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Schreuder J, Niknafs S, Williams P, Roura E, Hoffman LC, Cozzolino D. Non-destructive prediction of fertility and sex in chicken eggs using the short wave near-infrared region. SPECTROCHIMICA ACTA. PART A, MOLECULAR AND BIOMOLECULAR SPECTROSCOPY 2024; 322:124716. [PMID: 38991617 DOI: 10.1016/j.saa.2024.124716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to evaluate the ability of a handheld near-infrared device (900-1600 nm) to predict fertility and sex (male and female) traits in-ovo. The NIR reflectance spectra of the egg samples were collected on days 0, 7, 14 and 18 of incubation and the data was analysed using principal component analysis (PCA), linear discriminant analysis (LDA) and support vector machines classification (SVM). The overall classification rates for the prediction of fertile and infertile egg samples ranged from 73 % to 84 % and between 93 % to 95 % using LDA and SVM classification, respectively. The highest classification rate was obtained on day 7 of incubation. The classification between male and female embryos achieved lower classification rates, between 62 % and 68 % using LDA and SVM classification, respectively. Although the classification rates for in-ovo sexing obtained in this study are higher than those obtained by chance (50 %), the classification results are currently not sufficient for industrial in-ovo sexing of chicken eggs. These results demonstrated that short wavelengths in the NIR range may be useful to distinguish between fertile and infertile egg samples at days 7 and 14 during incubation.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Schreuder
- Stellenbosch University, Food Science Department, Private Bag X1, Matieland, Stellenbosch 7602, South Africa
| | - S Niknafs
- The University of Queensland, Centre for Animal Sciences, Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation (QAAFI), St. Lucia, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - P Williams
- Stellenbosch University, Food Science Department, Private Bag X1, Matieland, Stellenbosch 7602, South Africa
| | - E Roura
- The University of Queensland, Centre for Animal Sciences, Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation (QAAFI), St. Lucia, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia; The University of Queensland, Centre for Nutrition and Food Sciences, Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation (QAAFI), St. Lucia, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - L C Hoffman
- Stellenbosch University, Food Science Department, Private Bag X1, Matieland, Stellenbosch 7602, South Africa; The University of Queensland, Centre for Nutrition and Food Sciences, Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation (QAAFI), St. Lucia, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - D Cozzolino
- The University of Queensland, Centre for Nutrition and Food Sciences, Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation (QAAFI), St. Lucia, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia.
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2
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Xie C, Tang W, Yang C. A review of the recent advances for the in ovo sexing of chicken embryos using optical sensing techniques. Poult Sci 2023; 102:102906. [PMID: 37480656 PMCID: PMC10393812 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2023.102906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 06/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The culling of day-old male chicks has caused ethical and economic concerns. Traditional approaches for detecting the in ovo sex of chicken embryos involve opening the eggshell and inner membrane, which are destructive, time-consuming, and inefficient. Therefore, noncontact optical sensing techniques have been examined for the in ovo sexing of chicken embryos. Compared with traditional methods, optical sensing can increase determination throughput and frequency for the rapid sexing of chicken embryos. This paper presented a comprehensive review of the different optical sensing techniques used for the in ovo sexing of chicken embryos, including visible and near-infrared (Vis-NIR) spectroscopy, hyperspectral imaging, Raman spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, and machine vision, discussing their advantages and disadvantages. In addition, the latest research regarding different detection algorithms and models for the in ovo sexing of chicken embryos was summarized. Therefore, this paper provides updated information regarding the optical sensing techniques that can be used in the poultry industry and related research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuanqi Xie
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-Products, The Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou 310021, China
| | - Wensheng Tang
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science, Huangyan Bureau of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Taizhou 318020, China
| | - Ce Yang
- Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems Engineering, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, MN 55108, USA.
