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Purpose: Bariatric surgery poses an ever-increasing importance in the effective and long-lasting treatment of obesity, a condition strongly associated with inflammation and increased risk of other diseases and health problems. In obesity-related inflammation, maintaining a balance between pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines is crucial. In this study, we examined early effects of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) on inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines in obese patients, and assessed their effect on postoperative weight loss. Materials and Methods: This prospective cohort study was conducted from September 2022 till June 2023. Fifty obese adults were enrolled for LSG. All patients underwent assessments of body measurements, as well as levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-10 (IL-10), and TNF-alpha at baseline and 3 months postsurgery. We developed a decision tree model to predict the success of weight loss. Results: At 3 months postsurgery, patients lost 18.9 ± 6.9 kg of excess body weight. A significant decrease was observed for IL-10 (p < 0.0001), simultaneously with a significant increase in IL-6 (p < 0.0001). We found that high IL-6 (> 1.169 pg/mL) levels could contribute to an effective weight loss among patients with a baseline BMI less than 47.46 kg/m2. Conclusion: Study revealed that 3 months after bariatric surgery, inflammation persists, and its markers significantly influence postoperative weight loss, as indicated by BMI range. Distinct behaviors of IL-10 and IL-6 in relation to obesity underline the necessity of considering individual cytokine profiles when evaluating bariatric surgery outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Hand grip strength (HGS) and pinch strength are important clinical measures for assessing the hand and overall health. Objective The aim of the present study is to predict HGS and pinch strength based on 1 hand anthropometry, and (2) body anthropometric parameters using machine learning. Methods A Secondary analysis was conducted on 542 participant aged 30–60 years from the Persian Organizational Cohort study in Mashhad University of Medical Sciences. Artificial Neural Network (ANN) were fitted as prediction model. The dataset was divided into two sets: a training set, which comprised 70% of the data, and a test set, which comprised 30% of the data. Various combinations of the hand anthropometric, demographic, and body anthropometric parameters were used to determine the most accurate model. Results The optimal HGS model, using the input of gender, body mass, and hand anthropometric parameters of length (both total length and palm), maximum width, maximum breadth, and hand shape index, achieved nearly equal accuracy to the model that incorporated all variables (RMSE = 5.23, Adjusted R2 = 0.67). As for pinch strength, gender, hand length (both total length and palm), maximum width, maximum breadth, hand shape index, hand span, and middle finger length came closest to the model incorporating all variables (RMSE = 1.20, Adjusted R2 = 0.52). Conclusion This ANN model showed that hand anthropometric parameters of total length, palm length, maximum width, maximum breadth, and the hand shape index, emerge as optimal predictors for both HGS and HPS. Body anthropometric factors (e.g., body mass) play roles as predictors for HGS, whereas their influence on pinch strength appears to be less pronounced. Level of evidence Level III (Diagnosis). Trial registration Not applicable.

Introductionː A strong connection between inflammation and obesity was repeatedly described, with the latter defined as a chronic low-degree systemic inflammatory state. This study analyzed the correlations between inflammatory blood indexes and both baseline anthropometric measurements and the weight–loss process after bariatric surgery.

Alpacas represent an exotic species for Italy, introduced no more than 20–30 years ago. Nevertheless, they are currently the most widespread camelid species reared in this country, highlighting the growing interest in breeding this species. So, it is useful to assess parameters on their growth in relation to the new environment. Thus, body weight and body measures were recorded on 49 healthy alpacas of Huacaya type (27 females, 22 males), along a period of 27 months. Overall, 111 individual observations were made. Data were analysed by ANOVA, as growth curves were estimated by applying the Gompertz’s model. Multiple regression was finally used to estimate body weight from body measures. Body weight and linear measures, except for the distance between iliac crest and the length of the rump, were influenced by the category (calves, yearlings, adults) and by the age class within category (p 0.05). Asymptotic weigh of males was 8.25% higher than females (p

Alpacas represent an exotic species for Italy, introduced no more than 20–30 years ago. Nevertheless, they are currently the most widespread camelid species reared in this country, highlighting the growing interest in breeding this species. So, it is useful to assess parameters on their growth in relation to the new environment. Thus, body weight and body measures were recorded on 49 healthy alpacas of Huacaya type (27 females, 22 males), along a period of 27 months. Overall, 111 individual observations were made. Data were analysed by ANOVA, as growth curves were estimated by applying the Gompertz's model. Multiple regression was finally used to estimate body weight from body measures. Body weight and linear measures, except for the distance between iliac crest and the length of the rump, were influenced by the category (calves, yearlings, adults) and by the age class within category (p < 0.05), while gender and interaction between gender and category were never significant (p > 0.05). Asymptotic weigh of males was 8.25% higher than females (p < 0.05). Moreover, males at maturity had higher withers (+0.96%), longer body (+2.70%) and chest measurements (+3.18%) than females. Asymptotic rump width (both at the ilium and at the ischium) was higher in females (respectively + 6.19%; +12.90%). According to our work, the best equation for the estimate of body weight from body measures was the following: 5.691 + 0.00005624 * chest circumference3 + 0.00002298 * trunk length3 − 1.155 * rump width between ischial tuberosities + 0.00001545 * height at rump3 (R2=0.957; SE of estimate = 4.36 kg), that is important for a better management of the species. Alpacas are the most widespread camelid species in Italy. Rump dimensions develop earlier than other body measures. It is possible to improve the management and welfare of animals by estimating the live weight starting from somatic measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Anthropometric measures (AM) are valuable and cost-effective means that could be beneficial in multiple aspects. Normative value for Egyptians AM could be used in many disciplines. Objectives: The study aim was to establish normative values for the anthropometric profile of the Adult Egyptian populations and to compare values obtained for males and females. Material and methods: This study includes 1,916 adult (≥ 18 years of age) Egyptians of both male (n = 1,003) and female (n = 913) gender. The sample was recruited in a way to represent different geographical areas of Egypt. Thirty-four anthropometric measures were assessed in a standardised manner using easily accessible measuring tools (rubber tape, plastic-made skinfold caliper). Results: Males represented 52.3%, while females comprised 47.7% of the sample. The mean ± SD, range, maximum and minimum values of all outcome measures were provided. All anthropometric measures demonstrated statistically significant differences between both genders (p < 0.05) except for proximal thigh (p = 0.896) and ankle circumference (p = 0.441), biceps (p = 0.692) and subscapular (p = 0.951) skinfold thickness (SFT). Conclusion: A new reference for normative anthropometric data is presented. Males and females differ in their anthropometric characteristics, thus, these variations should be considered in any future ergonomic-based designs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study is to determine the level of morphological and functional indicators depending on sports specializations among distinguished Mongolian female athletes. Our study involved 123 athletes aged 18-34 in six sports disciplines and the body composition of the athletes were measured by anthropometry and bioelectrical impedance. Physical performance was assessed by Harvard Step Test, alongside spirometry and physical fitness tests. Sports specializations affect the indicators of physical development and body composition of athletes, which revealed significant differences between them. According to the Harvard Test, 85% (34) of team sports athletes, 53.4% (31) of martial arts athletes received good and excellent marks. High-ranking Mongolian male athletes have different body compositions according to various sports disciplines and one can create a profile of an athlete within specific sports. Many years of training can improve an athlete's performance. The cardiovascular function of athletes involved in martial arts quickly returns to normal after training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The purpose of this study is to determine the level of morphological and functional indicators depending on sports specializations among high-ranked Mongolian male athletes. Methods: Our study involved 218 athletes aged 18 - 34 in six sports and measured body composition by anthropometry and bioelectrical impedance. Physical performance was assessed by Harvard test, spirometry and physical fitness testing. Results: Sports specializations affect the indicators of physical development and body composition of athletes, which revealed significant differences between them. Martial arts athletes are stronger, more flexible, and more balanced than in team sports. As the ranks increase, body composition and performance get better. According to the Harvard test, 89.2 % (99) of team sports athletes and 98.2 % (55) of martial arts athletes received good and excellent marks. By the spirometry test, team sports groups have higher lung function results. Conclusion: Mongolian high-ranked male athletes have different body compositions in different sports types and it can create a profile of athletes within specific sports. Many years of training can improve the athlete’s performance. The cardiovascular function of athletes involved in martial arts quickly returns to normal after training. In team sports group, lung function is more adapted during a long period of training.

