The goal of my thesis was to find out whether it is possible to distinguish among individual dog breeds from the protein analysis of their fur. This knowledge could be used, for example, in forensic science. In this work, there was also a comparison of the similarity of dog breeds with a wolf, which was domesticated and is considered as an ancestor of the dog. For this study, the hair of three representatives of sixteen dog breeds was collected. To analyse these samples enzyme cleavage was used a trypsin, and mass spectra were obtained by MALDI- TOF MS (Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization - Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry) and LC/MS-MS (Liquid Chromatography with Tandem Mass Spectrometry) methods. The obtained data were evaluated by the PCA (Principal Component Analysis) and LDA (Linear Discriminant Analysis) method. It was found, that individual dog breeds cannot be distinguished using both methods. KEYWORDS proteomics, coat, dog, breeds, mass spectrometry

This thesis builds on my bachelor thesis "Selected mammals in elementary and secondary education". It deals with the opinions of 8th and 9th grade pupils of elementary schools on the dangers posed by selected mammal species. Among the selected species in this work are brown bear (Ursus arktos), wolf (Canis lupus), lynx (Lynx lynx), fox (Vulpes vulpes), dog (Canis lupus familiaris), and wild boar (Sus strofa). All these animals are found in the territory of the Czech Republic. In addition to the perception of dangers posed by these mammals, the thesis also ascertains knowledge of and attitude towards these selected species. The pupils also expressed their opinions about dog breeds and stated whether they currently had a dog, or had had one in the past, and if so, what kind it was. The study was conducted on the basis of a questionnaire survey. Questionnaires were given out at primary schools in areas, where some of the beasts abide (brown bear, wolf, lynx). The work also contains information about individual mammal species that were studied as well as the introduction of the domestic dog, its domestication and an overview of dog breeds. Key words: bear, wolf, dog, lynx, fox, wild boar, breeds

MRDV / Institute for Rural Development / See the attached abstract below

Thesis (M. Tech. (Agriculture)) - Central University of Technology, Free state, 2013 / The objectives of the study were to find the relationship between live performance and testis traits of South African indigenous cockerels on Naked Neck, Ovambo and Potchefstroom Koekoek (Trial 1). Characterise Naked Neck, Ovambo and Potchefstroom Koekoek cockerels’ semen macroscopically and microscopically (Trial 2). To investigate the relationship between phenotypic and sperm traits of the South African indigenous cockerels Naked Neck, Ovambo and Potchefstroom Koekoek. (Trial 3). Quantification of indigenous cockerels sperm traits measured by Computer Assisted Sperm Analysis (CASA) technology and the relationship to fertility (Trial 4). The cockerels shank, comb and wattle length were recorded with a vernier calliper. A total of 198 ejaculates were collected from 33 cockerels; Ovambo (n=11), Potchefstroom Koekoek (n=11) and Naked Neck (n=11) by means of an abdominal massage technique. Following analysis, 0.25 ml undiluted semen dose from Naked Neck (NN, 11), Ovambo (OV, 11) and Potchefstroom Koekoek (PK, 11) cockerels were inseminated NN (30), OV (30) and PK (30) hens once per week for 6 weeks. Semen was analysed macroscopically and microscopically. The sperm motility rate was evaluated with the aid of the Computer Assisted Sperm Analysis (CASA) called Sperm Class Analyser (SCA) system. Breed significantly (P< 0.05) affected the body weight of Ovambo (2.5±0.4kg), Naked Neck (2.0±0.3kg) and Potchefstroom Koekoek (2.3±0.3kg) cockerels, OV was statistically heavier than NN and PK. The semen volume of Naked Neck (0.5±0.2ml) breed was significantly higher, when compared to Ovambo (0.4±0.2ml), but similar to Potchefstroom Koekoek (0.3±0.2ml) breed. The overall sperm motility rate of Ovambo (95.0±7.2%), Potchefstroom Koekoek (86.0±13.7%) Naked Neck (76.4±22.2%) group was significantly different. The normal sperm morphology in the Naked Neck (76.4±22.2%) was significantly lower when compared to Potchefstroom Koekoek (86.0±13.7%) and Ovambo (95.0±7.2%) cockerels. A positive correlation existed between body weight and semen volume for Potchefstroom Koekoek (r=0.1477) cockerels only. Moreover, there was a positive correlation between the body weight and total sperm motility for Naked Neck (r=0.3848), Ovambo (r=0.4871) and Potchefstroom Koekoek (r=0.2230) cockerels. However, a negative correlation existed between body weight and semen volume for Naked Neck (r=-0.4502) and Ovambo (r=-0.1244). There was no significant differences (P>0.05) on the shank length (SL), comb length (CL) and wattle length WL) of Naked Neck (8.4, 5.4 and 5.6 cm), Ovambo (8.3, 5.8 and 6.0 cm) and Potchefstroom Koekoek (7.7, 5.9 and 5.6). There was a positive correlation between shank length and wattle length, comb length, semen volume, sperm concentration, semen pH and live normal sperm, inversely, a negative correlation of body weight and total sperm motility was observed. Introspective a negative correlation existed between body weight and total motility. Ovambo (11.45±0.9 g) had the highest live weight of testis, it was significantly different from Naked Neck (9.2±0.8g) and Potchefstroom Koekoek (8.9±0.8 g). For average length of the testis there was a significant difference amongst all breeds, Ovambo (4.0±0.5 cm), Naked Neck (3.4±0.3 cm) and Potchefstroom Koekoek (3.7±0.4 cm). Following Al, significant differences were recorded in Potchefstroom Koekoek and produced eggs that had highest average egg weight (55.5 g), fertility (68.2 %), hatchability (78.6 %), percentage of normal chicks (80.1%) and chick weight (37.9 g) compared to Ovambo (40.4 g, 5 2.1 % , 70.2 %, 71.5 %, 32.8 g and Naked Neck (37.1 g, 50.6 %, 71.1 %, 75.8 % and 23.5 g). In order to achieve the highest level of fertility and hatched of fertile eggs, an adequate number of active males that are producing high quality semen should be maintained in the breeder house at all times. In conclusion, body weight positively affected semen volume and sperm motility rate but this was breed dependent. The Sperm of Potchefstroom Koekoek and Ovambo