Publications - Publikationer

Quantitative distribution of flavan-3-ols, procyanidins, flavonols, flavanone and salicylic acid in five varieties of organic winter dormant Salix spp. by LC-MS/MS

Curtasu, M. V., Nørskov, N. P. — Thu, 01 Feb 2024 14:22:28 +0100

Willow trees (Salix spp.) exhibit remarkable genetic and phenotypic diversity, yielding a broad spectrum of bioactive compounds, notably valuable phenolic compounds such as condensed tannins (phenolic polymers), flavonoids, salicylic glucosides, and phenolic compounds. These enhance the economic value of willow crops and make them suitable for circular bioeconomy. Phenolic compounds known for their diverse applications as antioxidants, antimicrobial agents, pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals and antiseptics and more, find a natural source in willow. This study aimed to elucidate the composition of 12 flavonoids and salicylic acid in different segments of five organic winter dormant willow species (S. daphnoides, S. fragilis, S. dasyclados, S. viminalis, and S. dasyclados x viminalis) using quantitative analysis and providing valuable insights into their high-value phenolic compounds. Separation into buds, wood and bark segments allowed for a precise characterization of the location of certain phenolic compounds and quantification using LC-MS/MS techniques. LC-MS/MS is an analytical technique known for its increased sensitivity and chromatographic precision. Among the findings, catechin emerged as the predominant flavan-3-ol in all Salix species, with the highest concentration in the buds of Salix viminalis (7.26 mg/g DM). Naringenin exhibited species-specific variations, with S. dasyclados and S. viminalis recording the highest levels. Salicylic acid concentrations peaked in S. dasyclados (5.38 mg/g DM) and S. daphnoides (4.43 mg/g DM), particularly within the bark. When evaluating other individual flavonoids and total polyphenol content (TPC), disparities between buds, bark, and wood became evident, with wood consistently displaying the lowest content. Notably, the higher concentration of polyphenolic compounds in willow bark can be attributed to its susceptibility to external threats and its role as a robust defense mechanism against pathogens and herbivores. This study underscores the significance of diverse willow species as a source of high-value phenolic compounds, distributed differentially across plant parts and species. This knowledge holds promise for their potential applications in the circular bioeconomy.

Animal health, welfare and production problems in organic weaner pigs

Leeb, C., Hegelund, L., Edwards, S., et al. — Wed, 01 Oct 2014 14:22:28 +0200

This paper reviews the available information on the different health and animal welfare issues in organic pigs in relation to weaning. It addresses the most relevant health and welfare problems and reviews their potential hazards and associated risk factors. Regarding health, problems related to post weaning diarrhoea, cold stress, skin lesions, endoparasites and post weaning multisystemic wasting syndrome are described. Reasons for distress and frustration in weaned piglets are identified as mainly separation from the mother, a new environment, mixing and fear of humans. Finally, hazards and risk factors for health and welfare in organic weaners are related to animal characteristics, housing systems, feed/nutrition and management. Generally, it is concluded that diseases around weaning are multifactorial in nature, with several factors contributing simultaneously as stressors at the time of weaning. In order to solve problems around weaning, the complexity and the individuality of farm systems need to be taken into account.

Description of organic pig production in Europe

Früh, B., Bochicchio, D., Edwards, S., et al. — Wed, 01 Oct 2014 14:22:28 +0200

With the aim to identify health and welfare strategies in organic pig production, a description of the different organic production systems was realized in eight European countries (Austria, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Sweden, Switzerland and UK). This description was based on the following features: numbers of organic farms and organic pigs, market shares, housing and management characteristics, feeding characteristics, main health problems and relevant differences to the EU regulation existing at the time of the project. The results were primarily based on statistics, country-specific regulations as well as on expert and stakeholder interviews. Organic farming and organic pig production are rapidly developing in European countries. The European country with the highest number of organic pigs is Germany. Organic pig production represents aminor part of the whole pig production in all surveyed countries. All features that were analysed varied greatly between countries with the most striking one being the housing of pigs that can be completely outdoors on pasture for most UK farms and always indoors with an access to an outdoor run, during part of their life, for most farms of German speaking countries.

Radial versus femoral access in patients with acute coronary syndrome undergoing invasive management

Völz, S., Angerås, O., Koul, S., et al. — Sun, 01 Sep 2019 14:22:28 +0200

Aims: In the Bivalirudin versus Heparin in ST-Segment and Non-ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction in Patients on Modern Antiplatelet Therapy in the Swedish Web System for Enhancement and Development of Evidence-based Care in Heart Disease Evaluated according to Recommended Therapies Registry Trial (VALIDATE-SWEDEHEART), bivalirudin was not superior to unfractionated heparin in patients with acute coronary syndrome undergoing invasive management. We assessed whether the access site had an impact on the primary endpoint of death, myocardial infarction or major bleeding at 180 days and whether it interacted with bivalirudin/unfractionated heparin. Methods and results: A total of 6006 patients with acute coronary syndrome planned for percutaneous coronary intervention were randomised to either bivalirudin or unfractionated heparin. Arterial access was left to the operator discretion. Overall, 90.5% of patients underwent transradial access and 9.5% transfemoral access. Baseline risk was higher in transfemoral access. The unadjusted hazard ratio for the primary outcome was lower with transradial access (hazard ratio 0.53, 95% confidence interval 0.43–0.67, p<0.001) and remained lower after multivariable adjustment (hazard ratio 0.56, 95% confidence interval 0.52–0.84, p<0.001). Transradial access was associated with lower risk of death (hazard ratio 0.41, 95% confidence interval 0.28–0.60, p<0.001) and major bleeding (hazard ratio 0.57, 95% confidence interval 0.44–0.75, p<0.001). There was no interaction between treatment with bivalirudin and access site for the primary endpoint (p=0.976) or major bleeding (p=0.801). Conclusions: Transradial access was associated with lower risk of death, myocardial infarction or major bleeding at 180 days. Bivalirudin was not associated with less bleeding, irrespective of access site.