ABSTRACT: Ultrasound (US) imaging has been proposed as a noninvasive tool for monitoring liver dysfunction in dairy cows. This study, carried out on 306 clinically healthy Holstein cows in the first 120 d of lactation kept in 2 herds in northern Italy, aimed at investigating the association between US imaging-derived traits, namely predicted liver triacylglycerol content (pTAG, mg/g), liver depth (LD, mm), portal vein depth (PVD, mm) and area (PVA, mm2), and body size measurements, body condition score (BCS), and milk productivity indicators. Transcutaneous US examination, milk sampling, body size measurements (withers height and heart girth), and BCS were collected once from all cows in 10 sampling batches. The body weights (BW) of a subsample of 73 cows were recorded and used together with an existing data set of BW and measures of Holstein Friesian cows (n = 399) to develop a regression equation to predict BW, which was then used to compute productivity indicators by scaling the milk production traits to predicted BW. Body size measures, BCS, milk traits, and productivity indicators were classified (low, medium, and high) in 0.75 units of standard deviation of the residuals generated from a linear model that included the effects of parity, days in milk, and sampling batch. Liver pTAG, PVA, PVD, and LD were analyzed with a sequence of linear mixed models that included the fixed effects of days in milk and parity and the random effect of sampling batch as common terms, whereas the classes of body and milk traits and the productivity indicators were included one by one. The US-related traits were found to be associated with body size measurements and BCS. Specifically, pTAG was inversely related to BCS, whereas PVD and LD increased with increasing heart girth, BCS, and predicted BW. Generally, no relevant associations were observed between the US parameters and milk production traits, including when expressed in terms of productivity. In conclusion, this study suggests that US measures of liver dimensions of clinically healthy cows are related to their size, whereas pTAG concentrations reflect body condition status, with no particular implications for milk production and productivity. Moreover, healthy cows seemed able to counteract the metabolic stress of the first 120 d of the lactation period without straining liver functionality. Finally, US imaging proved to be a promising technique to assess liver metabolic conditions. However, further studies are needed to confirm its potential as a noninvasive tool for monitoring liver conditions in healthy cows.

The body measurements was made on 20 males of river lobsters (Astacus fluviatilis or Astacus astacus). The lobsters on witch the study was made had an average total length of body of 12.72 cm ±0.19 cm (formed from: 6.07±0.10cm the length of cefalothorax, 4.73 ±0.10 cm the length of abdomen and 1.91 ±0.07 cm length of telson), and a body weight of 55.70±3.07 g. the males present a length of feelers of 8.53±0.34 cm, a antennas of 2.20±0.05 cm, and the stem of the eyes of 0.51±0.02 cm. The body of male present a average width of 3.35±0.07 cm at level of cefalothorax, and 2.40±0.05 cm at abdomen level. Average deepness of cefalothorax was 2.85±0.07cm, and abdomen deepness of 1.34±0.03cm. The 5 pairs of periopode had an average length of 10.91±0.42 cm, 6.06±0.22 cm, 7.21±0.21 cm, 6.57±0.16 cm and 5.85±0.15cm. The average length of pleopods was at first pear of 2.00±0.06 cm, at second pair of 2.11±0.05 cm, at third of 1.85±0.05 cm, at fourth of 1.73±0.04 cm and at fifth pair of 1.55±0.04 cm.

The body measurements was made on 20 males of river lobster (Astacus fluviatilis or Astacus astacus). The lobsters on witch the study was made had an average total length of body of 12.72 cm ±0.19 cm (formed from: 6.07±0.10cm the length of cefalothorax, 4.73 ±0.10 cm the length of abdomen and 1.91 ±0.07 cm length of telson), and a body weight of 55.70±3.07 g. the males present a length of antennas of 8.53±0.34 cm, a feelers of 2.20±0.05 cm, and the stems of the eyes of 0.51±0.02 cm. The body of males present a average width of 3.35±0.07 cm at level of cefalothorax, and 2.40±0.05 cm at abdomen level. Average deepness of cefalothorax was 2.85±0.07cm, and abdomen deepness of 1.34±0.03cm. The 5 pairs of periopodes had an average length of 10.91±0.42 cm, 6.06±0.22 cm, 7.21±0.21 cm, 6.57±0.16 cm and 5.85±0.15cm. The average length of pleopods was at first pears of 2.00±0.06 cm, at second pair of 2.11±0.05 cm, at third of 1.85±0.05 cm, at fourth of 1.73±0.04 cm and at fifth pair of 1.55±0.04 cm.