resulted in a better motility and morphology rate. The Sperm Class Analyser or CASA provided more precise, repeatable and objective information. Evaluation of the sperm motility rate of South African indigenous cockerels holds potential for future use in semen evaluation. Body weight of all three indigenous breeds was positively correlated with sperm concentration, semen pH, and total sperm motility. Shank and wattle length of all three indigenous breeds were positively correlated with semen volume, sperm concentration, and semen pH but not with total sperm motility. However, comb length was positively correlated with semen volume and pH, sperm concentration, and total motility. In conclusion, there is no correlation between live performance and testis traits. Though the study suggests that body weight and testicular length are good indicators of sperm production. Simple and indirect method of estimation is still needed to predict the fertility of the breeding cockerels. In order to achieve the highest level of fertility and hatch of fertile eggs, an adequate number of active males that are producing high quality semen should be maintained in the breeder house at all times. The Potchefstroom Koekoek, Ovambo and Naked Neck donated quality semen as well as in improving the fertility and hatchability traits of the indigenous chicken breeds. Chicken hatched from larger eggs had higher body weight, hatchability and fertility therefore breeders should select bigger egg sizes probably of 50-55g for breeding programmes. Consequently, the local cockerels have higher potential for use in natural mating and Al programmes since seminal traits could be a viable index for selection of breeding cockerels.

Thesis (MScAgric (Animal Sciences))--University of Stellenbosch, 2009. / ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Fluctuations and a general decline in the ratio between wool and meat prices resulted in marked changes in the South African sheep industry. Commercial producers now exploit other mechanisms such as terminal crossbreeding of Merino-type with meat type breeds or dual-purpose breeds to attain short-term benefits resulting from price fluctuations between wool and mutton without compromising the wool-producing capacities of ewe flocks. Most components of lamb production have low heritability. However, heterosis can be achieved by mating wool-type breeds with specialist meat breed rams. Genetic improvement of livestock depends on defining breeding objectives, estimation of genetic parameters and accurately identifying the right animals to be used for future breeding. Genetic parameters for traits of economic importance in terminal sire sheep breeds that could be used on Merino-type ewes in commercial operations in South Africa had not been published for the national flock apart from a preliminary study having been conducted by Olivier et al. (2004). Selection objectives were poorly defined due to lack of parameter estimates for variance and covariance components. Against this background, this study obtained pedigree information and live weight data from the National Small Stock Improvement Scheme for the Dormer, Ile de France and Merino Landsheep and estimated non-genetic factors and genetic parameters influencing early growth traits. Genetic and phenotypic trends for early growth traits were constructed for the three breeds to monitor genetic progress. Non-genetic factors influencing early growth traits in the Dormer, Ile de France and Merino Landsheep were estimated using data obtained from the National Small Stock Improvement Scheme of South Africa. The original data sets for the Dormer, Ile de France and Merino Landsheep consisted of the following number of records respectively: 52 202, 35 553 and 7 772. However, pre-weaning weights were available for the Ile de France and Merino Landsheep breeds only and post-weaning weights were available only for the Dormer breed. The data sets were complicated to such an extent that smaller data sets had to be generated to analyse for fixed effects. The traits that were analysed were birth weight, pre-weaning weight, weaning weight and post-weaning weight. The fixed effects, identified as having a significant effect (P < 0.01) on early growth traits were sex of lamb, birth type, age of dam, contemporary groups, age at which the trait was recorded and month of birth and year of birth in the Merino Landsheep breed. Although some significant interactions were found, they were subsequently ignored owing to their very small effects. In all three breeds, male lambs were significantly (P < 0.001) heavier than female lambs and single-borne lambs were significantly heavier at birth than multiple borne lambs. The age of dam had a significant curvilinear regression on all early growth traits in all three terminal sire sheep breeds. It was concluded from the study that the influence of non-genetic factors on early growth traits should be adjusted for or eliminated statistically in genetic evaluations to get accurate genetic parameter estimations. (Co)variance estimates for birth weight, weaning weight and post-weaning weight were obtained for the Dormer breed using restricted maximum likelihood procedures (REML). Direct heritabilities (h2) in single-trait analyses were 0.21 ± 0.03, 0.23 ± 0.02 and 0.29 ± 0.05 for birth weight, weaning weight and post-weaning weight, respectively. Direct heritabilities of 0.28 ± 0.04, 0.55 ± 0.06 and 0.32 ± 0.02 for birth weight, weaning weight and post-weaning weight respectively were obtained using three-trait analysis. Direct maternal genetic effects (m2) were excluded from the analyses because of the failure to partition maternal effects into maternal genetic and maternal permanent environmental effects (m2 and c2). This culminated as a consequence of poor data and population structures emanating from the loss of genetic links across flocks due to the random entrance and exit of flocks from the recording scheme. Maternal permanent environment was estimated at 0.15 ± 0.02, 0.13 ± 0.02 and 0.20 ± 0.03 for birth weight, weaning weight and post-weaning weight respectively using single-trait analysis. The correlation between direct effects and maternal effects (ram) was excluded from the analyses due the structure of the data. Genetic, phenotypic and environmental correlations between early growth traits were low to moderate. The medium to