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3
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Corion M, Santos S, De Ketelaere B, Spasic D, Hertog M, Lammertyn J. Trends in in ovo sexing technologies: insights and interpretation from papers and patents. J Anim Sci Biotechnol 2023; 14:102. [PMID: 37452378 PMCID: PMC10347793 DOI: 10.1186/s40104-023-00898-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Numerous researchers and institutions have been developing in ovo sexing technologies to improve animal welfare by identifying male embryos in an early embryonic stage and disposing of them before pain perception. This review gives a complete overview of the technological approaches reported in papers and patents by performing a thorough search using Web of Science and Patstat/Espacenet databases for papers and patents, respectively. Based on a total of 49 papers and 115 patent families reported until May 2023 worldwide, 11 technology categories were defined: 6 non-optical and 5 optical techniques. Every category was described for its characteristics while assessing its potential for application. Next, the dynamics of the publications of in ovo sexing techniques in both paper and patent fields were described through growth curves, and the interest or actual status was visualized using the number of paper citations and the actual legal status of the patents. When comparing the reported technologies in papers to those in patents, scientific gaps were observed, as some of the patented technologies were not reported in the scientific literature, e.g., ion mobility and mass spectrometry approaches. Generally, more diverse approaches in all categories were found in patents, although they do require more scientific evidence through papers or industrial adoption to prove their robustness. Moreover, although there is a recent trend for non-invasive techniques, invasive methods like analyzing DNA through PCR or hormones through immunosensing are still being reported (and might continue to be) in papers and patents. It was also observed that none of the technologies complies with all the industry requirements, although 5 companies already entered the market. On the one hand, more research and harmony between consumers, industry, and governments is necessary. On the other hand, close monitoring of the market performance of the currently available techniques will offer valuable insights into the potential and expectations of in ovo sexing techniques in the poultry industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Corion
- KU Leuven, BIOSYST-MeBioS Biosensors Group, Willem de Croylaan 42, Leuven, B-3001, Belgium
| | - Simão Santos
- KU Leuven, BIOSYST-MeBioS Biosensors Group, Willem de Croylaan 42, Leuven, B-3001, Belgium
| | - Bart De Ketelaere
- KU Leuven, BIOSYST-MeBioS Biostatistics Group, Kasteelpark Arenberg 30, Leuven, B-3001, Belgium.
| | - Dragana Spasic
- KU Leuven, BIOSYST-MeBioS Biosensors Group, Willem de Croylaan 42, Leuven, B-3001, Belgium
| | - Maarten Hertog
- KU Leuven, BIOSYST-MeBioS Postharvest Group, Willem de Croylaan 42, Leuven, B-3001, Belgium
| | - Jeroen Lammertyn
- KU Leuven, BIOSYST-MeBioS Biosensors Group, Willem de Croylaan 42, Leuven, B-3001, Belgium
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Zhang X, Li J, Chen S, Yang N, Zheng J. Overview of Avian Sex Reversal. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24098284. [PMID: 37175998 PMCID: PMC10179413 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24098284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Sex determination and differentiation are processes by which a bipotential gonad adopts either a testicular or ovarian cell fate, and secondary sexual characteristics adopt either male or female developmental patterns. In birds, although genetic factors control the sex determination program, sex differentiation is sensitive to hormones, which can induce sex reversal when disturbed. Although these sex-reversed birds can form phenotypes opposite to their genotypes, none can experience complete sex reversal or produce offspring under natural conditions. Promising evidence indicates that the incomplete sex reversal is associated with cell autonomous sex identity (CASI) of avian cells, which is controlled by genetic factors. However, studies cannot clearly describe the regulatory mechanism of avian CASI and sex development at present, and these factors require further exploration. In spite of this, the abundant findings of avian sex research have provided theoretical bases for the progress of gender control technologies, which are being improved through interdisciplinary co-operation and will ultimately be employed in poultry production. In this review, we provide an overview of avian sex determination and differentiation and comprehensively summarize the research progress on sex reversal in birds, especially chickens. Importantly, we describe key issues faced by applying gender control systems in poultry production and chronologically summarize the development of avian sex control methods. In conclusion, this review provides unique perspectives for avian sex studies and helps scientists develop more advanced systems for sex regulation in birds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiuan Zhang
- Department of Animal Genetics and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
- National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding and Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Jianbo Li
- Department of Animal Genetics and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
- National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding and Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Sirui Chen
- Department of Animal Genetics and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
- National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding and Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Ning Yang
- Department of Animal Genetics and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
- National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding and Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Jiangxia Zheng
- Department of Animal Genetics and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
- National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding and Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
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Ching CTS, Wang CK, Tang PC, Ha MK, Li C, Chiu HN, Yao FYD, Nhan NC, Hieu NV, Phan TL. Bioimpedance-Measurement-Based Non-Invasive Method for In Ovo Chicken Egg Sexing. BIOSENSORS 2023; 13:bios13040440. [PMID: 37185515 PMCID: PMC10135836 DOI: 10.3390/bios13040440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 03/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Day-old male chick culling is one of the world's most inhumane problems in the poultry industry. Every year, seven billion male chicks are slaughtered in laying-hen hatcheries due to their higher feed exchange rate, lower management than female chicks, and higher production costs. This study describes a novel non-invasive method for determining the gender of chicken eggs. During the incubation period of fourteen days, four electrodes were attached to each egg for data collection. On the last day of incubation, a standard polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based chicken gender determination protocol was applied to the eggs to obtain the gender information. A relationship was built between the collected data and the egg's gender, and it was discovered to have a reliable connection, indicating that the chicken egg gender can be determined by measuring the impedance data of the eggs on day 9 of incubation with the four electrodes set and using the self-normalization technique. This is a groundbreaking discovery, demonstrating that impedance spectroscopy can be used to sex chicken eggs before they hatch, relieving the poultry industry of such an ethical burden.
