Influence of the Use of Irrigation Solution Inhibitors in Improving Dentine Adhesion: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

INTRODUCTION: This systematic review examined the effect of neutralizing agents on bond strength after irrigation with sodium hypochlorite and their existing protocols in literature. METHODS: This present study adhered to the PRISMA guidelines and was registered at PROSPERO. Five electronic databases were searched (sept-2020/jan-2021) in English, Spanish, and Portuguese, without any restrictions on publication date. Cases reports, editorials and literature reviews were not included. The risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Collaboration tool. From the initial 7,147 studies, 2,745 were removed as duplicates and 4,382 were excluded after a title/abstract screen. RESULTS: Seventeen in vitro studies were included. The results showed that the higher the concentration of sodium hypochlorite, the lower the bond strength at dentine/restoration interface (p⟨0.01). Among the studies, sodium ascorbate was the most widely used neutralizer and showed the most significant results in increasing bond strength (p⟨0.01). The bond strength values were found to increase with longer application time of the neutralizing substances (p⟨0.01). CONCLUSIONS: The use of sodium ascorbate as a neutralizing agent can reverse the negative effects of the sodium hypochlorite and improve the bond strength between dentine and resin cement, however, it isn't possible to determine the best protocol for use.

Clinical validation of an automatic classification algorithm applied on cleavage stage embryos: analysis for blastulation, euploidy, implantation, and live-birth potential.

STUDY QUESTION: Is a commercially available embryo assessment algorithm for early embryo evaluation based on the automatic annotation of morphokinetic timings a useful tool for embryo selection in IVF cycles? SUMMARY ANSWER: The classification provided by the algorithm was shown to be significantly predictive, especially when combined with conventional morphological evaluation, for development to blastocyst, implantation, and live birth, but not for euploidy. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY: The gold standard for embryo selection is still morphological evaluation conducted by embryologists. Since the introduction of time-lapse technology to embryo culture, many algorithms for embryo selection have been developed based on embryo morphokinetics, providing complementary information to morphological evaluation. However, manual annotations of developmental events and application of algorithms can be time-consuming and subjective processes. The introduction of automation to morphokinetic annotations is a promising approach that can potentially reduce subjectivity in the embryo selection process and improve the workflow in IVF laboratories. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION: This observational, retrospective cohort study was performed in a single IVF clinic between 2018 and 2021 and included 3736 embryos from oocyte donation cycles (423 cycles) and 1291 embryos from autologous cycles with preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidies (PGT-A, 185 cycles). Embryos were classified on Day 3 with a score from 1 (best) to 5 (worst) by the automatic embryo assessment algorithm. The performance of the embryo classification model for blastocyst development, implantation, live birth, and euploidy prediction was assessed. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS: All embryos were monitored by a time-lapse system with an automatic cell-tracking and embryo assessment software during culture. The embryo assessment algorithm was applied on Day 3, resulting in embryo classification from 1 to 5 (from highest to lowest developmental potential) depending on four parameters: P2 (t3-t2), P3 (t4-t3), oocyte age, and number of cells. There were 959 embryos selected for transfer on Day 5 or 6 based on conventional morphological evaluation. The blastocyst development, implantation, live birth, and euploidy rates (for embryos subjected to PGT-A) were compared between the different scores. The correlation of the algorithm scoring with the occurrence of those outcomes was quantified by generalized estimating equations (GEEs). Finally, the performance of the GEE model using the embryo assessment algorithm as the predictor was compared to that using conventional morphological evaluation, as well as to a model using a combination of both classification systems. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE: The blastocyst rate was higher with lower the scores generated by the embryo assessment algorithm. A GEE model confirmed the positive association between lower embryo score and higher odds of blastulation (odds ratio (OR) (1 vs 5 score) = 15.849; P < 0.001). This association was consistent in both oocyte donation and autologous embryos subjected to PGT-A. The automatic embryo classification results were also statistically associated with implantation and live birth. The OR of Score 1 vs 5 was 2.920 (95% CI 1.440-5.925; P = 0.003; E = 2.81) for implantation and 3.317 (95% CI 1.615-6.814; P = 0.001; E = 3.04) for live birth. However, this association was not found in embryos subjected to PGT-A. The highest performance was achieved when combining the automatic embryo scoring and traditional morphological classification (AUC for implantation potential = 0.629; AUC for live-birth potential = 0.636). Again, no association was found between the embryo classification and euploidy status in embryos subjected to PGT-A (OR (1 vs 5) = 0.755 (95% CI 0.255-0.981); P = 0.489; E = 1.57). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION: The retrospective nature of this study may be a reason for caution, although the large sample size reinforced the ability of the model for embryo selection. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS: Time-lapse technology with automated embryo assessment can be used together with conventional morphological evaluation to increase the accuracy of embryo selection process and improve the success rates of assisted reproduction cycles. To our knowledge, this is the largest embryo dataset analysed with this embryo assessment algorithm. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S): This research was supported by Agencia Valenciana de Innovació and European Social Fund (ACIF/2019/264 and CIBEFP/2021/13). In the last 5 years, M.M. received speaker fees from Vitrolife, Merck, Ferring, Gideon Richter, Angelini, and Theramex, and B.A.-R. received speaker fees from Merck. The remaining authors have no competing interests to declare. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: N/A.

