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Breeding soundness evaluation (BSE) is the best methodology to estimate the fertility potential of future bulls and performing indirect selection for their fertility. However, the outcome of the BSE is influenced by several factors, including genetics, environment, and BSE guidelines. Herein, in this retrospective study, our first aim was to characterize the reasons for failure in 46,566 BSE from 2-year-old beef Bos indicus bulls (Nellore) born from 1997 to 2018. Our second aim was to determine whether or not BSE was associated with reproductive potential improvement of the bulls over the years. Due to changes in the BSE criteria, we used the same dataset, but only bulls born from 2002 to 2018 were included resulting in 35,856 BSE. For the second aim, the effect of the year and farm were included in the model of the multivariate logistic regression. We also determined if the main reasons for BSE failure decreased over time. Bulls were classified as approved (satisfactory potential breeders and qualified for natural breeding service) and not approved (deferred and unsatisfactory potential breeders). The reasons for BSE failure in Nellore bulls were poor semen quality (53.1 %) and physical defects (46.9 %), with the main physical defect being testis abnormalities (19.7 %). The overall percentage of bulls approved each year was 87.1 %, with no improvement over the years of study. However, the percentage of approved bulls at the first BSE increased over the years (P < 0.05). This increase was evident by a reduction in the difference between the overall percentage of the bulls approved vs the percentage of bulls approved at the first BSE. Furthermore, there was an increase in the percentage of bulls classified as satisfactory potential breeders in the BSE and an evident decrease in the percentage of bulls qualified only for natural breeding service (P < 0.05). In addition, an increase of the scrotal circumference (SC) of the herd was found (P < 0.05). These results indicate the overall quality of the bulls improved over the years. To associate and identify the main sperm abnormalities, 3461 not approved bulls were clustered. The most frequent defects were strongly coiled tail spermatozoa, proximal droplets, and acrosomal defects. Overall, there was no change in the frequency of bulls not approved by the sperm morphology nor the frequency of the main sperm abnormalities over the years. Nevertheless, the frequency of the defects remained very low, implying they were controlled. Additionally, abnormalities in the testis decreased over the years and was associated with the increase in the SC of the herd and a decrease of culled bulls due to low SC. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that there is an association between implementation and use of BSE with improvements in the reproductive quality of future generation bulls. • Records of 20 years and 46,566 BSE from a seedstock herd in Brazil were investigated. • About 14 % of the bulls fail to be approved in the BSE at two years of age. • Semen quality (53 %) & physical defects (47 %) were the most common causes of failure. • Testicular abnormalities decreased, & scrotal circumference increased over the years. • BSE was associated with increased percentage of bulls approved at first BSE over years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to compare the plasma (PL) and seminal plasma (SP) pharmacokinetic profile of ceftiofur (CEFT) and desuroylceftiofur acetamide (DFCA) after administration of CEFT crystalline-free acid (CCFA) by SC route in two sites of the ear in beef bulls. Four clinically healthy Hereford bulls received a comprehensive physical exam and subsequently a breeding-soundness examination, CBC, and chemistry profile panel. All bulls were diagnosed healthy and satisfactory potential breeders. In one group (n = 2), a single dose of CCFA was administered SC route at the base of the ear (BOE) at a dose of 6.6 mg/kg of body weight. The second group (n = 2) was also administered by SC route in the middle third of the posterior aspect of the ear (MTE). The concentrations of CEFT and DFCA in PL and SP were determined by a high-performance liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS). Blood and semen samples were collected before the administration of CCFA and at 12, 24, 36, 48, 72, 96, 120, 144, and 168 h after injection. No levels of CEFT were detected in PL and only in 20 of the 40 SP samples (P = 0.0001). The mean level of CEFT in SP was 0.11 % in comparison with the DFCA level. DFCA was found in all PL and SP samples. Therefore, DFCA was chosen to be utilized in the study of the pharmacokinetics parameters both in PL and SP. There were no differences in the mean PL levels of DFCA for the two sites of SC administration between the BOE (102.9 ± 78.9 ng/mL; X ± SD) and to MTE (116.1 ± 70.2 ng/mL; P = 0.58). The mean SP levels of DFCA after administration in the BOE was 857 ± 747 ng/mL, and for the MTE was 549 ± 488 ng/mL without differences between both sites (P = 0.15). The mean level of DFCA in PL was 109.5 ± 74.0 ng/mL, which was lower than the mean SP levels of 695 ± 103 ng/mL (P = 0.001). Moreover, the PL peak DFCA concentration (C max) was 229 ± 46 ng/mL at 36.0 ± 29.4 h (T max) post-administration. The SP C max was 1851 ± 533 ng/mL at 30.0 ± 28.6 h (T max) post-administration. The C max between PL and SP were distinctive (P = 0.004) without any differences in T max between PL and SP (P = 0.60). The terminal half-life for PL DFCA (47.4 ± 29.3 h) was not different than in SP (53.1 ± 23.6 h; P = 0.77). The PL area under the curve concentration time from the first to the last sample (AUC 0–last) was 18,984 ± 4841 ng/mL/h, which was significatively smaller compared with 125,677 ± 59,445 ng/mL/h for SP AUC 0–last (P = 0.04). The PL mean residence time from the first to the last sample (MRT 0–last) was 69.7 ± 15.1 h, and it was similar than for SP of 66.5 ± 7.7 h (P = 0.69). From the present investigation, based in its pharmacokinetic features, it was concluded that CCFA should be an appropriate antibiotic that could be used for the treatment of bull genital infections when its indication is properly outlined. To study the pharmacokinetics of CCFA in SP, DFCA metabolite was appropriated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this note, we prove a family of sharp weighed inequalities which involve weighted k-th mean curvature integral and two distinct quermassintegrals for closed hypersurfaces in \mathbb {R}^n. This inequality generalizes the corresponding result of Wei and Zhou [Bull. Lond. Math. Soc. 55 (2023), pp. 263–281] where their proof is based on earlier results of Kwong-Miao [Pacific J. Math. 267 (2014), pp. 417–422; Commun. Contemp. Math. 17 (2015), p. 1550014]. Here we present a proof which does not rely on Kwong-Miao's results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we study the uniqueness problems of fn(z)L(g) and gn(z)L(f) when they share a non-zero small function α(z) with finite weights, where L(h) represents any one of h(k)(z), h(z + c), h(z + c) - h(z) and h(k)(z + c), k ≥ 1 and c is a non-zero constant. Here f(z) and g(z) are transcendental meromorphic (or entire) functions and α(z) is a small function with respect to both f(z) and g(z). Our results improve and supplement the recent results due to Gao and Liu [Bull. Korean Math. Soc. 59 (2022), 155-166]. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Fermented jujube powder (FJP) promotes a balance between the intestinal microflora and immune factors in animals. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of FJP on the production performance, nutrient digestion, rumen fermentation, and antioxidant properties of bulls. Methods: Forty Simmental bulls were randomly divided into four groups based on body weight and fed a basal diet with [5, 7.5, or 10% dry matter (DM)] or without FJP. The experimental period was 20 d for adaptation and 60 d for the feeding trial. Results: Dietary FJP supplementation did not affect DM intake (P > 0.05) but increased the average daily gain quadratically (P = 0.049) and decreased the feed conversion ratio linearly (P = 0.042). FJP quadratically enhanced DM and crude protein digestibility (P = 0.026 and P = 0.041, respectively) and linearly enhanced acid detergent fiber digestibility (P = 0.048). It also increased the total volatile fatty acid concentration quadratically (P = 0.037), acetate molar percentage, and acetate-to-propionate ratio linearly (P = 0.002 and 0.001), and reduced the ammonia nitrogen concentration linearly (P = 0.003). Additionally, xylanase and protease activities and Ruminococcus flavefaciens abundance increased linearly (P = 0.006, 0.018, and 0.009, respectively), and total bacteria, Ruminococcus albus, and Ruminobacter amylophilus abundance increased quadratically (P = 0.047, 0.011, and 0.021, respectively). FJP linearly increased serum total protein concentration and antioxidant capacity (P = 0.003 and 0.018, respectively) and decreased malonaldehyde content (P = 0.006). Discussion: FJP supplementation (7.5%) enhanced production performance, nutrient digestion, rumen fermentation, and serum antioxidant capacity in bulls. The improved nutrient digestion may be due to an increase in ruminal microorganisms and total volatile fatty acids from the FJP. High blood antioxidant levels indicate that FJP may preserve proteins, thereby boosting the production performance of bulls. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to compare the effectiveness of two different grasses offered to weaned beef breed bulls until slaughter. Three cuts of tall fescue (TF) and meadow fescue (MF) were harvested with as similar chemical composition as possible, pre-wilted and ensiled separately in bales. Forty newly weaned intact bulls of Continental beef breeds were kept indoors and randomized to one of the two silages, complemented with 2.5–3.0 kg grain/day, and followed until slaughter. The two silages were offered simultaneously from the same cut during most of the finishing period. Bulls receiving TF had a higher silage dry matter intake than bulls offered MF (7.69 vs. 7.04 kg-d; P = 0.0026) but had lower carcass weight (370 vs. 380 kg; P = 0.0357). From this limited study it was concluded that replacing traditional MF silage with TF silage might compromise the carcass performance of finishing beef bulls. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The correlation between peripheral and seminal hormones and biochemical parameters with sperm kinematics across seasons in buffalo bulls were studied. Semen from buffalo bulls (n = 13) during different seasons viz. summer, comfort (spring and autumn) and winter was collected. Sperm kinematics of ejaculates (n = 39) (three ejaculates per bull) were carried out during each season and simultaneously blood (10 mL) was collected and serum was separated for hormones (leptin, testosterone and kisspeptin) and biochemical [heat shock protein 70 (HSP70), ascorbic acid and total antioxidant capacity] estimation. Total motility (TM, %), progressive motility (PM, %) and rapid motility (RM, %) showed significant differences across seasons with the highest TM, PM and RM during winter. HSP70 was higher in seminal plasma levels during summer and TAC was higher in serum than seminal plasma during all seasons. In conclusion, seminal leptin and ascorbic acid showed an association with sperm kinematics across seasons in buffalo bulls. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we focused on a one-dimensional elastic system with a double porosity structure and frictional damping acting on both porous equations. We introduce two stability numbers χ 0 {\chi_{0}} and χ 1 {\chi_{1}} and prove that the solution of the system decays exponentially provided that χ 0 = 0 {\chi_{0}=0} and χ 1 ≠ 0 {\chi_{1}\neq 0} . Otherwise, we prove the absence of exponential decay. Our results improve the results of [N. Bazarra, J. R. Fernández, M. C. Leseduarte, A. Magaña and R. Quintanilla, On the thermoelasticity with two porosities: Asymptotic behaviour, Math. Mech. Solids 24 2019, 9, 2713–2725] and [A. Nemsi and A. Fareh, Exponential decay of the solution of a double porous elastic system, Politehn. Univ. Bucharest Sci. Bull. Ser. A Appl. Math. Phys. 83 2021, 1, 41–50]. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A proper ideal I of a commutative ring R is said to be a strongly quasi-primary ideal if, whenever a , b ∈ R with a b ∈ I , then a 2 ∈ I or b ∈ I (see [S. Koc, U. Tekir and G. Ulucak, On strongly quasi primary ideals, Bull. Korean Math. Soc. 56(3) (2019) 729–743]). This paper studies the class of strongly quasi-primary ideals with a radical equal to the nil-radical of R , called the class of quasi- n -ideals. Among other results, this new class of ideals is used to characterize when the nil-radical of R is a maximal or a minimal ideal of R. Many examples are given to illustrate the obtained results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although the ornamentation of the Lascaux cave seems relatively homogeneous in style, the analysis by scanning and transmission electron microscopy of 32 microsamples from the figures of the Hall of the Bulls (Bull Rotunda) and one desquamated sample from the soil highlighted different paint pots. The black and red paint matters with their associated mineralogical phases were extensively characterized. Considering previous stylistic and superimposition studies, we were eventually able to confirm five creation steps of monothematic figures ('assemblages') based on the chemical and mineralogical characteristics. Further interpretations in terms of the rhythm and temporal framework of the Hall of the Bulls (Bull Rotunda) of the Lascaux cave could be reinforced. Some particular representations such as the black cave bear and one of the cross‐shaped signs were shown to be likely added at later moments by different hands because their paint pots were different from those of the Bull Rotunda and similar to that of other representations in deeper rooms of the Lascaux cave. We also found that the paint matter of the Bull Rotunda was different than those of other Palaeolithic cave sites on a more regional scale indicating a very local sourcing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using seven indicator traits, we investigated the genetic basis of bull fertility and predicted gene interactions from SNP associations. We used percent normal sperm as the key phenotype for the association weight matrix–partial correlation information theory (AWM‐PCIT) approach. Beyond a simple list of candidate genes, AWM‐PCIT predicts significant gene interactions and associations for the selected traits. These interactions formed a network of 537 genes: 38 genes were transcription cofactors, and 41 genes were transcription factors. The network displayed two distinct clusters, one with 294 genes and another with 243 genes. The network is enriched in fertility‐associated pathways: steroid biosynthesis, p53 signalling, and the pentose phosphate pathway. Enrichment analysis also highlighted gene ontology terms associated with 'regulation of neurotransmitter secretion' and 'chromatin formation'. Our network recapitulates some genes previously implicated in another network built with lower‐density genotypes. Sequence‐level data also highlights additional candidate genes relevant to bull fertility, such as FOXO4, FOXP3, GATA1, CYP27B1, and EBP. A trio of regulatory genes—KDM5C, LRRK2, and PME—was deemed core to the network because of their overarching connections. This trio probably influences bull fertility through their interaction with genes, both known and unknown as to their role in male fertility. Future studies may target the trio and their target genes to enrich our understanding of male fertility further. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: C16:0 and cis-9 C18:1 may have different effects on animal growth and health due to unique metabolism in vivo. This study was investigated to explore the different effects of altering the ratio of C16:0 and cis-9 C18:1 in fat supplements on growth performance, lipid metabolism, intestinal barrier, cecal microbiota, and inflammation in fattening bulls. Thirty finishing Angus bulls (626 ± 69 kg, 21 ± 0.5 months) were divided into 3 treatments according to the randomized block design: (1) control diet without additional fat (CON), (2) CON + 2.5% palmitic acid calcium salt (PA, 90% C16:0), and (3) CON + 2.5% mixed fatty acid calcium salt (MA, 60% C16:0 + 30% cis-9 C18:1). The experiment lasted for 104 d, after which all the bulls were slaughtered and sampled for analysis. Results: MA tended to reduce 0–52 d dry matter intake compared to PA (DMI, P = 0.052). Compared with CON and MA, PA significantly increased 0–52 d average daily gain (ADG, P = 0.027). PA tended to improve the 0–52 d feed conversion rate compared with CON (FCR, P = 0.088). Both PA and MA had no significant effect on 52–104 days of DMI, ADG and FCR (P > 0.05). PA tended to improve plasma triglycerides compared with MA (P = 0.077), significantly increased plasma cholesterol (P = 0.002) and tended to improve subcutaneous adipose weight (P = 0.066) when compared with CON and MA. Both PA and MA increased visceral adipose weight compared with CON (P = 0.021). Only PA increased the colonization of Rikenellaceae, Ruminococcus and Proteobacteria in the cecum, and MA increased Akkermansia abundance (P < 0.05). Compared with CON, both PA and MA down-regulated the mRNA expression of Claudin-1 in the jejunum (P < 0.001), increased plasma diamine oxidase (DAO, P < 0.001) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS, P = 0.045). Compared with CON and MA, PA down-regulated the ZO-1 in the jejunum (P < 0.001) and increased plasma LPS-binding protein (LBP, P < 0.001). Compared with CON, only PA down-regulated the Occludin in the jejunum (P = 0.013). Compared with CON, PA and MA significantly up-regulated the expression of TLR-4 and NF-κB in the visceral adipose (P < 0.001) and increased plasma IL-6 (P < 0.001). Compared with CON, only PA up-regulated the TNF-α in the visceral adipose (P = 0.01). Compared with CON and MA, PA up-regulated IL-6 in the visceral adipose (P < 0.001), increased plasma TNF-α (P < 0.001), and reduced the IgG content in plasma (P = 0.035). Compared with CON, PA and MA increased C16:0 in subcutaneous fat and longissimus dorsi muscle (P < 0.05), while more C16:0 was also deposited by extension and desaturation into C18:0 and cis-9 C18:1. However, neither PA nor MA affected the content of cis-9 C18:1 in longissimus dorsi muscle compared with CON (P > 0.05). Conclusions: MA containing 30% cis-9 C18:1 reduced the risk of high C16:0 dietary fat induced subcutaneous fat obesity, adipose tissue and systemic low-grade inflammation by accelerating fatty acid oxidative utilization, improving colonization of Akkermansia, reducing intestinal barrier damage, and down-regulating NF-κB activation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the effect of season, age and period on semen traits in buffalo bulls. Data collected during the year 2010–2021 for seven semen traits viz. ejaculate volume (VOL), sperm concentration (SPC), mass activity (MA), initial motility (BFM), post-thaw motility (PTM), number of sperms per ejaculate (NSP) and number of motile sperm (NMSP) from Murrah buffalo bulls (n = 45; aged: 24–75 months). A general mixed model was applied to obtain the R2 value which was the proportion of variation in semen variable. With study period, the highest SPC was obtained during 2012; with the season, the highest VOL (ml) in hot humid and the highest SPC during the hot-dry season and with age, higher VOL, SPC, NSP and NMSP was obtained in older bulls. This study showed that factors i.e. period, season and age had a significant effect on semen traits viz. VOL, MA, SPC, BFM, PTM, NSP and NMSP in buffalo bulls. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The choice of superior herd sires is essential for genetic improvement in dairy cattle, with sperm quality serving as a key factor. Bull semen’s superior qualities are essential for accelerating genetic improvement through AI. These characteristics are affected by several factors, including the environment, management techniques, physiological condition and hereditary factors. This study involved in evaluating genetic and non-genetic factors influencing seminal attributes. Methods: Data on 1,85,413 ejaculates from nine genetic groups viz. Jersey, Holstein Friesian, crossbred Jersey, crossbred Holstein Friesian, Bargur, Kangayam, Pulikulam, Umblachery and Red Sindhi were collected from four frozen semen stations of Tamil Nadu State. Semen production data viz. ejaculate volume (mL), spermatozoa concentration (million per mL), initial motility (percentage), post-thaw motility (percentage), total initial motile spermatozoa and total post-thaw motile spermatozoa were also examined for various genetic and non-genetic factors affecting them using linear mixed model with repeated measures. Result: The overall estimated marginal means for Volume of ejaculate, Concentration of spermatozoa, Initial motility, Total initial motile spermatozoa per ejaculate, Total doses per ejaculate, Post-thaw motility and Total post-thaw motile spermatozoa per ejaculate were 3.11±0.11 (mL), 963±30.60 (106 /mL), 79.50±1.29 (per cent), 1847±118 (106 ), 151.00±7.20, 51.00±0.42 (per cent) and 1535±80.20 (106 ) respectively. The effect of all genetic and non-genetic factors (farms, ejaculates, period, seasons, age) were observed to be significantly influencing the seminal traits considered in the study. However, the estimated marginal means of each trait displayed varied ranges of mean against non-genetic factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Bachaur is a mediumized draft purpose breed which has been recognized by ICAR‐National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources (NBAGR) Karnal, India, and presently is on the verge of extinction. Since there are no data regarding the seminal parameters of this breed, this work was performed to evaluate seminal parameters of freshly ejaculated semen. A total of three healthy breeding Bachaur bulls aged 2.5–5 years were selected for the study which were maintained under identical managemental conditions. Semen parameters of these bulls were studied across 10 ejaculates. The average scrotal circumference and testicular weight of the three bulls were 27.78 ± 1.2 cm and 400.67 ± 26.6 g, respectively. The average overall volume (mL), pH, concentration (million/mL), liveability (%), abnormality (%), HOST (%) and acrosome integrity (%) were 2.20 ± 0.19, 6.86 ± 0.06, 1245.60 ± 23.49, 85.09 ± 0.91, 4.13 ± 0.06, 81.16 ± 1.18 and 83.54 ± 1.32, respectively. The average overall mass motility of three Bachaur bulls was 3.57 ± 0.06 in 0–5 scale and individual motility averaged 84.78 ± 1.70 per cent. The volume of ejaculates in Bachaur bull seemed to be lower as compared to other exotic and Indian breeds. However, the semen parameters with regard to mass motility, liveability, abnormalities, hypo‐osmotic swelling test (HOST) and acrosomal integrity seemed similar to other exotic and Indian breeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The viscoelastic properties of the female reproductive tract influence sperm swimming behavior, but the exact role of these rheological changes in regulating sperm energetics remains unknown. Using high‐speed dark‐field microscopy, the flagellar dynamics of free‐swimming sperm across a physiologically relevant range of viscosities is resolved. A transition from 3D to 2D slither swimming under an increased viscous loading is revealed, in the absence of any geometrical or chemical stimuli. This transition is species‐specific, aligning with viscosity variations within each species' reproductive tract. Despite substantial drag increase, 2D slithering sperm maintain a steady swimming speed across a wide viscosity range (20–250 and 75–1000 mPa s for bull and human sperm) by dissipating over sixfold more energy into the fluid without elevating metabolic activity, potentially by altering the mechanisms of dynein motor activity. This energy‐efficient motility mode is ideally suited for the viscous environment of the female reproductive tract. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The dairy cattle industry has witnessed significant advancements in production traits, including milk yield, reproduction, and health, through decades of breeding efforts. Despite these improvements, cow health and milk hygiene remain essential. High immune response (HIR) technology identifies cattle with optimized immune responses, enabling the selection of bulls with high immune responses for breeding. Studies indicate that HIR-based breeding improves animal health without compromising production traits. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of bulls with a high immune response in improving milk yield, milk contents, and somatic cell count in the milk of Polish Holstein-Friesian cows. A total of 11,509 cows of the Polish Holstein-Friesian breed were used. Among those, 1,773 animals were the offspring of HIR bulls, including 926 first-generation offspring (called I50 group) and 847 second-generation offspring (I25 group). There were 9,736 animals unrelated to HIR bulls (I0 group). Selected production and functional traits were analyzed. The results show that cows with higher kinship to HIR bulls showed increased milk yield. However, their milk exhibited lower fat, protein, and casein content. A favorable impact of HIR bulls was demonstrated by the decrease in somatic cell count in their offspring's milk compared to the milk of cows from the I0 group. This research contributes valuable insights into the potential benefits of using HIR bulls in dairy cattle breeding programs, emphasizing the importance of balancing production traits with health considerations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bovine pain assessment relies on validated behavioral scales related to normal and pain-related behaviors. This study investigated the reliability and applicability of real-time and video-recorded pain assessment, and their agreement, in young, adult bulls undergoing surgical castration. Ten Nelore and nine Angus bulls underwent general anesthesia and surgical castration. Three-minute real-time observations and simultaneous videos were recorded at − 48 h (M0), before sedation, under fasting (M1), after surgery, 3 h after sternal recumbency (M2), after rescue analgesia (M3) and at 24 h (M4). Animals received morphine (after M2), dipyrone (after M3), and flunixin meglumine after surgical castration (M4). Two trained evaluators assessed real-time (n = 95) and video-recorded time-points (n = 95) using the Unesp-Botucatu Cattle Pain Scale (UCAPS). Both assessment methods inferred 'very good' reliability (≥ 0.81) with minimal bias, however, video-recorded assessment (4.33 ± 2.84) demonstrated slightly higher scores compared to real-time (3.08 ± 2.84). The results from this study suggest that UCAPS can be used in real-time or video-recorded to assess pain and guide analgesic therapy in cattle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