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Affiliation(s)
- Congo Tak Shing Ching
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Engineering, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 402, Taiwan
- Department of Electrical Engineering, National Chi Nan University, Puli Township 54561, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Kai Wang
- Department of Animal Science, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 402, Taiwan
- The iEGG and Animal Biotechnology Center, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 402, Taiwan
| | - Pin-Chi Tang
- Department of Animal Science, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 402, Taiwan
| | - Minh-Khue Ha
- Department of Physics and Electronic Engineering, University of Science, Vietnam National University of Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam
| | - Chin Li
- Department of Animal Science, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 402, Taiwan
- The iEGG and Animal Biotechnology Center, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 402, Taiwan
| | - Hsuan-Ni Chiu
- Department of Animal Science, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 402, Taiwan
- The iEGG and Animal Biotechnology Center, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 402, Taiwan
| | - Fiona Yan-Dong Yao
- Division of Science, Engineering and Health Studies, College of Professional and Continuing Education, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong
| | - Nguyen Chi Nhan
- Department of Physics and Electronic Engineering, University of Science, Vietnam National University of Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam
| | - Nguyen Van Hieu
- Department of Physics and Electronic Engineering, University of Science, Vietnam National University of Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam
| | - Thien-Luan Phan
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Engineering, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 402, Taiwan
- Department of Physics and Electronic Engineering, University of Science, Vietnam National University of Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam
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6
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Preuße G, Porstmann V, Bartels T, Schnabel C, Galli R, Koch E, Oelschlägel M, Uckermann O, Steiner G. Highly sensitive and quick in ovo sexing of domestic chicken eggs by two-wavelength fluorescence spectroscopy. Anal Bioanal Chem 2023; 415:603-613. [PMID: 36462048 PMCID: PMC9839792 DOI: 10.1007/s00216-022-04446-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
The in ovo sexing of chicken eggs is a current task and a prerequisite to overcome the mass killing of male day-old chicks from laying lines. Although various methods have been developed and tested in recent years, practicable methods for sex determination are still missing which can be applicated in poultry hatcheries before the chicken embryo is capable of nociception and pain sensation. Optical spectroscopic methods enable an early determination of the sex. In this study, a novel method based on two-wavelength in ovo fluorescence excitation is described. More than 1600 eggs were examined. In ovo fluorescence was sequentially excited at 532 nm and 785 nm. The fluorescence intensities of the spectral regions behave inversely with respect to sex. It is shown that the observed sex-related differences in the fluorescence intensities are based on the embryonic hemoglobin synthesis. The accuracy of sex determination is 96% for both sexes. The hatching rate is not reduced compared to an equivalent reference group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grit Preuße
- grid.4488.00000 0001 2111 7257Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Clinical Sensoring and Monitoring, Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Fetscherstr. 74, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Vincenz Porstmann
- grid.4488.00000 0001 2111 7257Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Clinical Sensoring and Monitoring, Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Fetscherstr. 74, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Thomas Bartels
- grid.417834.dInstitute for Animal Welfare and Animal Husbandry, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Dörnbergstr. 25/27, 29223 Celle, Germany
| | - Christian Schnabel
- grid.4488.00000 0001 2111 7257Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Fetscherstr. 74, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Roberta Galli
- grid.4488.00000 0001 2111 7257Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Fetscherstr. 74, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Edmund Koch
- grid.4488.00000 0001 2111 7257Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Clinical Sensoring and Monitoring, Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Fetscherstr. 74, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Martin Oelschlägel
- grid.4488.00000 0001 2111 7257Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Clinical Sensoring and Monitoring, Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Fetscherstr. 74, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Ortrud Uckermann
- grid.4488.00000 0001 2111 7257Division of Medical Biology, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Fetscherstr. 74, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Gerald Steiner
- grid.4488.00000 0001 2111 7257Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Clinical Sensoring and Monitoring, Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Fetscherstr. 74, 01307 Dresden, Germany
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7
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Salgado Pardo JI, Navas González FJ, González Ariza A, Arando Arbulu A, León Jurado JM, Delgado Bermejo JV, Camacho Vallejo ME. Traditional sexing methods and external egg characteristics combination allow highly accurate early sex determination in an endangered native turkey breed. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:948502. [PMID: 36046507 PMCID: PMC9420986 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.948502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Early sex determination methods are not only crucial in the worldwide massive poultry industry, but also for small-holder producers. The profitability of sexing techniques must be accounted for when aiming to boost management, nutrition, and conservation practices in endangered poultry breeds. This becomes pivotal when the local breed dealt with belongs to an understudied species, such as the turkey. So, the main objective of this study is to identify which method combination may report a higher likelihood of successful sex determination in poults across the three-pattern varieties of the Andalusian turkey breed. A total of 84 one to two days old Andalusian turkey poults (42 black, 28 black-roan, and 14 bronze-roan) were evaluated in this study. Sex determination was performed using 15 methods, which included testing external egg metrics and eggshell color, poult morphological appraisal and phaneroptics, and behavioral traits. Possible differences across plumage varieties and the interaction between sex