The higher the score, the better the clinical outcome: retrospective evaluation of automatic embryo grading as a support tool for embryo selection in IVF laboratories.

STUDY QUESTION: Is the automatic embryo grading function of specific time-lapse systems clinically useful as a decision support tool for IVF laboratories? SUMMARY ANSWER: Blastocyst grading according to the automatic scoring system is directly associated with the likelihood of implantation and live birth, at least in treatments without preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A). WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY: Several embryo selection algorithms have been described since the introduction of time-lapse technology in IVF laboratories, but no one algorithm has yet been sufficiently consolidated for universal use. Multicentric models based on automated grading systems offer promise for standardization of embryo selection. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION: A retrospective cohort study was performed including 1678 patients who underwent IVF treatments between 2018 and 2020 and whose embryos (n = 12 468) were cultured in time-lapse systems. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS: After obtaining the required parameters (division time to 2, 3, 4 and 5 cells; time of blastocyst formation; inner cell mass quality; and trophectoderm quality), the automatic embryo score was calculated using the software included in the appropriate workstation. First, embryo score was compared with conventional morphological quality and the subsequent clinical outcomes of 1952 single blastocyst transfers. Second, we quantified the contribution of the automatic embryo score and conventional morphological grade to implantation and live birth outcome with multivariate logistic regression analysis in different patient populations. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE: A higher embryo score was associated with a better clinical outcome of IVF treatment. The mean of the automatic embryo score varied significantly (P < 0.001) among embryos with different morphological categories, between euploid and aneuploid embryos, between embryos resulting in positive versus negative pregnancy, between implanted and non-implanted embryos, and between embryos resulting in positive and negative live birth. Embryo score was related to the odds of implantation and live birth in the oocyte donation program (odds ratio (OR)=1.29; 95% CI [1.19-1.39]; P < 0.001 for implantation and OR = 1.26; 95% CI [1.16-1.36]; P < 0.001 for live birth) and in conventional treatments with autologous oocytes (OR = 1.38; 95% CI [1.24-1.54]; P < 0.001 for implantation and OR = 1.47; 95% CI [1.30-1.65]; P < 0.001 for live birth). There was no significant association of embryo score with implantation or live birth in treatments involving PGT-A. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION: This study is limited by its retrospective nature. Further prospective randomized trials are required to confirm the clinical impact of these findings. The single-center design should be taken into account when considering the universal application of the model. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS: Evidence of the clinical efficiency of automated embryo scoring for ranking embryos with different morphological grade and potential in order to achieve higher implantation and live birth rates may make it a decision support tool for embryologists when selecting blastocysts for embryo transfer. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S): This research has been funded by a grant from the Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities FIS (PI21/00283) awarded to M.M. There are no competing interests to declare. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: N/A.