Although animal-source foods are suitable complementary food for child growth in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), their efficacy is still under discussion. This systematic review and meta-analysis was done to investigate the suitability of animal-source foods intake on child physical growth in LMICs. A systematic literature search was done using electronic databases and scanning the reference list of included studies, previous meta-analysis and systematic reviews. Paper selection was based on the PICO (ST) criteria. Papers were selected if based on 6 to 24-month-old children, if they were randomised controlled trials evaluating the effect of complementary animal-based food supplementation of any natural origin, if reporting at least a measure of body size and published after 2000. The PRISMA guidelines for reporting systematic review was followed in the paper selection. Fourteen papers were included in the systematic review and eight were considered for the meta-analysis. Animal-based food supplementation resulted in a higher length-for-age LAZ and weight-for-age (WAZ) Z -scores compared with the control group with random effect size of 0·15 (95 % CI 0·02, 0·27) and 0·20 (95 % CI 0·03, 0·36), respectively. Results were confirmed after influence analyses, and publication bias resulted as negligible. An increased effect on LAZ and WAZ was observed when the food supplementation was based on egg with effect size of 0·31 (95 % CI = −0·03, 0·64) and 0·36 (95 % CI = −0·03, 0·75), respectively. Animal-source foods are a suitable complementary food to improve growth in 6 to 24-month-old children in LMICs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mate choice is an important cause of natural and sexual selection, driving the evolution of ornaments and promoting diversification and speciation. Mate choice decisions arise from the interaction of several components, and knowledge of whether they interact, and how, is crucial for understanding their contributions to selection. Here we focus on the relationship between preference functions (attractiveness ranking of prospective mates) and choosiness (effort invested in obtaining the preferred mate) and test the hypothesis that they are independent components of mate choice decisions. We examine individual variation in preference functions and choosiness for call duration in female Hyla versicolor treefrogs and show that measures describing preference functions and choosiness are not correlated. We also found a suggestive but inconclusive pattern that both components are influenced by different factors (body measures and hormones). Independence of preference and choosiness suggests that the joint study of variation in both components is required to gain a complete understanding of how mate choice contributes to sexual selection and speciation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ultrasound (US) imaging has been proposed as a noninvasive tool for monitoring liver dysfunction in dairy cows. This study, carried out on 306 clinically healthy Holstein cows in the first 120 d of lactation kept in 2 herds in northern Italy, aimed at investigating the association between US imaging-derived traits, namely predicted liver triacylglycerol content (pTAG, mg/g), liver depth (LD, mm), portal vein depth (PVD, mm) and area (PVA, mm2), and body size measurements, body condition score (BCS), and milk productivity indicators. Transcutaneous US examination, milk sampling, body size measurements (withers height and heart girth), and BCS were collected once from all cows in 10 sampling batches. The body weights (BW) of a subsample of 73 cows were recorded and used together with an existing data set of BW and measures of Holstein Friesian cows (n = 399) to develop a regression equation to predict BW, which was then used to compute productivity indicators by scaling the milk production traits to predicted BW. Body size measures, BCS, milk traits, and productivity indicators were classified (low, medium, and high) in 0.75 units of standard deviation of the residuals generated from a linear model that included the effects of parity, days in milk, and sampling batch. Liver pTAG, PVA, PVD, and LD were analyzed with a sequence of linear mixed models that included the fixed effects of days in milk and parity and the random effect of sampling batch as common terms, whereas the classes of body and milk traits and the productivity indicators were included one by one. The US-related traits were found to be associated with body size measurements and BCS. Specifically, pTAG was inversely related to BCS, whereas PVD and LD increased with increasing heart girth, BCS, and predicted BW. Generally, no relevant associations were observed between the US parameters and milk production traits, including when expressed in terms of productivity. In conclusion, this study suggests that US measures of liver dimensions of clinically healthy cows are related to their size, whereas pTAG concentrations reflect body condition status, with no particular implications for milk production and productivity. Moreover, healthy cows seemed able to counteract the metabolic stress of the first 120 d of the lactation period without straining liver functionality. Finally, US imaging proved to be a promising technique to assess liver metabolic conditions. However, further studies are needed to confirm its potential as a noninvasive tool for monitoring liver conditions in healthy cows. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sheep are an important livestock species in Albania. The study was conducted at the Agricultural Technology Transfer Center of Korca in South East area of Albania. This study is focused in two local sheep breeds that have the status as endangered, Shkodrane and Lara e Polisit and two imported breeds Awasi and Il de France reared in this region under the care, responsibility and management of ATTC of Korca. Morphometric measurements and indices of a 190 unrelated and randomly selected animals were analyzed. Awasi have the largest wither height (70.31), rump height (73.56), body length (117.87), chest depth (36.16). Il de France is the largest breed related to rump width (24.89) chest circumference (90.978), cannon bone circumference (8.91), body weight (55.29). Shkodrane is the smallest breed regrading to body length (93.56), chest dept (30.98), chest width (15.91), chest circumference (76.31). All breeds have rectangular body frame, with an index of body frame ranging from 153.06 to 167.87. All morphometric traits were significantly positively correlated. The analysis indicated that body weight was highly correlated with all morphometric measurements. The highest correlation was with chest circumference (0.92) and the smallest (0.65) with cannon bone circumference. The PCA of all morphometric parameters indicated that the three components accounted 90.3% of the cumulative variance. The PCA and UPGMA indicated some admixture between two Albanian sheep breeds Shkodrane and Lara e Polisit and a pure differentiation of Ile de France and Awasi. A regression analysis was performed to predict the body weight from morphometric measurements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Measuring individual daily feed intake (DMI) is difficult and expensive due to the facilities, equipment and labor. Thus, many researchers have been looking for alternative traits, cheaper and easier, to replace feed intake mensuration. The objective of this study was to evaluate the relationships between dry matter intake and body measures, morphometric indices, testicular measurements, carcass traits by ultrasound and performance traits in sheep. Thirty-two lambs with 3 months of age, males and females, Santa Ines purebred and crossbreed Dorper with Santa Ines, were used. The food was provided in automated feed stations and productive performance traits, body and testicular measures, morphometric indices and carcass traits were measured. Correlation coefficients between DMI and all traits were calculated (p=0.05). The results showed correlation between DMI and morphometric measures/indices (0.36

Background: The use of antipsychotic medication, particularly second generation antipsychotics (SGAs) is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease in people with severe mental illness (SMI). Few studies have compared body measures of people with SMI taking first generation antipsychotics (FGAs) to those taking SGAs. Aim: We compare body measures between long-term male inpatients using either FGAs or SGAs. Setting: The study was conducted at Weskoppies Psychiatric Hospital, in Pretoria, Gauteng. Methods: A total of 30 patients were selected from a list of male inpatients and were included in our study. Each participant had the following anthropometric measures done and these were compared between the two groups: Waist circumference (WC), body mass index (BMI), waist to hip ratio (WHR), waist to height ratio (WHtR) and hip circumference (HC). Hospital records were used to record demographic variables, diagnosis, comorbid disease and psychotropic medication for each participant. Results: Participants in the FGA and SGA groups had similar body measures, resulting in similar BMI, WHR and WHtR. Participants had a mean HC of 100.5 cm, 95% confidence interval (CI) (97.68, 103.22). BMI ranged from 21.87 kg/m² to 37.65 kg/m², with an overall mean of 28.5 kg/m², 95% CI (26.69, 30.22). Participants had a mean WHtR of 0.59, 95% CI (0.56, 0.61). Participants had a mean WC of 100.6 cm and 95% CI (96.26, 104.87), and the mean WHR of both groups was 1.0. Conclusion: Participants using FGAs and SGAs had similar body measures, and these indicated that this sample of male inpatients with SMI is at high risk for CVD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluates the dimensions of fractional-size violin bows in relation to the anthropometric and grip-strength measurements of children and adults. In string education, various methods and devices have been put forward to measure children for the correct violin size, but there is a lack of research regarding the proper bow size. Results from this study indicate that fractional-size bows are manufactured with nearly identical dimensions to full-size bows, except for total length. A review of anthropometry research affirms that children's hands grow at a near constant proportion to their arms. This finding indicates the need for fractional-size bows with dimensions different from the current standard. An analysis of grip-strength research in children at various ages suggests that the weights of fractional-size bows are also not ideal. Experimental bow dimensions are proposed for further study and recommendations are made to decrease the weights of fractional-size violin bows to make them better suited for children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this research is to propose equations to estimate body weight (BW) from body measures (BMs) in the Cornigliese sheep, an endangered breed reared in Italy for meat purpose. BW and BMs were submitted to correlation and multiple regression analyses. Two datasets were used: (i) 303 animals (178 females, 125 males, BW 4.00–117.80 kg), on which BW, height at withers (HW), chest circumference (ChC) and body length (BL) were measured; (ii) 156 animals (109 females, 47 males, BW 5.15–117.80 kg) out of 303 on which croup height (HCr), chest width (ChW), chest depth (ChD) and croup width (CrW) were also considered. On each dataset, two regression models were applied, one containing all variables (models 1 and 3, respectively, for datasets 1 and 2) and the other one comprising groups of variables, selected by means of the stepwise procedure (models 2 and 4, respectively, for datasets 1 and 2). BW resulted correlated with all BMs (from 0.852 for ChW to 0.950 for ChC; p

