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The beef cattle industry has experienced a shift driven by a market demand for healthier meat, cost efficiency and environmental sustainability in recent years. Consequently, there has been a growing focus on the fatty acids content and functions of meat in cattle breeding programmes. Besides, a deeper understanding of the biological mechanisms influencing the expression of different phenotypes related to fatty acid profiles is crucial. In this study, we aimed to identify Single‐Nucleotide Variants (SNV) and Insertion/Deletion (InDels) DNA variants in candidate genes related to fatty acid profiles described in genomic, transcriptomic and proteomic studies conducted in beef cattle breeds. Utilizing whole‐genome re‐sequencing data from Brazilian locally adapted bovine breeds, namely Caracu and Pantaneiro, we identified SNVs and InDels associated with 23,947 genes. From these, we identified 318 candidate genes related to fatty acid profiles that contain variants. Subsequently, we select only genes with SNVs and InDels in their promoter, 5′ UTR and coding region. Through the gene–biological process network, approximately 19 genes were highlighted. Furthermore, considering the studied trait and a literature review, we selected the main transcription factors (TF). Functional analysis via gene–TF network allowed us to identify the 30 most likely candidate genes for meat fatty acid profile in cattle. LIPE, MFSD2A and SREBF1 genes were highlighted in networks due to their biological importance. Further dissection of these genes revealed 15 new variants found in promoter regions of Caracu and Pantaneiro sequences. The gene networks facilitated a better functional understanding of genes and TF, enabling the identification of variants potentially related to the expression of candidate genes for meat fatty acid profiles in cattle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This retrospective study utilized a mixed-effects logistic model analysis to investigate variables associated with the probability of pregnancy loss (PL) between days 30 and 70 in a dataset comprising 9507 pregnancies from a single cattle herd over 10 years. The model incorporated fixed-effect variables including cow breed (Holstein, Crossbred, and Brown Swiss), parity (1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th or more), insemination seasons, insemination number (≤3 vs >3), estrus nature (spontaneous vs synchronized), postpartum problems, sire breed (Holstein, Fleckvieh, Brown Swiss, and Montbéliarde), zygote genotypic (pure vs crossbred), days in milk (DIM) at insemination, actual 305-day milk yield, and sire conception rate. Additionally, random effects included sire (n = 129), cow (n = 3463), and production years (n = 10). The results revealed that cows inseminated with Brown Swiss sires or sires with lower initial conception rates had higher PL rates. Biparous cows, cows with lower 305-day milk yield, cows inseminated later in DIM, cows receiving the 4th or subsequent insemination, and cows inseminated during winter or autumn had lower PL rates. The estrus type and zygote genotype did not significantly impact PL. The random effects of cow, sire, and production years were estimated at 0.230, 0.054, and 0.112, respectively. In conclusion, the study findings suggested that improving management practices for high-yielding cows, cows in early lactation stages, and cows exposed to thermal stress conditions, along with utilizing Brown Swiss cows and sires with high initial conception rates per insemination, could potentially decrease overall PL rates on the farm. Nonetheless, the results did not support the use of Crossbred cows, sires from different breeds, or specific sires to mitigate PL rates on the farm. • Individual sires in a cohort of 129 sires did not influence the pregnancy loss (PL). • Cows inseminated with sires that had higher day-30 conception exhibit lower PL. • Cows that had higher 305-day milk yield exhibit a higher possibility of PL. • Biparous cows and cows that had higher DIM at insemination exhibit lower PL. • Type of estrus and genotype of the zygote did not influence the PL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work we aim to carry out assessments on the quality of beef before slaughter by machine learning methodologies. We evaluate the possibility of classifying meat quality based on a limited number of easily detectable quantitative and qualitative characteristics collected before slaughtering the cattle and applying machine learning methodologies on them. Namely, we develop some models which are able to determine 4 qualitative classes (output) of meat ranging from poor to excellent, plus two intermediate ones. To experiment with methodologies we trained them on data collected through a small entrepreneurial reality located in Amorosi, southern Italy, which deals with cattle breeding in stables. Using a simple artificial neural network the classification error percentage stands at 4.32% while the correlation between the predictions and the real outcomes is greater than 0.95. The extension to a further set of machine learning methodologies on a widely used, open-source machine learning platform make it possible to improve the results, allowing to achieve the perfect classification of the meat. Namely Random Forest reaches 0% error percentage. Overall, the study evidences the potential of Machine Learning methods for predicting beef quality before slaughtering the cattle, and provides a framework for incorporating a wide range of factors into such models. This implies the potential to improve the average quality of the product, being able to intervene on breeding procedures, benefiting both producers and consumers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In sub-Saharan Africa, cattle feedlots face a significant challenge in dealing with heat stress. However, there is a lack of inclusive strategies for resilience in these situations. The aim of this systematic review is to investigate the strategies, challenges, and outcomes related to heat stress resilience in community-based cattle feedlots in sub-Saharan Africa. The PRISMA approach, which is a method for reporting systematic reviews and meta-analyses, was used to identify, screen, and analyze 30 peer-reviewed articles published over the last 20 years from Google Scholar and Scopus. The review found that key strategies to mitigate heat stress include providing shade through natural and artificial means, ensuring constant access to cool, clean water using water spraying systems and cooling ponds, and implementing nutritional adjustments such as high-energy feeds and electrolyte supplements. Additionally, genetic selection for heat-tolerant breeds and management practices like adjusting feeding times and improving ventilation were found to be effective in dealing with heat stress. In particular, local germplasm and genetic traits of cattle in sub-Saharan Africa play a crucial role in heat stress resilience. Indigenous breeds, which have adapted to the region’s