Screening and detection of chromosomal copy number alterations in the domestic horse using SNP-array genotyping data.

Chromosomal abnormalities are a common cause of infertility in horses. However, they are difficult to detect using automated methods. Here, we propose a simple methodology based on single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP)-array data that allows us to detect the main chromosomal abnormalities in horses in a single procedure. As proof of concept, we were able to detect chromosomal abnormalities in 33 out of 268 individuals, including monosomies, chimerisms, and male and female sex-reversions, by analyzing the raw signal intensity produced by an SNP array-based genotyping platform. We also demonstrated that the procedure is not affected by the SNP density of the array employed or by the inbreeding level of the individuals. Finally, the methodology proposed in this study could be performed in an open bioinformatic environment, thus permitting its integration as a flexible screening tool in diagnostic laboratories and genomic breeding programs.

Effect of chronic unpredictable stress on the progression of experimental apical periodontitis in rats.

AIM: To establish an experimental model combining chronic stress and apical periodontitis by assessing the development of periapical lesions in rats in three different time points. METHODOLOGY: Forty-eight male Wistar rats were randomly assigned into two equal groups: Apical periodontitis (AP) and AP + Stress (AP + S). The animals of the AP group were not exposed to stressful conditions whereas the AP + S group were exposed to a variety of stressors on a daily basis until the end of the experiment. After three weeks of chronic unpredictable stress, apical periodontitis was induced in both groups by exposing the pulpal tissue of the mandibular first molar to the oral environment. Each group was further subdivided into three subgroups according to the euthanasia period: 14, 21 and 28 days after pulp exposure. The animals were weighed, and the blood was collected for corticosterone serum dosage by radioimmunoassay. The mandibles were removed and submitted to histopathological and microtomography analyses to assess the inflammatory response and the progression of periapical lesions. Comparisons between the AP and AP + S groups were performed using Student's t-test and Mann-Whitney U-test for parametric and nonparametric data, respectively. The one-way anova test followed by Tukey's test (parametric data) and Kruskal-Wallis followed by Dunn's test (nonparametric data) were used for comparisons between the three time points within the same group (P < 0.05). RESULTS: The AP + S group had a significantly lower average percentage of weight gain at 14 days and 21 days after AP induction (P < 0.05). Significantly higher levels of corticosterone were found in the AP + S group at 21 days (P < 0.05). The AP + S group had a significantly greater intensity and extension of inflammatory infiltrate with larger areas of bone loss compared to the AP groups at 21 days (P < 0.05). The volume of the periapical lesions in the AP + S group was significantly larger than that of the AP group 21 days following pulp exposure (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The chronic unpredictable stress model applied for 6 weeks exacerbated the inflammatory response and increased bone loss associated with AP, especially 21 days after its induction. This model appears to be suitable for investigating the bidirectional relationship between apical periodontitis and chronic stress.

Clinical influence of calcium hydroxide and N-acetylcysteine on the levels of resolvins E1 and D2 in apical periodontitis.

