reproduetive disorders in Hungarian Holstein Friesian using multi-trait animal model

Abstract: . Relationships between some reproduetive disorders in the first 3 lactations of Holstein Friesian cows were investigated for 1886 lactation records. Multiple-trait maximum likelihood procedure which included sire cow within sire as random effect and herd, parity, month and year of calving as fixed effects was used to estimate heritabilities and repeatabilities for the studied traits. Abortion within 60 days, retained placenta, ovarian cysts calving difficulty, dystocia, mastitis, and calving type were coded as 0 and 1 for heritability and repeatability estimations. Pooled and separate analysis were applied on the first 3 lactations. Abortion within 60 days retained placenta, ovarian cysts, calving difficulty, dystocia, mastitis, abortion no. and calving type had moderate heritability estimates which ranged from 0.15 to 0.24. Low heritability estimates and a weak sire variance component were obtained for milk fever. The most frequent disorder traits were mastitis, milk fever abortion no calving type and calving difficulty (0.37 to 0.72). Up word trend of heritability estimates with advancing order of lactation was observed for mastitis, abortion within 60 days, and abortion no. while heritability estimates for calving type, calving difficulty and dystocia had a back word trend. These results help in determining the suitable age of selection. Additive genetic variances and covariances among the studied traits have indicated reducing incidence rates if selection index procedure used in this filed. Strong negative genetic correlation between milk fever and abortion no. (−0.429) while negative phenotypic correlations between all studied traits were not more than −0.120 which was estimated for calving difficulty and abortion no.

Effects of dietary protein quality on energy metabolism and thyroid hormone Status in growing pigs

Abstract: . To estimate long-term effects of dietary protein quality on energy metabolism and thyroid hormone Status in growing pigs two experiments were carried out, each using 6 growing German Landrace barrows (40 to 90 kg body weight (BW)) per treatment group, which were fed semisynthetic isoenergetic diets based on either casein or soy protein isolate at 1875 kJ ME/(kg BW0,62 x d). Casein was tested with (CAS+) amino acid (AA) supplementation (methionine + cystine, threonine, tryptophane) and soy protein isolate was tested without (SPI-) AA supplementation at the recommended protein supply of 100% (normal protein level (NP)) and at a protein supply of 50% of NP. During experiments pigs were housed individually in metabolic cages at 23 ± 1 °C. At both protein supply levels, SP1- in comparison to CAS+ caused a lower protein energy retention (PER), which was compensated mainly by an increased fat energy retention (FER). The reduction of the protein supply to 50% caused a lower PER by 30 to 50% in both dietary qualities, which was compensated by a significantly higher FER. However, the heat production (HP) was neither affected by the protein quality nor by the quantity, and resulted in nearly similar values of 60% of ME intake. The thyroid hormone concentrations were dependent primarily on the amount of protein supply, and after decrease of supply to 50% secondly on the dietary protein quality. The increased thyroid hormone concentrations at the 50% protein level were in euthyroid range of pigs and obviously not associated with HP.

Possibilities of developing Favourable Body Fat Partition Via Selection Indexes – Application on Rabbits

Abstract: . Estimates of phenotypic and genetic parameters of body fat partition and other related traits were calculated using an experimental material of 152 New Zealand White rabbits of 15 bucks and 42 adult does. To construet nine selection indexes aiming at improving fat partition, estimates of phenotypic and genetic parameters for weight and linear dimensions of the live body were also obtained. The aggregate genotype included the percentage total body fat depositing subcutaneously and intermuscularly at the marketing age of 12 weeks. The full index included the weaning body weight, marketing body weight, body length, loin width and heart girth. The full index had the highest correlation with the true breeding value (rT| = 0.597). Comparable accuracy (rTi = 0.561) would be expected from the best-reduced index (I7 = 0.009 BW –0.988 HG) combining marketing body weight and heart girth. At each round of selection with intensity =1, such a reduced index is expected to result in developing rabbits with advantageous fat partition in terms of higher percentage total body fat depositing subcutaneously (+0.35 unit %), intermuscularly (+1.91 unit %) and intramuscularly (as reflected by 0.15 unit % increase in carcass muscle yield. As compared with its unrestricted form, the best reduced index reduced to zero change in total body fat (I7(TBF)) would result in drastic decline in percentage total fat depositing as kidney knob and Channel fat (+0.32 vs. –0.18 unit %) with little amelioration in percentage total fat aecumulating in the other depots. Selection on I7(TBF) instead of 17 would reduce improvement in marketing body weight (+0.52 vs. +0.33 gm), carcass yield (+0.10 vs. 0.04 unit %) and carcass boneless meat yield (+0.19 vs. 0.07 unit %) with increase of gain in carcass muscle yield (+0.15 vs. 0.32 unit %).

