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The growing demand for sustainable and healthier egg production systems, combined with the need to reduce the use of synthetic additives in poultry feed, has led to an increased interest in natural feed supplements. This study evaluated the effects of dietary supplementation with ecological sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides) powder on the performance and egg quality of 600 laying hens of the Moravia Black breed, raised in a free-range system. Three groups were included: one control group with standard feed and two experimental groups supplemented with 1% and 2% sea buckthorn powder. Over 11 weeks, parameters such as egg production, feed consumption, and egg quality, including egg weight, volume, shell thickness, and yolk color, were monitored. The 2% supplementation significantly improved egg production, egg weight, shell strength, and yolk carotenoid content, with stable feed consumption and negligible mortality, confirming the additive's safety. These results highlight the potential of sea buckthorn powder as a natural feed additive to enhance poultry productivity and product quality, supporting sustainable and healthier egg production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The research dedicated to equine products, such as milk and meat for human consumption, requires further development in response to current global challenges. These products have the potential to fulfill the growing demand for essential nutrients critical to human health. Additionally, equine farming offers an environmentally sustainable alternative to traditional livestock systems. This review aims to highlight the potential of equine milk and meat as sustainable, nutritionally valuable food sources by examining their unique composition and health benefits; it also explores the sustainability of equine raising in the context of supporting the transition to greener agricultural practices. Global hunger and malnutrition continue to pose significant challenges, entailing innovative and environmentally responsible practices to improve food security. Equine products offer a valuable opportunity to diversify diets and combat nutritional deficiencies. Equine milk, rich in bioavailable nutrients, essential fatty acids, and hypoallergenic properties, serves as an excellent dietary supplement; this aspect could be applied particularly in regions where conventional dairy is inaccessible or unsuitable due to allergies, lactose intolerance, or other health conditions. Similarly, equine meat, known for its high-quality protein content, low fat content, and essential micronutrients like iron and zinc, provides an affordable and sustainable protein source for food-insecure populations. The ability of equines to thrive on marginal lands, coupled with their lower environmental impact compared to traditional livestock (such as ruminants), underscores their potential within sustainable agricultural systems. This review examines the role of equine products in addressing global hunger, highlighting their nutritional benefits, environmental advantages, and the necessity for further research to tackle challenges related to versatility, cultural acceptance, and policy integration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Animal biodiversity is essential for maintaining the functionality of local food systems and ensuring sustainable livelihoods. Starting in 2000, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (F.A.O.) has drawn attention to the decline in cattle populations, including the Transylvanian Pinzgau breed from Romania. Renowned for its hardiness, adaptability, and enhanced resistance to diseases and climate change, the Transylvanian Pinzgau is regarded as an important genetic asset for advancing livestock production. As a result, tracking genetic diversity has become a key focus in breeding programs, particularly for small, endangered local populations that play a vital role in regional agro-ecological systems. This research paper sought to assess the genetic diversity of a group of 24 head of cattle from the Transylvania region by analyzing two mtDNA markers, cytochrome b and D-loop sequences, both widely recognized for their relevance and importance in the analysis of genetic diversity of cattle and phylogenetic studies. The findings, derived through statistical analysis of nucleotide sequences using specialized software, indicated that the analyzed cattle are part of the ancestral T haplogroup, with a direct lineage tracing back to Bos taurus. This information can aid in developing crossbreeding programs focused on conserving essential genetic resources, improving other cattle breeds, and protecting biodiversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores how age and seasonal changes impact semen characteristics and reproductive behavior in Carpatina breed bucks. Males were divided into three age groups: young (14–23 months; L14), adult (3–4 years; L34), and older (5–6 years; L56). Scrotal biometry was determined using a measuring tape, and testicular volume was evaluated by fully submerging the testes in a water-filled container and measuring the displaced water. Semen analysis was conducted on samples collected each season, with volume, color, and acidity being assessed. The evaluation of specific semen characteristics (motility, sperm concentration, normal spermatozoa) was conducted using a Computer-Assisted Semen Analysis (CASA) system, and