The aim of present research was to establish the relationship between live body weight and some body measurements in Travnik sheep as a step towards establishing prediction equations to estimate live body weight of sheep under field conditions without using weighing scales. The research was conducted on the family farm "Aščić" from Velika Peratovica in the Bilogora area. The body measures from which the indices of physical development were calculated were taken from 39 sheep. The sheep in the present research had more modest body measurements and body weight than the desirable measures and weights listed in the Sheep Breeding Program in the Republic of Croatia, which is most likely due to the way they were kept, nutrition and their production status. Correlation analysis between individual body measures and sheep weights revealed the strongest and significantly positive correlation (P

Abstract As part of a national action plan to manage animal genetic resources in Burundi, we characterized smallholders’ goat production systems and assessed the effect of Boer crossbreeding on animal body measures. To that end, 319 farmers were surveyed in the five agro-ecological zones of Burundi and the zootechnical measures of 939 adult goats were taken. Cluster analysis of the goat production systems resulted into two opposed groups and one intermediate. On the one hand, there are the dry lowlands systems characterized by large herds composed mainly of indigenous animals grazing freely, and having high market characteristics. On the other hand, there are the humid highlands systems characterized by small herds composed of indigenous and crossbred animals in stall feeding or herding/tethering systems, and by low market characteristics. Fixed effect linear models were used to evaluate the effect of Boer crossbreeding on body weights and linear body measures, after adjustment for age, sex, grazing systems and agro-ecological zones. Results showed that least square means for body weights of adult Boer crossbreds were 4.74 kg higher than those of indigenous goats, which was lower than expected. Least square means for linear body measures of Boer crossbreds were significantly higher than those of indigenous breeds: differences in chest girth, body length and height at withers were 4.88 cm, 5.59 cm and 4.82 cm, respectively. Goats were heavier and greater in linear measures in lowlands than in highlands. The advantages and issues of a selection programme within indigenous breeds are discussed as an alternative to the crossbreeding programme.

Background: The use of antipsychotic medication, particularly second generation antipsychotics (SGAs) is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease in people with severe mental illness (SMI). Few studies have compared body measures of people with SMI taking first generation antipsychotics (FGAs) to those taking SGAs. Aim: We compare body measures between long-term male inpatients using either FGAs or SGAs. Setting: The study was conducted at Weskoppies Psychiatric Hospital, in Pretoria, Gauteng. Methods: A total of 30 patients were selected from a list of male inpatients and were included in our study. Each participant had the following anthropometric measures done and these were compared between the two groups: Waist circumference (WC), body mass index (BMI), waist to hip ratio (WHR), waist to height ratio (WHtR) and hip circumference (HC). Hospital records were used to record demographic variables, diagnosis, comorbid disease and psychotropic medication for each participant. Results: Participants in the FGA and SGA groups had similar body measures, resulting in similar BMI, WHR and WHtR. Participants had a mean HC of 100.5 cm, 95% confidence interval (CI) (97.68, 103.22). BMI ranged from 21.87 kg/m² to 37.65 kg/m², with an overall mean of 28.5 kg/m², 95% CI (26.69, 30.22). Participants had a mean WHtR of 0.59, 95% CI (0.56, 0.61). Participants had a mean WC of 100.6 cm and 95% CI (96.26, 104.87), and the mean WHR of both groups was 1.0. Conclusion: Participants using FGAs and SGAs had similar body measures, and these indicated that this sample of male inpatients with SMI is at high risk for CVD.

In order to know effects of dosing combination of selenium-vitamin E mixture in presence or absence of vitamin C to studying productive characteristics and body measurements of Awassi lambs. A fattening experiment was conducted on 24 heads of Awassi lambs in a private farm of local breeder in Al-Hamdaniya district, Nineveh governorate. In this study, Awassi lambs (males) were used was similar in age, ranging between 5 - 6 months, and were homogeneous in average of primary weight at the beginning of the experiment, as it ranged between 25.01 - 26.71 kg. The experiment lasted for three months. These lambs were distributed randomly into four groups, at a rate of 6 lambs for each of group. The first treatment included oral dosing of 5 ml of saline solution was prepared as control group. The second group included oral administration of 5 ml of selenium mixture, which was containing 2.5 mg of selenium and 250 mg of vitamin E. As for third group of Awassi lambs was dosed by 5 ml of vitamin C (500 mg of vitamin C). Finally fourth group was dosed of 5 ml of mixture of selenium-vitamin E with presence of vitamin C. The dosing process was carried out twice per week and continued until end of the fattening period. The results of the statistical analysis indicated an improvement in daily weight gains, total gains, and final weight were in favor for second groups (selenium-vitamin E mixture), third (vitamin C) and fourth (selenium-vitamin E + vitamin C mixture) when compared to the control group.As for body measurements of lambs, the results of this experiment showed a high significant increase (P£0.01) in mean of body length, body height at frontward and backward of the animals, chest circumference and abdominal circumference in fourth group of lambs that were dosed (selenium-vitamin E + vitamin C) compared to control group. The dosing process continued at a rate of twice per week until the end of the fattening experiment. We conclude from this results of this experiment the emergence of a significant improvement (P£0.05) in the production characteristics in favor of groups that were dosed with a mixture of (selenium - vitamin E), vitamin C and combination of (selenium - vitamin E + vitamin C) compared to the control group. As a result of significant improvement in productive performance of the lambs and positive correlation between live weight and body measurements, which was resulted a highly significant change (P£0.01) in different measurements of the lambs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developing the rumen’s capacity to utilise recalcitrant and low-value feed resources is important for ruminant production systems. Early-life nutrition and management practices have been shown to influence development of the rumen in young animals with long-term consequences on their performance. Therefore, there has been increasing interest to understand ruminal development and function in young ruminants to improve feed efficiency, health, welfare, and performance of both young and adult ruminants. However, due to the small size, rapid morphological changes and low initial microbial populations of the rumen, it is difficult to study ruminal function in young ruminants without major invasive approaches or slaughter studies. In this review, we discuss the usefulness of a range of proxies and markers to monitor ruminal function and nitrogen use efficiency (a major part of feed efficiency) in young ruminants. Breath sulphide and methane emissions showed the greatest potential as simple markers of a developing microbiota in young ruminants. However, there is only limited evidence for robust indicators of feed efficiency at this stage. The use of nitrogen isotopic discrimination based on plasma samples appeared to be the most promising proxy for feed efficiency in young ruminants. More research is needed to explore and refine potential proxies and markers to indicate ruminal function and feed efficiency in young ruminants, particularly for neonatal ruminants.