Undersøgelse af behov for kupering af lammehaler

Henriksen, B. I. F. — Thu, 18 Apr 2024 14:22:28 +0200

Obduktioner giver ny viden

Thomsen, P. T. — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 14:22:28 +0200

Animals with various forms of abnormal behaviour differ in learning performance and use of enrichment

Malmkvist, J., Díez-León, M., Christensen, J. W. — Thu, 01 Feb 2024 14:22:28 +0100

Abnormal behaviour has been related to differences in cognitive function and reduced animal welfare. However, these associations are understudied, and little is known about how various forms of abnormal behaviour affect learning performance, stress responses and use of enrichment. We tested the hypotheses that different forms of abnormal behaviour are (1) associated with various degrees of impairment of learning, (2) generally related to elevated stress responses including fearfulness, and (3) reduced during periodical access to running wheels using American mink (Neogale vison, synonym Neovison vison) as model species. Farm mink were screened into groups displaying no apparent abnormal behaviour (NONE, n=35), or abnormal behaviour as fur-chewing (FURCHEW, n=21), Stereotypic Behaviour (SB) i.e., pacing (PACERS, n=33), stationary SB (STATSB, n=22), licking SB (ORALSB, n=17), and combination of forms (MIXED, n=22). Learning performance was assessed in a two-choice visual discrimination test with three progressive stages: 94% passed the 1st (acquisition), 70% the 2nd (recall) and 42% the 3rd (reversal) stage. Mink from groups MIXED and PACERS passed more learning stages than ORALSB and NONE mink (MIXED 2.3^a; PACERS: 2.1^a; ORALSB 1.4^b; NONE: 1.4^b, F_5,83=2.7, P=0.027), while the other groups did not differ significantly (STATSB: 1.9^ab, FURCHEW: 2.0^ab). Thus, the most locomotory active forms of abnormal behaviour appeared associated with enhanced learning. NONE mink spent more time in investigative sniffing (13 ±1.6 s) than did mink with abnormal behaviour (6 ±0.9 s) in a 30 s temperament test (F_5,144=3.2, P=0.010). A large individual variation in faecal cortisol metabolite levels rendered this indicator insensitive to detect group differences. When given access to a running wheel, the groups differed in activity (F_5,131=10.0, P<0.001): Revolutions per day, MIXED: 1929^a, STATSB: 1445^a, PACERS: 1435^ab, ORALSB: 466^bc, FURCHEW: 485^c, and NONE: 344^c. All forms of SB, except licking, were significantly reduced (P<0.001) during running wheel access. Thus, licking SB appears different from the other SBs. In conclusion, different forms of abnormal behaviour appear associated with different cognitive and motivational characteristics. Further, our results suggest a potential positive link between physical activity (even if it is stereotypic) and learning.

Supplerende spørgsmål til vurdering af forhold, der kan påvirke minkproduktion

Møller, S. H. — Wed, 17 Apr 2024 14:22:28 +0200

Kvalitativ foderrestriktion under opdræt af forældredyrshønniker: Virkningen af fiberrigt foder og grovfoder på dyrevelfærd

Riber, A. B., Thodberg, K., van der Heide, M. E., Wurtz, K. E. — Fri, 12 Apr 2024 14:22:28 +0200

Virkemidler til reduktion af klimagasser i landbruget - 2024

Andersen, M. N., Manevski, K., Lærke, P. E., et al. — Fri, 12 Apr 2024 14:22:28 +0200

Short-term exposure of dairy cows to pyrrolizidine alkaloids from tansy ragwort (Jacobaea vulgaris Gaertn.)

Knoop, K., Knappstein, K., Kaltner, F., et al. — Sun, 01 Oct 2023 14:22:28 +0200

The increasing spread of ragworts is observed with concern. Ragworts like tansy ragwort (Jacobaea vulgaris Gaertn.) or marsh ragwort (J. aquatica) contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PA) which may induce hepatotoxic effects. Grazing animals usually avoid ragworts if their pasture management is appropriate. Preserved feed prepared from ragworts contaminated meadows may, however, lead to a significant exposure to PA. Previous studies on toxicity of PA for dairy cows revealed inconsistent results due to feeding ragwort plant material which was associated with heterogeneous PA exposure and thus failed to conclusively deduce critical PA doses. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to expose dairy cows (n = 4 per group) in a short-term scenario for 28 days with increasing PA doses (PA1: 0.47 mg PA/kg body weight (BW)/day (d); PA2: 0.95 mg PA/kg BW/d; PA3: 1.91 mg PA/kg BW/d) via oral administration by gavage of a defined PA-extract. While group PA3 was dosed with the PA-extract alone, groups PA2 and PA1 received PA-extracts blended in similar volumes with molasses to provide comparable amounts of sugar. Additionally, two control groups were treated either with water (CONWater) or with molasses (CONMolasses) to assess the effects of sugar without PA interference. While clinical traits including dry matter intake, milking performance, rectal body temperature, ruminal activity and body condition score (BCS) were not influenced by PA exposure, activities of enzymes indicative for liver damages, such as gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and glutamate dehydrogenase (GLDH), increased significantly over time at an exposure of 1.91 mg total PA/kg BW/d.

Energy balance estimated real-time from automated on-farm live weights is associated with udder health

Thorup, V. M., Kjeldsen, A. M., Schmidt, J. M., Bossen, D. — Tue, 01 Jan 2013 14:22:28 +0100

Several technologically advanced dairy herds weigh cows automatically, but live weight fluctuates mainly due to feed and water intake, and milking. This daily fluctuation has been the largest obstacle in extrapolating meaningful physiological information from short term live weight changes, and in using these as an automated management tool. Mastitis and somatic cell count (SCC ) are used as udder health indicators, the former has been associated with decreased energy balance. This study uses a standard function of body protein changes to separate live weight changes into protein and lipid changes, thereby enabling estimation of individual energy balance of cows from live weights alone. Energy balance was estimated from 7421 live weight time-series, of these 862 cows were treated for mastitis. SCC during the first 100 days in milk was calculated. Energy balance correlated negatively with both milk yield and SCC , thus low energy balance was associated with high yield and high SCC . Mixed model ANOVA showed that SCC was significantly affected by energy balance, mastitis treatment, ECM, parity and calving season. In conclusion, informative individual energy balance estimates can be obtained from automated live weights in commercial herds without measuring feed intake.