and plumage were observed when external egg quality was measured. Sex determination through behavioral methods in black base feathered (black and black-roan) male sex individuals showed seven times higher sensitivity when compared to the rest of the studied individuals (χ2 = 7.14, df = 1, P < 0.01). In contrast, for the black-roan plumage females, the method based on the color of down feathers was approximately four times more sensitive (χ2 = 3.95, df = 1, P ≤ 0.05). For the bronze-roan pattern, none of the sexing techniques was reported to efficiently predict sex itself. However, the most proper method combination to determine sex, independent of plumage color, was physical external egg characteristics, the color of down feathers, and behavioral approaches (“English method” and “slap technique”). The specificity values were found to be 49.12, 93.33, and 100%, while the sensitivity values were observed to be 74.64, 91.03, and 100%, which translated into accuracy of 63.10, 92.26, and 100% in black, black-roan, and bronze-roan poults, respectively. Our results suggest that the method combination tested in this study could be considered a highly accurate, simple, and affordable alternative for sex determination in turkeys. This could mean a pivotal advance for small producers of turkeys, as early sex detection can help to plan timely conservational management strategies, which is of prominent importance in the context of endangered poultry breeds.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. I. Salgado Pardo
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Francisco Javier Navas González
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
- Department of Agriculture and Ecological Husbandry, Area of Agriculture and Environment, Andalusian Institute of Agricultural and Fisheries Research and Training (IFAPA), Córdoba, Spain
- *Correspondence: Francisco Javier Navas González
| | - Antonio González Ariza
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
- Antonio González Ariza
| | - A. Arando Arbulu
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
| | - J. M. León Jurado
- Agropecuary Provincial Centre, Córdoba Provincial Government, Córdoba, Spain
| | - J. V. Delgado Bermejo
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
| | - M. E. Camacho Vallejo
- Department of Agriculture and Ecological Husbandry, Area of Agriculture and Environment, Andalusian Institute of Agricultural and Fisheries Research and Training (IFAPA), Córdoba, Spain
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Mankad A, Hobman EV, Carter L, Tizard M. Ethical Eggs: Can Synthetic Biology Disrupt the Global Egg Production Industry? FRONTIERS IN SUSTAINABLE FOOD SYSTEMS 2022. [DOI: 10.3389/fsufs.2022.915454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Commercial egg production relies on the industry-accepted practice of culling day-old male chicks, which are a live by-product of the egg production industry. Researchers are exploring the use of a transgenic marker gene to allow early identification of male embryos in ovo at the point of lay, rather than upon hatching. Here we examine social acceptability of this biotechnology-enabled solution to sex selection, which addresses the key ethical issue of culling and improved sustainability of food systems. A national online survey (N = 1148) measured psychological factors influencing public support for the development of the technology and willingness to purchase eggs derived from the novel process. Most participants expressed at least a moderate intention to support the development of gene marking technology, with 1 in 5 people expressing strong support. Participants expressed moderate to high agreement that gene marking of chickens would: (a) help reduce or eliminate the practice of culling male chicks in the egg-laying industry (response efficacy), and; (b) that this new synbio approach to sex selection may be better than current methods of identifying and removing male chicks during egg production (relative advantage). Of those participants who consumed eggs, almost 60% reported they would be moderately to strongly willing to purchase eggs derived from the gene marking process. A partially-mediated path model comprising both intention to support and willingness to buy eggs (R2 = 0.78) showed that key factors involved in decision-making, in addition to response efficacy and relative advantage, were evaluative attitudes toward the technology (e.g., was the technology bad/good, risky/safe, unethical/ethical) and emotional reactions. These results suggest that consumers may be primarily basing their decisions and behavioral choices on how valuable they perceive the novel gene marking solution, reflecting on how it compares favorably to current culling practices, yielding a range of benefits such as higher animal welfare, improved sustainability, and reduced waste.
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9
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In ovo sexing of eggs from brown breeds with a gender-specific color using visible-near-infrared spectroscopy: effect of incubation day and measurement configuration. Poult Sci 2022; 101:101782. [PMID: 35339934 PMCID: PMC8960969 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2022.101782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The culling of day-old male chicks is an animal welfare issue within the laying hen industry that raises substantial ethical concern. Alternative methods are sought to pre-select males during embryonic development. This method is called in ovo sexing and allows more humane male culling. A robust and non-invasive in ovo color sexing technique was developed and validated in this research. To this end, visible-near-infrared (vis-NIR) point spectroscopy was used, which has advantages over state-of-the-art hyperspectral imaging in terms of accuracy and cost. Two independent experiments were each conducted on a batch of 600 Isa Brown eggs. These eggs were individually illuminated on d 8 to 14, and d 18 of incubation by a halogen lamp and the signal was measured in the vis-NIR range from 300 to 1,145 nm. Next, optimal preprocessing strategies were applied and partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) models were built and further optimized after performing a forward interval partial least squares (FiPLS) for variable selection. Results demonstrated that d 12 is too early for vis-NIR in ovo sexing, resulting in a prediction accuracy of 86.49%. However, after 13 d of incubation, an accuracy of 97.78% was obtained, increasing to 99.52% on d 14. Furthermore, these accuracies were higher than earlier reported percentages from hyperspectral imaging and successful sexing was expedited from d 14 to d 13. Moreover, prediction improvement up to 99.05% was obtained on d 13 by correcting for the variability in eggshell properties using d 0 eggshell corrections. Applying the method on d 18 resulted in a lower accuracy of 94.62% due to stronger light attenuation by the growing embryos. Finally, a reduced spectral range of 749 to 861 nm was found to be sufficient for correct classification of 98.46% of the eggs. This paves the way for high-throughput and cost-efficient usage of smaller and cheaper spectrophotometers in commercial hatcheries.