AIM: To investigate the presence of resolvins E1 (RvE1) and D2 (RvD2) in teeth with primary endodontic infections and apical periodontitis, and to assess the influence of calcium hydroxide medication [Ca(OH)2 ], in association with 2% chlorhexidine gel (2% CHX gel), and N-acetylcysteine (NAC) on the levels of RvE1 and RvD2 in periapical tissues. METHODOLOGY: Thirty-six single-rooted teeth with primary endodontic infections and apical periodontitis were selected and randomly divided into three groups according to the medication: [Ca(OH)2 ] + saline solution (SSL) [Ca(OH)2  + SSL group] (n = 12), Ca(OH)2  + 2% chlorhexidine gel [Ca(OH)2  + 2% CHX gel group] (n = 12) and NAC [NAC group] (n = 12). Samples were collected from the periapical interstitial fluid at two different sampling times: before (S1) and after 14 days of intracanal medications (S2). Resolvins were measured using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Data were analysed using paired t-test, Wilcoxon test and Kruskal-Wallis test, followed by Dunn's post hoc test; all statistical tests were performed at a significance level of 5%. RESULTS: RvE1 and RvD2 were detected in 100% of the samples (36/36) at S1 and S2. Ca(OH)2 medication did not increase the levels of RvE1 or RvD2 (both P > 0.05); however, NAC significantly increased the levels of RvE1 and RvD2 after 14 days of treatment (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: RvE1 and RvD2 were detected in periapical tissues from teeth with root canal infections. Moreover, calcium hydroxide medication did not increase the levels of resolvins in apical periodontitis. In contrast, the use of NAC intracanal medication significantly increased the levels of RvE1 and RvD2 after 14 days of treatment.

Comparison of cytotoxicity, genotoxicity and immunological inflammatory biomarker activity of several endodontic sealers against immortalized human pulp cells.

AIM: To establish an SV40 T-Ag-transfected cell line of human pulp-derived cells in order to compare the cytotoxicity, genotoxicity and to investigate the activities of immunological biomarkers of several endodontic sealers. METHODOLOGY: Primary human pulp cells and transfected cells were cultured. Cell morphology and proliferation were analysed, and the expression of cell-specific gene transcripts and proteins was detected by RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry. Transfection of human pulp-derived cells resulted in an immortalized cell line retaining phenotypic characteristics from the primarily cells tested. The SV40 T-Ag-transfected cells were cultured and stimulated by sealers (Apexit Plus, Real Seal, AH Plus, and EndoREZ) to evaluate the cytotoxicity and genotoxicity by MTT and MTN assays, respectively. Immunological inflammatory biomarkers (IL6, IL8 and TNF-α) were determined by ELISA assay. The differences between median values were statistically analysed using Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn's tests at 5% significance level. RESULTS: The cytotoxicity assay revealed that multimethacrylate (Real Seal) was the most cytotoxic sealer (P < 0.05) and exhibited the highest inflammatory potential against the SV40 T-Ag-transfected cells (P < 0.05). All root canal sealers tested were able to stimulate the immortalized pulp cells to produce IL-6, IL-8 and TNF-α, with differences in relation to the control group (P < 0.05). Higher levels of IL-6, IL-8 and TNF-α were found in cell supernatant after stimulation with multimethacrylate (Real Seal) compared to all other sealers tested (P < 0.05). No differences were found comparing epoxy resin-based sealer (AHPlus), single-methacrylate sealer (EndoREZ) and calcium hydroxide-based sealer (Apexit Plus), regardless of the cytokine investigated (all P > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: A SV40 T-Ag-transfected cell line of human pulp-derived cells was established. The methacrylate resin-based sealer (Real Seal) exhibited the greatest cytoxicity and inflammatory potential against immortalized pulp cells compared to an epoxy resin-based sealer (AH Plus), a methacrylate-based sealer (EndoRez) and a calcium hydroxide-based sealer (Apexit).

Plasticity effect of rider-horse interaction on genetic evaluations for Show Jumping discipline in sport horses.