Untersuchungen zum Milchfluss aus Eutervierteln

Abstract: . Title of the paper: Investigation of milk flow from udder quarters 672 milk flow curves of 30 cows from the milkings of one quarter and from the corresponding complete milkings of the respective following day were registered. With the aid of the ultrasound technique and an imaging analysis system the teat Channel lengths, the teat wall thickness and the teat tissue areas were meseared before and after milking. The duration of decreasing flow rate of the complete milking can be explained by the traits of the milk flow curves of the quarter milkings. The maximum flow rate and the average flow rate were influenced by the shape traits of the teat apex.

Functional dissection of the insulin-like growth factor (IGF) svstem – prospects for animal breeding

Abstract: . Growth is a biological phenomenon that is subject to complex endo-, para-, and autocrine control mechanisms. In addition to insulin, thyroid hormones, sex steroids, and growth hormone (GH), components of the IGF system have been identified as key players in growth regulation. However, since altered growth is often associated with multiple changes in this complex regulatory network, the specific effects of individual components remain to be determined. Therefore, our lab focused on the functional dissection of the IGF system using transgenic mice and other animal models which are characterized by altered expression of individual members of this system. Here we review some of our findings identifying members of the IGF family as candidate genes which may affect important traits in livestock production.

Effects of genetic control of subcutaneous fat deposition via using restricted selection indexes on live Performance and carcass characteristics of Pekin ducklings

Abstract: . Estimates of phenotypic and genetic parameters for live Performance and detaiied dissection traits of body components and carcass tissues in Pekin ducks were calculated and used to construct selection indexes. The expected reduction in potential gain in live weight, dressing percentage and carcass characteristics resulting from restricting change in subcutaneous fat level to zero were assessed. The aggregate genotype measurements were weight at slaughter, dressing percentage and percent subcutaneous fat. The index measurements were weight at hatching, weight at slaughter, weight gain, breast width, breast length and breast circumference. The restricted indexes as compared with the unrestricted would lead to minimum reduction in potential gain of 29.4% in total net merit, 96.4% in weight at slaughter, 49.0% in dressing percentage, 74.0% in dissected side weight and 75.0% in muscle to bone ratio. The potential reduction in percent abdominal fat and percent bone in side was decreased by at least 38.5% and 80.2%, respectively. Absolute genetic response results showed that selecting for breast width alone (rTI = 0.79) would be recommended for birds with substandard levels of SCF, whereas use of the restricted index containing weight at hatching and breast width (rTI = 0.54) would be advised for individuals with Standard fatness.

Genetische Beziehungen zwischen individueller Futteraufnahme während der Eigenleistungsprüfung und Fruchtbarkeitsmerkmalen beim Schwein

Abstract: . Title of the paper. Genetic association between individual feed intake during Performance test and reproductions traits in pigs The present study deals with the estimation of genetic correlations between Performance test traits measured in boars and reproduction traits of their offspring (sibs) of two purebred lines. Performance traits were individual feed intake (FI) recorded by electronic feeder, feed conversion ratio (FCR), average daily gain (ADG) and backfat thickness (BF). Reproduction traits were number of total piglets born (NBT) and born alive (NBA) Data of 4869 young boars, Performance tested between April 1992 and May 1997 and data of 9710 primiparous sows farrowed between June 1994 to November 1998, were observed. Heritabilities of Performance traits recorded on Station were in line 03 (line 04) h2 = 0.24 (0.33), 0.33 (0.33), 0.23 (0.32) and 0.47 (0.53) for FI, ADG FCR and BF, respectively. Heritabilities of reproduction traits such as NBT, NBA were in line 03 (line 04) h2 = 0 05 (0.08) and 0.05 (0.06), respectively. Genetic correlation between individual feed intake and reproduction traits ranged between rg = 0.12 and 0.27. Undesirable genetic correlations were found between reproduction traits and feed efficiency (rg = 0.13 to 0.44), backfat thickness (rg = 0.07 to 0.25) and partly average daily gain (rg = −010 to 0.09). Line 04 showed lowest magnitude of feed intake and highest genetic antagonism between production and reproduction traits. It is suggested that feed intake capacity is a limiting factor for reproduction in line 04 and genetic antagonism between production and reproduction traits increases with reduction in feed intake.