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10
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Das R, Mishra P, Jha R. In ovo Feeding as a Tool for Improving Performance and Gut Health of Poultry: A Review. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:754246. [PMID: 34859087 PMCID: PMC8632539 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.754246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Early growth and development of the gastrointestinal tract are of critical importance to enhance nutrients' utilization and optimize the growth of poultry. In the current production system, chicks do not have access to feed for about 48-72 h during transportation between hatchery and production farms. This lag time affects early nutrient intake, natural exposure to the microbiome, and the initiation of beneficial stimulation of the immune system of chicks. In ovo feeding can provide early nutrients and additives to embryos, stimulate gut microflora, and mitigate the adverse effects of starvation during pre-and post-hatch periods. Depending on the interests, the compounds are delivered to the embryo either around day 12 or 17 to 18 of incubation and via air sac or amnion. In ovo applications of bioactive compounds like vaccines, nutrients, antibiotics, prebiotics, probiotics, synbiotics, creatine, follistatin, L-carnitine, CpG oligodeoxynucleotide, growth hormone, polyclonal antimyostatin antibody, peptide YY, and insulin-like growth factor-1 have been studied. These compounds affect hatchability, body weight at hatch, physiological functions, immune responses, gut morphology, gut microbiome, production performance, and overall health of birds. However, the route, dose, method, and time of in ovo injection and host factors can cause variation, and thereby inconsistencies in results. Studies using this method have manifested the benefits of injection of different single bioactive compounds. But for excelling in poultry production, researchers should precisely know the proper route and time of injection, optimum dose, and effective combination of different compounds. This review paper will provide an insight into current practices and available findings related to in ovo feeding on performance and health parameters of poultry, along with challenges and future perspectives of this technique.
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Affiliation(s)
- Razib Das
- Department of Human Nutrition, Food and Animal Sciences, College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI, United States
| | - Pravin Mishra
- Department of Human Nutrition, Food and Animal Sciences, College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI, United States
| | - Rajesh Jha
- Department of Human Nutrition, Food and Animal Sciences, College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI, United States
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Gautron J, Réhault-Godbert S, Van de Braak TGH, Dunn IC. Review: What are the challenges facing the table egg industry in the next decades and what can be done to address them? Animal 2021; 15 Suppl 1:100282. [PMID: 34246597 DOI: 10.1016/j.animal.2021.100282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Revised: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
There has been a strong consumer demand to take welfare into account in animal production, including table eggs. This is particularly true in Europe and North America but increasingly around the world. We review the main demands that are facing the egg industry driven by economic, societal and sustainability goals. We describe solutions already delivered by research and those that will be needed for the future. Already table egg consumption patterns have seen a major shift from cage to non-cage production systems because of societal pressures. These often feature free-range and organic production. These changes likely signal the future direction for the layer sector with the acceleration of the conversion of cage to barn and aviary systems with outdoor access. This can come with unintended consequences from bone fracture to increased disease exposure, all requiring solutions. In the near future, the laying period of hens will be routinely extended to improve the economics and environmental footprint of production. Many flocks already produce close to 500 eggs per hens in a lifetime, reducing the number of replacement layers and improving the economics and sustainability. It will be a challenge for scientists to optimize the genetics and the production systems to maintain the health of these hens. A major ethical issue for the egg industry is the culling of male day-old chicks of layer breeds as the meat of the males cannot be easily marketed. Much research has and will be devoted to alternatives. Another solution is elimination of male embryos prior to hatching by in ovo sexing approaches. The race to find a sustainable solution to early stage sex determination is on. Methods based on sex chromosomes, sexually dimorphic compounds and spectral properties of eggs containing male or female embryos, are being researched and are reviewed in this article. Other proposed solutions include the use of dual-purpose strains, where the males are bred to produce meat and the females to produce eggs. The dual-purpose strains are less efficient and do not compete economically in the meat or egg market; however, as consumer awareness increases viable markets are emerging. These priorities are the response to economic, environmental, ethical and consumer pressures that are already having a strong impact on the egg industry. They will continue to evolve in the next decade and if supported by a strong research and development effort, a more efficient and ethical egg-laying industry should emerge.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Gautron
- INRAE, University of Tours, BOA, 37380 Nouzilly, France.