Influence of space availability on measures of fear in conventional broiler chickens

Rasmussen, S. N., Yoder, H., Erasmus, M., Riber, A. B. — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 14:22:28 +0200

Many of the fear tests used in the welfare assessments of broiler chickens assume that birds will withdraw from a given stimulus if they are fearful. However, fear test responses may also depend on the amount of space available in the broilers’ environment. As broiler chickens grow, the available space decreases, which, together with a decline in walking ability, may bias the results of fear tests. In the present study, we aimed to examine the relationship between space availability and measures of fear in broiler chickens. We hypothesized that broilers kept in pens with lower space availability would show reduced withdrawal in two movement-dependent fear tests, the stationary person test (SPT) and the novel object test (NOT), as space restrictions would limit the birds’ ability to move away. Fast-growing broilers (Ross 708) were housed at similar target stocking densities (34 kg/m²) until 27 days of age, after which an experimental intervention was introduced in which half of the pens were provided with additional space, reducing the target stocking density to 16 kg/m². The fear tests were conducted when the birds were 21, 27 (before the change in space availability), 29, and 37 days old. Statistical analyses were performed in R using Generalized Additive Models. We found no effect of space availability on the measures of the SPT (P = 0.32). Space availability seemingly had a temporary effect on the measures of the NOT, as birds housed in the larger pens (16 kg/m²) showed increased withdrawal compared to the birds housed in the smaller pens (34 kg/m²) at 29 days of age (P = 0.04). However, no difference was found at 37 days of age (P = 0.63), and, therefore, we speculate whether the temporary effect at 29 days of age was due to the novelty of the environment rather than due to increase in space availability per se. We conclude that space availability had no effect on the outcome of the SPT and that it, overall, had no lasting effect on the outcome of the NOT. We speculate whether our findings might be explained by our chosen levels of stocking density for the smaller pens, as these may not have been sufficiently high to limit the birds’ ability to respond to the fear tests used, i.e. the birds, although space restricted, still had the option of being outside of proximity of the presented stimuli.

Forskere ser et stort potentiale i overvågning af grisenes lyde

Coutant, M. P. — Mon, 04 Mar 2024 14:22:28 +0100

Måske bliver lyd-sensorer i fremtiden et uundværligt værktøj til overvågning af husdyr. Forskningen accelererer i disse år, men der er stadig mange udfordringer.

Conflict behaviour in Icelandic horses during elite competition

Christensen, J. W., Jensen, D., König von Borstel, U. U. — Thu, 01 Feb 2024 14:22:28 +0100

Sport horse welfare is currently under scrutiny. Among other issues, it has been pointed out that behavioural signs of discomfort are frequently overlooked during training and competitions. Previous studies reported a relatively high prevalence of these types of behaviour (e.g., tail swishing, mouth opening – typically jointly labelled ‘conflict behaviour’) in elite level dressage and show jumping warmblood horses. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of conflict behaviour in Icelandic horses competing at elite level in breed-specific gait competitions. We used online video recordings from a competition in Iceland, including two different competitions (MD22, Fivegait F1: n = 25, and Loose-rein Tölt T2: n = 24 participating horses). The recordings were viewed at slow speed (x 0.25) enabling a detailed recording of the horses’ behavioural expressions. Mouth opening was the most frequently observed behaviour and occurred more in pace and tölt (Fivegait F1, P<0.001). In T2, mouth opening was more frequent in short-rein tölt than during loose-rein tölt (P<0.001). Sudden head movements, tail swishing and undesired gait changes also occurred, but less frequently. An elongated upper lip was observed in 12 of the 24 participating horses in T2, but only in short-rein tölt, suggesting that upper lip elongation is related to rein tension. We conclude that mouth movements (mouth opening and an elongated upper lip) are common behavioural expressions in Icelandic horses competing at elite level. Further studies are required to reveal the significance of these behaviours in terms of horse welfare.

The effects of phenotyping and genotyping strategies, and the use of conventional or organic sires on genetic gain in an organic pig population

Wed, 01 May 2024 14:22:28 +0200

Optimizing organic pig breeding schemes depends on how to best allocate resources to phenotyping and genotyping. This study investigates how phenotyping and genotyping strategies affect genetic gain in a small organic pig population. We used stochastically simulated breeding schemes aimed at producing three-way crossbred finisher pigs. The simulated breeding schemes varied in the availability of phenotypes and genotypes for purebreds and crossbreds, the origin of the sire, and the genetic correlation between purebred and crossbred performance. For each simulated breeding scheme, genetic gain and rate of inbreeding were collected for up to 100 replicates. Phenotyping of crossbred individuals did not improve the genetic gain in the purebreds or the crossbreds. Genotyping purebred sows did improve genetic gain in both purebreds and crossbreds. Genetic gain and rate of inbreeding were maximized when internal sires were used, assuming strong GxE between organic and conventional production systems. Yet, breeding schemes that used internal sires had a larger variance in the genetic gain than those that used external sires. In conclusion, breeding schemes for organic pigs can be optimized by using internal sires and by genotyping the purebred parents. Yet, the rate of inbreeding and population size should be taken into careful consideration when developing an independent breeding program for a small (organic) population.

Palmitoleinsyre - nøglen til bedre termoregulering, øget metabolisk sundhed og bedre pattegriseoverlevelse?

Lærke, H. N. — Thu, 04 Apr 2024 14:22:28 +0200

Research note

Nyende, P. W., Woyengo, T. A. — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 14:22:28 +0200

A study was conducted to evaluate standardized ileal digestibility (SID) of amino acids (AA) and N-corrected apparent metabolizable energy (AMEn) values of cold pressed flaxseed meal (CPFM) for broilers. One hundred and twenty broiler chicks were divided into 20 groups of 6 birds/group and fed 2 diets in a completely randomized design (10 groups/diet) from 14 to 21 d of age. The diets were cornstarch-based containing CPFM or conventional soybean meal (SBM; reference feedstuff) as the sole protein source. A N-free diet fed in another study conducted in the same facility and at the same time that the current study was conducted was used to estimate basal endogenous AA losses, and to calculate gross energy retention by difference method. The CPFM had greater neutral detergent fiber and ether extract contents (21.40 vs. 8.18% and 20.4 vs. 2.47% as is, respectively), but lower CP (20.47 vs. 48.28% as is) than SBM. The SID values of all indispensable AA (except for Leu, Phe and Trp) for CPFM were lower (P < 0.05) than those for SBM. The apparent retention of gross energy (65.95 vs. 44.24%) and N (55.53 vs. 9.79%), and AMEn (2,699 vs. 2,491 kcal/kg) for CPFM were lower (P < 0.05) than those for SBM. In conclusion, CPFM can serve as alternative oilseed co-product feedstuff for poultry. However, the CPFM has lower SID of AA and AMEn values than SBM likely due to the greater fiber content in the former than in the latter.