testosterone levels were measured in blood samples collected at the start of each season. Behavior and sexual reflexes were evaluated based on mating desire and the bucks' reaction to the presence of females. Key findings indicate that testicular volume varies significantly with both age and season, with the most pronounced differences between younger bucks and the older groups, especially during autumn. Semen quality parameters such as ejaculate volume, sperm concentration, and motility also showed seasonal fluctuations, with younger bucks having lower sperm concentrations. Testosterone levels were observed to increase with age, peaking in autumn. Behavioral observations revealed that younger bucks exhibited less intense sexual activity, although this improved during autumn. Additionally, a significant correlation was identified between body weight and testicular volume in adult bucks (R = 0.942, p-value = 0.016 for L34; R = 0.797, p-value = 0.022 for L56), suggesting that age plays a crucial role in reproductive potential. Our findings highlight that, while bucks are capable of year-round reproduction, autumn provides optimal conditions for semen quality and reproductive performance. This research has valuable implications for optimizing breeding programs, contributing to genetic advancement, and improving management strategies in goat farming, especially within temperate continental climates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study is to compare the milk quality from different cattle breeds (Bălțată cu Negru Românească, Brună de Maramureș, and Bălțată Românească) raised under identical conditions in Romania. The highest values for protein, fat, and lactose content were recorded on Farm II, where the Brună de Maramureș breed is raised: 3.72 ± 0.05 % for protein, 4.61 ± 0.16 % for fat and 4.87 ± 0.04 % for lactose. Additionally, the lowest somatic cell count (SCC) was observed on Farm II at 157.60 ± 16.91 thousand·mL-1, indicating excellent milking hygiene, with a pH value of 6.61 ± 0.04. Enhancing feed quality and maintaining hygiene practices in shelters and milking parlors can improve milk quality, increase economic efficiency, and promote cow health. Effective selection, breeding, and nutrition management are essential for optimizing milk quality and sustaining a healthy and productive dairy herd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Considering that sericulture is an important branch of animal husbandry, not only for the production of silk but also as a valuable source of protein, it is necessary to constantly study the possibilities for its improvement as a branch of this domain. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to assess the nutritional value and digestibility of mulberry leaves from the Kokuso 21 and Eforie varieties, as consumed by silkworms (Bombyx mori L., Bombicidae Family, Lepidoptera Order) during a summer study, in 2021. The Japanese variety (Kokuso 21) and the Romanian variety (Eforie) were used as food sources for the Triumf hybrid, developed in Romania; the larvae were divided in two batches of 300 larvae and each set was subdivided into six groups of 50 larvae, which were raised in paper trays based on their age and size. The research indicated that mulberry leaves have an average digestibility value of 54.46%; the aging process of the leaves altered their chemical composition, with most nutrients showing a decreasing trend in digestibility throughout the larval growth period, except for crude fiber, which remained unchanged in the early larval stages and increased to 26.78% towards the end of the experiment. Overall, the Kokuso 21 variety demonstrated superior nutrient digestibility compared to Eforie. An important finding from this study is the need for future research to determine the degree of nutrient metabolism and conversion into silk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The research was conducted in 2022, on 89 horses; the studied breed was Furioso-North Star, from Rușețu Stud Farm, and 66 broodmares (from the 2001-2019 generations) and 23 stallions (from the 1999-2019 generations) were included in this analysis. Seven of these males have served as sires, while the other 16 were used for public breeding. The horses were assessed based on data obtained from standard measurements (height at the withers, heart girth, and cannon girth) performed during the annual ranking procedure. The results obtained regarding the height showed that it registered average values ranging between 161.29 ± 0.23 cm for broodmares and 161.43 ± 0.39 cm for stallions. The heart girth had average values of 183.73 ± 0.29 cm for broodmares and 185 ± 0.40 cm for stallions, while the cannon circumference had average values of 20.83 ± 0.1 cm for females and 21.52 ± 0.23 cm for males. Based on these results, it was observed that the studied group is homogeneous concerning all three analysed traits. The data obtained from the measurements are within the breed's standard and justify the promotion/maintenance of these horses within the stud farm's broodstock. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aimed to present the dynamics of the height at withers, heart girth, and cannon girth of Shagya Arabian broodmares included in the Rădăuți stud's broodstock between 1989 and 2018. The purpose was to observe the population's evolution over time, considering that the breeding objectives included increasing the average values of these measurements, which were followed in ranking activities. The average height values ranged between 154.3±0.261 cm (2012) and 154.80±0.258 cm (2002 and 1994). The minimum average value of the thoracic girth was recorded in 1992 (176.2±0.885 cm), and the maximum was in 1989 (177.1±0.777 cm). The average values of the cannon girth registered the minimum in 1998 at 18.7±0.19 cm and the maximum in 1989 at 18.9±0.70 cm. Comparing the results with the breeding objectives (height at withers of 156 cm, heart circumference of 176 cm, and cannon girth of 19.5 cm), it was observed that only the heart girth had the targeted value. This highlights the importance of continuing the breeding process to achieve all the desired objectives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to determine the correlations between blood glucose levels, milk protein levels, and the physiological status of cows in four categories within the Research and Development Unit for Cattle Farming in Dancu, Iași (pregnant cows aged between 4-6 years; cows aged 3-5 years, in the 3rd and 5th month of gestation, and were clinically healthy; cows aged 5-6 years, at 48 hours postpartum, and clinically healthy; cows aged 4-6 years, in the 3rd month of lactation, with subclinical mastitis). The results revealed blood glucose values ranging from 28.81±7.15 mg/dl to 50.34±10.31 mg/dl, which are within the normal range for the physiological state of the cows in these groups. The protein percentage ranged from 2.71% to 7.29%, with the lowest value observed in cows with subclinical mastitis and the highest in those in the colostrum period; these results indicate normal values for their specific stages. The findings demonstrate that the studied parameters align with the physiological state of the analysed cows. Overall, the results underscore the importance of metabolic monitoring and the enhancement of housing conditions for dairy cows in this unit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the breeding objectives for Shagya Arabian breed in Rădăuți Stud Farm, Romania, focuses on increasing the height at withers for mares. The current research aimed to study the entire female progeny (175 foals) of 58 broodmares and 44 stallions included in the breeding activity for 40 years The objective was to determine the influence of breeders' height and the foaling number (rank) on the foals' biometrics. The average value of this measurement in female foals has consistently increased from first foaling (157.63 cm) to the fifth one (158.80 cm) throughout 40 years of breeding, indicating the fulfilment of the breeding goal over consecutive reproductive seasons. According to the simulation based on the linear trend equation, the progeny's height at withers could match the fathers' height by the 10th foaling if the same breeding practices were continued. In addition, stallions would have much more influence than broodmares in increasing the height of the foals. Continuing the forecast analysis based on the variations, the required average height at withers values in stallions and mares can be computed to attain a certain value for the descendants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to analyze the influence of an improved diet with vitamins and minerals (VM) on the live weight, body condition, quality of sperm, behavior, and fertility of rams. The biological material comprised two groups of rams (L1—control and L2—VM supplemented), each consisting of 15 individuals. After a complete one-year cycle, they received different dietary treatments at the beginning of the preparation for the reproduction period. Although in the onset of the mounting period (SM), no significant differences were observed for live weight (p > 0.05), providing supplemental feeding of a VM complex allowed a better capitalization of body reserves, and, consequently, the rams' groups differed significantly by the end of mating season (FM), for live weight (+4.1%; p < 0.001) and body condition score (+15.9%; p < 0.05). Adding vitamins and minerals to the L2 diet also improved sperm color (p < 0.001), sperm concentration (+11.8%; p < 0.01), live spermatozoa (+2.6%; p < 0.001), and decreased abnormal spermatozoa proportion (−7.0%; p < 0.01). The increase in the scrotum circumference in L2 (+4.57%) suggests that VM supplements improved testosterone secretion, spermatogenesis, and ejaculate volume (+10.20%; (p < 0.001), with a positive impact (p < 0.001) on mating behavior, on the gestation installation (+11.2%) and on the number of obtained lambs (+14.0%), as well as on the key economic indicators (+13.8% incomes per ram). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Predictions show the possibility of banning birds' rearing in batteries. From this reason, we aimed to study the welfare conditions assured to birds accommodated in lofts in comparison with those reared in improved batteries. The research targeted ISA Brown hybrids monitored over a period of 25–55 weeks. The batches were represented by birds that were differently reared in halls provided with lofts compared to with improved batteries. The research was carried out in real production conditions. Biochemical indicators were determined, using a BA 400 analyzer produced by BioSystems, as well as quantitative ones using specific formulas based on productions, consumptions, and batch outputs. A cumulated production of 199.24 eggs/week/head was realized in the loft, versus 199.98 in the battery, at a mean laying intensity of 91.82% and 92.17%. Batch