| | | | - T G H Van de Braak
- Institut de Sélection Animale B.V, A Hendrix Genetics Company, 5831CK Boxmeer, the Netherlands
| | - I C Dunn
- The Roslin Institute, University of Edinburgh, EH25 9RG Scotland, UK
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Wang X, Zhao D, Milby AC, Archer GS, Peebles ED, Gurung S, Farnell MB. Evaluation of Euthanasia Methods on Behavioral and Physiological Responses of Newly Hatched Male Layer Chicks. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11061802. [PMID: 34204180 PMCID: PMC8235231 DOI: 10.3390/ani11061802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Revised: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Newly hatched male layer chicks are considered as "by-products" in the egg industry and must be humanely euthanized at the hatchery. Instantaneous mechanical destruction (maceration) is the predominant euthanasia method applied in poultry hatcheries and is approved by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). However, maceration is not perceived by the public to be a humane means of euthanasia. The effects of alternative euthanasia methods, including carbon dioxide (CO2) or nitrogen (N2) inhalation, and a commercial negative pressure stunning system on behavioral and physiological responses of day-of-hatch male layer chicks, were evaluated in a field trial. Chick behaviors, including ataxia, loss of posture, convulsions, cessation of vocalization, and cessation of movement, were monitored. Serum hormones were assessed at the end of each of the alternative euthanasia treatments, including a control group allowed to breathe normal atmospheric air. The N2 method induced unconsciousness and death later than the CO2 and negative pressure methods, and increased serum corticosterone concentrations of neonatal chicks. Carbon dioxide inhalation increased serotonin concentrations as compared to controls, as well as the N2 and the negative pressure methods. The behavioral and physical responses observed in this study suggest that both CO2 inhalation and negative pressure stunning can be employed to humanely euthanize neonatal male layer chicks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Wang
- Department of Poultry Science, Texas A&M AgriLife Research, College Station, TX 77843, USA; (X.W.); (D.Z.); (A.C.M.); (G.S.A.); (S.G.)
| | - Dan Zhao
- Department of Poultry Science, Texas A&M AgriLife Research, College Station, TX 77843, USA; (X.W.); (D.Z.); (A.C.M.); (G.S.A.); (S.G.)
| | - Allison C. Milby
- Department of Poultry Science, Texas A&M AgriLife Research, College Station, TX 77843, USA; (X.W.); (D.Z.); (A.C.M.); (G.S.A.); (S.G.)
| | - Gregory S. Archer
- Department of Poultry Science, Texas A&M AgriLife Research, College Station, TX 77843, USA; (X.W.); (D.Z.); (A.C.M.); (G.S.A.); (S.G.)
| | - E. David Peebles
- Department of Poultry Science, Mississippi State University, Starkville, MS 39762, USA;
| | - Shailesh Gurung
- Department of Poultry Science, Texas A&M AgriLife Research, College Station, TX 77843, USA; (X.W.); (D.Z.); (A.C.M.); (G.S.A.); (S.G.)
| | - Morgan B. Farnell
- Department of Poultry Science, Texas A&M AgriLife Research, College Station, TX 77843, USA; (X.W.); (D.Z.); (A.C.M.); (G.S.A.); (S.G.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-(979)-847-7363
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Jongman EC, Fisher AD. Euthanasia of laying hens: an overview. ANIMAL PRODUCTION SCIENCE 2021. [DOI: 10.1071/an20224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Euthanasia of an animal requires that its death occurs in as humane a manner as possible. There are three key scenarios for euthanasia in the egg industry: the humane destruction of day-old male chicks, euthanasia of individual birds, and the depopulation of flocks for disease control or because conventional transport and slaughter is uneconomic. For day-old chicks, instant mechanical maceration, although conditionally humane, presents a public perception problem. Submerging in CO2 gas is less confronting but is thought to be aversive to animals unless more expensive and harder to manage inert gases are incorporated. Future technologies involving pre-hatching sex determination or sex selection may largely solve the problem when fully developed. For the euthanasia of individual birds within the flock, manual cervical dislocation has been shown to be humane when performed by trained personnel who are willing to perform the procedure. Penetrating and non-penetrating mechanical devices that cause irreversible brain trauma are becoming more available and represent a humane alternative to cervical dislocation when properly placed and maintained. These devices may be less confronting for some staff to use than is cervical dislocation. For whole-flock euthanasia, the overwhelming requirements of disease control and public safety may override considerations of euthanasia. Whole-shed CO2 (or other gas combinations) and foam-based alternatives can be used, but have challenges in commercial settings. Modified atmosphere killing units or low atmospheric stunning systems are alternatives that overcome some of these practical problems, but do require birds to be handled.