If p(z) = Xn ν=0 aνz ν is a polynomial of degree n having all its zeros in |z| ≤ k, k ≥ 1, Jain [Bull. Math. Soc. Sci. Math. Roumania Tome, 59(2016), 339-347] proved max |z|=1 |p′ (z)| ≥ nAk max |z|=1 |p(z)|, where Ak = ( |a0| + |an|k n+1/ |ao|(1 + k n+1) + |an|(k n+1 + k 2n) ) . In this paper, we initially derive a generalized form that not only encompasses but also enhances the aforementioned inequality. Additionally, we extend this formulation to a more comprehensive result, thereby producing an improved outcome for certain established inequalities as a specific instance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the freezing process of semen, due to the generating of significant amounts of free radicals, the quality of sperm changes. Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) is a green tea catechin, which in this study was applied to investigate its effect on the quality of bulls' sperm. We collected semen samples with an artificial vagina from 12 Simmental bulls to evaluate the effect of EGCG (10.00 and 20.00 µmol) in two cryopreserving methods on the quality parameters of semen. We designed six groups including two control groups (method one and two) and four treatments (EGCG 10.00 µmol + method one; EGCG 20.00 µmol + method one; EGCG 10.00 µmol + method two; EGCG 20.00 µmol + method two). The 20.00 µmol EGCG and a method two significantly affected the amending oxidative conditions as well as an increase in total antioxidant capacity and a decrease in malondialdehyde. The effect of EGCG in both concentrations was more on method two. The desired impact on sperm motility, viability, inhibition of lipid peroxidation and sperm DNA damage was observed in EGCG groups compared to control groups. Among the two methods, the method two had fewer adverse effects on the plasma membrane, motility parameters, viability and DNA of sperm. The EGCG in the semen extender yielded a favorable impact on thawed sperm. This effect was prompted in combination with the method two. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Standardized indicators of α- and β-diversity (𝒚′𝒌𝒎) calculated by DNA microsatellites (STR) in samples of bulls of Red Scandinavian (RED, n = 29) and Holstein (HOL, n = 45) breeds (each with three sub-samples) were analyzed using one-two- and multivariate statistics methods. The data represented two 11×7 matrices: objects – 11 STR loci (Eth3, Inra23, Tgla227, Tgla126, Tgla122, Sps115, Eth225, Tgla53, Bm2113, Bm1824, Eth10; No.1-11), variables – three indicators of α-diversity (number of alleles and effective alleles per locus, heterozygosity) and four – β-diversity (indices: fixation by Nei, differentiation by Meirmans-Hedrick, Jost and Shannon-Sherwin). ANOVA, using a fixed-type model, revealed a statistically significant (pvalue< 0.02) effect on the variability of 𝒚′𝒌𝒎 factors «breed» (2 %), «locus» (36.7 %) and their interaction (15.6 %). According to the mixed-type model (the «locus» factor as random), only the interaction effect was statistically significant (25.8 %, pvalue< 0.0001). The probability of a noncoincidence between the numbers of a randomly selected pair of loci from the RED and HOL samples was 31 %. The average Euclidean distance between the two samples, calculated by analogical loci, was 37.8±5.35 %. The Mantel correlation between the matrices of paired interlocus distances in RED and in HOL samples was 0.257±0.130 (pvalue = 0.056). The ordinations of loci and their grouping (structuring) in the space of the two main components of the REL sample and the HOL sample differed (Procrust test: m2 = 0.994, m12 = 0.747, pperm = 0.164, 𝒓𝟐𝑷𝒓𝒐𝒄 = 0.253). Estimates of the distance between samples based on the profiles of the α- and β-diversity of loci did not contradict, in general, the genetic distances calculated by allelic frequencies (29–37 %). To analyze the covariance (commonality) of multivariate RED and HOL sample data, a two-block partial least squares (2B-PLS) method was used. The integrated latent variables (LV) maximized the total square of covariance («squared covar» = 14.3 %), in which 83 % accounted for the first LV with max «weights» in terms of α-diversity (aLV). The second LV accounted for 16.7 % with max «weights» in terms of β-diversity (βLV). The linear relationship between RED and HOL samples for aLV was 0.717 (pvalue = 0.013), for βLV – 0.395 (pvalue = 0.229), averaged – 0.56 (pvalue = 0.025). The commonality (co-dispersion) of the two samples for aLV and βLV was estimated at 25,0–32.5 %. 2B-PLS analysis based on reduced data (only for α-diversity) showed a max «squared covar» of 0.393, in which 99.9 % accounted for the first LV (LV1). According to LV1, the linear relationship between RED and HOL samples was estimated at 0.659 (pvalue = 0.0253), the co-dispersion was 43.4 % (according to aLV it was 51.4 %). The ordinations of loci in the coordinate space of the RED and HOL samples for the complete (αLV) and reduced (LV1) datasets had a good match (Procrust test: m2 = 0.0742, m12 = 0.0728, pperm = 0.001, 𝒓𝟐𝑷𝒓𝒐𝒄 = 0.927). In the structure of the inter-sample covariance, «clumps» of loci with a bootstrap probability of [grouping] 50, 75 and 100 % were distinguished. It can be assumed that the RED and HOL samples had some consistency (congruence) in terms of the α-diversity of the loci of the same name. The extension of the «multivariate» approach to descriptive statistics of α-diversity of 7 breeds of dairy cattle and 11 breeds of pigs showed a fairly good correspondence of the results (differentiation index, PCA-ordination) with those obtained using «traditional» methods (pperm of matching ordinations 0.054 and 0.004). The approaches and methods considered expand the possibilities of population-genetic [and breeding-zootechnical] studies in which multidimensional data sets are the norm, not the exception.

Background: Camels are bred for their milk, meat, wool and hair, transportation, and their excrement as fuel. The seasonal reproduction of camel bull is accompanied by changes in sexual activity, the morphology, and function of the testes. This study aimed to evaluate the seasonal fluctuations in serum testosterone (T) levels as well as total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in the testes of dromedary bulls (Camelus dromedarius) during the rutting and non-rutting seasons. Moreover, the impact of rutting season on the testicular size and histomorphology was also observed. Seventy mature dromedary bulls were divided into a rutting group (n = 35) and a non-rutting group (n = 35). From these bulls, blood samples and testes were collected during the rutting season (October to April) and non-rutting season (May to September) from a local slaughterhouse. Results: All parameters changed significantly during rutting and non-rutting periods in camel bulls. The levels of TAC in testes, and serum T were significantly (P < 0.05) higher in the rutting group than in the non-rutting group. However, testicular MDA was significantly (P < 0.05) lower in the rutting group than in the non-rutting group. TAC was negatively correlated with MDA (r = -0.59, p < 0.01). Moreover, in the rutting group and the non-rutting group, T was positively correlated with levels of TAC (r = 0.66, p < 0.0003). Additionally, testicular size (length, breadth, and thickness) was significantly greater in camels during the rutting season than in camels during the non-rutting season. Moreover, the number and diameter of seminiferous tubules, and spermatogenesis increased during the rutting season, whereas, the collagen content and apoptosis increased during the non-rutting season. Conclusion: This study revealed that the rutting normal breeding season (NBS, rutting group) was associated with higher levels of total antioxidant capacity (TAC), T, and spermatogenic activity while the collagen content, concentrations of MDA (the oxidative stress factor) and apoptosis (an outcome of oxidative stress) were lower than those in the low breeding season (LBS, non-rutting group). In addition, the testicular size and seminiferous tubule diameter and number were higher during the NBS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A double-star S q 1 , q 2 is the graph consisting of the union of two stars, K 1 , q 1 and K 1 , q 2 , together with an edge joining their centers. The spectrum for S q 1 , q 2 -designs, i.e., the set of all the n ∈ N such that an S q 1 , q 2 -design of the order n exists, is well-known when q 1 = q 2 = 2 . In this article, S 2 , 2 -designs satisfying additional properties are investigated. We determine the spectrum for S 2 , 2 -designs that can be transformed into (K 4 − e) -designs by a double squash (bi-squash) passing through middle designs whose blocks are copies of a bull (the graph consisting of a triangle and two pendant edges). Here, the use of the difference method enables obtaining cyclic decompositions and determining the spectrum for cyclic S 2 , 2 -designs that can be purely bi-squashed into cyclic (K 4 − e) -designs (the middle bull designs are also cyclic). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rest is a state of adaptive inactivity that increases the efficiency of activity by regulating its timing and reducing energy use when activity is not beneficial. Thus, animals can go without rest when specific demands, such as mating, favour being awake. Sexually active male blue wildebeest (bulls) are typically territorial, and it has been reported that when a bull is protecting a harem during the mating season (rut), he neither eats nor rests. We examined the daily activity and inactivity patterns of dominant bulls by means of actigraphy for 3 months, which included the rut. We also measured faecal androgen metabolite (fAM) levels and subcutaneous temperature, both of which have variances known to delineate the rut. During the rut, wildebeest bulls experienced higher levels of activity, fAM, and a greater daily range of subcutaneous temperature. Despite previous reports, the male blue wildebeest rested daily during the rut, and while the amount of rest was low, it was not substantially lower than prior to the rut. The amount of time spent inactive increased substantially after the rut. The timing of daily activity and inactivity patterns did not vary substantially across the recording period. Across the recording period, the average daily ambient temperatures decreased (seasonality), and the subcutaneous temperature followed this pattern, although it was not as marked. It appears that in the post-rut period a substantive increase in time spent at rest occurs, potentially allowing the wildebeest bulls time to recover following a period of intense activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sexual behaviour is an intricate process, controlled by the endocrine constitution of an animal and influenced by the social environment, sensory capability and sexual stimuli. Variations in temperature associated with global warming are startling for fertility of animals. The objective of the present study was to assess the seasonal variation in sexual behaviour of Deoni (Bos indicus) breeding bulls. Methods: A total of six mature Deoni bulls, maintained for artificial insemination at Livestock Research Center, Southern Regional Station of ICAR-NDRI, Bengaluru, were monitored for sexual behavior during the semen collection at weekly intervals throughout the year using standard techniques. The period of study was divided into three seasons i.e., winter (November to February), summer (March to June) and rainy (July to October). Result: The season had a non-significant (P>0.05) effect on sexual behavior except dismounting time in Deoni bulls. The libido score (0-10), reaction time (seconds) and the total time taken in mounting (seconds) were non-significantly (P>0.05) higher during winter (7.50±0.23, 42.00±4.8, 44.00±4.8, respectively) as compared to the other seasons. The protrusion score (0-4) and the intensity of thrust (0-4) were non-significantly (P>0.05) higher during summer (2.60±0.14 and 2.50±0.13) as compared to the other seasons. The dismounting time (seconds) was significantly (P<0.05) higher during summer (2.90±0.16) as compared to the other seasons. It can be concluded that Deoni bulls had good sexual behavior throughout the year, however, bulls showed better sexual behavior except for dismounting time during winter as compared to the other seasons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Animal welfare strongly influences the health and performance of cattle and is an important factor for consumer acceptance. One parameter for the quantification of health status is the lying duration, which can be deployed for the early detection of possible production-related illnesses. Usually, 3D-accelerometers are the tool to detect lying duration in cattle, but the handling of bulls sometimes has special requirements because frequent manipulation in daily farming routines is often not possible. An ultrahigh-frequency (UHF) radio-frequency identification (RFID) system was installed in a beef cattle barn in Germany to measure the activity and lying time of bulls. Such UHF RFID systems are typically used for estrus detection in dairy cows via activity level, but can also be considered, for instance, as an early detection for lameness or other diseases. The aim of the study was to determine whether the estimations of activity level and lying duration can also be traced in husbandry systems for fattening bulls. Two groups of bulls (Uckermärker cattle, n = 10 and n = 13) of the same age were equipped with passive UHF RFID ear transponders. Three cameras were installed to proof the system and to observe the behaviour of the animals (standing, lying, and moving). Furthermore, accelerometers were attached to the hind legs of the bulls to validate their activity and lying durations measured by the RFID system in the recorded area. Over a period of 20 days, position (UHF RFID) and accelerometer data were recorded. Videos were recorded over a period of five days. The UHF RFID system showed an overall specificity of 95.9%, a sensitivity of 97.05%, and an accuracy of 98.45%. However, the comparison of the RFID and accelerometer data revealed residuals (ԑ) of median lying time (in minutes per day) for each group of ԑGroup1 = 51.78 min/d (p < 0.001), ԑGroup2 = −120.63 min/d (p < 0.001), and ԑGroup1+2 = −34.43 min/d (p < 0.001). In conclusion, UHF RFID systems can provide reliable activity and lying durations in 60 min intervals, but accelerometer data are more accurate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Artificial insemination (AI) centres select bulls as calves according to their genetic breeding values and raise them until the first semen collection; yet, a high dropout rate of reared bulls is a problem for AI centres. Potential hormonal indicators of bull sexual maturation (cortisol, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), testosterone, oestradiol, insulin‐like growth factor 1 (IGF‐1)) were observed and evaluated in relation to the performance parameters to perhaps identify candidate biomarkers allowing an early selection of bulls as suitable sires. Blood samples from 102 German Holstein calves at 4 ± 1, 8 ± 1 and 12 ± 2 months of age from six AI centres were analysed using validated immunoassays for cortisol, DHEA, testosterone, oestradiol and IGF‐1. Semen analyses included native and thawed diluted semen. Bulls were classified at the first semen collection into groups with good versus poor performance (GP vs. LP). After 2 years, the subsequent differentiation was done in high (HPP), medium (MPP) and low performance persistency (LPP). Age at first semen collection was an important factor for sperm quality. Cortisol concentrations decreased with age, but the cortisol/DHEA ratio decreased with age only in GP bulls (p <.05). Oestradiol and testosterone concentrations both correlated with libido behaviour (p <.05). Testosterone and IGF‐1 concentrations were higher at the time of first semen collection in GP bulls and increased with age (p <.05). In conclusion, testosterone and IGF‐1 concentrations at first semen collection are associated with performance at first semen collection and future performance persistency, and might be useful early biomarkers for consistent sperm producing bulls on AI centres. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dimensions of linear type traits facilitate selection of livestock for breeding and rearing. To date, use of linear type traits for selection of breeding bulls is highly concentric to scrotal circumference (SC), with probable overlook to other important traits. Present study reported the importance of various gonadal linear type traits on spermatozoa production, age‐related changes in gonadal linear type traits of bulls and predictive ability of these traits on bulls' reproductive potentials. Among all gonadal traits, testicular density (TD), scrotal volume (SV), paired testicular weight (PWT) and SC were found most important predictor variables in order, which can discriminate between good/poor breeding bulls, that is, produced frozen semen doses (FSD) or not. Dimensions of gonadal traits increased significantly up to 36 months age and thereafter, development became slow and negligible. In contrast, TD decreased by 30%, 51%, 64%, 68% and 71% at 12, 24, 36, 48 and >49 months age, respectively, from its base value at 6 months. Bulls of lower TD (≤0.88 g/cm3) had significantly higher ejaculate volume (+9%), sperm motility, sperm concentration (+100 million/mL) and sperm output (+26%)/ejaculate as compared to bulls of higher TD (>0.88 g/cm3). Discriminant function was developed using TD, SV, PWT and SC to identify bulls of superior reproductive potentials. It was concluded that among the investigated traits, TD was the strongest to discriminate between FSD and Non‐FSD bulls. Therefore, our findings suggested that TD could be more potential trait than SC for dairy bulls' breeding soundness evaluation and assessment of reproductive ability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leonetti and Luca ['On the iterates of the shifted Euler's function', Bull. Aust. Math. Soc. , to appear] have shown that the integer sequence $(x_n)_{n\geq 1}$ defined by $x_{n+2}=\phi (x_{n+1})+\phi (x_{n})+k$ , where $x_1,x_2\geq 1$ , $k\geq 0$ and $2 \mid k$ , is bounded by $4^{X^{3^{k+1}}}$ , where $X=(3x_1+5x_2+7k)/2$. We improve this result by showing that the sequence $(x_n)$ is bounded by $2^{2X^2+X-3}$ , where $X=x_1+x_2+2k$. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, for d ≥ 1 and s ∈ (0 , d 2) , we study the Bianchi–Egnell quotient Q (f) = inf f ∈ H ˙ s (R d) \ B ‖ (- Δ) s / 2 f ‖ L 2 (R d) 2 - S d , s ‖ f ‖ L 2 d d - 2 s (R d) 2 dist H ˙ s (R d) (f , B) 2 , f ∈ H ˙ s (R d) \ B , where S d , s is the best Sobolev constant and B is the manifold of Sobolev optimizers. By a fine asymptotic analysis, we prove that when d = 1 , there is a neighborhood of B on which the quotient Q (f) is larger than the lowest value attainable by sequences converging to B . This behavior is surprising because it is contrary to the situation in dimension d ≥ 2 described recently in König (Bull Lond Math Soc 55(4):2070–2075, 2023). This leads us to conjecture that for d = 1 , Q (f) has no minimizer on H ˙ s (R d) \ B , which again would be contrary to the situation in d ≥ 2 . As a complement of the above, we study a family of test functions which interpolates between one and two Talenti bubbles, for every d ≥ 1 . For d ≥ 2 , this family yields an alternative proof of the main result of König (Bull Lond Math Soc 55(4):2070–2075, 2023). For d = 1 we make some numerical observations which support the conjecture stated above. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this short note we show that Doyle-Grigor'yan criterion for non-parabolicity is not necessary in dimension greater than or equal to four. This gives an negative answer to Problem # 1 of Grigor'yan [Bull. Amer. Math. Soc. (N.S) 36 (1999). pp. 135–249] in this dimensional range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cattle health in wildlife zones is often compromised by parasitic infestations. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and epidemiology of ecto- and endoparasites among cattle inhabiting a semi-arid wildlife zone, examining the influence of age, breed, and tolerance. A total of 320 cattle were surveyed, and a representative sample of 36 animals (using random selection methods) from different age groups (calves, weaners, adults) and breeds (Brahman, Angus, Beef master) were chosen for detailed parasite analysis. Parasite identification was conducted with veterinary assistance and supplemented by relevant literature. A high prevalence of ectoparasites was observed, with four prominent hard tick species identified which included the Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) decloratus (27.44 ticks per animal), Rhipicephalus appendiculatus (10.50), Amblyomma variegatum (0.83), and Hyalomma spp (0.44). Additionally, internal parasites were identified including Fasciola spp (0.14), Fasciola eggs (1.89), Trematode eggs (2.81), Strongyle eggs (2.50), and Ascaris lumbricoides (0.14). Weaners exhibited a higher susceptibility to parasitic burdens, while the Beef master breed displayed a significantly low parasite count compared to other breeds. Brahman and Angus breeds demonstrated tolerance to parasites, with minimal recorded mortality. Although a direct correlation between wildlife and cattle diseases was not established, the study investigated potential shared parasites with commonly encountered wildlife species in the zone. These findings highlight the importance of targeted parasite control programs, particularly for weaners, to minimize health risks and enhance herd well-being in wildlife zones. Implementing parasite management strategies tailored to breed-specific tolerances and age groups is crucial for optimal cattle health and productivity in such environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present investigation was carried out to study the semen characteristics of Vechur bulls. A total of 36 ejaculates collected from six Vechur bulls were studied. The overall mean ejaculate volume, colour, pH, mass activity, progressive sperm motility and total seminal plasma protein concentrations were analysed. The mean ejaculate volume noted was 2.26 ± 0.36 ml, colour of semen ranged from milky to thick milky, pH was 6.87 ± 0.02, density from DDD to DDDD, mass activity +++ to ++++ and sperm progressive motility was 78.1 ± 1.05 %. Significant differences in ejaculate volume, mass activity, progressive sperm motility and live sperms were observed among the bulls. The mean protein content of seminal plasma was 84.10 ± 2.73 mg/ml. On SDS-PAGE analysis, 20 proteins bands of varying intensities were observed within the range of 10-180 kDa and preponderance of lower molecular weight proteins was recorded. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the research was to investigate the effect of Saccharomyces cerevisiae supplementation on some acute-phase proteins, haptoglobin and all electrophoretic parameters in young Charolaise bulls. Sixty bulls were divided into two equal groups: the control group (CG) receiving the base diet without yeast supplementation and the diet supplementation group (YG) receiving the base diet with 5g of Saccharomyces cerevisiae supplementation. The base diet was total mixed ration allocated at 11.85 kg per animal per day. Blood samples were collected from all bulls on day 0 before the start of the diet supplementation, and on days 20 and 40 after the start. Total proteins, albumin, globulin fraction (α1-, α2-, β1-, β2- and γ-globulins), albumin: globulin ratio (A: G) and haptoglobin were determined. Two-way analysis of variance showed a significant effect of the yeast feeding time on all studied parameters except α2-globulins in both groups. The YG showed a higher average concentration of total proteins, albumin and A: G and a lower average concentration of γ-globulins and haptoglobin than the CG. These results indicated the beneficial effect of the Saccharomyces cerevisiae on the inflammatory status of the young bulls, which showed an adequate response in serum levels of the acute-phase proteins tested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study to review the online trading procedure a case study of ONLINE TRADING at Indiabulls Ltd., as the exchange has changed it's trading from it and there is need to assess the performance of the capital market. Maintaining good records requires discipline, just like good trading. Unfortunately, many commodity traders don't take the time to track their trading history, which can offer a wealth of information to improve their odds of successMost professional traders, and those who consistently make money from trading commodities, keep diligent records of their trading activity. The same cannot be said for the masses that consistently lose at trading commodities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Semen cryopreservation is an important tool that has massively contributed to the progression of animal reproduction, especially in cattle. Nonetheless, a large part of the sperm population suffers from cryostress and loses fertility during the process. Although bovine semen cryopreservation is more advanced than any other species, there are still some missing links in the technology knowledge. The aim of the current study was to detect the effect of cryopreservation steps on sperm rheotaxis. Semen samples were collected from sex bulls and analyzed inside a microfluidic platform with CASA after each step of cryopreservation, including control, dilution with yolk citrate, cryoprotectant addition, and cooling or freezing. The results showed that positive rheotaxis % (PR) was not affected during cryopreservation. On the contrary, the sperm kinematics of the positive rheotactic sperm undergo significant changes, as velocity parameters (VCL, VSL, and VAP) were lower in both the cryoprotectant adding and cooling/freezing steps than in the control and yolk citrate dilution steps, while progression parameters (LIN and BCF) were higher in the cryoprotectant and cooling/freezing steps than in the control and yolk citrate dilution steps. Beside these results, an interesting phenomenon of sperm backward positive rheotaxis has been observed. The results of backward sperm rheotaxis samples revealed a significant decrease in PR%, while all sperm kinematics except BCF were significantly higher than normal rheotaxis samples. Based on these results, we conclude that positive rheotactic sperm cells are the elite of the sperm population; however, they still get some sublethal cryodamage, as shown by alterations in sperm kinematics. We also suggest that the sperm-positive rheotaxis mechanism is a mixture of an active and passive process rather than a passive physical one. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Seasonal microclimatic fluctuations can cause changes in sperm quality even in dairy bulls bred under temperate climate. These changes can vary between sires of different age and affect sperm freezability. Aims: We aimed to evaluate the modulating effect of bull age and equilibration time before freezing on the seasonal pattern of sperm viability and DNA integrity post-thaw. Methods: In the frame of systematic sperm quality control, we assessed the integrity of sperm plasma membrane and acrosome (PMAI) in 15,496 cryopreserved bovine batches, and the percentage of sperm with high DNA fragmentation index (%DFI) after 0 h and 3 h incubation at 38°C post-thaw (3 h) in 3422 batches. Semen was equilibrated for 24 h before freezing if collected on Monday or Wednesday and 72 h if produced on Friday. We investigated the effect of season, bull age, equilibration, and temperature-humidity index (THI) on the day of semen collection on sperm traits using mixed-effects linear models. Key results: PMAI and %DFI (0 h and 3 h) deteriorated with increasing THI. The effect of THI on %DFI was detected with a 30-day time lag. Seasonal fluctuations of sperm quality were similar between young, mature, and older sires. Prolonged equilibration did not affect PMAI but was linked to elevated %DFI (3 h) in summer. Conclusions: Extending equilibration from 24 to 72 h is compatible with commercial standards of bovine sperm quality post-thaw; however, it could interfere with the seasonal pattern of the latter. Implications: Systematic monitoring of bovine sperm quality enables the prompt detection of stress factors related to microclimate and semen processing. Multiple correspondence analysis (MCA) plot for the categorical variables of season of semen collection and age class of 262 individual bulls. Points represent the score of each bull for the quantitative