output was 4.14% (loft) and 2.98% (battery). Mean consumption registered a level of 122.20 g m.f./head/day for birds in the loft and 115.87 g for the ones from the battery, and feed conversion index was 133.09 g m.f./egg, compared to 125.69. The aviary system ensures optimal conditions to express the birds' natural behaviors, with a positive impact on the metabolic functions, resulting in a good state of health and high productive levels, comparable to those of birds exploited in batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper aims to highlight the productive performance of the Pinzgau breed exploited in the Dornelor Basin, Suceava County. In this sense, a herd of 12 head of cattle, belonging to the Pinzgau breed, was studied, both the red variety and the black variety, which were followed by the productive performances at the ascendancy and descent of the nucleus from the farm. Also, the parameters regarding the quality of milk obtained from the studied cattle were analyzed. The ancestry of the studied herd is valuable with productions in the mother (M) of 5496 kg of milk, 4.22% fat and 3.39% protein, in the mother of the father (MT) of 5562 kg of milk, with 4.095% fat and 3.45% protein, and in the mother's mother (MM) of 5613 kg milk with 4.21% fat and 3.49% protein. The milk production in the offspring had an increasing evolution as follows: on total lactation 5922 Kg milk in lactation I and 6474 Kg milk in lactation II, and on normal lactation of 4820 Kg milk in lactation I and 4843 Kg milk in lactation II with average values of 4.26% fat and 3.24% protein in lactation I respectively 3.91% fat and 3.29% protein in lactation II. Regarding the quality of the milk, it had an average value of 86,000 thousand / ml milk in the total number of somatic cells (NCS) which shows us a quality milking, in hygienic conditions, respectively keeping the milk after milking in hygienic conditions, which shows the farmer's care for the cattle on the farm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this scientific paper, the productive performances of beef cattle belonging to the Aberdeen Angus and Charolaise breeds from 6 farms in Neamț County were analyzed, studying the following indicators: birth weight (kg), body weight (kg), and average daily gain (g) at the age of 200 days (kg), and also 365 days (kg). The data on average values and variability of meat production indices show that the highest performances were 42.33 kg at birth, 246.29 kg and the average daily increase of 1030.71 grams per 200 days, and 433.69 kg with the average daily increase of 1074.33 kg, at the age of 365 days. On the last place was farm 1, which registered an average weight at birth of 30.70 kg, at 200 days this indicator was 188.59 kg, and the average daily gain was 786.20 grams; at 365 days the average weight was 320.84 kg and the average weight was 793.11 kg. Farm 1 raises the Aberdeen Angus breed, and farm 5 raises the Charolaise breed, which has better results due to the constant care of the breeder to improve the genetic material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the productive performances of the ascendants and descendants of the cows' herd belonging to the 4 basic breeds were analyzed, as follows: Holstein, Băl?ată cu negru românească (Romanian Black Spotted), Băl?ată românească (Romanian Spotted), and Brună de Maramure? (Maramures Bown), from 7 farms of Neam? county, which were encoded with numbers from 1 to 7. For the analysis of the ascendants' performances - mother (M), paternal grandmother (MT), and maternal grandmother (MM) - and of the offspring' performance, 3 indicators were determined regarding the milk production: the quantity per normal lactation (kg), the percent of fat, and the percent of protein. It was found that the best milk production in normal lactation of offspring was recorded in farm 2 (6161.25 kg), where a mixed herd of Holstein and Băl?ată cu negru românească breeds is raised. If we compare the phenotypic performances of the ascendants (mother of mother - MM), which realized an average milk production of 7205.44 kg, with the father's mother (MT) of 11.931 kg, and the mother's mother (MM) of 7949.83 kg we confirm that the phenotypic performance for the milk production in the offspring does not reach the level of those obtained by ancestry. This fact is due to management deficiency regarding the external factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to assess the efficiency of use of mulberry leaf by the hybrid Băneasa Super of Bombyx mori larvae, during a series of growth, some determinations were made related to the nutritional value and digestibility of the three varieties of leaf. The results showed that the advanced vegetation stage and during each period of growth of silkworm larvae, the mulberry leaf undergoes an aging process, translated by the quality decrease regarding the chemical composition. According to this aspect, in most mulberry leaf nutrients other than cellulose, a continuous decrease in digestibility was observed throughout the growing period. The results show that for the Bombyx mori larvae, from mulberry leaf, an average of 10.38 grams of dry matter is ingested and 5.92 grams of digested dry matter is required for each gram of silky coating, which indicates an efficient conversion into silk of 9.65% of the intake (ECI), and 17% of digest (ECI). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents the results of a study accomplished in the Rădăuți stud farm, which aimed to analyze some morphological and reproductive aspects of Shagya Arabian horses. The selected population was represented by broodmares from 2000y generation, introduced in the reproductive herd until now. The average value of height was 159.188 ± 0.593 cm, the average of heart girth was 177.188 ± 1.013 cm, and the cannon perimeter was 18,594 ± 0,184 cm for the studied horses. Regarding the reproduction aspects, it was revealed that the studied parameters had the following average values: 4.7 ± 0.3 years for age of introduction to reproduction, 4.5 ± 0.2 years for the age at first foaling, 338.7 ± 0.9 days for the gestation length, 149 ± 18.3 days for the service-period parameter, 503 ± 19.9 days for the foaling-interval parameter, and 14.6 ± 1.2 years for the reproductive longevity of broodmares. The conclusion was that all data obtained fall within the normal limits specified by the literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the quality of milk production was analyzed in dairy cattle herds from 7 farms in Neamț County. For this, data from accredited associations were used to perform their own performance control (CPP), respectively the Association of Animal Breeders "Operator IA" Neamț, the Association of Cattle Breeders from Mureș County, as well as the date from the Genealogical Register. The quality of milk was assessed according to the seven specific indicators, as follows: somatic cell number (NCS), fat percentage (G%), protein percentage (P%), lactose proportion (L%), proportion of urea (U%), proportion of casein (C%) and the pH of the milk.The average daily milk production produced by the cows on these farms was also calculated (kg/head/day). The breeds raised on these farms are:Bălțată cu Negru Românească (BNR), Holstein, Brună de Maramureș and Bălțată Românească (BR). The best results of milk quality were obtained in Brună de Maramureș cows from farm 5 or Secuieni Neamț Agricultural Research and Development Station, the average values of the specific indicators on milk quality were as follows: NCS thousand / ml - 157.64, fat (%) -4.64, protein (%) - 3.73, lactose (%) -4.84, urea (%)-23.37casein (%) -28.78, pH - 6.60. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to analyze 16 broodmares of Rădăuţi stud farm, from Dahoman, El-Sbaa, Koheilan, Shagya, and Siglavy-Bagdady genealogical lines, in terms of age at first foaling and age of introducing to breeding, as well as the reproductive parameter service-period. The results indicated that the age at first foaling, for the entire studied number of broodmares, had an average value of 2186.6±164.0 days, respectively 6.0±0.4 years; the absolute values were 1755 and 4200 days, respectively 4, 8, and 11.5 years, therefore, the variability of this character was high (28.1%). By removing from the calculations the broodmare Shagya LXII-3, which recorded the first mount after the age of 8 years, the mean was reduced to 2031.8±58.2 days (5.6±0.2 years), and the coefficient of variation for this character was reduced to 10.3%. Regarding the age of introducing to reproduction, we revealed that the average value was 1714.8±104.1 days (4.7±0.3 years), and the absolute values were 1242 and 3041 days (3.4–8.3 years); the group also showed high variability for this character (24.3%). As in the case of age at first foaling, if Shagya LXII-3 broodmare was excluded from the calculation, the mean is 1626.4±56.9 days (4.5±0.2 years) and the variability is reduced to 14%. The reproductive parameter service-period recorded the highest average value in case of the sixth foaling (235±90.4 days, with limits between 12-764 days) and the lowest after the eighth foaling (77.5±38.4 days, with limits between 11-221 days). The calculations indicated a very high variability of this character (98.3% in the third foaling-139.2% in the fourth foaling) showing that if the reproduction management of the Rădăuţi stud farm would suffer some changes, the final results regarding the reproductive activity of broodmares will be more favorable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

At PSI Auction, the annual performance sales that take place is presented to the international clients an exclusive number of young horses for training or jumping over obstacles, destined for the biggest international equestrian competitions. This paper aimed to examine all the horses participating in the auctions in 2019 and 2020, on Eurodressage, taking into account the economic aspect of the 3 factors: horse’s sex and year of birth, and the equestrian discipline. The alpha value was set at 0.05 for all statistics. Following the analysis of the results, regarding the year of birth (all participants in this study being young horses), the sex of the horses, and also the equestrian discipline there were no significant differences. In conclusion, the auctioned horses, whether they are mares, stallions, or gelding, whether the year of birth or breed, after being selected for participation in the auction, horses are sold at very high prices and will be capitalized according to the buyer's interest in the reproductive direction, as well as for sports, being trained for the biggest competitions in the world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Among the most used methods in investigating meat structure and texture and its estimated incidence on the sensorial ultimate quality felt by the consumer there is the shear force instrumental measurement using a device