To obtain a sport horse that excels in the highest levels of competition, breeders must take into account certain genetic and environmental factors that could influence the sport horse's performance, such as the rider-horse interaction (RHI). The main aim of this study was to describe this interaction in a genetic model by modelling it in relation to the horse's age. A total of 31,129 sport results from Spanish Sport Horses were used from a total of 1,101 animals evaluated, and these were grouped in three age levels and had been ridden by 606 different riders. Only riders who had ridden more than one horse (and vice-versa) were considered for the analyses. Five linear models with different random effects were analysed according to the covariates, the homogeneity/heterogeneity of the RHI and the relevant residual random effects. The model of best fit was then selected for the genetic evaluation of the animal. In general, models including the RHI effect (M2, M4 and M5) fitted better than the other models, and the best fit was obtained for M4 (with heterogeneous residual variance). The genetic variance increased constantly with age, whereas heritability showed a response on three intervals. This study revealed the varied evolution of the RHI with age, showing the different "plastic abilities" of this relationship.

Association analysis of KIT, MITF, and PAX3 variants with white markings in Spanish horses.

Several variants in the KIT, PAX3 and MITF genes have previously been associated with white markings in horses. In this study, we examined eight variants of these genes in 70 Menorca Purebred horses (PRMe, only black solid-coloured horses) and 70 Spanish Purebred horses (PRE, different coat colour patterns) that were scored for the extent of white markings. A maximum-likelihood chi-square test, logistic regression model and ridge regression analyses showed that a missense mutation (p.Arg682His) in KIT was associated with white facial markings (P < 0.05) and with total white markings (P < 0.05) in PRMe horses. The relative contribution of this variant to white markings in PRMe horses was estimated at 47.6% (head) and 43.4% (total score). In PRE horses, this variant was also associated with hindlimb scores (P < 0.05) with a relative contribution of 41.2%. The g.20147039C>T intronic variant located 29.9 kb downstream from the transcription start site of the MITF gene was associated with less white markings on forelimbs (P < 0.05) in PRMe horses, with a relative contribution of 63.9%, whereas in PRE horses this variant was associated with white facial markings (P < 0.05), with a relative contribution of 63.9%. No significant associations were found for PAX3 variants in these breeds. These results show that KIT and MITF variants are involved in the white marking patterns of both PRMe and PRE horses, providing breeders with an opportunity to use genetic testing to aid in breeding for their desired level of white markings.

Sex chromosomal abnormalities associated with equine infertility: validation of a simple molecular screening tool in the Purebred Spanish Horse.

Chromosomal abnormalities in the sex chromosome pair (ECAX and ECAY) are widely associated with reproductive problems in horses. However, a large proportion of these abnormalities remains undiagnosed due to the lack of an affordable diagnostic tool that allows for avoiding karyotyping tests. Hereby, we developed an STR (single-tandem-repeat)-based molecular method to determine the presence of the main sex chromosomal abnormalities in horses in a fast, cheap and reliable way. The frequency of five ECAX-linked (LEX026, LEX003, TKY38, TKY270 and UCDEQ502) and two ECAY-linked (EcaYH12 and SRY) markers was characterized in 261 Purebred Spanish Horses to determine the efficiency of the methodology developed to be used as a chromosomal diagnostic tool. All the microsatellites analyzed were highly polymorphic, with a sizeable number of alleles (polymorphic information content > 0.5). Based on this variability, the methodology showed 100% sensitivity and 99.82% specificity to detect the most important sex chromosomal abnormalities reported in horses (chimerism, Turner's syndrome and sex reversal syndromes). The method was also validated with 100% efficiency in 10 individuals previously diagnosed as chromosomally aberrant. This STR screening panel is an efficient and reliable molecular-cytogenetic tool for the early detection of sex chromosomal abnormalities in equines that could be included in breeding programs to save money, effort and time of veterinary practitioners and breeders.

Identification of a new Y chromosome haplogroup in Spanish native cattle.