This study aims to investigate the relationship between body measures and the presence of two frailty‐related phenotypes, and the moderating effect of age on this relationship. This is a secondary data analysis of the baseline data of an interventional study. The participants were residents of seven districts in Hong Kong, aged 55 or older, able to ambulate independently and to function well cognitively. Pre‐frailty refers to the presence of two frailty‐related phenotypes: low physical activity or poor handgrip strength or both. Included in the study were 199 individuals with a mean age of 73.43 (SD 7.54). Regression models showed that body weight (OR = 0.95, 95% CI 0.92–0.99, p <.05) was significantly associated with pre‐frailty, as was body height (OR = 0.88, 95% CI 0.83–0.94, p <.001). Age is a significant moderator of the relationship between pre‐frailty and body weight and body height. The effect of body weight (beta = −0.044, p <.05) and height (beta = −0.16, p <.001) on pre‐frailty was significant and negative in the younger age groups. The findings indicate that raw body measures (i.e. body weight, body height) are more predictive of pre‐frailty than BMI in older Chinese people. However, in the old‐old group, these measures are not significant predictors of pre‐frailty in Chinese community‐dwelling adults. Practitioners should consider adopting body measures as predictors of pre‐frailty in the younger‐old population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this research was to determine the body weight, weight gain and morphometric characteristics of several local chicken strains. The research materials were KUB chicken, Sentul chicken, and Arab chicken. The method used was an experiment with a sample of 82 chickens from each strain. Data collected include body weight, weight gain, beak length, beak width, head length, head circumference, head height, neck length, neck circumference, wing length, back length, back height, chest length, chest width, shank length, shank circumference, tibia length, tibia circumference, third finger length, and pubic bone distance. Data collected were analyzed using the average difference test (t-test). The average value vector of body measurements of chicken lines was analyzed using the T²-Hotelling statistical test. Main Component Analysis statistical test was used to identify the shape and size characteristics of each chicken strain. The results showed that the body weight and morphometrics of KUB chickens at 3 months were significantly different (P0.05) from Sentul chickens, but it was significantly different (P

The aim of this research is to propose equations to estimate body weight (BW) from body measures (BMs) in the Cornigliese sheep, an endangered breed reared in Italy for meat purpose. BW and BMs were submitted to correlation and multiple regression analyses. Two datasets were used: (i) 303 animals (178 females, 125 males, BW 4.00–117.80 kg), on which BW, height at withers (HW), chest circumference (ChC) and body length (BL) were measured; (ii) 156 animals (109 females, 47 males, BW 5.15–117.80 kg) out of 303 on which croup height (HCr), chest width (ChW), chest depth (ChD) and croup width (CrW) were also considered. On each dataset, two regression models were applied, one containing all variables (models 1 and 3, respectively, for datasets 1 and 2) and the other one comprising groups of variables, selected by means of the stepwise procedure (models 2 and 4, respectively, for datasets 1 and 2). BW resulted correlated with all BMs (from 0.852 for ChW to 0.950 for ChC; p <.001). Models 1 and 3 fitted the data better than models 2 and 4, both for all animals and for females and males separately. We concluded that BW could be predicted from BMs also in Cornigliese sheep breed. The best fits were obtained when the highest number of measures was included in the model (models 1 and 3). Nevertheless, models 2 and 4 could be used more easily in extensive sheep breeding than models 1 and 3, since they require less parameters. The estimation of body weight is important in a meat type sheep breed for choosing the optimal slaughter time. A reduction of work for farmer is positive, mainly in field conditions of extensive rearing, where scales are not easily available. Body weight could be predicted from body measures in Cornigliese sheep breed with good precision and accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Central European Agriculture is the property of Journal of Central European Agriculture and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Rechtsmedizin is the property of Springer Nature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