Gas exchange, rumen hydrogen sinks, and nutrient digestibility and metabolism in lactating dairy cows fed 3-nitrooxypropanol and cracked rapeseed

Kjeldsen, M. H., Weisbjerg, M. R., Larsen, M., et al. — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 14:22:28 +0200

Water deprivation in poultry in connection with transport to slaughter

Wurtz, K. E., Herskin, M. S., Riber, A. B. — Wed, 01 May 2024 14:22:28 +0200

Poultry are deprived of water when transported to slaughter, beginning shortly prior to catching of the first bird and lasting through catching and loading, the journey on the vehicle, time spent in lairage, and up until time of death. Our aim was to review existing knowledge on variables which may be useful in determining the length of time that poultry may go without water in connection with transport before their welfare begins to deteriorate. During transport, it is likely that birds experience a motivation to drink, which may transition into the negative emotional state of thirst if water is unavailable. Determining when drinking motivation reaches a threshold where welfare is negatively impacted is challenging. In the absence of water, birds may over time experience dehydration which may be detected through physiological indicators as their body attempts to maintain homeostasis. In poultry, plasma osmolality, arginine vasotocin, and chloride have been suggested as being most suitable for assessing dehydration resulting from periods of water deprivation that correspond with typical transport durations, due to their particular sensitivity during this period. While initial dehydration may not be associated with negative emotional states, it is likely that it eventually leads to discomfort, but additional behavioral and motivational studies are necessary to infer when this begins. Impacts of thermal conditions, genetics, and the condition of the individual bird on the development of a dehydrated state were also assessed, though more information is needed to fully understand these interactions. With the available literature, this review concludes that total transport (i.e., from the initial deprivation from water until time of slaughter) durations of longer than 6 h are likely associated with measurable physiological indicators of dehydration and may potentially be associated with negative emotional states, although more research is needed to clarify this. Current available knowledge and assessment tools are not sufficient to detect the degradation of welfare derived from thirst itself, which should be further examined to protect poultry welfare during transport.

Dietary type (carnivore, herbivore and omnivore) and animal species modulate the nutritional metabolome of terrestrial species.

Sat, 01 Jun 2024 14:22:28 +0200

Ecometabolomics could be implemented as a powerful tool in molecular ecology studies, but it is necessary to know the baseline of certain metabolites and understand how different traits could affect the metabolome of the animals. Therefore, the main objective of this study was to provide values for the nutritional metabolome profile of different diet groups and animal species, as well as to study the differences in the metabolomic profile due to the effect of diet type and species. To achieve this goal, blood samples were taken from healthy animals (n = 43) of different species: lion (Panthera leo), jaguar (Panthera onca), chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes), bison (Bison bison), gazelle (Gazella cuvieri) and fallow deer (Dama dama), and with different types of diet (carnivore, herbivore and omnivore). Each blood sample was analysed to determine nutritional metabolites. The main results this study provides are the nutritional metabolic profile of these animals based on the type of diet and the animal species. A significant effect of the dietary type was found on nutritional metabolite levels, with those metabolites related to protein metabolism (total protein and creatine) being higher in carnivores. There is also an effect of the species on nutritional metabolites, observing a metabolome differentiation between lion and jaguar. In the case of herbivores, bison showed higher levels of uric acid and cholesterol, and lower urea levels than gazelle and fallow deer. More molecular ecology studies are needed to further the knowledge of the metabolism of these animals.

Assessing cellular agriculture potential: Population homogeneity and gene expression in cultured bovine mammary epithelial cells

Sattari, Z., Rasmussen, M. K., Poulsen, N. A., et al. — Sat, 01 Jun 2024 14:22:28 +0200

Mammary epithelial cells (MEC) are responsible for milk synthesis in the bovine mammary gland during lactation, and could thereby potentially be used for in-vitro milk components production. Development of such a model, however, requires the MECs to preserve their lactogenic traits following in-vitro growth. Potential impact of growing MEC in the lab following their isolation was studied in relation to their population homogeneity and milk synthesis related gene expressions. Upon isolation, flow cytometry results showed that > 30 % of the obtained cells were positive for cytokeratin 18 (CK18), a marker for the MEC. This proportion increased to 95 % MEC after the first passage. Cell functionality was examined by comparing the expressions of milk synthesis related genes at passage 2 (P2) to passage 6 (P6) following treatment with lactogenic agents. CSN1S1 was found to be expressed significantly higher at P2 compared to P6. In addition, CSN2, CSN3 and PRLR tended to have lower expressions in P6 compared to P2. DGAT1, STAT5A, AKT1, and RPS6KB1 were expressed comparably in both passages. The expressions of LALBA and CSN1S2 were not detectable in any of the samples. Therefore, despite having high levels of CK18 positive cells at later passages, in line with other studies, further passaging affected the expressions of some of the genes related to milk synthesis. A reduced gene expression capacity in the propagated MEC may limit their potential for in-vitro milk components production.

Et historisk Europæisk partnerskab styrker dansk husdyrsundhed og velfærd

Lærke, H. N. — Tue, 19 Mar 2024 14:22:28 +0100

Øget indhold af fedt og E-vitamin i foderet kan forbedre kalves sundhed

Lærke, H. N. — Mon, 04 Mar 2024 14:22:28 +0100

Korrekt WelFur-Mink-vurdering af delvis fravænning af store kuld ved 42 dage

Møller, S. H., Malmkvist, J., Henriksen, B. I. F. — Sun, 01 Mar 2020 14:22:28 +0100

I WelFur-Mink vurderes effekten af delvis fravænning på samme vis som anden fravænning og vil derfor give 18 point ud af 100 for indikatoren ”Alder og procedurer ved fravænning”. Hvis dette skal ændres, skal der være videnskabeligt grundlag for at tolke delvis fravænning af en
del af hvalpene anderledes end normal fravænning af alle hvalpene i et kuld. Det første af to års forsøg med delvis fravænning, gennemført som beskrevet i Branchekoden, viste, at både tæver og hvalpe reagerede kortvarigt på fravænningen ved 42 dage. Tæven og hvalpene fra delvist fravænnede kuld, reagerede også ved den endelige fravænning ved 56 dage. Langtidseffekterne var til fordel for delvis fravænning i form af flere nysgerrige, færre frygtsomme og færre pelsgnav. Samlet set er der dermed grundlag for en anden vurdering af delvis fravænning, end den der svarer til fuld fravænning af hele kuldet ved 42 dage.