high heritability estimates for early growth traits obtained in the study led to the conclusion that Dormer sheep can successfully be used in terminal crossbreeding programs to improve meat production characteristics. Direct heritability estimates were 0.31 ± 0.14, 0.09 ± 0.02 and 0.14 ± 0.003 for birth weight, pre-weaning weight and weaning weight respectively using single-trait analysis for the Ile de France breed. Maternal effects were significant for all the traits studied despite the failure to properly partition them into their components due to the loss of genetic linkages across generations emanating from poor data structure. Genetic, phenotypic and environmental correlations were estimated using three-trait analysis and were found to be low to moderate for early growth traits. Direct genetic and maternal permanent environmental ratios were also computed and they did not differ much from the results obtained using single-trait analyses. The reasonable genetic parameter estimates obtained in the study led to the conclusion that the Ile de France can be selected to use as sires in crossbreeding programs. Genetic parameters were estimated for early growth traits in the Merino Landsheep breed. REML estimates of birth weight, pre-weaning weight and weaning weight were obtained using animal models in single-trait analyses. The direct heritability estimate for birth weight was 0.23 ± 0.13 using an animal model with additive direct genetic effects and dam permanent environmental effects as the only random factors. The dam permanent environmental effect for birth weight amounted to 0.10 ± 0.07. Direct heritability for pre-weaning weight was 0.36 ± 0.05 and the dam permanent environmental effect 0.56 ± 0.03. Weaning weight was estimated using an animal model that contained direct additive effects and dam permanent environmental effects. The direct heritability estimate for weaning weight was 0.17 ± 0.03. Maternal genetic effects were estimated to be 0.02 ± 0.01. Genetic and phenotypic trends were constructed for early growth traits in the Dormer, Ile de France and Merino Landsheep breeds. The traits that were considered were birth weight, pre-weaning weight, weaning weight and post-weaning weight. However, pre-weaning weights were available for the Ile de France and Merino Landsheep breeds only and post-weaning weights were available only for the Dormer breed. The Dormer exhibited significant improvement in the phenotypic and genetic aspects of early growth traits during the 17 years of evaluation (1990-2007). The average predicted direct breeding values of birth weight decreased by 0.055 % during the evaluation period. The predicted direct breeding value for weaning weight increased by 0.12 % during the 17 year period. Post-weaning weight improved by 0.32 % per annum. The Ile de France registered an increase in the predicted breeding value of birth weight which amounted to 0.025 % per annum. Averaged direct breeding values for pre-weaning weight increased at an annual rate of 0.23 %. and that of weaning weight increased by 1.21 %. In the Merino Landsheep the predicted direct breeding value for birth weights decreased by 0.04 % per annum and pre-weaning and weaning weights increased by 0.36 % and 0.10 % respectively. The trends were obviously biased due to inconsistencies in data structure and very few records available for analysis in this breed. In conclusion, it was evident that the additive genetic variation was available for all the early growth traits in all the three breeds. Although adequate genetic variation for substantial genetic progress was available, only modest rates of progress were attained for all the traits in all three breeds. The only possible exception was weaning weight in the Ile de France breed, which improved at > 1 % per annum. At least all changes were in the desired direction. Breeders should be encouraged to record data consistently, as one of the major shortcomings in the data for all breeds were a lack of continuity in the submission of data to the NSIS. More informative analyses ought to be feasible if this requisite could be met. / AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Die wisselende en algemene afname in die prysverhouding van wol tot vleis het merkbare veranderinge in die Suid-Afrikaanse skaapbedryf teweeggebring. Kommersïele produsente maak nou gebruik van ander metodes soos terminale kruisteling van Merino-tipe ooie met vleis tipe vaars of dubbel-doel rasse om korttermynvoordele uit die wisselende wol en vleis pryse te behaal, sonder om die wol-produksie potensiaal van die ooi-kudde te benadeel. Die meeste van die lamproduksie eienskappe het ‘n lae oorerflikheid. Nietemin, kan heterose wel behaal word deur die kruisteling van wol-tipe rasse met spesialis vleisramme. Genetiese verbetering van vee is afhanklik van die beskrywing van die teeltdoelwitte, die akkurate beraming van genetiese parameters en die noukeurige identifikasie van die geskikste diere vir toekomstige teling. Genetiese parameters vir ekonomies belangrike eienskappe van terminale ramrasse wat gebruik kan word op Merino-tipe ooie in die kommersiële skaapbedryf in Suid-Afrika is nog nie gepubliseer vir die nasionale kudde nie, behalwe vir ‘n voorlopige studie wat gedoen is deur Olivier et al. (2004). Seleksiedoelwitte is nie duidelik beskryf nie a.g.v ‘n tekort aan akkurate parameterberamings vir (ko)variansie komponente. Hierdie studie het dus stamboominligting en lewende gewig data verkry vanaf die Nasionele Kleinveeverbeteringsskema vir die Dormer-, Ile de France- en die Merino landskaaprasse en nie-genetiese faktore sowel genetiese parameters vir vroeë lamgewigte beraam. Genetiese en fenotipiese tendense vir vroeë lamgewigte is vervolgens opgestel vir drie rasse om genetiese vordering te evalueer. Die oorspronklike datastelle vir die Dormer, Ile de France en die Merino Landskaap het uit die volgende aantal rekords bestaan, onderskeidelik: 52 202, 35 553 en 7 772. Voor-speen gewigte was net beskikbaar vir die Ile de France- en die Merino Landskaaprasse, en na-speen gewigte was net beskikbaar vir die Dormerras. Die beperkings in die datastelle het genoodsaak dat dat kleiner datastelle ontwikkel moes word om die vaste effekte te analiseer. Die eienskappe wat ge-analiseer was, was geboortegewig, voor-speengewig, speengewig en naspeengewig. Die vaste effekte wat vroeë lamgewigte betekenisvol (P < 