As part of a national action plan to manage animal genetic resources in Burundi, we characterized smallholders' goat production systems and assessed the effect of Boer crossbreeding on animal body measures. To that end, 319 farmers were surveyed in the five agro-ecological zones of Burundi and the zootechnical measures of 939 adult goats were taken. Cluster analysis of the goat production systems resulted into two opposed groups and one intermediate. On the one hand, there are the dry lowlands systems characterized by large herds composed mainly of indigenous animals grazing freely, and having high market characteristics. On the other hand, there are the humid highlands systems characterized by small herds composed of indigenous and crossbred animals in stall feeding or herding/tethering systems, and by low market characteristics. Fixed effect linear models were used to evaluate the effect of Boer crossbreeding on body weights and linear body measures, after adjustment for age, sex, grazing systems and agro-ecological zones. Results showed that least square means for body weights of adult Boer crossbreds were 4.74 kg higher than those of indigenous goats, which was lower than expected. Least square means for linear body measures of Boer crossbreds were significantly higher than those of indigenous breeds: differences in chest girth, body length and height at withers were 4.88 cm, 5.59 cm and 4.82 cm, respectively. Goats were heavier and greater in linear measures in lowlands than in highlands. The advantages and issues of a selection programme within indigenous breeds are discussed as an alternative to the crossbreeding programme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to predict the amount and energy content of body fat depots in Katahdin sheep using ultrasound measurements of kidney fat thickness (uKFT). Twenty-four h before slaughter, the uKFT was measured behind the 13th rib on the right side of 34 animals. After slaughter, data were collected on both carcass and non-carcass components. Internal fat depots were dissected, weighed, and classified as mesenteric (MF), omental (OM), or perirenal (PF) fat and then summed to give the total internal fat (IF) weight. Carcass fat (CF: subcutaneous plus intermuscular fat), muscle, and bone weights were then obtained by manual deboning of the left half of the carcass. Total body fat (TBF) was the sum of IF and CF. Finally, the gross energy content (GE) of IF, CF, and TBF was calculated. The uKFT was moderately to highly associated with internal body fat depots (0.63 ≤ r ≤ 0.83, P < 0.001). In addition, r was 0.76 to 0.86 for IF and CF and had a similar range for GEIF, GECF, and GETBF. To predict internal body fat depots, the equations had an r2 ranging from 0.43 to 0.76, and in these models, the uKFT and empty body weight (EBW) were included (P < 0.05). The equations for IF, CF, GEIF, GECF, and GETBF had an r2 ranging from 0.54 to 0.78. The evaluation showed that the equations had low to moderate precision (> 0.44 ≤ and ≤ 0.78), moderate to high accuracy (> 0.75 ≤ and ≤ 0.99), and moderate to high reproducibility index (> 0.61 and ≤ 0.88). The results indicate that the equations developed from ultrasonic measurements of kidney fat thickness can be used to predict the amount and energy content of body fat depots in Katahdin sheep with moderate accuracy and precision. It also appears that Katahdin sheep store a significant proportion of absorbed energy in the carcass rather than in internal depots. • The prediction of body fat depots in Katahdin sheep was evaluated. • Ultrasound kidney fat thickness was associated with internal body fat. • Ultrasound kidney fat thickness can be predicting body fat depots in Katahdin sheep. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In order to describe the growth curves of live body weight (BW), body length (BL), height at withers (HW) and hearth girth (HG) in Caspian horses, six non-linear mixed growth models (Brody, Logistic, Gompertz, Schumacher, Von Bertalanffy and Negative exponential) were used. The data set comprised 129 records of BW and biometric traits (made up of 54 for males and 75 for female horses) which were measured weekly from birth to 32 weeks of age in the premises of the Animal Science Department, Agricultural and Natural Resources Research Center of Guilan, Rasht, Iran. Each model was fitted to weekly records of horses using the non-linear mixed model procedure (PROC NLMIXED) in SAS and the parameters were estimated. The mixed models were tested for goodness of fit using Akaike's information criterion (AIC), Bayesian information criterion (BIC), log maximum likelihood (−2 Log L) and residual variance (σ e 2). The Brody function was selected as the best model for fitting the growth curve of BW, BL and WL in females and all horses. Although, the Brody model was the best model for fitting the growth curve of HG in females and all horses, but Logistic function was the best function for fitting the growth curve for this trait in male horses. The results of this study can aim planning farm management strategies and decision making just by viewing the growth curve of horses. The non-linear mixed models were adequate for fitting growth curves of body weight and biometric characters in Caspian horses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Obesity is one of the most concerning nutritional issues since it is a significant risk factor for chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Many dietary disorders require an anthropometry assessment and body fat percentage (BFP) information. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) is the most precise and automated method for determining BFP; nevertheless, it is costly and difficult to locate in clinics. This paper proposes the utilization of digital image processing and machine learning techniques to estimate BFP, considering four 2D camera images and additional factors such as age, weight, height, and sex. Our proposal specifically adopts a sex-specific approach. Our experiments included pre-processing steps and several regressors. Moreover, we built a dataset composed of 912 samples, including male and female individuals. The sex-based approach to estimating the BFP achieved satisfactory results for both males and females. Thus, it can assist monitor patients as a mobile application, especially in areas where experts and technology, such as equipment, are scarce. [Display omitted] • Human body parts extraction via a computer vision approach based on the human anatomy. • Anthropometric measurements via body parts measures extracted from 4 photos. • Estimation of the body fat percentage via body parts measures extracted from 4 photos. • A dataset of 912 samples containing 4 photos, anthropometric measurements, and DXA exam. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Limited evidence about the role of diet quality, an important component of nutritional status, in the etiology of dental caries has been reported. The aim of this study was to examine the association between diet and dental caries in children by using the dietary intake data, anthropometrical measurements and dental examination. A total of 395 children (52.7% boys and 42.8% girls) who were 36-71 months of age (mean age 58.7±8.6 months) and attended one of the eleven preschools within a district of Ankara participated in this descriptive study. Dental examinations were performed in the schools under day-light by a pediatric dentist; decayed, missing and filled teeth as well as surfaces were recorded. Data related to socio-demographic characteristics and 24-hour dietary recall of children were gathered via a structured, pretested questionnaire which was conducted by the research dietitian. The Healthy Eating Index-2010 (HEI-2010) and Mediterranean Diet Quality Index for children and adolescents (KIDMED) were used to assess dietary intake. Anthropometric measurements including weight, height, upper arm circumference and head circumference were taken by the same researcher. The percentage of Early Childhood Caries (ECC) was increased by age (p<0.001) whereas no significant difference was observed by sex, socioeconomic status, tooth brushing frequency and body mass index (p>0.05). Although children who had bad KIDMED scores had slightly higher mean values of decayed missing and filled teeth (dmft) (5.39± 4.6) and decayed missing and filled surface (dmfs) (8.45± 8.69), compared to the scores of children with good or medium KIDMED scores, the differences were not statistically significant (p>0.05). On the contrary to the KIDMED findings, the mean value of tooth decay was significantly higher among children with bad HEI-2010 score (4.2±4.3) compared to children with medium HEI-2010 score (2.47±2.9) (p=0.043). It is concluded that a healthy eating pattern and high diet quality is essential for the prevention of early childhood caries in preschool children. Further studies are required to develop dietary strategies for the prevention of dental caries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to evaluate de relationship between biometric measurements (BM) and carcass traits of 28 Pelibuey ewes. The BM were obtained the day before the slaughter and included height at withers (HW), rib depth (RD), body diagonal length (BDL), body length (BL), pelvic girdle length (PGL), rump depth (RuD), rump height (RH), pin bone width (PBW), hook bone width (HBW), abdomen width (AW), girth circumference (GC), and abdomen circumference (AC). Additional measurements included shrunk BW (SBW) and empty BW (EBW). Data recorded at slaughter were weights of viscera, carcass, and internal fat and offals. The carcasses was weighed, and chilled at 1 °C during 24 h; then, the left half of the carcass was completely dissected into subcutaneous and intermuscular fat (carcass fat), muscle, and bone and each component weighed separately. The result indicated that the equations to predict SBW and EBW involving BM had an r 2 that ranged from 0.72 to 0.91. For weights of muscle, carcass fat, and bone, the r 2 ranged from 0.57 to 0.93. We concluded that using BM can improve the accuracy and precision of the predictions of carcass traits of Pelibuey ewes to selection programs and to assist decision support systems to determine optimal carcass endpoint. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our research object was to record and to measure as much as possible Akhalteke horses, which are bred in Czech Republic, Russia and Kazakhstan. We measured and recorded 3 basic body measures – Height at withers, chest girth and girth of cannon. The only condition we have was the age of horses determined on to 3.5 years and older. At the end we recorded 260 horses. We divided the values to the groups according to state, sex and age cathegory. We use the GLM method and Tukey-B test to eva­lua­te the results. The results of the analyse of the Height at withers (HW) shew the statistically conclusively lower values of Czech horses than in horses from Russia and Kazakhstan. The average of the HW of Czech Akhalteke horses is 154.0385cm, in comparison with Russia 157.94 cm and Kazakhstanu 156.53 cm. Next we found the statistically conclusive differencies of the values of the Girth of Chest (GCh) between Akhalteke horses from Russia (179.65 cm), Czech Akhalteke horses (177.08 cm) and horses from Kazakhstan (174.82 cm). Also the Akhalteke mares (180.06 cm) had the statistically conclusivelly higher the GCh than stallions (176.58 cm).