The aim of this work was to perform a thorough analysis of the diversity of Y-haplotypes in Spanish cattle. A total of 207 Bos taurus males were sampled across 25 European breeds, with a special focus on rare, local Spanish populations. Animals were genotyped with five Y-specific microsatellites (INRA189, UMN0103, UMN0307, BM861 and BYM1), two indels (ZFY10 and USP9Y) and one SNP (UTY19). A new haplogroup, distinct from those described by Götherström et al. (2005), was identified and named Y1.2. Samples representing the three B. taurus Y-haplogroups were genotyped for four additional Y chromosome SNPs (rs121919254, rs121919281, rs121919323 and rs137049553). Among these SNPs, only rs121919281 was informative in B. taurus and helped to confirm the new Y1.2 haplogroup. Analysis of a larger dataset of standardized haplotypes for 1507 individuals from 57 populations from Spain, other European countries and Africa showed the new Y1.2 haplogroup to be found exclusively in Spanish breeds. This finding reinforces the importance of local Spanish cattle as reservoirs of genetic diversity as well as the importance of the Iberian Peninsula in the history of cattle.

Influence of glass fibre post length and remaining dentine thickness on the fracture resistance of root filled teeth.

AIM: To evaluate, ex vivo, the influence of glass fibre post length and remaining thickness of dentine on the fracture resistance of bovine roots, after thermomechanical ageing. METHODOLOGY: Ninety bovine roots of the same size were root filled and randomly distributed into nine groups (n = 10), according to the root weakening protocol (NW - nonweakened; MW - medium weakened; HW - highly weakened) and post length (7 mm; 9 mm and 12 mm). The weakening of roots was performed using diamond burs, resulting in different thicknesses of remaining dentine. The post spaces were prepared, and in the weakened roots, the glass fibre posts were customized with composite resin, to create posts matching the canal size. Chemically activated resin cement was used to lute the posts. After luting, full crowns made of composite resin were attached to a silicon matrix. To reproduce physiological mobility, the roots were covered with polyether and embedded in polyurethane. The thermomechanical cycling was performed (1 200 000 cycles; 88N; 3,8 Hz; 5 ± 1 °C to 55 ± 1 °C). Then, the specimens were subjected to compressive force in a universal testing machine (1 mm min-1 ; 100 kgf) to analyse the fracture resistance. The specimens were analysed through a stereomicroscope to classify the failure mode (repairable/catastrophic). The values were subjected to statistical analysis (two-way anova and Tukey's test at 5%). The frequencies of failure mode were compared using chi-square test. RESULTS: The association between length and dentine thickness was significant (P > 0.05). The difference was between NW and HW roots for posts of 12 mm in length. There was an association between failure mode and the length and remaining dentine thickness. CONCLUSIONS: Reduced dentine thickness in roots with longer posts had lower fracture resistance values, as catastrophic failure was more predominant.

Behavioural linear standardized scoring system of the Lidia cattle breed by testing in herd: estimation of genetic parameters.

Docility is very important for cattle production, and many behavioural tests to measure this trait have been developed. However, very few objective behavioural tests to measure the opposite approach 'aggressive behaviour' have been described. Therefore, the aim of this work was to validate in the Lidia cattle breed a behavioural linear standardized scoring system that measure the aggressiveness and enable genetic analysis of behavioural traits expressing fearless and fighting ability. Reproducibility and repeatability measures were calculated for the 12 linear traits of this scoring system to assess its accuracy, and ranged from 85.3 and 94.2%, and from 66.7 to 97.9%, respectively. Genetic parameters were estimated using an animal model with a Bayesian approach. A total of 1202 behavioural records were used. The pedigree matrix contained 5001 individuals. Heritability values (with standard deviations) ranged between 0.13 (0.04) (Falls of the bull) and 0.41 (0.08) (Speed of approach to horse). Genetic correlations varied from 0.01 (0.07) to 0.90 (0.13). Finally, an exploratory factor analysis using the genetic correlation matrix was calculated. Three main factors were retained to describe the traditional genetic indexes aggressiveness, strength and mobility.

Quantitative analysis of short- and long-distance racing performance in young and adult horses and association analysis with functional candidate genes in Spanish Trotter horses.