0.01) beïnvloed het, was geslag van die lam, geboortestatus, ouderdom van die ooi, kontemporêre groep, die ouderdom waarop die eienskap aangeteken is en (in sommige gevalle) die maand en jaar van geboorte. Alhoewel daar sommige betekenisvolle interaksies was, is dit nie in die finale modelle ingesluit nie, omdat dit min tot die verklaarde variasie bygedra het. In al die rasse het ramlammers swaarder (P < 0.001) geweeg as ooilammers. Enkelinge was ook swaarder (P<0.001) as meerlinge. Die ouderdom van die moer van die lam het ‘n beduidende kromlynige invloed op alle vroeë lamgewigte by al drie terminale ramrasse gehad. Die gevolgtrekking van hierdie studie is dat die invloed van nie-genetiese faktore op vroeë lamgewigte in ag geneem moet word, of dat dit moet statisies elimineer word in die genetiese evaluasie om akkurate genetiese beramings te verkry. (Ko)variansie beramings vir geboortegewig, speengewig en na-speengewig is deur gebruik te maak van die “restricted maximum likelihood procedures” (REML) vir die Dormerras verkry. Die direkte oorerflikheid (h2) wat verkry was deur die mees geskikste diere model in ‘n enkel-eienskap analise te gebruik was onderskeidelik 0.21 ±0.02, 0.23 ±0.02 en 0.29± 0.05 vir geboortegewig, speengewig en na-speengewig. Direkte ooreenstemende oorerflikheid wat uit die drie-eienskap analise was 0.28±0.04, 0.55±0.06 en 0.32±0.02 onderskeidelik vir geboortegewig, speengewig en na-speengewig. Direkte maternale genetiese effekte (m2) is uitgesluit vanaf die analise weens die onvermoë om die maternale effekte te verdeel in maternale genetiese effekte en maternale permanente omgewings effekte (m2 en c2). Dit was a.g.v onvolledige data en populasiestrukture wat gelei het tot die gebrek in genetiese bande oor kuddes, wat ontstaan het weens kuddes wat slegs tydelik data tot die skema bygedra het. Maternale permanente omgewingeffekte is geskat op onderskeidelik 0.15±0.02, 0.13±0.02 en 0.20±0.03 vir geboortegewig, speengewig en na-speengewig met die gebruik van die enkel-eienskap analise. Die korrelasie tussen direkte effekte en maternale effekte (ram) is uitgesluit a.g.v die gebrekkige struktuur van die data. Genetiese-, fenotipiese- en omgewingskorrelasies tussen die vroeë lamgewigte was laag tot matig. Die matige tot hoë oorerflikheidberamings vir vroeë lamgewigte uit hierdie studie het gelei tot die gevolgtrekking dat Dormer skape suksesvol gebruik kan word in terminale kruisteel programme om vleisproduksie te verbeter. Direkte oorerflikheid skattings was 0.31±0.14, 0.09±0.02 en 0.14±0.003 vir die geboorte gewig, voor-speen gewig en speen gewig onderskeidelik met die gebruik van ‘n enkel-faktor analise vir dir Ile de France skaap ras. Maternale effekte was beduidend vir al die eienskappe wat bestudeer was , ten spyte van die onvermoë om dit behoorlik te verdeel in hul komponente weens die verlies van genetiese bande dwarsoor die generasies wat uitvloei vanaf ‘n swak data struktuur. Genetiese, fenotipiese en omgewings korrelasies was geskat deur gebruik te maak van ‘n drie-faktor analise en was gevind om laag tot matig te wees vir die vroeë groei eienskappe. Direkte genetiese en maternale permanente omgewings ratios was bereken en dit het nie veel verskil van die resultate verkry deur die enkel-faktor analise. Die aanvaarbare genetiese parameter skattings verkry in hierdie studie het gelei tot die gevolgtrekking dat die Ile de France geselekteer kan word as teelramme in kruisteel programme. Genetiese parameters was geskat vir vroeë groei eienskappe in die Merino Landskaa ras. REML skattings van geboorte gewig, voor-speen gewig en speen gewig was verkry deur diere modelle in enkel-faktor analises. Die direkte oorerflikheid skatting vir geboorte gewig was 0.23±0.13 met die gebruik van die diere model met additiewe direkte genetiese effekte en ooi permanente omgewings faktore as die enigste ewekansige faktore. Die ooi permanente omewings effek vir geboorte gewig was 0.10±0.07. Direkte oorerflikheid vir voor-speen gewig was 0.36±0.05 en die ooi permanente omgewings effek 0.56±0.03. Speen gewig was geskat deur die gebruik van ‘n diere model wat die direkte additiewe effekte en die ooi permanente omgewings effekte bevat het. Die direkte oorerflikheids skatting vir speen gewig was 0.17±0.03. Maternale genetiese effekte was geskat as 0.02±0.01. Genetiese en fenotipiese tendense is verkry vir vroeë lamgewigte in die Dormer-, Ile de France- en Merino Landskaaprasse. Die eienskappe wat oorweeg is, was geboortegewig, voor-speengewig, speengewig en naspeengewig. Voor-speengewigte was net beskikbaar was vir die Ile de France- en die Merino Landskaap rasse en die na-speense gewigte net vir die Dormerras. Die Dormer het beduidende verbetering vertoon in die fenotipiese en genetiese aspekte vir vroeë lamgewigte gedurende die 17 jaar van evaluasie (1990-2007). Die gemiddelde voorspelde direkte teeltwaarde van speen gewig het met 0.12% per jaar gestyg gedurende die 17- jaar periode. Na-speen gewig het met 0.32% per jaar verbeter. By die Ile de France het ‘n toename in die voorspelde teelwaarde van geboortegewig (0.025% per jaar) voorgekom. Gemiddelde direkte teelwaardes vir voor-speengewig het toegeneem teen ‘n jaarlikse tempo van 0.23% en speengewig het met 1.21% per jaar toegeneem. In die Merino Landskaapras het die voorspelde direkte teelwaarde vir geboortegewig met 0.04% per jaar gedaal, terwyl voor-speen- en speengewigte met 0.36% en 0.10% onderskeidelik toegeneem het. Die tendense was ooglopend gekompromiteer weens probleme met die data struktuur, en a.g.v van die relatief min rekords wat beskikbaar was vir die analise in die ras. Dit was duidelik dat die additiewe genetiese variasie beskikbaar was vir al die vroeë groei eienskappe in al die drie rasse. Alhoewel voldoende genetiese variasie vir wesentlike genetiese vordering beskikbaar was, is daar slegs matige vordering verkry vir al die eienskappe in al drie rasse. Die enigste moontlike uitsondering was speengewig in die Ile de France ras, wat met 1.21 % per jaar gestyg het. Alle veranderinge was minstens in die gewensde rigting. Telers word versoek om data deurlopend en akkuraat aan te teken , aangesien een van die groot tekortkominge met die data van al die rasse ‘n tekort aan deurlopendheid in die indiening van die data aan die NISS was. ‘n Meer verteenwoordigende analise sal uitvoerbaar wees, as daar aan al die bogenoemde aanbeveling voldoen kan word.