Huldtilpasning uden velfærdsproblemer i vinterperioden

Henriksen, B. I. F., Møller, S. H. — Sun, 01 Mar 2020 14:22:28 +0100

Behaviour of cull sows during transport to slaughter – Effects of journey duration, a stationary period and temperature

Kobek-Kjeldager, C., Jensen, L. D., Foldager, L., et al. — Thu, 01 Feb 2024 14:22:28 +0100

Until recently, the pre-slaughter logistic chain of cull sows had received limited study, and their behaviour during transport remains understudied. Previously, an observational study of journeys up to 8 h in Denmark showed that the clinical condition of sows had deteriorated from departure until arrival at the slaughterhouse. The suggested main risk factors for this were journey duration, in-vehicle temperature and stationary periods, often in interaction. To disentangle these risk factors, we performed a 3 × 2 factorial study simulating commercial conditions of varying journey durations (4 h, 6 h, 8 h) and the presence of a stationary period of 30–50 min after 1–4 h of driving (long stop: yes/no). In 28 vehicle loads of sows from six herds, behaviour (posture and aggression) and in-vehicle temperature were recorded in the rear compartment holding 11–12 sows during transport to a Danish slaughterhouse. Unexpectedly, the sows were generally standing during transport (median 89–92% standing sows per hour). More sows were standing in the initial hours compared to later. Fewer sows were standing when in-vehicle temperature was higher and with higher temperature standard deviation per hour. We found that fewer sows were standing during the long stop when the latency until the long stop was longer. There was variation in the frequency of aggression among sows (median 2–3, range: 0–155 events per sow), but no differences were detected in the rate of aggression as an effect of time since departure, the presence of a long stop, or in-vehicle temperature. The frequency of aggression received per sow positively correlated with number of scratches on the front of the sow (r = 0.24). Comparing the present results with the scientific literature on finisher pigs, cull sows seem to differ in their tendency to remain standing and show aggressive behaviour throughout journeys to the slaughterhouse. We discuss possible explanations including the pre-transport clinical condition of cull sows, their sensitivity to heat stress and mixing of unfamiliar animals in a confined space as well as the experimental design choice of observing sows in the rear compartment of the vehicle. In conclusion, contrary to expectations, sows were generally standing during transport, and aggression was found throughout the journeys. The higher proportion of sows lying down during a long stop with longer time until the stop may suggest fatigue. These initial findings on the behaviour of cull sows during transport suggest challenges to their welfare.

Identification of fibrocyte-like cells in biopsies from equine experimental wounds

Bundgaard, L., Jensen, H. E., Aasted, B., Sørensen, M.A., Jacobsen, S. — Mon, 01 May 2017 14:22:28 +0200

Fra sår til digital dermatitis

Thomsen, P. T. — Fri, 01 Mar 2024 14:22:28 +0100

Smuk og holdbar

Thomsen, P. T. — Fri, 01 Dec 2023 14:22:28 +0100

Corrigendum

Tue, 01 Feb 2022 14:22:28 +0100

Corrigendum to "Short Communication: Investigation of the feasibility of genomic selection in Icelandic Cattle"by Egill Gautason et al. Journal of Animal Science, Volume 99, Issue 7, July 2021; doi:10.1093/jas/skab139 In the originally published version of this manuscript, there were errors in the Model and Accuracy estimation sections. In the Model section, the sentence "The model included: (1) fixed effects of herd-year, (2) production month; (3) calving age; and (4) fixed regressions on 5th-order Legendre polynomials (quartic regression) and the exponential function e-0.05d, where d was days in milk; (5) fixed regressions of phantom genetic group contributions to each individual; (6) random regressions in terms of permanent environment (PE), on 2nd-order Legendre polynomials (linear regression, LR), and the exponential function e-0.05d; (7) random regressions in terms of animal breeding value, on 2nd-order Legendre polynomials (LR), and the exponential function e-0.05d; and (8) a random residual."should read "The model included: (1) fixed effects of herd-year, (2) production month; (3) calving age; and (4) fixed regressions on 5th-order Legendre polynomials (quartic regression) and the exponential function e-0.05d, where d was days in milk; (5) fixed regressions of phantom genetic group contributions to each individual; (6) random regressions in terms of permanent environment (PE), on 2nd-order Legendre polynomials (linear regression, LR), and the exponential function e-0.05d; (7) random regressions in terms of animal breeding value, on 2nd-order Legendre polynomials (LR), and the exponential function e-0.05d; (8) random effect of herd-test month; and (9) a random residual.".

Effects of herd management decisions on dairy cow longevity, farm profitability, and emissions of enteric methane – a simulation study of milk and beef production

Clasen, J. B., Fikse, W. F., Ramin, M., Lindberg, M. — Thu, 01 Feb 2024 14:22:28 +0100

Sustainable dairy and beef production provides environmental, economic, and social values that can potentially be maximized by optimizing herd management strategies. The length of a dairy cow's life is affected by, and affects, all three pillars of sustainability. Longevity in dairy cows is multifactorial and strongly dependent on herd management. Despite genetic improvements, the average time of culling for Swedish cows has barely changed and is currently at 2.6 lactations. This culling rate requires a high number of replacement heifers, generating high rearing costs for farmers. This study evaluated different herd management strategies to improve cow longevity and assessed the effects on enteric methane (CH₄) emissions from the herd and the profitability of milk production and beef production from the dairy cows and their offspring. The base scenario, an average Swedish Holstein herd of 100 cows, was compared with seven scenarios simulated using a stochastic herd simulation model (SimHerd). Two of these scenarios involved improved health and survival of cows in the herd, three involved improved reproduction, one considered the consequences of keeping all surplus heifers in the herd, and one considered maximizing the use of X-sorted dairy semen and inseminating the rest of the herd with unsorted beef semen, to avoid surplus replacement heifers. Improved fertility had the greatest effect in increasing the productive life per cow, to 3.8 years compared with 2.8 in the base scenario, allowed for more use of beef semen, reduced the number of replacement heifers, and generated the highest herd profit (€98 per cow-year higher than base scenario). Keeping all surplus heifers instead of producing beef × dairy cross calves decreased the number of productive years by 0.8 and reduced profit by €22 per cow-year. The profit was highly associated with costs related to replacement heifers. The highest beef output (3 369 kg per year more than base scenario) was achieved by keeping all heifers and culling a high share of dairy cows, but this scenario also generated much higher enteric CH₄ emissions (+1 257 kg per year). Improving health, survival, or fertility reduced enteric CH₄ emissions by 90–255 kg per year, while total yearly beef production ranged from 59 kg less to 556 kg more than in the base scenario. Reducing the number of replacement heifers needed by improving cow reproductive performance is thus key to increasing cow longevity and profitability, while reducing enteric CH₄ emissions from the herd without compromising milk and meat production.