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14
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Reithmayer C, Danne M, Mußhoff O. Look at that!-The effect pictures have on consumer preferences for in ovo gender determination as an alternative to culling male chicks. Poult Sci 2020; 100:643-653. [PMID: 33518118 PMCID: PMC7858000 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2020.09.092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2019] [Revised: 09/12/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Gender determination in incubated eggs (in ovo) has the potential to substitute the highly discussed practice of culling male layer chicks. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect pictures have on peoples' preferences toward in ovo sexing at different stages of embryonic development and chick culling. For this purpose, an online survey was conducted with a representative sample of 482 respondents in Germany. A within-subject design with 2 choice experiments was used to investigate the influence pictures have on respondents' preferences and willingness to pay. The first-choice experiment contained plain text only; the second contained also pictures of a chick or the incubated eggs at the corresponding stages of development. Findings reveal that in ovo gender determination at each proposed day of incubation (d1, d4, and d9) was preferred to chick culling. In ovo screening on d1 and d4 was significantly preferred to d9. This preference for early gender determination increased significantly as a consequence to the provision of pictures. Results furthermore reveal that a high error rate of gender determination or the lack of a meaningful utilization of incubated eggs can decrease approval for in ovo gender determination to an extent, where no positive willingness to pay remains. Findings of this study are useful for stakeholders in poultry production when considering the implementation of in ovo gender determination as a morally admissible substitute to chick culling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corrina Reithmayer
- Department of Agricultural Economics and Rural Development, Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, 37073 Göttingen, Germany.
| | - Michael Danne
- Department of Agricultural Economics and Rural Development, Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, 37073 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Oliver Mußhoff
- Department of Agricultural Economics and Rural Development, Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, 37073 Göttingen, Germany
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Douglas C, Turner JMA. Advances and challenges in genetic technologies to produce single-sex litters. PLoS Genet 2020; 16:e1008898. [PMID: 32701961 PMCID: PMC7377362 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1008898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
There is currently a requirement for single-sex litters for many applications, including agriculture, pest control, and reducing animal culling in line with the 3Rs principles: Reduction, Replacement, and Refinement. The advent of CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing presents a new opportunity with which to potentially generate all-female or all-male litters. We review some of the historical nongenetic strategies employed to generate single-sex litters and investigate how genetic and genome editing techniques are currently being used to produce all-male or all-female progeny. Lastly, we speculate on future technologies for generating single-sex litters and the possible associated challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Douglas
- Sex Chromosome Biology Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom
| | - James M A Turner
- Sex Chromosome Biology Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom
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Reithmayer C, Mußhoff O. Consumer preferences for alternatives to chick culling in Germany. Poult Sci 2019; 98:4539-4548. [PMID: 31162613 DOI: 10.3382/ps/pez272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2019] [Accepted: 04/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of highly specialized breeds in poultry production has led to the situation in which fattening layer-type males are not economically viable, when competing with the conventional broiler meat. The vast majority of male layer chicks are therefore culled soon after hatching. Ethical concerns about this practice have led to a public debate in a number of countries, and its tenor seems unambiguous: the practice should end. Political and industrial representatives have also promoted putting an end to chick culling. Two alternatives that are already available or soon to be in the market in a number of countries are dual-use poultry production and in ovo gender determination. However, the alternatives are also not free from controversy. The presented study analyzes consumer attitudes towards these 2 alternatives. A discrete choice experiment on eggs with different production attributes was conducted among a sample of 400 German citizens. Results from a latent class model show that there is considerable heterogeneity in preferences, which can be depicted in 5 consumer segments. Consumer segments differ significantly in socioeconomic characteristics and attitudes towards chick-culling alternatives. One segment decides mainly based on product price. However, 28% of the sample show no price sensitivity but choose based on other product attributes such as the preferred chick-culling alternative or egg type. We find wide approval for in ovo gender determination with no segment disapproving of the technology. When it comes to dual-use poultry, the type of husbandry of cockerels is crucial for the approval of this production scheme. Rearing male chicks in free-range husbandry is the preferred alternative for one segment representing 27% of the sample. Results provide empirical evidence for a diversified egg demand, indicating diverse expectations for poultry production in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corrina Reithmayer
- Department of Agricultural Economics and Rural Development, Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, 37073 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Oliver Mußhoff
- Department of Agricultural Economics and Rural Development, Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, 37073 Göttingen, Germany
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17
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18
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Potential use of spectroscopic techniques for assessing table eggs and hatching eggs. WORLD POULTRY SCI J 2019. [DOI: 10.1017/s0043933919000424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
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Siekmann L, Meier-Dinkel L, Janisch S, Altmann B, Kaltwasser C, Sürie C, Krischek C. Carcass Quality, Meat Quality and Sensory Properties of the Dual-Purpose Chicken Lohmann Dual. Foods 2018; 7:foods7100156. [PMID: 30257499 PMCID: PMC6210674 DOI: 10.3390/foods7100156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2018] [Revised: 09/17/2018] [Accepted: 09/20/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Over 40 million day-old layer line cockerels are culled in Germany each year, due to economic reasons, leading to a recently instigated research focus on the potential of dual-purpose breeds as an alternative to conventional poultry husbandry, especially the practice of culling. This paper aims to explore and assess the dual-purpose chicken breed “Lohmann Dual” (LD) performance (n = 30) and sensory characteristics (n = 48). Carcass and meat quality traits are evaluated, and descriptive sensory analysis of breast muscles is conducted. To define the scope of characteristics, a market sample of “Ross” Line (n = 35) is adducted. LD carcasses are characterized by higher leg than breast yield; carcass, breast and leg weights are higher in Ross. LD meat has a lower pH, differs in color, has higher drip and thawing losses, but lower cooking loss. LD breast muscles are firmer as indicated by shear force measurements, which is confirmed through the sensory analysis. Appearance, odor and flavor differ between the lines. Overall, distinguishable differences are found between both breeds. Further research should focus on the marketing aspect of the dual-purpose line, as some characteristics could draw consumers to this product. Animal welfare and ethical concerns should further be considered when considering dual-purpose breeds as a feasible alternative to culling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Siekmann
- Department of Animal Sciences, Division for Quality of Animal Products, Georg-August-University Goettingen, D-37075 Goettingen, Germany.