with adjustable force and a measurement chamber endorsed with a V gap blade, also known as Warner Bratzler tool. This instrument picks data during sample shearing, in terms of forces necessary to cut the myofibrilar (M force) compound and also the connective compound (C force) of the meat, reported to the elapsed time or distance till total shearing of the sample by the blade. We found out it would be great to compare this instrumental method of muscle toughness estimation with a method belonging to fundamental sciences, using histological and histometrical techniques on the same muscles. The biological material consisted in 20 pieces of breast meat, commercially available as refrigerated duck and goose meat in supermarket (10 samples of duck breast and 10 pieces of goose breast). Out of these material, there were shaped 10 rectangular samples from each breast (10 x 10 = 100 samples per waterfowl species, sized 4 cm length x 1 cm width x 1 cm depth) which were submitted to shear force testing using an Instron type texture analyzer. From the same breast pieces, there were cut 0.5 cm x 0.5 cm x 1 cm samples (5 samples per breast), using the same pattern of muscle fibers orientation like in the previously harvested samples, in order to submit them to paraffin inclusion, microtome cross-section and HEMB coloring, in order to prepare and examine smears using a Motic M230 microscope. Myocytes diameters, cross-section areas were measured and calculated, then reporting to the amount of muscle cell within a 1st order muscle fascicle and to its outer circumference and overall surface, the proportion of pure muscle and connective tissues were derived. The proportions found were compared to those derived from shear forces values readings, knowing the C force instrumentally measured is approx. 0.75-0.9 positively correlated with the connective tissue in muscle. The differences between the instrumental shear force detection of connective tissue and the histological method were quite low and not significantly different. Therefore, it could be stated that the quick instrumental rheological method depicts with accuracy the tissual structure of the muscles, at least at the experimental level we approached. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present paper aimed to analyze 16 broodmares from the Rădăuţi stud farm (2000 generation), from the genealogical lines Dahoman (2 females), El-Sbaa (5 females), Koheilan (1 female), Shagya (4 female), and Siglavy-Bagdady (2 female); thus, we considered important to study reproductive parameters such as gestation, foaling interval and reproductive longevity of these broodmares. The results indicated that the average gestation length was 338.7±0.9 days, and the variability of this character was reduced (V%=2.7%). Regarding the average duration of each genealogical line, we observed that it ranged between 334.9±3.3 days (Dahoman) and 341±1.4 days (Shagya), both of them being in limits given by the literature; in this case, the coefficient of variability had values between 1.6% (Siglavy-Bagdady genealogical line) and 3.8% (Dahoman genealogical line), which indicates that the population is very homogeneous regarding this character. For the whole population, the foaling-interval parameter had an average value of 503±19.9 days, and the absolute values that ranged between 326 and 1125 days; the variability of this character was high (18.1 - 46.4%). Depending on the genealogical lines of broodmares, the average value of foaling-interval ranged from 423±31.4 days (Dahoman) to 613.8±63.7 days (Hadban). Regarding the reproductive longevity of the mares studied, we observed that the average value of this parameter was 5335.6±429.2 days, the minimum being 1995.0 days, and the maximum 7339.0 days. Depending on the genealogical line, the average values of reproductive longevity were between 4457 days/12.2 years (Dahoman genealogical line) and 6600.5 days/18.1 years (Siglavy- Bagdady genealogical line). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper we analyzed the milk production indices, for normal lactation (305 days), on the first two lactations of Spotted Romanian cattle breed in two farms in Neamț County. To aim this, we used data from the Association of Cattle Breeders from Mureș County accredited for performing our own performance control (CPP) as well as data from the Genealogical Register. For the analysis of the productive performances, statistical processing of the primary data regarding the average value and the variability of the milk production indices for 4 characters was carried out, as follows: length of normal lactation (days), quantity of milk per normal lactation (kg), percentage of fat, and percentage of milk protein. The studied farms were coded with Arabic numerals: darm 1- I.I Ciucalău Aurelia Vasilica, and farm 2 - P.F.A. Pintea Ionela. The best productive performances were registered in farm 1, where the average milk production for the first lactation was 5967.80 kg, the average value of the fat percent was 4.08%, and the average value of the protein percent was 3.26%. At the second lactation, the average milk production was 5012.89 kg, the average value of the fat percent was 4.05%, and the average value of the protein percent was 3.31%. In the first lactation the average milk production per normal lactation was 5967.80 kg, but it decreased in the second lactation to 5012.89 kg. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bromelain is a vegetal originating enzyme known for its effects on meat tenderization. The purpose of this study was to investigate to which extent the treatment with two sources of bromelain affects the histological properties of pork loin (myocytes integrity, proportion of connective and pure muscular tissues) as well the textural ones (shear force) and its technological parameters (drip loss and cooking yield). Forty-five slices of swine Longissimus dorsi muscles (10 mm thickness) were used as biological material, randomly assigned to a control group (CG-no bromelain hydrolytic treatment-15 slices), to B1 group (triturated pineapple, diluted with distilled water 1:1, resulting 50% aqueous extract - 15 slices kept in marinade 12 hours) and to B2 group (bromelain 1% aqueous solution prepared from commercial food additive, bromelain powder of 2000 GDU/g - 15 slices, kept in marinade 12 hours). Tissue square pieces were sampled from the center of the loins and submitted to paraffin impregnation technique, followed by a hematoxylin, eosin, methylene blue staining and studied via photonic microscopy for the histometric assessments. Cubic samples of were also cut from each slice and submitted to a shear force reading cell. Water holding capacity was then measured on the meat provided by half of the remained slice surface, using the grinding-centrifugation technique while cooking yield was calculated after samples weighing and cooking through deep frying at 250°C into sunflower oil, during 15 minutes. The results suggested that bromelain treatments affected the histological integrity of the samples, more than 17.5 % of endomysium being hydrolyzed in experimental groups, compared to control one. This resulted in apparent increase of the surface occupied by muscular tissue (+6.92% B1vs. CG and +13.18% B2 vs. CG) (P<0.05; P<0.01), versus the one occupied by the connective fibers, as observed and measured within the microscopic field. Bromelain treatments induced better tenderness, suggested by lower instrumentally measured shear force (52.13 N in CG, 48.52 N in B1 and 44.48 N in B2). However, better water holding capacity was measured in CG (WHC=16.78%) due to less tissue disintegration, compared to experimental groups B1 (WHC=14.21%) and B2 (WHC=13.47%) (P<0.05). The cooking yield was consequently better in CG (CY=74.35%), due to lower exudation than in enzymatically treated meat (B1, CY=71.82%; B2, CY=70.25%). Therefore, bromelain enzymatic treatment improves the histological and, subsequently, textural features of pork loin, while the technological properties were reduced by the enzymatic proteolysis. It still remains to investigate to which extent the textural improvement is justified by loss of technological properties and by certain taste and flavor expected alterations, due to the known bromelain bittering potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aimed to analyze height, heart perimeter and cannon girth of Shagya Arabian mares, stallions and young horses during their growth; Rădăui studfarm provided data regarding livestock of these three categories of horses in 2000-2015 and it was interesting to study and compare each bloodline of this wonderful breed (Koheilan, Hadban, Dahoman, Shagya, Siglavy-Bagdady, El-Sbaa, Mersuch, Gazal - only for stallions and young horses). Therefore this study reflected that these body dimensions were representative for Shagya Arabian, regarding the whole population: mares had an average height of 159.59 cm, an average heart perimeter of 177.20 cm and an average cannon girth of 18.54 cm; regarding the stallions, the average height was 160.58 cm, the average heart perimeter was 180.61 cm and the average cannon girth was 18.95 cm; young male horses had an average value of height of 134.82 cm, an average thorax perimeter of 146.53 cm and an average cannon girth of 16.69 cm. Data obtained indicated that the studied population is included in breed standard regarding the main body dimensions that reflect their morphological type. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper was based on analyzing 119 Shagya Arabian mares (Dahoman, El-Sbaa, Gazal, Hadban, Koheilan, Mersuch, Shagya and Siglavy-Bagdady bloodlines), reared in Rădăuşi stud farm, between 1996-2016 years regarding fecundity percent, gestation length, abortion rate and foaling-interval parameters. The main purpose was to establish if the reproduction indices registered at females taken into study respect the limits indicated by the literature which can establish if the population can be included into the breeds' standard; the results showed that the fecundity percent had lower values than the literature describes and the foaling-interval exceeded the limits given by the literature, facts that reveal some aspects related to the reproduction process need to be reconsidered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The research carried on a comparative assessment of chicken meat texture using both histological and instrumental - rheological techniques, in order to find out certain correlations between the methods and the possibility to predict one in relation with another. Therefore, 50 samples of Pectoralis major and Pectoralis minor muscles, issued from 50 individuals of Cobb-500 chicken broilers were submitted to paraffin inclusion technique followed by microscopic measurements (Motic Image 3+ software after image acquiring at 400 x magnification), respectively to rheological analysis, using a common Adams consistometer and a Perten