Thesis (MScAgric (Animal Sciences))--University of Stellenbosch, 2011. / Includes bibliography. / ENGLISH ABSTRACT: A study was conducted to characterize the three ostrich breeds available as genetic resource in South Africa, namely the South African Black (SAB), Zimbabwean Blue (ZB) and the Kenyan Redneck (KR), and their respective crosses. Growth, slaughter traits and reproduction of these ostriches were recorded at Oudtshoorn Research Farm in the Western Cape of South Africa. Individual non-linear regressions (Gompertz) were fitted to the data of 390 purebred and 41 crossbred ostriches, using the SAS NLIN function. Heterosis was estimated for each parameter of the Gompertz model. The estimated adult weight (Aparameter) of the ZB (147 kg) and the KR breeds (148 kg) were higher than that of the SAB breed (129 kg). The overall growth rate (B-parameter) of the ZB breed (0.0075) and the SAB breed (0.0080) was lower than that of the KR (0.0150). The age at maximum weight gain (C-parameter) was higher for the ZB breed (226 days) compared to the SAB (198 days) and the KR (194 days). Heterosis for the A-parameter was estimated at -6.2% and at -12% for the C-parameter. The slaughter traits studied were slaughter weight (SLW), carcass weight (CW), dressing percentage (DP), fan fillet weight (FFW), pH0, pH24, drip loss % (DL%), cooking loss % (CL%), tenderness and meat colour traits. Differences were observed between the means for SLW of the SAB (86.5 kg) and ZB (93.9 kg). Mean DP of the KR breed (52.5%) was increased relative to the low DP of their SAB contemporaries (48.8%). The sire lines (ZB and KR) and crosses were heavier than the SAB (dam line), whereas the crosses resembled the dam line for meat quality traits. Means for pH24 also differed, with higher values for the sire lines (ZB – 6.36; KR – 6.4) relative to the SAB (5.85). The instrumental b* colour value also differed between the SAB (9.4) and KR (6.9). Records used for assessing the reproduction and body measurements of purebred and crossbred dams were 428 in total. Traits analyzed were, total egg production (TEP), the number of fertile eggs, number dead in shell chicks, hatchability and chick production (CP), the time to lay, live weight, front chest circumferences as well as tail circumference. The ZB and KR were heavier in live weight and of larger body measurements than the SAB, whereas the SAB exhibited superior reproduction performance in comparison with the ZB and KR breeds. Derived heterosis estimates amounted to 2.2% for tail circumference, 12% for TEP, 12% for hatchability and 19% for CP. Genetic variation between and within the breeds were determined utilizing 19 microsatellite markers. Significant molecular genetic differences were observed between the three breeds. The SAB and ZB (Fst = 0.10 and Nei = 0.49) were genetically most similar, whereas the genetic distance between the KR and ZB breeds were furthest (Fst = 0.13 and Nei = 0.61). The SAB breed exhibited the highest heterozygosity within its population and the ZB the lowest heterozygosity. These results contribute to a better understanding of the utilization of the distinct ostrich breeds for commercial production. / AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Die doel van hierdie studie was om die verskille tussen drie volstruisrasse wat tans in Suid Afrika mee geboer word te karakteriseer, naamlik die “South African Black” (SAB), “Zimbabwean Blue” (ZB) en die “Kenyan Redneck” (KR) en hulle onderskeie kruisse. Rekords van die groei-, slag- en reproduksie eienskappe van die volstruise was by Oudtshoorn Navorsingsplaas in die Wes-Kaap aangeteken. Individuele nie-lineêre regressies (Gompertz) is op die data van 390 suiwerras en 42 kruisgeteelde volstruise gepas, met die gebruik van die “NLIN” prosedure van SAS, (2006). Heterose is beraam vir elke parameter van die Gompertz model. Die beraamde volwasse gewig (A-parameter) van die ZB (147 kg) en die KR ras (148 kg) was hoër as die van die SAB ras (129 kg). Die totale groeitempo (B-parameter) van die ZB ras (0.0075) en die SAB ras (0.0080) was laer as die van die KR (0.0150). Die ouderdom by maksimum groei (C-parameter) was hoër vir die ZB ras (226 dae) in vergelyking met die SAB (198 dae) en die KR (194 dae). Heterose vir die A-parameter was beraam teen -6.2% en teen -12% vir die C-parameter. Die slageienskappe wat ondersoek was, was slagmassa (SLW), karkasmassa (CW), uitslag persentasie (DP), “fan fillet” massa (FFW), pH0, pH24, drupverlies % (DL%), kookverlies % (CL%), sagtheid en kleureienskappe. Beduidendende