Effects of the MHS locus on growth, carcass and meat quality traits in F 2 crosses between Mangalitza and Piétrain breeds

Abstract: . A total of 345 F2 animals from a crossbred design Mangalitza (homozygous NN) x Pietrain (homozygous nn) were fed ad libitum at the institute's Thalhausen Research Station and slaughtered at a live weight of approximately 100 kg. MHS genotypes (67 nn, 192 Nn and 86 NN) were determined directly in a DNA test targeting the ryanodine reeeptor locus. Models for analysis of variance included sire, dam, pen, slaughter group, sex and MHS effects. Growth Performance was generally lower and carcass composition minor compared to other breeds and crosses. No significant differences were found between MHS genotypes for growth traits but NN animals tended to be less eflicient with respect to food conversion. However, nearly all measurements of the carcass showed significant differences between nn and NN which were especially pronounced for sidefat thickness (−7 1mm) fat over the musculus longissimus dorsi (−8.8 mm) and loin eye area (+8.7 cm2) as well as fat area (−5.1 cm2) We found Nn animals performing similar to NN animals due to incomplete dominance of the N allele. As expected nn had a substantial negative influence on meat quality compared to NN and Nn (e.g. −0.61 and −0.15 for pH 45 min, respectively). Intramuscular fat content was at a high level and nn had significantly lower values with differences of −0.40% and −0.25% relative to NN and Nn, respectively. A whole genome scan is currently underway with emphasis on fat measurements which showed promising Variation in this study.

Mechanismen der Bewältigung von Stress

Abstract: . Title of the paper: Coping strategies during stress The response to Stressors requires a progression of events beginning with sensing and signalling the animal's various biological mechanisms that a threat exists. These events are followed by activation of neurophysiological mechanisms to mount a biological effort to resist and prevent major damage. The various sensory detectors not only receive the information but transform that information into neural signals that are transmitted to either or botn cognitive and non-cognitive centres of the nervous system to generate a co-ordinated response to the challenge. The hypothalamic-adrenal medullary system involves the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, the sympathetic neural pathways to the adrenal medulla, and the release of epinephrine by the adrenal gland. This short acting stressresponse was originally proposed by W. Cannon and is referred to as the Fight-Flight Syndrome (FFS). The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical (HPA) stress-response System represents a longer-term, sustained response to Stressors and was conceptualised by Hans Selye (General Adaptation Syndrome, GAS). The major adrenal cortical hormones are corticosteroids and aldosterone. These two classical stress response Systems have been linked to different coping pattern in that FFS is primarily activated in situations of threat of control, whereas the pituitary-adrenocortical System is activated in situations of loss of control. Besides these classical physiological Systems other Systems are activated during stress, including the immune system. Recent research suggests that the endocrine, immune and central nervous Systems interact and respond to stressful Stimuli in a co-ordinated manner. The presence of hormones, neurotransmitters and receptors common to all three Systems Supports the view that communication exists between these Systems. Psychological Stressors perceived as threats may be equally important as those of a physical nature in challenging coping mechanisms. Situations of uncertainty, social pressure and fear are potent Stressors with relevance for the well-being of animals, leading to severe damage to specific target organs and tissues or even to death in some species. Studies on stress responses in farm animals are often conducted on the basis of single physiological alterations or irregular behavioural phenomena that might be difficult to interpret. Non-invasive methods for measuring stress-indicating parameters have been developed in addition to classical descriptive behavioural observations, allowing an evaluation of stress by multiple criteria under different housing conditions and handling procedures.