- Institute of Food Quality and Food Safety, Foundation University of Veterinary Medicine, D-30173 Hannover, Germany.
| | - Lisa Meier-Dinkel
- Department of Animal Sciences, Division for Quality of Animal Products, Georg-August-University Goettingen, D-37075 Goettingen, Germany.
- isi GmbH, D-37124 Rosdorf/Goettingen, Germany.
| | - Sabine Janisch
- Department of Animal Sciences, Division for Quality of Animal Products, Georg-August-University Goettingen, D-37075 Goettingen, Germany.
| | - Brianne Altmann
- Department of Animal Sciences, Division for Quality of Animal Products, Georg-August-University Goettingen, D-37075 Goettingen, Germany.
| | - Claudia Kaltwasser
- Department of Animal Sciences, Division for Quality of Animal Products, Georg-August-University Goettingen, D-37075 Goettingen, Germany.
| | - Christian Sürie
- Farm for Education and Research Ruthe, Foundation University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, D-31157 Ruthe/Sarstedt, Germany.
| | - Carsten Krischek
- Institute of Food Quality and Food Safety, Foundation University of Veterinary Medicine, D-30173 Hannover, Germany.
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Krautwald-Junghanns ME, Cramer K, Fischer B, Förster A, Galli R, Kremer F, Mapesa EU, Meissner S, Preisinger R, Preusse G, Schnabel C, Steiner G, Bartels T. Current approaches to avoid the culling of day-old male chicks in the layer industry, with special reference to spectroscopic methods. Poult Sci 2018; 97:749-757. [DOI: 10.3382/ps/pex389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2017] [Accepted: 11/17/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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Galli R, Preusse G, Schnabel C, Bartels T, Cramer K, Krautwald-Junghanns ME, Koch E, Steiner G. Sexing of chicken eggs by fluorescence and Raman spectroscopy through the shell membrane. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0192554. [PMID: 29474445 PMCID: PMC5824995 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0192554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2017] [Accepted: 01/25/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
In order to provide an alternative to day-old chick culling in the layer hatcheries, a noninvasive method for egg sexing is required at an early stage of incubation before onset of embryo sensitivity. Fluorescence and Raman spectroscopy of blood offers the potential for precise and contactless in ovo sex determination of the domestic chicken (Gallus gallus f. dom.) eggs already during the fourth incubation day. However, such kind of optical spectroscopy requires a window in the egg shell, is thus invasive to the embryo and leads to decreased hatching rates. Here, we show that near infrared Raman and fluorescence spectroscopy can be performed on perfused extraembryonic vessels while leaving the inner egg shell membrane intact. Sparing the shell membrane makes the measurement minimally invasive, so that the sexing procedure does not affect hatching rates. We analyze the effect of the membrane above the vessels on fluorescence signal intensity and on Raman spectrum of blood, and propose a correction method to compensate for it. After compensation, we attain a correct sexing rate above 90% by applying supervised classification of spectra. Therefore, this approach offers the best premises towards practical deployment in the hatcheries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Galli
- Clinical Sensoring and Monitoring, Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- * E-mail: (RG); (GS)
| | - Grit Preusse
- Clinical Sensoring and Monitoring, Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Christian Schnabel
- Clinical Sensoring and Monitoring, Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Thomas Bartels
- Clinic for Birds and Reptiles, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Kerstin Cramer
- Clinic for Birds and Reptiles, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | | | - Edmund Koch
- Clinical Sensoring and Monitoring, Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Gerald Steiner
- Clinical Sensoring and Monitoring, Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- Faculty of Physics, Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania
- * E-mail: (RG); (GS)
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