verskille is waargeneem tussen die gemiddeldes vir SLW vir die SAB (86.5 kg) en ZB (93.9 kg). Gemiddelde DP van die KR ras (52.5%) was beter as die van die SAB ras (48.8%). Die mannetjielyne (ZB en KR) en die kruisse was swaarder as die SAB (wyfielyn), en die kruise was vergelykbaar met die wyfielyn vir vleiskwaliteit eienskappe. Gemiddeldes vir die pH24 het verskil, met hoër waardes vir die vaar lyne (ZB – 6.36; KR – 6.4) relatief tot die SAB (5.85). Die instrumentale b* kleurwaarde het ook verskil tussen die SAB (9.4) en KR (6.9). ‘n Totaal van 428 rekords is gebruik om reproduksie en liggaamsmetings van die suiwer en kruisteelwyfies te ondersoek. Reproduksie eienskappe ge-analiseer was: die aantal broeisels, totale eierproduksie (TEP), die aantal vrugbare eiers, die aantal kuikens dood in dop, uitbroeibaarheid, kuiken produksie (CP), tyd tot produksie van die eerste eier, volwasse gewig, voorbors omtrek, sowel as, kruisomtrek. Die ZB en KR rasse was swaarder as die SAB, en het groter liggaamsmetings gehad. Die SAB het beter reproduksie in vergelyking met die ZB- en KR rasse gehad. Heterose beramings was 2.2% vir kruisomtrek, 12% vir TEP, 12% vir uitbroeibaarheid en 19% vir CP. Genetiese variasie tussen en binne die rasse was vasgestel deur die gebruik van 19 mikrosatelliete merkers. Beduidende genetiese verskille op ‘n molekulêre vlak was waargeneem tussen die drie rasse. Die SAB en ZB (Fst = 0.10 en Nei = 0.49) was geneties meer gelyk terwyl die KR en ZB genetiese verder verwyder is (Fst = 0.13 en Nei = 0.61). Die SAB ras het die hoogste heterosigositeit binne populasie getoon, en die ZB die laagste. Hierdie resultate dra by tot ‘n beter begrip van die gebruik van die drie rasse in kommersïele produksie.

<p>U okviru doktorske disertacije ispitan je nutritivni kvalitet mleka magarice balkanske rase tokom laktacije. Prosečna suva materija mleka magarice balkanske rase iznosi 9,26%. Sadržaj proteina tokom laktacije kreće se od 1,40% do 1,92%. Prosečan sadržaj mlečne masti je 0,61%, a sadržaj laktoze iznosi 6,50%. Sadržaj analiziranih minerala: Ca, Na, K, Mg, P i Zn se povećava tokom laktacije i maksimalna vrednost utvrđena je 170. dana. Primenom kapilarne elektroforeze definisan je profil proteina mleka magarice balkanske rase. Identifikovane su sledeće proteinske frakcije: &alpha;s1-kazein, &alpha;s2-kazein, &beta;-kazein (A, F), &alpha;-laktalbumin (A, C), &beta;-laktoglobulin, lizozim, laktoferin, serum albumin i imunoglobulin čiji sadržaj opada tokom perioda laktacije. Sadržaj &alpha;-laktalbumina se kreće od 3090 mg/l do 1990 mg/l, a lizozima varira od 1040 mg/l do 2970 mg/l. Navedene frakcije proteina su najzastupljenije u mleku magarice balkanske rase. Laktoferin i imunoglobulin su frakcije sa najmanjim udelom u mleku magarice balkanske rase. Kori&scaron;ćenjem gasne hromatografije/masene spektrometrije utvrđen je sastav masnih kiselina mleka. Udeo esencijalne linolne kiseline (C18:2 n6) kreće se u opsegu od 7,08%, do 9,69%, a udeo &alpha;-linoleinske kiseline (C18:3 n3) varira od 5,85% do 7,83%.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Sastav mleka magarice balkanske rase kompariran je sa nutritivnim karakteristikama humanog mleka tokom 40. i 90. dana laktacije. Utvrđene su značajne razlike u sadržaju proteina mleka, mlečne masti i minerala. Odnos kazeina i proteina surutke kreće se od 0,68 do 0,75 u mleku magarice, dok u humanom mleku varira od 0,59 do 0,70. Udeo -linoleinske kiseline (C18:3 n3) je oko 2,5 puta veći u mleku magarice u odnosu na humano mleko.<br />Generalno se može zaključiti da mleko magarice balkanske rase ima specifične nutritivne karakteristike koje variraju u zavisnosti od sastava hrane za životinje i analiziranog perioda laktacije.</p> / <p>Nutritional quality of Balkan donkey milk during lactation was investigated within this thesis. The mean content of dry matter, fat and lactose in the Balkan donkey milk was 9.26%, 0.61% and 6.50%, respectively. Protein content during lactation period ranged from 1.40% to 1.92%. Content of the analyzed minerals: Ca, Na, K, Mg, Zn and P increased during the lactation period and reached their maximum value at 170th day. The protein profile of Balkans donkey milk was defined by application of capillary electrophoresis when the following protein fractions: &alpha;s1-kazein, &alpha;s2-kazein, &beta;-kazein (A, F), &alpha;-laktalbumin (A, C), &beta;-laktoglobulin, lysozyme, lactoferrin, serum albumins and immunoglobulins, whose content decreases during lactation period,were identified. &alpha;-lactalbumin contents ranged from 3090 mg/l to 1990 mg/ and lysozyme varies between 1040 mg/l to 2970 mg/l. These two protein fractions were the most abundant in the Balkan donkey milk, while lactoferrin and immunoglobulin were at least represented. The fatty acid composition of Balkan donkey milk was determined using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. The share of the essential linoleic (C18: 2 n6) and &alpha;&nbsp;- linolenic (C18: 3 n3) acid rangred from 7.08 % to 9.69% and from 5.85 % to 7.83 %.