The association of five candidate genes with sporting performance in young and adult Spanish Trotter horses (STHs) was performed according to a previous selection based on quantitative analysis of the trait time per kilometre (TPK). A total of 334 516 records of TPK from 5958 STHs were used to estimate the estimated breeding values (EBVs) at different age groups (young and adults horses) throughout the range of distances (1600-2700 m) using a bicharacter random regression model. The heritability estimated by distance ranged from 0.16 to 0.40, with a different range for the two age groups. Considering the animals with the best and the worst deregressed EBV, 321 STHs were selected for SNP genotyping in MSTN, COX4I2, PDK4, DMRT3 and CKM genes. An association analysis based on ridge and logistic regression revealed that the young trotters with genotype GG in PDK4 (p < 0.05) and AA of DMRT3 (p < 0.001) SNPs show the best potential in short-distance races, while those carrying the genotype AA in DMRT3 (p < 0.001) and CC in CKM (p < 0.05) genes seem to be the best in long-distance races. Adult trotters with genotype AA in DMRT3 also display greater speed (p < 0.05) and endurance (p < 0.001).

Carcass and Meat Quality Traits in an Embden×Toulouse Goose Cross Raised in Organic Dehesa.

This study assessed the influence of genetic type (Embden-Anser anser, EE; Toulouse-Anser anser, TT and F1 cross, ET) for meat characteristics (carcass, meat quality and fatty acid (FA) profiles), of domestic geese "Anser anser domesticus" raised in dehesa as an alternative, organic feeding system. Carcass and breast muscle weight (p<0.01) were greater for the ET group at the same live weight. None of the groups showed differences in the production of fatty liver with this type of feeding. Higher values were found for maximum Warner-Bratzler shear force (between 7.62 and 8.87 kg/cm(2)), which implies the improvement of this parameter. High levels of oleic FAs were obtained, especially for the TT group. The polyunsaturated/saturated FA ratio was highest for the ET group (p<0.001), reflecting the optimum nutritional values as a component of a healthy consumer diet.

Contribution of Lidia cattle breed historical castes to the paternal genetic stock of Spain.

The main objective of this work was to determine whether the five founding castes defined in the Lidia cattle breed actually have an important contribution to the Spanish paternal genetic stock as well as to the paternal genetic origin support. A total of 1300 Bos taurus male individuals were genotyped for five microsatellites (INRA189, UMN0103, UMN0307, BM861 and BYM1) and one indel (ZFY10). Microsatellite and indel alleles were combined into haplotypes, identifying a total of 38 haplotypes, 11 of them belonging to haplogroup Y1 and 27 to haplogroup Y2. Ten different haplotypes were found in the Lidia cattle breed, with five being exclusive to this breed. Our results agree with different male genetic stocks in the Lidia breed: one hypothetically representing the ancient Iberian bovine genetic stock (Gallardo, Navarra and Cabrera castes and some encastes from Vistahermosa) and a second one that is the result of the more recent breeding strategy of choosing the most aggressive individuals from traditional herds (including some Vistahermosa encastes and the Vazqueña caste). In terms of conservation, it would be better to not consider this breed as a unit but to consider the caste, or even better the encaste, as the target of putative conservation efforts.

A reaction norm model approach to estimate the genetic effect of temperature on sportive performance of trotter horses.