Opdateret estimat af det gennemsnitlige reduktionspotentiale ved brugen af Bovaer for alle relevante årskøer i Danmark

Lund, P. — Thu, 14 Mar 2024 14:22:28 +0100

Effect of feeding meal of yellow and lesser mealworm and defatted black soldier fly larvae on growth performance and gut health of weaned piglets

Malla, N., Roos, N., Van der Heide, M. E., Nørgaard, J. V. — Fri, 01 Mar 2024 14:22:28 +0100

Black soldier fly larvae (BSFL), lesser mealworm (LMW) and yellow mealworm (YMW) are suggested as a sustainable novel protein source which could improve growth and gastrointestinal function and health of weaned piglets. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of BSFL, LMW and YMW in diets for weaned piglets on growth performance and gut health-related parameters. A total of 96 crossbred [(Landrace × Yorkshire) × Duroc] male piglets weaned at 28 days of age with an average weight of 6.6 ± 0.5 kg were used. For 2 weeks, piglets were fed a control diet (CTRL) with 14% enzyme-treated soybean meal or diets containing 2.66% enzyme-treated soybean meal and dried meal of defatted BSFL larvae, LMW and YMW at 8.35, 9, and 7.66% respectively. In each diet, 24 piglets were randomly allocated in individual pens. For all the growth performance parameters, no differences were observed among dietary treatments. All the treatments showed similar values of Immunoglobulin A (IgA). The concentration of D-lactate was not affected by treatments. Piglets fed LMW and YMW diets demonstrated a lower concentration of diamine oxidase (DAO; 321 and 309 ng/ml, respectively) than in the CTRL diet (382 ng/ml, P<0.05). Enterococci and lactobacilli in digesta were not different among treatments. Lactic acid varied between 48.6 and 63.4 g/100 g of total organic acid with the highest values found for the BSFL group and the lowest values found for the CTRL group (P=0.004). There was no difference among dietary treatments in the concentration of total short-chain fatty acids in the colon digesta. In conclusion, the inclusion of BSFL, LMW and YMW in weaned piglet diets in expense of enzyme-treated soybean meal showed similar effect on growth performance and most gut health parameters as compared to the CTRL diet. Reduced plasma DAO indicated protection of the intestinal mucosa barrier function when fed the mealworm-included diets. Meal of defatted BSFL larvae, LMW and YMW can be good alternatives to conventional protein sources and can be included in the balanced diet of weaned piglets.

Finansieringsbehov til afdækning af centrale vidensbehov for en mere klimavenlig landbrugsproduktion

Olesen, J. E., Andersen, M. N., Lærke, P. E., et al. — Mon, 11 Mar 2024 14:22:28 +0100

Databasestudie af sodødelighed i økologiske vs. konventionelle besætninger

Kongsted, H., Krogh, M. A. — Mon, 11 Mar 2024 14:22:28 +0100

Danish initiatives in selective breeding in insects

Nielsen, H. M., Hansen, L. S., Gebreyesus, G., et al. — Mon, 01 Jan 2024 14:22:28 +0100

Commercial insect production for food or feed offers a sustainable solution to mitigate the food crisis with the increasing world population. However, to optimize insect production, the large and yet unexploited selective breeding potential should be utilized. In Denmark, work is being performed to develop a selective breeding program in insect species such as house flies and black soldier flies. However, there are several challenges associated with selective breeding in insects. For example, a short generation interval provides only limited time to collect phenotypic records, which necessitates development of accurate and high-throughput phenotyping methods. An important requirement for developing an effective selective breeding program for insects is to estimate economic values and we have done so for important traits in black soldier flies (BSF) such as larval mass on day 15, growth rate, dry mass-, protein- and fat content, development time, eggs per fly, egg hatching rate, and larval mortality to be included in a breeding goal. We have also explored different mating systems for BSF and estimated genetic parameters for traits of economic importance. Based on this information we used stochastic simulation software to evaluate different breeding programs. We simulated a mass selection breeding program where the aim was to increase larval body weight. Further we assessed different breeding programs where we varied to the phenotypic strategy and mating design. A sustainable breeding program for the insect industry will enable insect companies to maintain their own breeding population and increase genetic gain for traits of interest.