Comparative evaluation of abnormal spermatozoa in Pannon White, New Zealand White and Angora rabbit semen (short communication)

Abstract: . The connection between sperm cell abnormalities and the breeds and seasons was studied. Semen was obtained from 20 Pannon White (PW), 20 New Zealand White (NZW) and 20 Angora (A) males monthly throughout a year. 697 ejaculates were evaluated. The average abnormal spermatozoa content of the ejaculates was 16.07 ± 1.77, 16.50 ± 0.2I and 27.34 ± 0.30 % respectively. The incidence of head and tail abnormalities was higher than that of other abnormalities in every group, but in A rabbits acrosome abnormalities were also at a significantly high level. The ratio of deformations was higher (P

Application of Video Image Analysis in the slaughter value estimation of live Simmental bulls (short communication)

Abstract: . A Video Image Analysis (VIA) was used for slaughter value analysis. The equipment was composed of a Cannon Stil Video Camera ION RC-260, IBM PC 486 DX, SVGA video card, V- Media Frame grabber and original Software. The images were obtained from 63 dual- purpose Simmental bulls at the age of 15 months (536 kg live weight). Three images of each animal were taken from above , from the left side and from the rear. Twelve VIA- processed traits of body conformation, live weight and three characteristic of slaughter value indicators were correlated. Live weight before slaughter, cold carcass weight, weight of meat in carcass, weight of meat in valuable cuts were found to be highly correlated with the animals Shoulder width, lumbar protuberance in the body width, body area from above, thigh rear area (r = 0.43–0.75). Certain body conformation characteristics with the highest correlation coefficient were used to construet a stepwise linear regression model for estimating the slaughter value of live bulls. The coefficients of determination of such a model were high (R2= 0.80–0.94) and showed the feasibility of using the method for predicting the slaughter value of live bull. It could also be applied as a selection criterion base on individual Performance test. Other advantages of the method are its low cost and high speed of Operation.

A comparison of different methods of estimating sire transmitting ability of some milk traits in a herd of Holstein Friesian cattle

Abstract: . A total of 1931 normal first lactation records of Holstein Friesian cows kept at Dena Farm in Egypt during the period from 1987 to 1994 were used to estimate phenotypic and genetic parameters for 90 day milk yield (90 dMY), 305 day milk yield (305 dMY) and lactation period (LP). In addition, 76 bulls with at least ten daughters were used to compare three methods of sire transmitting ability. A least Squares analysis of variance show significant effect of month and year of calving and age at first calving for different traits studied, except the effect of age at first calving on LP. Heritability estimates for 90 dMY, 305 dMY and LP were 0.39 ± 0.08, 0.27 ± 0.07 and 0.14 ± 0.05, respectively. Genetic and phenotypic correlations between different traits were positive and significant. Sires with at least ten daughters were evaluated by best linear unbiased prediction (BLUP), least Squares means (LSM) and regression of the future daughters mean on the present daughters mean. The product moment correlations between different traits studied were positive and high (= 0.96).

Rumen fermentation and retention time ofthe digesta in growing cattle ofthe breeds Black-White Dairy Cattle, Galloway, and Highland

Abstract: . The objectives of this study were to describe ruminal fermentation, mean retention time (MRT) ofthe particulate digesta in the whole gastrointestinal tract and the apparent digestibility of nutrients in growing cattle of the genotypes Black-White Dairy Cattle (B), Galloway (G), and Highland (H). Two experiments were carried out in bulls aged 11–12 months (mean weight 260 kg) or 9–10 months (mean weight 210 kg) at the beginning and fed diets varying in the nutrient composition and nutrition level. B bulls had a higher rumenoreticular volume, a higher MRT when fed a low nutrition level, a higher ruminal pH and a lower acetate/propionate ratio in the rumen than G bulls (P 3 level, and the protozoa number in the rumen were smaller in B bulls. The differences between genotypes in apparent digestibility of organic matter (OM) and crude cellulose were small. In some cases digestibility was significantly (P

Marker controlled inheritance of the polled locus in Simmental cattle.

Abstract: . The inheritance of the polled phenotype in Simmental cattle was tested for linkage with alleles of four microsatellite markers on the proximal region of BTA1. For the study half-sib offspring of three sires were selected which are known to be heterozygous for the polled condition. The analysis of 57 animals (42 polled and 15 horned) revealed complete linkage between the polled locus and the markers BM6438 and SODlMicro2. The reliability of the prediction of the horn Status of the offspring for marker assisted selection was estimated from its marker genotype in comparison to the patemal haplotype phases responsible for polledness, and from the allele frequencies of the favoured marker alleles in the random population.