The performance results of Spanish Trotter Horses were merged with the information from the nearest official weather stations, to estimate the effects of temperature (T) on speed during the day of the race. The resulting data set included: 104 125 individual results from 7653 races with 3772 participant horses and driven by 1402 jockeys. After a classical repeatability animal model in which the effects of T were assumed null, a total of five different random regression models (RRM) with the same fixed part were applied in a parsimonious nested process in which the (co)variance components for each random effect were estimated considering homo/heterogeneous responses across the trajectory of T during the race. The results demonstrate that performance is better when T increases from 4°C to 12°C, followed by a comfort zone (12-19°C) and a light but more stressful zone (>20°C). A significant change in the T during 20 years (+4°C) was observed whilst the speed of the race improved by +2.1 m/s during the same period. The information criterion (LogL, AIC and BIC) confirmed the existence of heterogeneity of (co)variance components along the trajectory of T scale. The model in which T effect was assumed non-constant across the T scale for animal genetic effects; the individual environmental permanent effects and the jockey effects fit the data better. Heritability had higher values (0.19-0.20) when T was <12°C and slightly decreases within the comfort and stressful zones. Genetic correlations were high and, as was expected, it decreases when difference between T increases. The best 150 animals for speed during the comfort zone were selected according to the Expected Breeding Value (EBV) estimated with the best RRM, and important variations were detected in the evolution of EBV across the trajectory of T. The presence of a genetic base related to T effect during the race in this type of performance is demonstrated.

Modelling genetic evaluation for dressage in Pura Raza Español horses with focus on the rider effect.

The most popular use of the Pura Raza Español horse in sport is for dressage competitions. Tests on young sport horses were first established in 2004 in Spain to collect data for the genetic evaluation of this breed's suitability for dressage. The aim of this study was to compare eight different models to find out the most appropriate way to include the rider in the genetic evaluation of dressage. A progressive removal of systematic effects from model was also analysed. A total of 8867 performance records collected between 2004 and 2011 from 1234 horses aged between 4 and 6 years old were used. The final score in the dressage test was used as the performance trait. The pedigree matrix contained 8487 individuals. A BLUP animal model was applied using a Bayesian approach with TM software. The horse's age, gender, travelling time, training level, stud of birth and event were included as systematic effects in all the models. Apart from the animal and residual effects that were present in all models, different models were compared combining random effects such as the rider, match (i.e. rider-horse interaction) and permanent environmental effects. A cross-validation approach was used to evaluate the models' prediction ability. The best model included the permanent environmental, rider and match random effects. As far as systematic effects are concerned, the event or the stud of birth was essential effects needed to fit the data.

Methodological approaches to assessing the genetic predisposition of osteochondrosis of the tarsocrural joint in the Pura Raza Española horses.

Osteochondrosis (OC) is a developmental orthopaedic disease of significant concern in numerous sport horse breeds, with significant international relevance. Using digital radiographs, we assessed the occurrence of hock (tarsocrural joint) OC in 3 048 Pura Raza Española (PRE) horses which took part in a morpho-functional test, in three specific locations in the tarsus limbs: the Distal Intermediate Ridge of the Tibia (DIRT), the lateral trochlear ridges of the talus (LTT), and the medial trochlear ridges of the talus (MTT). An incidence rate of 13.3% was found for hock OC in the analysed sample, with the highest incidence rate observed in DIRT (10.0%) and the lowest in MTT (0.2%). Estimates of genetic predisposition to hock OC were carried out using three genetic approaches: 1a) a binomial threshold model based on the presence or absence of OC, 1b) a multinomial threshold model, on a scale from 0 (absence) to 3 (maximum), and 2) a linear model. The effects considered in the models included sex, genetic origin and stud class. All the analyses were based on the Bayesian inference methodology, using the THRGIBBS3F90 software. The binomial threshold model yielded the most suitable results, with an estimated heritability for Overall hock OC of 0.71 ± 0.055 on the underlying scale (0.53 on the observed scale), ranging in different locations from 0.48 ± 0.087 (LTT) to 0.66 ± 0.063 (DIRT) on the underlying scale (0.10 and 0.38 on the observed scale, respectively). The highest significative genetic correlation was observed between Overall and DIRT (0.97) for approach 1a, and the lowest significant genetic correlation was between Overall and LTT (0.49), for approach 2. This study contributes valuable insights into the genetic predisposition towards, as well as for the potential for selective breeding against, hock OC in PRE horses, and provides a basis for future research and breeding programmes aimed at minimising the occurrence of hock OC and promoting the overall health of this breed.