Validation of behavioural sampling techniques for 20-25 kg pigs during transport

Thu, 01 Feb 2024 14:22:28 +0100

Monitoring behaviour during transport is challenging due to the design of vehicles and often limited deck height. The aim of the present study was to validate behavioural sampling techniques during transport. This study used data from four journeys, constituting a subset of 32 experimental journeys in a commercial vehicle transporting weaners of 20–25 kg for 23 h. In each journey, behaviour was observed in two compartments holding pigs, each with a deck height of either 60 cm or 90 cm. Body posture (upright, lying, sitting) was recorded using instantaneous scan sampling at 1 min intervals (considered ‘true’ occurrence). Based on these, less frequent sampling intervals were created (5, 10, 15, 30, and 60 min) and the resulting percentages of behaviour per hour were compared. Occurrences of inter-pig aggressive events were recorded using continuous sampling. It was investigated whether the occurrence of aggression when observed during selected recording sessions per hour (20, 30 and 40 min/h) differed from observing the whole hour throughout the journey (the ‘true’ occurrence). Two methods were used to compare sampling techniques. First, estimates of body posture and aggression were pairwise compared with the ‘true’ occurrence using regression metrics (RMSE, MAE, R²). The results showed that instantaneous scan sampling of body posture at 15 min intervals or less did reflect the ‘true’ values, whereas for aggression use of shorter recording sessions of 20 min/h generally did not reflect the ‘true’ values. Secondly, similar results were achieved by using mixed effects logistic regression. These models showed that sampling every 30 min differed from the ‘true’ values, whereas scanning in 5-, 15- or 60 min intervals did not. Compared with sampling the whole hour, the total duration of aggression was significantly underestimated in all three recording sessions (20, 30 and 40 min/h), while the total frequency of aggression was only significantly underestimated in 20 min/h recording session. Based on results of this study, the use of instantaneous scan sampling intervals of 15 min or less is considered valid for analyses of body postures during long distance transport of 20–25 kg pigs. Due to the sporadic occurrence of aggressive interactions, continuous sampling using recording sessions of 20 min cannot be recommended. Using longer recording sessions of 30 or 40 min/h should be approached with caution dependent on the specific scientific context.

Variability within L. albus and L. angustifolius Seeds in Dietary Fiber Components

Gonzalez, E., A I, C., Canibe, N., Knudsen, K. E. B. — Mon, 01 Jan 2024 14:22:28 +0100

Lupin seeds have received increased attention due to their applications in the nutrition of humans and livestock. One of their special features is their high content of dietary fiber, which is influenced by the lupin species. No previous studies have focused on the variability in dietary fiber and its fractions within species so far. The aim of this study was to investigate the variability within L. albus and L. angustifolius (eight cultivars each) in the dietary fiber composition expressed as low-molecular-weight soluble dietary fiber (LMWSDF), soluble and insoluble non-cellulosic polysaccharides, cellulose, and Klason lignin. Additionally, we analyzed the proximate composition and the composition of amino acids and fatty acids. The results showed noticeable variability within both species not only in the total dietary fiber but also in all its fractions, especially in LMWSDF, cellulose, non-starch polysaccharides, and Klason lignin within L. angustifolius. This indicates that the cultivar choice should be based on the application for which it is used. Even though important nutrients, such as the most indispensable amino acids, are not highly variable within L. albus, dietary fiber variations can still have a marked influence on the nutritional value because of their influence on the digestibility of other nutrients.

Dairy cows housed both full- and part-time with their calves form strong maternal bonds

Jensen, E. H., Bateson, M., Neave, H., Rault, J., Jensen, M. B. — Fri, 01 Mar 2024 14:22:28 +0100

https://www.ridehesten.com/artikler/hvornar-og-hvordan-follet-bedst-fravaennet/132843

Søndergaard, E., Christensen, J. W. — Fri, 01 Sep 2023 14:22:28 +0200

Prediction of key milk biomarkers in dairy cows through milk mid-infrared spectra and international collaborations

Grelet, C., Larsen, T., Crowe, M. A., et al. — Fri, 01 Mar 2024 14:22:28 +0100

At the individual cow level, sub-optimum fertility, mastitis, negative energy balance and ketosis are major issues in dairy farming. These problems are widespread on dairy farms and have an important economic impact. The objectives of this study were: 1) to assess the potential of milk Mid Infrared (MIR) spectra to predict key biomarkers of energy deficit (citrate, isocitrate, glucose-6P, free glucose), ketosis (BHB and acetone), mastitis (NAGase and LDH), and fertility (progesterone); 2) to test alternative methodologies to partial least square regression (PLS) to better account for the specific asymmetric distribution of the biomarkers; and 3) to create robust models by merging large data sets from 5 international or national projects. Benefiting from this international collaboration, the data set comprised a total of 9,143 milk samples from 3,758 cows located in 589 herds across 10 countries and represented 7 breeds. The samples were analyzed by reference chemistry for biomarker contents while the MIR analyses were performed on 30 instruments from different models and brands, with spectra harmonized into a common format. Four quantitative methodologies were evaluated to address the strongly skewed distribution of some biomarkers. PLS was used as the reference basis, and compared with a random modification of distribution associated with PLS (Random-downsampling-PLS), an optimized modification of distribution associated with PLS (KennardStone-downsampling-PLS) and Support Vector Machine (SVM). When the ability of MIR to predict biomarkers was too low for quantification, different qualitative methodologies were tested to discriminate low vs high values of biomarkers. For each biomarker, 20% of the herds were randomly removed within all countries to be used as the validation data set. The remaining 80% of herds were used as the calibration data set. In calibration, the 3 alternative methodologies outperform the PLS performances for the majority of biomarkers. However, in the external herd validation, PLS provided the best results for isocitrate, glucose-6P, free glucose and LDH (R2v = 0.48, 0.58, 0.28, and 0.24). For other molecules, PLS-Random-downsampling and PLS-KennardStone-downsampling outperformed PLS in the majority of cases, but the best results were provided by SVM for citrate, BHB, acetone, NAGase and progesterone (R2v = 0.94, 0.58, 0.76, 0.68, and 0.15). Hence, PLS and SVM based on the entire data set provided the best results for normal and skewed distributions, respectively. Complementary to the quantitative methods, the qualitative discriminant models enabled the discrimination of high and low values for BHB, acetone, and NAGase with a global accuracy around 90%, and glucose-6P with an accuracy of 83%. In conclusion, MIR spectra of milk can enable quantitative screening of citrate as a biomarker of energy deficit and discrimination of low and high values of BHB, acetone, and NAGase, as biomarkers of ketosis and mastitis. Finally, progesterone could not be predicted with sufficient accuracy from milk MIR spectra to be further considered. Consequently, MIR spectrometry can bring valuable information regarding the occurrence of energy deficit, ketosis and mastitis in dairy cows, which in turn have major influences on their fertility and survival.

Temadag om aktuel pelsdyrforskning

Tue, 01 Jan 2019 14:22:28 +0100

Program og 11 bilag til temadagen.