With the aim to find indirect parameters for meat production that potentially could be used for selective purposes in Cornigliese sheep breed, 368 animals were weighed and measured (16 linear measures) during two years in 4 flocks with pasture and open range management from spring to autumn and closed facilities during winter. An amount of 0.2–0.4 kg/head/day of the same concentrate was provided to growing lambs from weaning to slaughter and to lactating ewes. Thirteen morphologic indexes were then calculated from body weight (BW) and linear measures. Analysis of variance on the basis of general linear model procedure was conducted with sex, age-class, year of birth, flock, type of lambing and interaction of sex*age-class as fixed factors and individual as a random factor. The allometric function was applied to body measures and indexes in relation to BW. A positive allometry was recorded for croup width between the trochanters (CrW1: 0.381), at ileum (CrW2: 0.452) and at ischium (CrW3: 0.615), indicating that this region has the fastest growth in relation to BW. All other body measures showed isometry or negative allometry, indicating a slower development in relation to BW. The lowest common allometric coefficient was recorded for front shank circumference (FSC) (0.131) followed by head width (0.200). Among indexes, the lowest growth was recorded by dactyl-thoracic index, due to the slow development of FSC. Sex related differences in allometric coefficients were noted for height at withers and head length (P < 0.05), FSC and forehead width (P < 0.01) with males earlier than females, and for chest width, chest depth, CrW1 (P < 0.05), CrW3 and ear width (P < 0.01) with females earlier than males. In conclusion the study of the allometric function applied to body measures and indexes was able to assess the importance of the croup width, not only in females (functional to an early and easy lambing) but also in males (functional to meat production). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main objective of the present study was to characterize the growth patterns of Lusitano horse managed on grazing systems from birth to 42 month of age. A total of 4759 records for body weight (BW), withers height (WH), girth (G) and cannon circumference (CC) were obtained from 121 Lusitano foals (62 colts and 59 fillies) born and raised at four stud-farms. Data were regularly collected between birth and 42 months of age, when foals began to be ridden. Several sigmoid growth functions were adjusted using the NLIN procedures of SAS. The Richards equation y = A ( 1 - b · exp ( - k t ) ) M was chosen for further analysis because it was the best fit model for all the variables. Growth rates (ADG, kg/d or cm/d) were obtained from the first derivative of the equations. The influence of season was examined and the effect of gender was tested. The mean mature BW was 552.4±22.0 kg and the average mature sizes were 158.6±0.8 cm, 197.8±3.6 cm and 19.9±0.2 cm, respectively for WH, G and CC. Proportions (%) of mature BW at 6, 12, 18, 24, 30, 36 and 42 months of age, according to the Lusitano breed standard were, respectively, 42, 58, 69, 77, 84, 89 and 93%. The proportions (%) of mature WH for the same ages were 82, 88, 92, 94, 95, 96 and 97%. Concerning BW, Lusitano showed a slower growth rate, comparable with the moderate growth proposed for other sport breeds. In contrast, the WH growth rate was similar to those presented by early maturing breeds. A clear sexual dimorphism was observed on all variables, with higher maturity values for males ( P <0.0001). The present study provides a comprehensive overview on growth patterns of the Lusitano horse managed in grazing systems under Mediterranean climate conditions. Further studies with controlled feeding levels should be done in order to verify the potential growth response of this breed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim of the study was to achieve scientific information about body measures and milk production of Cabannina cattle, a local breed reared in northern Italy. Fourteen body measures and five morphologic indexes were recorded from 86 heads enrolled in the herd book. Low differences between males and females of the same age-class were shown. Body measures were generally greater than those reported in previous studies, probably due to recent crosses. With reference to milk production, 991 test-day records from 128 lactations of 59 cows were analysed. Average milk daily production was 8 kg/d in 1st lactation to 10.61 in 3rd (P0.75 showed a standard curve, with low persistence (7.7%), high value of d at peak (103 d) and peak production of 20.18 kg of milk. Moreover, 100 milk samples (40 to 220 d of lactation) were submitted to a granulometric survey by laser scatter technique in order to evaluate the dimensions of fat globules; then milk fat was analyzed by gas chromatography, and desaturase indexes were determined. Cabannina cows showed small fat globules with high specific surface. Furthermore mean diameter of milk fat globules decreased during lactation then rose. Milk fat contained high levels of cis-MUFA, and high desaturase indexes. In conclusion, the low size of Cabannina cattle orients for a limited meat production. Instead milk production has a higher economic potential, aimed at cheese production and human nutrition.