variables (percentage of sperm with intact plasma membrane and acrosome and percentage of sperm with high DNA fragmentation index (immediately after thawing and after 3 h of incubation at 38°C) in different seasons of the year. Photograph by Eleni Malama. This article belongs to the Collection Dedication to Jim Cummins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Bovine seminal plasma proteins perform several functions related to sperm function. Changes in the expression pattern or abundance of seminal proteins are related to changes in the fertilizing capacity of bulls. Considering the role of seminal plasma proteins in sperm function and animal reproduction, we investigated changes in the protein abundance profile in response to sperm morphological changes using a proteomic approach. Datadescription: In our present investigation, we employed liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry to elucidate the proteomic composition of seminal plasma obtained from Nellore bulls exhibiting varying percentages of sperm abnormalities. Following semen collection, seminal plasma was promptly isolated from sperm, and proteins were subsequently precipitated, enzymatically digested using porcine trypsin, and subjected to analysis utilizing the Acquity nano UHPLC System in conjunction with a mass spectrometer. This dataset encompasses a total of 297 proteins, marking the inaugural instance in which a comparative profile of seminal plasma proteins in young Nellore bulls, categorized by their sperm abnormality percentages, has been delineated using LC-MS/MS. The comprehensive nature of this dataset contributes pivotal proteomic insights, representing a noteworthy advancement in our understanding of the reproductive biology of the Nellore breed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The primary objective of Sustainable Development Goal target 2.5 established by the United Nations is to ensure the preservation of genetic diversity in domesticated animals. The ICAR-National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources in India has been actively engaged in the conservation of cattle and buffalo bull semen for long-term storage. This present study aimed to assess the genetic diversity present in the conserved cattle bull semen, which would aid in determining the most suitable strategy for future conservation management. A total of 192 bull semen belonging to 19 cattle breeds were selected to evaluate genetic diversity using 17 pairs of FAO recommended microsatellite primers. Total 267 alleles were detected across all the samples which indicates substantial amount of allelic variation is being maintained in conserved bulls. Further, all cattle bulls semen conserved showed higher observed heterozygosity than expected heterozygosity which indicates excess genetic diversity in all the populations. The FST, F IT and FIS value across the loci and population is 0.146 ± 0.009, 0.054 ± 0.038, and − 0.105 ± 0.035, respectively, which suggests lack of inbreeding in conserved cattle bull semen. This study has established genetic diversity in conserved cattle semen samples to achieve sustainable development goals. In addition, it provides compelling evidence that the current approach for conserving cattle bull semen is heading in the correct direction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The goal of current investigation was to ascertain the impact of carnitine as an additive in tris-egg yolk-based extender on Hariana bull semen (32 ejaculates) chosen for cryopreservation. Progressive motility, viability, HOS response, and acrosomal integrity were estimated after equilibration (pre-freeze) and after thawing. The activity of enzymes malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione-S-transferase (GST), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were quantified in post-thaw seminal plasma. Semen ejaculates from Hariana bulls (n=4) were diluted in tris egg yolk glycerol (TEYG) and were divided into four equal groups. Aliquot/Group I was processed without carnitine and served as control, while Groups II, III and IV received carnitine at concentration of 2.5 mM, 5 mM and 10 mM per 80x106 spermatozoa, respectively. Carnitine at 5 mM concentration significantly (p<0.05) enhanced sperm viability, acrosomal integrity, and intact plasma membranes both at pre-freeze and post-thaw stage. The addition of 5 mM and 2.5 mM carnitine reduced oxidative stress considerably (p<0.05). The results of this investigation revealed that carnitine has cryoprotective properties on bull spermatozoa via reducing oxidative stress and free radicals. Hence to improve post-thaw sperm functional dynamics, it was suggested that 5 mM of carnitine be supplemented as an additive to semen extender. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aimed to enhance the cryo-survivability and fertilization potential of poor freezable Sahiwal bull semen by devising a modified extender and freezing protocol. This protocol incorporated a combination of trehalose and glycerol as cryoprotectants and freezing with an aluminium block. The semen samples were split into three; the split 1 was extended in routine tris fructose egg yolk glycerol (TFEG) extender and underwent the conventional vapour freezing (Control group). The other split samples considered as treatment samples were extended with diluent having 75 % of TFEG and 25 % of trehalose (280 mOsm/l both) with glycerol percentage being 5, and frozen using a conventional vapour freezing (T1) and modified freezing protocol with an aluminium block (T2). After freezing-thawing, the progressive sperm motility, viability, HOS response and acrosome integrity were significantly (p ≤ 0.05) improved in treatment 2 compared to the control and treatment 1 groups. Along with this, the degree of oxidative stress (MDA production) was substantially lower in treatment groups (T1 and T2) compared to control group. The results highlight the promising effectiveness of the modified freezing method incorporating trehalose and glycerol as cryoprotectants and using an aluminium block. The significance of these findings lies in the potential application of this technique for freezing-thawing semen, particularly from bulls with poor freezability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years the bull ant Myrmecia midas Clark, 1951, has attracted attention for its impressive visual navigation during its nocturnal activity. Still, a basic understanding of this species' ecology is lacking. Nest relocation and colony fissions are rarely observed and largely undocumented in M. midas colonies. In the current study, we quantified the nest-relocation and colony-splitting behaviour of suburban populations of M. midas in response to flooding in its habitat, caused by record rainfalls in eastern Australia in 2022. The flooding caused the destruction of nest chambers and disrupted colony activities. We documented nine relocations of the fifty observed colonies with another four split into 12 different colonies. Most relocations occurred a few days after one period of especially heavy rains. We collected several characteristics of these relocations: the distance of a nest from the nearest tree, the elevation of the nest above ground level and the diameter of the nest entrance, with all of these metrics predicting whether a colony moved after heavy rains. Moreover, we conducted excavations of some abandoned colonies, uncovering evidence of an internal collapse of nest chambers due to heavy flooding, which likely induced the nest relocation and colony fission in M. midas. In normal weather, we have not observed any colony relocating, suggesting that moving may bear a fitness cost. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aimed to identify a marker for freezability and in vitro fertility of sperm samples before freezing. Methods: Semen was collected from nine Nelore bulls; half of the ejaculate was used for seminal plasma cell–free DNA (cfDNA) quantification, and the other half was cryopreserved. Evaluation of sperm movement using computer-assisted semen analysis and plasma membrane integrity and stability, acrosomal integrity, apoptosis, and mitochondrial potential using flow cytometry were performed on fresh and frozen/thawed semen at 0, 3, 6, and 12 h after thawing. Frozen/thawed sperm was also used for in vitro embryo production. cfDNA was extracted from each bull, and the total DNA and number of cell-free mitochondrial DNA (cfmtDNA) copies were quantified. Semen from each animal was used for IVF, and cleavage, blastocyst formation, and cell counts were evaluated. Results: Two groups were formed and compared based on the concentrations of cfDNA and cfmDNA present: low-cfDNA and high-cfDNA and low-cfmtDNA and high-cfmtDNA. Up to 12 h post-thawing, there were no differences between the groups in the majority of the sperm parameters evaluated. Cleavage, day 6 and 7 blastocyst rates, and the number of cells were higher in the high cfDNA group than in the low cfDNA group. Similar results were observed for cfmtDNA, except for the number of cells, which was similar between the groups. Conclusion: The concentration of cfDNA and the relative number of copies of cfmtDNA in seminal plasma cannot predict the freezability of semen but can be used to predict in vitro embryo