Strong impact of nitrogen loading on submerged macrophytes and algae

Olsen, S., Chan, F., Li, W., Zhao, S., Søndergaard, M., Jeppesen, E. — Thu, 01 Jan 2015 14:22:28 +0100

Excess loading of phosphorus (P) and nitrogen (N) triggers a shift in the trophic structure of shallow lakes from a clear-water, macrophyte-dominated state to an algal-dominated turbid state. However, the role of N in the shift is debated, and experimental evidence is, with a few exceptions, based on short-term studies (days to a few months). We studied the effect of N loading on macrophytes (dominated by Potamogeton lucens and Cabomba caroliniana), periphyton, filamentous algae and phytoplankton in mesocosms over 10 months (starting in October) in subtropical China (Wuhan). There were three N treatments: controls (CN) without nitrogen addition (mean TN = 1.9 mg L^-1), low nitrogen (LN) addition (mean TN = 3.5 mg L^-1) and high nitrogen (HN) addition (mean TN = 5.5 mg L^-1). Total phosphorus (TP) concentration in the water column remained moderate (0.05-0.07 mg L^-1) during the experiment in all treatments. Macrophyte abundance declined in the LN and HN treatments in the first 6 months, but not in controls, followed by a partial recovery in the LN treatments. They disappeared completely in the HN treatments the following summer. Periphyton (biofilm on plastic) and phytoplankton biomass remained unaffected during the first 6 months but increased over the summer by two or three times, compared with controls, in low and high nitrogen treatments, respectively. By contrast, the abundance of filamentous algae increased over winter but declined during the summer with no obvious relationship to the N treatments. There was no difference in the TN or nitrate concentrations or soluble protein, soluble sugar and Chl-a content of P. lucens leaves and stems with increasing N load. Macrophyte populations are partially resilient to abrupt increases in N loading at moderate TP concentrations, but, after prolonged exposure, a complete collapse occurs. Our results further indicate that macrophyte loss is exacerbated by shading by filamentous algae during the winter, and by phytoplankton and periphyton in the summer, while there was no indication of direct N toxicity.

Response of Vallisneria spinulosa (Hydrocharitaceae) to contrasting nitrogen loadings in controlled lake mesocosms

Zhao, S., Yin, L., Chang, F., et al. — Mon, 01 Feb 2016 14:22:28 +0100

The role of nitrogen (N) in the shift from a macrophyte-dominated state to a phytoplankton-dominated one at high N concentrations in shallow lakes is still debated. To elucidate possible toxic and ecological effects of high N on macrophyte growth, we conducted a short-term (40 day) study of a eutrophication-tolerant macrophyte, Vallisneria spinulosa (Hydrocharitaceae), incubated in pots in a mesocosm system subjected to different N concentrations (1, 3, and 5 mg l⁻¹). Plant leaf and root length as well as growth rate decreased significantly with increased N concentrations, but most N- and P-related physiological parameters, including the soluble protein content, nitrate reductase activity, acid phosphatase activity, and tissue N and P contents, did not differ significantly among the N treatments. Only the alkaline phosphatase activity differed, being lower at high nitrogen loading, likely due to P limitation. Epiphyton and phytoplankton biomasses increased significantly with increasing N loading. Our results including a large number of physiological tests of the macrophytes, therefore, provide supporting evidence that the loss of submerged macrophytes, like V. spinulosa, seen at high N loading in shallow lakes, can be attributed to competition with phytoplankton and epiphyton rather than to toxic effects.

Lake restoration

Søndergaard, M., Jeppesen, E., Jensen, H. S. — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 14:22:28 +0100

Benthic primary production decreases internal phosphorus loading from lake sediments under light supplement

Zhang, M., Li, Y., Uddin, K. B., et al. — Mon, 15 Jan 2024 14:22:28 +0100

In aquatic ecosystems, light penetrating the sediment surface in shallow lakes may regulate the internal phosphorus (P) release through benthic primary production, which subsequently affects oxidation, pH levels, and alkaline phosphatase activity in the upper sediment. To study the effects of light exposure on the P dynamics at the sediment-water interface under eutrophic conditions, a two-month mesocosm experiment was conducted in twelve cement tanks (1000 L each). The tanks were equipped with Light-Emitting Diode (LED) lights, and surface sediments collected from eutrophic Lake Nanhu (China) were exposed to four different light intensities (0, 50, 100, 200 μmol m⁻² s⁻¹). The results revealed that: 1) Both the total phosphorus concentration and the phosphorus release flux from the sediment were lower in the light treatments (mean value, 0.59–0.71 mg L⁻¹ and 0.00–0.01 mg m⁻² d⁻¹, respectively) than in the control treatment (0.77 mg L⁻¹ and 0.01 mg m⁻² d⁻¹, respectively), indicating that light supplement could decrease the internal P release. 2) Benthic primary production promoted by light directly absorbed soluble reactive phosphorus and decreased the internal P release. The resulting improved production could also increase dissolved oxygen concentrations at the sediment-water interface, thus indirectly inhibiting internal P release. 3) The relative contributions of direct absorption and indirect inhibition on the internal P release ranged between 23% to 69% and 31% to 77% depending on the light intensity.

Notat vedrørende besvarelse af henvendelser under Miljø- og Klimateknologi 2023

Nørremark, M., Hansen, M. J., Kai, P., Børsting, C. F., Konnerup, D. — Fri, 23 Feb 2024 14:22:28 +0100

Physico-chemical, sensory and oxidative quality of butter from cows fed 3-nitrooxypropanol

Sirinayake Lokuge, G. M., Maigaard, M., Lund, P., et al. — Mon, 01 Jan 2024 14:22:28 +0100

This study aims to investigate the effects of supplementing 3-nitrooxypropanol (3-NOP) to the diet of
dairy cows on physico-chemical and sensory properties, as well as oxidative stability of butter. Fortyeight
Danish Holstein cows were randomly assigned to control diets or 3-NOP supplemented diets at
60 mg 3-NOP kg1 feed DM. Compared to control butter, 3-NOP butter had higher proportions of shortand
medium-chain fatty acids (FAs) and lower solid fat content, onset crystallization and offset melting
temperatures. Sensory analysis revealed minor differences between 3-NOP and control butter, while
peroxide values of 3-NOP butter was lower than control butter during storage of 12 weeks. In conclusion,
the alterations in FA composition by 3-NOP led to minor changes in physical properties but improved
oxidative stability of butter without major changes in sensory characteristics.

Proteomics of the secretomes of bovine mammary epithelial cells

Che, J., Nielsen, S. D., Sattari, Z., et al. — Mon, 22 Jan 2024 14:22:28 +0100