Interrelationships between breed, growth hormone genotype, plasma IGF-I level and meat Performance in bulls of different ages (short communication)

Abstract: . The aim of our studies was to determine, whether difference in GH alleles affect growth Performance in cows and whether these effects may be mediated by IGF-I. The presence of L (leucine-rich) and V (valine-rich) alleles of GH, plasma IGF-I level and changes in body mass were analyzed in 84 bulls of Simmental (meat) and Holstein (milk) breeds at 90 d and 180 d of age using PCR, agarose gel electrophoresis and IRMA The agedependent increase in body mass, daily gain and plasma IGF-I concentration was observed in Simmental bulls. In Holstein bulls the age-dependent rise in plasma IGF-I was also found, whilst Holstein bulls had significantly lover IGF-I level, than Simmental bulls. The proportion of LL, VV and LV genotypes of GH in the randomly selected herd of Simmental bulls was 0.25:0.20:0.55. Animals of VV genotype had lower body mass, daily gain and plasma IGF-I level, than bulls of LL and LV genotypes, whilst no differences in these indexes between LL and LV genotypes were found. The observed association of growth rate, GH genotype and IGF-I level, suggest that GH genotype may affect meat Performance via IGF-I secretion.

Liegeverhalten von Pferden in Gruppenauslaufhaltung

Abstract: . Titel of the paper: Recumbence resting behaviour of horses in loose housing Systems with open yards Recumbence resting behaviour was investigated in 48 horses in four loose housing Systems with open yards subdivided in areas for feeding, recumbence and for free range. Continuous observations were made for each loose housing system on three independent days during a 24-hr period. In all housing Systems the horses chose exclusively the area of recumbence to rest in sternal or lateral position. On the one hand the dimension of the area of recumbence influenced we recumbence resting behaviour. In the fourth housing system the insufftcient recumbence area reduced the resting time. At the other hand the time of recumbence was dependent on social rank. The animals with lower rank showed a significant shorter recumbence time than the horses with higher rank. However the frequency of recumbence was similar in all horses independent of stable, social rank and age. The results clearly show, that the dimension of the area of recumbence as the only parameter is not enough to satisfy the demand of recumbence in all horses.

Genetic relationship between days open and days dry with milk yield in a herd of Holstein Friesian cattle

Abstract: . A total of 2897 lactation records of Holstein Friesian cattle from the fields of Dena Farm in Egypt from 1987 to 1993 were used to study relationships of days open and days dry with milk production. The effect of month and year of calving, sire and cow within sires were also investigated. Month of calving, year of calving, sire and cow within sires significantly influenced milk production. Including DO and DP as a polynomial of second degree of production were significant. The partial linear and quadratic regression coefficients of 305 day milk yield on DO and DP were significant, being 7.59 ± 0.40 kg/d and −0.37 ± 0.00 kg/d2, respectively for DO and −9.37 ± 0.54 kg/d and 0.02 ± 0.00 kg/d2, respectively for DP. Therefore, reduction of DO and DP are a desirable goal of dairymen. Heritability (h2) estimates for 305 day milk yield, DO, DP were 0.13 ± 0.05, 0.00 and 0.00, respectively. Adjustment of lactation milk yield for DO will not involve genetic influence on milk yield.

Genetic parameters of production and reproduetive traits in on a farm tested Danish Large White and Landrace swine in Greece

Abstract: . Production and reproduetive traits in Danish Landrace (LD) and Large White (LW) swine were analysed by restricted maximum likelihood methods to obtain heritabilities as well as genetic and phenotypic correlations. Production traits were: age, backfat thickness (BT), muscle depth (MD) and the ratio BT/MD, adjusted to Standard bodyweight of 85 kg. Reproduction traits were: number of pigs born (NB) and number of pigs weaned (NW) per sow and parity. Heritabilities for age, BT, MD and BT/MD were 0.60, 0.44, 0.51 and 0.42 for LD and 0.36, 0.44, 0.37 and 0.45 for LW, respectively. Genetic correlations between age and BT were −0.22 in LD and – 0.44 in LW. The genetic correlation between age and MD was close to zero in both breeds. Genetic correlation between BT and MD were −0.36 and −0.25 in LD and LW, respectively. Heritabilities for NB were 0.25 in LD and 0.13 in LW while heritabilities for NW were close to zero in both breeds. Genetic correlation between NB and NW was 0.46 and 0.70 in LD and LW, respectively.