production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spermatozoa can experience negative changes when subjected to freezing and thawing, including lowered motility, viability and acrosome response. Herein, the effects of different concentrations of soybean lecithin nanoparticles on cryopreserved Holstein bull semen were examined. Semen was collected, cryopreserved and utilized for sperm kinetic parameter analysis following dilution, equilibration and thawing with 0.5% soybean lecithin (E1), the control extender, and 0.75% (E2), 0.5% (E3), 0.25% (E4) and 0.125% (E5) of lecithin nanoparticles. Results revealed that following dilution, the progressive motility (PM) at E3, E4 and E5 of lecithin nanoparticles was higher (p <.05) than it was for E2. After equilibration, compared to the E1, E2, and E3 values, the PM, vitality, normal morphology, membrane integrity and intact acrosome values at the E5 were consistently greater (p <.05). Comparing the percentages of intact acrosome and membrane integrity at E2 and E3 to E4 and E5, a substantial decrease (p <.05) was seen. Following thawing, the percentage of PM improved at E2 and E5, even though their mean PM values were similar (p >.05) compared to E1, E3 and E4. Vigour and progression parameters of sperm (DAP, DCL, DSL, VAP, VCL, VSL and STR) at E5 were higher (p <.05) than those at E1, E2, E3 and E4. In conclusion, the cryopreserved sperm from Holstein bulls revealed outstanding properties both after equilibration and after thawing with 0.125% lecithin nanoparticles, and they were sensitive to high dosages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the potential effects of transport distance, animal weight, and muscle position on meat quality in young bulls under commercial conditions across four slaughtering weeks during the summer months (May to September). Data on transport distance, lairage time, and ambient temperature during slaughtering days were collected from 80 young bulls from North German farms. Meat quality parameters, including pH, temperature, and meat color were also recorded at several post-mortem times from two different carcass locations (shoulder clod and silverside). Meat texture was evaluated both by sensory and instrumental analysis, and their values were compared to find possible correlations between them. All of the aforementioned main factors (transport distance, animal weight, and muscle position), as well as the interaction between animal weight and transport distance, significantly influenced (p < 0.01) meat quality traits. The results of the assessment of the meat texture from the cooked meat patties suggested that silverside cuts were consistently harder than shoulder clod cuts, despite having lower pH48 values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In the beef industry, bull calves are usually castrated to improve flavor and meat quality; however, this can reduce their growth and slaughter performance. The gut microbiota is known to exert a significant influence on growth and slaughter performance. However, there is a paucity of research investigating the impact of castration on gut microbiota composition and its subsequent effects on slaughter performance and meat flavor. Result: The objective of this study was to examine the processes via which castration hinders slaughter productivity and enhances meat quality. Bull and castrated calves were maintained under the same management conditions, and at slaughter, meat quality was assessed, and ileum and epithelial tissue samples were obtained. The research employed metagenomic sequencing and non-targeted metabolomics techniques to investigate the makeup of the microbiota and identify differential metabolites. The findings of this study revealed the Carcass weight and eye muscle area /carcass weight in the bull group were significantly higher than those in the steer group. There were no significant differences in the length, width, and crypt depth of the ileum villi between the two groups. A total of 53 flavor compounds were identified in the two groups of beef, of which 16 were significantly higher in the steer group than in the bull group, and 5 were significantly higher in the bull group than in the steer group. In addition, bacteria, Eukaryota, and virus species were significantly separated between the two groups. The lipid metabolism pathways of α-linolenic acid, linoleic acid, and unsaturated fatty acids were significantly enriched in the Steers group. Compared with the steer group, the organic system pathway is significantly enriched in the bull group. The study also found that five metabolites (LPC (0:0/20:3), LPC (20:3/0:0), LPE (0:0/22:5), LPE (22:5/0:0), D-Mannosamine), and three species (s_Cloning_vector_Hsp70_LexA-HP1, s_Bacteroides_Coprophilus_CAG: 333, and s_Clostridium_nexile-CAG: 348) interfere with each other and collectively have a positive impact on the flavor compounds of beef. Conclusions: These findings provide a basic understanding that under the same management conditions, castration does indeed reduce the slaughter performance of bulls and improve the flavor of beef. Microorganisms and metabolites contribute to these changes through interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates and compares the physiological and behavioral characteristics of Kundhi buffalo bull calves focusing on the impact of age and size. Ten bull calves, aged between 14 to 18 months were selected and categorized into two groups: Group A: young (up to 14 months), with 210kg average body weight, and Group B: smaller (up to 18 months) with 305kg average body weight. The body weight of Kundhi buffalo calves linearly increased from the 1st to the 7th fortnight, with significant differences (p<0.05) observed between the two groups. The final body weight was higher in Group B (344.72 kg) when compared to Group A (262.04 kg). Similarly, scrotal circumference, girth, and length exhibited linear increases throughout the experiment with significant differences between the groups (p<0.05). Group B consistently showed larger scrotal circumferences (21.96 cm), girths (66.28 cm), and lengths (51.54 cm) compared to Group A (18.38 cm, 60.36 cm, and 47.44 cm, respectively). While testosterone and estradiol concentrations were non-significant (p>0.05) between the groups, they were higher in Group B (0.1504 ng/ml and 2.4724 pg/ml) than in Group A (0.1082 ng/ml and 2.2724 pg/ml). Behavioral observations, including nuzzling, sniffing, licking, bellowing, protrusion, and mounting, indicated higher scores in Group B. In both groups, mean nuzzling scores were (3.71 and 5.00), sniffing (0.28 and 1.28), licking (3.14 and 4.14), bellowing (0.85 and 2.14), protrusion (0.00 and 0.42), and mounting (0.00 and 1.28) in the "yes" category. These findings offer comprehensive insights into the physiological and behavioral differences influenced by age and size in Kundhi buffalo bull calves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The relevance of the work was to determine whether the loin eye area of m. longissimus dorsi as a criterion for evaluating the yield of high-value cuts from beef carcasses, is associated with beef characteristics from bulls of the Ukrainian Black-and-White dairy breed. The purpose of the study was to establish correlations between the loin eye area and the slaughter characteristics by the chemical composition, sensory, physical and technological properties of beef. The correlation between the cross-sectional area of the oblong muscle and slaughter indicators, the quality of carcasses, the chemical composition, sensory, physical and technological properties of beef was studied in the bulls of Ukrainian Black-and-White dairy breed (UBWDB) aged from 18 to 24 months. A linear correlation was established between the loin eye area and the slaughter weight (r = 0.404; P > 0.95), the amount of muscle tissue (r = 0.355; P > 0.95), including the highest (r = 0.680; P > 0.999) and the first (r = 0.501; P > 0.99) grades, the content of fat tissue in the carcass (r = 0.477; P > 0.99). The loin eye area correlated inversely (r = -0.607; P > 0.95) with the amount lost in boiling beef, the amount of second-class muscle tissue (r = -0.377; P > 0.95), the development of subcutaneous fat (r = -0.395; P > 0.95), the total ash mass (r = -0.560; P > 0.95), the juiciness of boiled meat (r = -0.522; P > 0.95), taste and aroma of broth (r = -0.587; P > 0.95). There was a tendency for an inverse correlation between the loin eye area and the total fat content of beef (r = -0.119), protein (r = -0.401), dry matter (r = -0.403), acidity (r = -0.458), muscle tissue colour (r = -0.126), conformation (r = -0.127), penetration (r = -0.477), taste (r = -0.214) and aroma (r = -0.363) of boiled meat, tenderness (r = -0.256), residue after chewing (r = -0.442), the thickness of broth (r = -0.207), and to a linear correlation - with the amount of tendons and ligaments (r = 0.331), marbling (r = 0.162), the colour of fat tissue on the carcass (r = 0.276), transparency of the broth (r = 0.180). The practical significance of the data is to obtain knowledge that allows formulating marketing strategies for predicting food quality, quantity of premium and first-grade beef, its technological properties and intended use based on the correlation between the loin eye area of m. longissimus dorsi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]