Instruments texturometer with Warner-Bratzler shear chamber. The histometric values in Pectoralis minor muscles oscillated between 25.18 and 44.37 µm thickness of myocites, a muscle density of 579-683 fibers/sqmm of muscle and a proportion of pure muscular tissue of 62.51% vs. 37.49% connective elements. In Pectoralis major muscles, the proportion of pure muscular tissue reached 59.83% while the connective compounds represented 40.17%, which corresponded to a density of 405-669 fibers/sqmm of muscle and to a myocites thickness within the 28.63-47.19 µm limits. These findings were consistent and highly positive correlated (0.89) with the Warner-Bratzler shear force values (47.10 Newtons in Pectoralis major and 42.63 Newtons in Pectoralis minor muscles) or moderate negatively correlated (-0.53) with the Adams consistency (1,8 Adams units in M. Pectoralis minor and 1,2 Adams units in M. Pectoralis major). Therefore, shear force instrumental assessments could be used as predictors for the histological properties of the meat, including for the tissual composition of muscles (pure muscular vs. connective tissue participation in meat structure). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pure Arabian horse breed is one of the oldest breed found in the world, spread all over the Earth to contribute to creating and improving most of current horse breeds. It is considered a horse with a lively and obedient temperament, with special characters for gallop racing, endurance competitions and also for show events. In Romania, Pure Arabian horse breeding is currently obtaining good results in Mangalia studfarm, opened in 1928. Here we can find valuable individuals from CYGAJ, EL IMAN, GAZAL, HADBAN, IBN GALAL, MERSUCH, NEDJARY and SIGLAVY BAGDADY genetic bloodlines. The paper represents a morphological study, based on 92 adult horses, selected for reproduction at specific ranking activity in 2018 (9 sires, 27 public mount stallions and 56 mares). The study was based on the main 3 body dimensions checked also in current criteria evaluation paper: height(154.77± 0.19 cm), thorax perimeter (182.35±0.58 cm) and cannon girth(18.98±0.06 cm), used for obtaining specific body indexes as dactilo-thorax index (10.41±0.03%), bone index (12.27±0.05%) and massiveness index (117.83±0.37%). The results prove that from this perspective, Pure Arabian breed standard is maintained in Mangalia studfarm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was based on 34 Gidran, Lipizzaner, Semigreu Românesc and Pure Arabian stallions from Public Mount Unity of Tulucești studfarm, Galați county, Romania. These horses were reared in troops where they have been used or assessed as public mount stallions after promoting the specific ranking activity. They were appreciated regarding the usual measurements used on horses (height, thorax perimeter and cannon girth) at current criteria evaluation, where they obtained very satisfying marks. The results show that the stallions can be included, based on body measurements, in Elite class, which proves that they should continue to reproduce in Tulucești National studfarm; thus a high biological material will be obtained, which indicates that the main purpose of studfarm will be achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the growth of silkworm larvae study, also was done a research which aimed to determine the chemical composition of mulberry leaves from a Romanian Selected Hybrid. The results showed that advancing in the vegetation stage at the same time with different periods of the silkworm larvae's growth, the mulberry leaves experience an aging process being noticed through its quality decreasing from chemical composition point of view. So, for example, the CP which was in average 20.78±0.627% (from DM), decreased during the study with 2.87%; while the CF had an average of 18.10±0.271%, (from DM) increased with 1.47%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study based on 50 Shagya Arabian mares (Mersuch, El-Sbaa, Koheilan, Shagya, Siglavy-Bagdady, Dahoman, Hadban and Gazal bloodlines), reared in Rădăuţi studfarm, regarding gestation, foaling-interval and natality, had the purpose to follow the dynamics of these parameters between 2002-2016 years. The extremes of gestation length were found in Dahoman bloodline (300 and 366 days), while the only significant difference (p<0.05) occurred between Shagya and Dahoman bloodlines. The mare gestation lasts between 310-340 days; in the studied population, the average gestation length was found toward the upper limit (339.5 days). Foaling-interval (FI) registered minimal values in Dahoman line (284 days) and maximal ones in El-Sbaa lines (1424 days), whereas no significant differences occurred. FI standard is comprised between 337-338 days, if the mare is mated 8 days post-partum. In the studied population, the average FI was 472.7 days, indicating a intense difference against the species standard, probably due to the reproduction management practices. The natality had the lowest value in Shagya bloodline (54.90%) and the highest one in Mersuch (72.22%). The average natality in mares is 60% while 65.04% was the average calculated for the 50 Shagya Arabian mares. Consequently, we suggest optimizing the horses' reproductive activity in Rădăuţi studfarm, decreasing thus foaling-interval value and favoring in mating those mares whose gestation duration is closer to the species average value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]