Purpose: Since endothelial dysfunction can develop early in the adulthood, the purpose of the study was to determine how serum lipids, body measures and dietary habits affect serum markers of vascular activation in young women. Materials and methods: Twenty five healthy women, aged 19-22 years, were enrolled in the study. Serum lipids profile (total cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol, triglycerides) was assayed with laboratory test kits. Concentrations of sICAM-1, sVCAM-1 and E-selectin were determined with the ELISA technique. Anthropometric measurements were taken including skinfold thickness and waist circumference. Food consumption data were collected using 3 repeats of 24-hour dietary recalls. Dietary habits of the women were assessed with a 9-point alternate Mediterranean Diet score (a-MED). Results: Sixty eight percent of the subjects had their HDL-cholesterol levels below the desirable concentration, 20% had LDL-cholesterol elevated, and 32% demonstrated increased total triacylglycerols (TAG). The levels of serum TAG >199 mg/dL were associated with a significant rise in the VCAM-1 concentration. Dietary wholegrain products seem to reduce the serum E-selectin. Conclusions: The results suggest that young women of normal body mass, but demonstrating increased levels of serum TAG, may be at risk of developing endothelial dysfunction. An implementation of the wholegrain products consumption into their dietary practices would possibly be of health benefit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays breeding has become the problem often solved in European states and it has been paid much attention by breeding organizations. In terms of hippology as well as some urgent requirements from the side of nonius breeders we have focussed on this particular breed especially from the reason of its further survival and development in Slovakia. The aim of this paper was to evaluate the growth indicators as well as the achievement level of the stallions since 1927 to the present. Based on our research of the nonius body lines we can state that at present there are 3 stallions that are followers of the N VIII horse line founder. In general, there are 12 stallions that are active within this breed in Slovakia. It was statistically confirmed that this particular breed grew much stronger through the goal-directed breeding work, improved nutrition as well as the immediate breeding site. It was quite complicated to evaluate the performance tests because the individual indicators were significantly influenced by the subjective views of the commitee members performing the evaluation. The next factor which prevents the objective evaluation is the fact that in the period up to 1979, the performance tests were valued by the 100 point system and from the year 1980 by the 10 point system. That is why we take the performance test results into account only as supplemental ones, which can provide a kind of amendment to the observed biological parameters. Šľachtenie je v európskych štátoch v súčasnosti často riešený problém a chovateľské organizácie mu venujú veľkú pozornosť. Preto sme sa z hľadiska rozvoja hipológie, ale zároveň z hľadiska veľkej potreby chovateľov plemena nonius, venovali tomuto plemenu s ohľadom na jeho pretrvanie a ďalší rozvoj na Slovensku. Cieľom práce bolo vyhodnotiť vývoj rastových ukazovateľov a výkonnostnú úroveň žrebcov od roku 1927 do súčasnosti Na základe skúmania jednotlivých línií noniusa môžeme konštatovať, že po zakladateľovi línie N VIII pôsobia v súčasnosti v plemenitbe 3 žrebce. Celkovo v rámci tohto plemena pôsobí na Slovensku 12 žrebcov. Cielenou šľachtiteľskou prácou, zlepšenou výživou a chovateľským prostredím dochádzalo k zmohutneniu jedincov tohto plemena, čo bolo štatisticky potvrdené. Hodnotenie výkonnostných skúšok bolo pomerne komplikované, pretože jednotlivé ukazovatele mohli byť významne ovplyvňované subjektívnym pohľadom hodnotiacich členov komisie. Ďalším faktorom, ktorý zamedzuje objektívne hodnotenie, je skutočnosť, že v období do roku 1979 boli výkonnostné skúšky hodnotené 100 bodovým systémom a od roku 1980 10 bodovým systémom. Preto výsledky z výkonnostných skúšok berieme do úvahy len ako doplnkové, ktoré môžu dokresľovať sledované biologické parametre. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim of the study was to achieve scientific information about body measures and milk production of Cabannina cattle, a local breed reared in northern Italy. Fourteen body measures and five morphologic indexes were recorded from 86 heads enrolled in the herd book. Low differences between males and females of the same age-class were shown. Body measures were generally greater than those reported in previous studies, probably due to recent crosses. With reference to milk production, 991 test-day records from 128 lactations of 59 cows were analysed. Average milk daily production was 8 kg/d in 1st lactation to 10.61 in 3rd (P<0.05); the parameters of the Wood equation draw atypical curves with the exception of curves from spring calving cows. Only 74.5% of lactations with an adjusted R2>0.75 showed a standard curve, with low persistence (7.7%), high value of d at peak (103 d) and peak production of 20.18 kg of milk. Moreover, 100 milk samples (40 to 220 d of lactation) were submitted to a granulometric survey by laser scatter technique in order to evaluate the dimensions of fat globules; then milk fat was analyzed by gas chromatography, and desaturase indexes were determined. Cabannina cows showed small fat globules with high specific surface. Furthermore mean diameter of milk fat globules decreased during lactation then rose. Milk fat contained high levels of cis- MUFA, and high desaturase indexes. In conclusion, the low size of Cabannina cattle orients for a limited meat production. Instead milk production has a higher economic potential, aimed at cheese production and human nutrition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Merinolandschaf sheep breed was used to estimate relationship between the next traits: Body weight of adult ewes (BW), Height to withers (HW), Body length (BL), Girth of Chest (GC), Rump Width (RW), Body weight of lambs at birth (BWB), Body weight of lambs at weaning (BWW). The collected data were from 750 sheep and their lambs during the period of three year. Estimates of means and standard errors for linear body measures and body weight of adult ewes and lambs, were obtained using the software program SPSS (2006). To estimate genetic and phenotypic correlations of observed traits, the ASREML program was used. Research has shown that genetic correlations between BW and all body measures of dams, ranging from 0.728 (BW-GC) to 0.976 (BW-HW). Genetic correlation between body measures of dams have also been positive and ranged in the interval from 0.873 (HW-GC) to 0.999 (BL-GC). Values for phenotypic correlations were lower compared with the genetic and the range varied from 0.183 (RW-BWB) to 0.421 (GC-BWW). The weaker phenotype correlations can be interpreted as play of more complex genetic and residual factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The social rank refers to the relative position of an individual animal within the dominant hierarchy developed in a group. In rams, social rank is mostly associated with body mass, body size and body condition. However, although the body mass is generally considered as one of the main determinants of social rank, only few studies have been carried out for the purpose of associating of the social behaviour and body development of these animals. Objective of this research was to determine how the ram body development measures relate to establishment of social hierarchy. Social rank was established using food competition test at the age of animals between 4 and 17 months. Testing was done on total of 20 male animals of which number 12 animals were selected for further testing (6 dominant and 6 submissive animals). Body mass and testicular circumferences were measured at the age of 4, 7, 12 and 18 months, and linear body measures were taken at the age of 12 and 18 months. Dominant males had higher body mass and greater testicular circumference. The social rank had no significant effect on linear body measures of rams, except for chest girth (P<0.05) in both control periods. Body mass was moderately to highly positively associated with studied body parameters. Significant positive correlations were established between body mass and body length (r=0.58; P<0.01), chest width (r=0.44; P<0.05), chest girth (r=0.65; P<0.01) and testicular circumference (r=0.62; P<0.01). Results obtained in this study indicate that it is justified to observe the body mass as one of the main determinants of social rank, as well as the possibility of earlier maturation of dominant animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In most oscine bird species males possess a repertoire of different song patterns. The size of these repertoires is assumed to serve as an honest signal of male quality. The Eurasian blackbird's (Turdus merula) song contains a large repertoire of different element types with a flexible song organisation. Here we investigated whether repertoire size in Eurasian blackbirds correlates with measures of body size, namely length of wing, 8th primary, beak and tarsus. So far, very few studies have investigated species with large repertoires and a flexible song organisation in this context. We found positive correlations, meaning that larger males had larger repertoires. Larger males may have better fighting abilities and, thus, advantages in territorial defence. Larger structural body size may also reflect better conditions during early development. Therefore, under the assumption that body size is linked to overall male quality, our results are in accordance with the hypothesis that repertoire size represents an honest signal in Eurasian blackbirds that has evolved in response to sexual selection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The occurrence of wattles, the inheritance model of the trait and the effects of wattle genotype on Gompertz growth parameters for weight and some body measures were evaluated in “Nero di Parma” swine population. To these aims, the complete database of “Nero di Parma” pig, containing the parentage and morphologic description of 4031 pigs born between 1998 and 2009 was used: of them, 68.3% showed no wattles, 3.2% one and 28.5% two wattles. The wattle allele frequency was 0.174. On 1229 pigs (both females and castrated males) the weight and the hearth girth were measured during growth. Additionally, some body measures (height at withers and at rump, length of the body, fore–rear length of the thigh, and width of the rump) were recorded on a random set of 305 pigs from the 1229 pigs. Heritability estimates of Gompertz growth curve parameters for weight were high (0.671; 0.448; 0.249 for parameters A, b and c, resp.), so indicating their utility for selection purposes. Significant effects of the genotype at the wattle locus on growth and body measures were shown. Wattled pigs showed a significantly lower body weight at maturity (6.4%) than non wattled pigs (P<0.05), as no significant differences were shown for the rate of growth and the age at maturity (P>0.05). Moreover, wattled pigs showed a significantly reduced height at withers (10.5%), height at rump (11.3%), body length (11.0%), ham length (14.2%), rump width (19.0%) and chest circumference (19.6%) at maturity. They grew significantly faster in dimensions and reached maturity significantly earlier than non wattled pigs (P<0.05). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

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Clothing, which has a significant place in all aspects of life, still sustains its importance in the period of primary school. Clothes, which are designed for individuals in adolescence epoch, so that they can express themselves, feel comfortable, look aesthetic, be healthy, should have the characteristics such as being functional, appropriateness to the body, providing thermal protection. The aim of the this research is to calculate the subsidiary measures by making use of basic measures, that are taken from male students studying in junior high school in İzmir. To the research extent, sizes were taken from 300 students that had been chosen haphazardly. The measures which are established, are used for size groups, which presented the persons' body height. At last, measures table for standardization was obtained and shirt with trousers patterns were designed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]