</p><p>Nutritional quality of Balkan donkey milk has been compared with the nutritional quality of human milk during the 40th and 90th day of lactation. Significant differences in the protein content of milk, fat and minerals were found. The ratio of casein and whey protein ranged from 0.68 to 0.75 in the Balkan donkey milk, while in human milk this value varies from 0.59 to 0.70. The share of &alpha;-linolenic acid (C18:3 n3) is around 2.5 times higher in donkey than in human milk.<br />The main conclusion is that Balkan donkey milk has specific and unique nutritional quality which depend on the feed composition and on the analyzed period of lactation.</p>

O objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar se as raças de cães popularmente consideradas agressivas apresentam maiores níveis circulantes de testosterona que as raças consideradas dóceis ou afáveis, discutindo os tipos de comportamento agressivo em que a presença de maiores níveis desse andrógeno poderia determinar uma maior predisposição à manifestação da agressividade. Foram utilizados 217 animais adultos, sendo 113 machos e 104 fêmeas, com idade entre um e 10 anos, que foram divididos em dois grupos distintos: grupo agressivo representados por cinco raças que apresentam agressividade alta a muito alta (Rottweiler, Bull Terrier, Pit Bull, Pastor Alemão e Fila Brasileiro) e grupo não agressivo representada por seis raças que apresentam agressividade baixa a moderada (Labrador, Golden Retriever, Beagle, Bulldog Inglês, Poodle e Cocker). Após colheita de sangue e preparo das amostras, as concentrações séricas de testosterona foram determinadas por meio de Radioimunoensaio (RIE), no Laboratório de Dosagens Hormonais (LDH), FMVZ-USP. Os testes estatísticos foram realizados utilizando-se o programa computacional Statististical Analysis System (SAS). Não houve diferença significativa entre as concentrações séricas de testosterona entre cães de um a oito anos de idade, nem entre cães de raças agressivas e não agressivas, porém, ao se comparar as raças individualmente, os cães das raças Rottweilwer e Beagle apresentaram maiores concentrações de testosterona sérica que os cães das demais raças (p<0,05). Concluiu-se que a concentração sérica de testosterona não pode ser utilizada como preditora do comportamento agressivo das raças Rottweiler, Bull Terrier, Pit Bull, Pastor Alemão e Fila Brasileiro. É importante a divulgação e conscientização da população sobre posse responsável. / The aim of the present study was to evaluate if the canine breeds commonly considered aggressive have higher levels of circulating testosterone than the manageable ones, and to discuss about the kinds of aggressive behavior that testosterone could be involved. It was used 217 adult animals (113 males and 104 females), between one and ten years old, that was divided in two groups: the aggressive group, represented by five breeds that are classified as having high and very high aggressive behavior (Rottweiler, Bull Terrier, Pit Bull, Pastor Alemão e Fila Brasileiro) and the non-aggressive group, represented by six breeds that have short to moderate aggressive behavior. After the blood samples be collected and prepared, the serum testosterone was measured by Radioimmunoassay (RIA), at the Laboratorio de Dosagens Hormonais (LDH), FMVZ- USP. The statistical tests were done by the use of the computational program Statistical Analysis System (SAS). There weren`t any significant difference of the seric testosterone concentration neither between one and eight year old males, nor between the aggressive and non-aggressive canine breeds. Comparing the breeds individually, the Rottweiler and the Beagle dogs presented higher testosterone levels than the dogs of other breeds (p<0,05). It could be concluded that the seric testosterone couldn`t be used as a predictor factor to the aggressive behavior of the Rottweiler, Bull Terrier, Pit Bull, Pastor Alemão e Fila Brasileiro dogs. The discussion about the responsibility necessary to have a domestic animal is very important.

O objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar se as raças de cães popularmente consideradas agressivas apresentam maiores níveis circulantes de testosterona que as raças consideradas dóceis ou afáveis, discutindo os tipos de comportamento agressivo em que a presença de maiores níveis desse andrógeno poderia determinar uma maior predisposição à manifestação da agressividade. Foram utilizados 217 animais adultos, sendo 113 machos e 104 fêmeas, com idade entre um e 10 anos, que foram divididos em dois grupos distintos: grupo agressivo representados por cinco raças que apresentam agressividade alta a muito alta (Rottweiler, Bull Terrier, Pit Bull, Pastor Alemão e Fila Brasileiro) e grupo não agressivo representada por seis raças que apresentam agressividade baixa a moderada (Labrador, Golden Retriever, Beagle, Bulldog Inglês, Poodle e Cocker). Após colheita de sangue e preparo das amostras, as concentrações séricas de testosterona foram determinadas por meio de Radioimunoensaio (RIE), no Laboratório de Dosagens Hormonais (LDH), FMVZ-USP. Os testes estatísticos foram realizados utilizando-se o programa computacional Statististical Analysis System (SAS). Não houve diferença significativa entre as concentrações séricas de testosterona entre cães de um a oito anos de idade, nem entre cães de raças agressivas e não agressivas, porém, ao se comparar as raças individualmente, os cães das raças Rottweilwer e Beagle apresentaram maiores concentrações de testosterona sérica que os cães das demais raças (p<0,05). Concluiu-se que a concentração sérica de testosterona não pode ser utilizada como preditora do comportamento agressivo das raças Rottweiler, Bull Terrier, Pit Bull, Pastor Alemão e Fila Brasileiro. É importante a divulgação e conscientização da população sobre posse responsável. / The aim of the present study was to evaluate if the canine breeds commonly considered aggressive have higher levels of circulating testosterone than the manageable ones, and to discuss about the kinds of aggressive behavior that testosterone could be involved. It was used 217 adult animals (113 males and 104 females), between one and ten years old, that was divided in two groups: the aggressive group, represented by five breeds that are classified as having high and very high aggressive behavior (Rottweiler, Bull Terrier, Pit Bull, Pastor Alemão e Fila Brasileiro) and the non-aggressive group, represented by six breeds that have short to moderate aggressive behavior. After the blood samples be collected and prepared, the serum testosterone was measured by Radioimmunoassay (RIA), at the Laboratorio de Dosagens Hormonais (LDH), FMVZ- USP. The statistical tests were done by the use of the computational program Statistical Analysis System (SAS). There weren`t any significant difference of the seric testosterone concentration neither between one and eight year old males, nor between the aggressive and non-aggressive canine breeds. Comparing the breeds individually, the Rottweiler and the Beagle dogs presented higher testosterone levels than the dogs of other breeds (p<0,05). It could be concluded that the seric testosterone couldn`t be used as a predictor factor to the aggressive behavior of the Rottweiler, Bull Terrier, Pit Bull, Pastor Alemão e Fila Brasileiro dogs. The discussion about the responsibility necessary to have a domestic animal is very important.

Thesis (M.Sc. (Animal Production)) --University of Limpopo, 2007 / Two experiments were conducted to evaluate the effect of time of initiation of feeding after hatching and influence of dietary lysine and ascorbic acid supplementation on productivity, carcass characteristics and mortality of Ross 308 broiler chickens. The first experiment examined the effect of time of initiation of feeding after hatching and influence of dietary lysine supplementation during realimentation on productivity, carcass characteristics and mortality of Ross 308 broiler chickens during the winter period. Three hundred and sixty unsexed Ross 308 broiler chickens with an initial weight of 30 ± 2 g per bird were assigned to twelve treatments with three replications of ten birds each in a 4 (times of initiation of feeding) x 3 (lysine supplemental levels) factorial, complete randomized design. At each time of initiation of feeding after hatching during the starter and grower stages, the diets were isocaloric and isonitrogenous but with three different lysine supplementation levels. Lysine supplementation started three days after hatching. Time of initiation of feeding above 36 hours after hatching resulted in growth retardation and high mortality rate. More than 50 % of the birds died between one and three days of age when initiation of feeding after hatching was above 36 hours. However, the birds ‘caught-up’ at the latest within eight days of realimentation. This compensatory growth could be explained in terms of higher intakes. Lysine supplementation during realimentation reduced the number of days of ‘catch-up’ irrespective of time of initiation of feeding after hatching. Generally, the higher the level of lysine supplementation, the lower was the number of days of ‘catch-up’ upon realimentation. Thereafter, time of initiation of feeding after hatching and lysine supplementation had no effect (P>0.05) on live weight, feed intake, growth rate, feed conversion ratio, diet digestibility, nitrogen content of breast meat, dressing %, carcass characteristics and mortality of Ross 308 broiler chickens. The second experiment examined the effect of time of initiation of feeding after hatching and influence of dietary ascorbic acid supplementation on productivity, carcass characteristics and mortality of Ross 308 broiler chickens during the summer period. Six v hundred and seventy five unsexed Ross 308 broiler chickens with an initial weight of 32 ± 2 g per bird were assigned to fifteen treatments with three replications of fifteen birds each in a 3 (times of initiation of feeding) x 5 (ascorbic acid supplemental levels) factorial, complete randomized design. Ascorbic acid supplementation started 3 days after hatching. An average of 18 % and 31 % of the birds died between one and three days of age when initiation of feeding after hatching was above 36 hours. However, the birds ‘caught-up’ within ten days of realimentation irrespective of time of initiation of feeding after hatching. This compensatory growth could be explained in terms of reduced maintenance requirement and possibly, increased efficiency of growth. Following ‘catch-up’, ascorbic acid supplementation during realimentation lowered (P<0.05) mortality rate and improved growth rates irrespective of time of initiation of feeding after hatching. Growth rate increased incrementally with increasing levels of ascorbic acid supplementation within each time of initiation of feeding after hatching. Improved growth rate in the ascorbic acid supplemented birds resulted in improved live weight in comparison with those without ascorbic acid supplementation at 21 days of age and continued until 42 days of age. Live weight increased incrementally with increasing levels of ascorbic acid supplementation within each time of initiation of feeding after hatching. Similarly, increasing ascorbic acid supplementation within each time of initiation of feeding after hatching increased dressing percentage and breast meat yield at 42 days old. However, ascorbic acid supplementation had no effect (P>0.05) on feed intake of the birds irrespective of time of initiation of feeding after hatching. In both experiments, mortality was positively and strongly correlated with time of initiation of feeding after hatching while live weight was negatively and strongly correlated with time of initiation of feeding after hatching. It is concluded that time of initiation of feeding above 36 hours after hatching is not desirable, mainly because of its effect on mortality. However, lysine supplementation in the diet of broiler chickens subjected to delayed initiation of feeding after hatching might play a key role in accelerating the rate of ‘catch-up’ growth response. vi It is also concluded that the beneficial effect of ascorbic acid supplementation could be exploited in reducing mortality rate and improving growth rates in broiler chickens subjected to delayed initiation of feeding after hatching. / the National Research Foundation