harsh climate over centuries, exhibit traits such as higher heat tolerance, better water-use efficiency, and improved feed conversion rates under heat stress conditions. This genetic resilience can be enhanced through targeted breeding programs aimed at amplifying these beneficial traits. Implementing these strategies resulted in improved cattle health and productivity, as evidenced by enhanced weight gain, better reproductive performance, and lower mortality rates. The socio-economic benefits of these strategies included reduced economic losses and increased farmer incomes, which in turn contributed to improved community health and nutrition. However, the review also identified significant challenges, including financial constraints, limited access to knowledge and training, and cultural resistance. To address these barriers, the review recommends increased investment in affordable cooling technologies, farmer education, and community-based initiatives. Additionally, leveraging the genetic strengths of local cattle breeds should be prioritized to maximize the effectiveness of heat stress resilience strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Milk removal, more commonly known as weaning, is considered a major stressor in the early life of a calf. If improperly managed, it can negatively impact both the calf's performance and welfare. One of the most delicate aspects to address during a calf's growth is nutrition, both liquid and solid, so that the calf can develop the rumen compartment correctly without precluding natural behavior and, at the same time, preserving business costs. The weaning calf, in addition to milk, generally receives calf starters, a very palatable solid feed rich in concentrates, but no source of roughage, although several studies emphasize the importance of fibrous feeds even at this stage of the animal's life. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact on the behavior and welfare of weaning calves resulting from the provision of Total Mixed Ration (TMR) as a forage source in addition to calf starter administered ad libitum or in restricted quantities. TMR is a diet widely used in dairy cow breeding, obtained by chopping and mixing all types of feeds, i.e., forages, concentrates and other ingredients, in order to achieve a homogeneous ration composition. The results obtained from this study indicate that the administration of TMR without restrictions of starter allows the young calf to better express its natural behavior, suggesting a better state of well-being. Currently, in dairy farming, there is growing concern for the welfare of calves during the critical period between the separation from their dams and weaning. During weaning, rationed feeding is a practice used to improve feed efficiency and control the calves' growth, but it could also have negative consequences associated with hunger and feed restriction behavior. One such consequence could be the performance by calves of stereotyped behaviors indicative of poor welfare, such as non-nutritive oral behaviors. We hypothesized that making a Total Mixed Ration (TMR) available to calves, in addition to the standard pelleted starter diet, thanks to its structural and nutritional characteristics, could help to focus the oral behavior of the subjects towards nutritional activities and therefore limit the development of stereotyped behaviors, even when the amount of starter is restricted. To test this hypothesis, 30 female Holstein calves (equipped with an accelerometer based on an ear tag), were randomly assigned to one of three treatments: a control diet (CTR) with an ad libitum calf starter but without TMR; Treatment 1 (TRT1) with both ad libitum calf starter and ad libitum TMR; Treatment 2 (TRT2) with ad libitum TMR and a restricted amount of a calf starter (50% of the intake starter of the control group day by day). All animals were kept in individual cages equipped with a slow-flow teat bucket apparatus for milk feeding and with access to separated buckets (one for drinking water, one for the starter, and one for the TMR) placed on the outside of the front gate of each cage. Sucking behavior, as well as resting, ruminating and activity behavior, was recorded individually from 7 days of life to weaning (63 d of age) by an automated monitoring system based on ear-tag accelerometers (SCR eSense, Allflex, Irving, TX, USA). The results showed that in the CTR group, there was a greater sucking activity compared to the TRT1 group (26.25 min/head/day vs. 16.83 min/head/day, p = 0.0181), while the TRT2 group showed intermediate values (20.41 min/head/day). We hypothesized that this increased sucking activity may be explained by the oral activity directed at sucking the Milk Bar tube observed only in CTR calves after complete consumption of available milk and could indicate a higher stress level than in the TRT1 group. The time spent resting was significantly lower for the CTR group compared to the TRT1 group (9.20 h/day vs. 11.15 h/day, p = 0.0049) while the TRT2 group was in an intermediate situation (10.65 h/day). Furthermore, the increase in time dedicated to rest observed in TRT1, in light of the good vitality of the calves shown by the daily patterns of resting behavior and daily activity, also seems to suggest an improvement in welfare conditions compared to calves receiving pelleted starter alone. Based on these results, we can deduce that providing TMR ad libitum in the diet of weaning calves could be an effective strategy to improve calf welfare due to the reduction in stereotyped oral activity. However, further studies are needed to establish threshold values useful for distinguishing physiological from pathological resting times in weaning calves raised in individual cages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Germplasm banking is a fundamental tool for the preservation of autochthonous breeds. Semen cryopreservation is effective for this task, but protocols are adapted to commercial species, and post‐thawing sperm quality could be sensitive to environmental cues. We compared the post‐thawing sperm quality in doses from the CBA‐SERIDA bank in northern Spain for the Asturiana de la Montaña (AM) and Asturiana de los Valles (AV) autochthonous cattle breeds. Doses from 23 AM and 16 AV bulls (ejaculates from at least three different seasons) were assessed for motility (computer‐assisted sperm analysis), physiology and chromatin status (flow cytometry) after thawing and after 5 h at 38°C. Data were analysed using linear mixed‐effects and cosinor models for seasonal and breed effects and by correlations with the association of sperm quality with temperature‐humidity index (THI), considering the interval of spermatogenesis plus maturation. The breed affected sperm quality, with higher motility for AV and higher apoptotic ratio, mitochondrial activity, reactive oxygen species, DNA fragmentation and chromatin immaturity for AM. However, seasonality effects were minimal, and THI was not associated with sperm quality. In summary, the season seems to be a minor factor in the post‐thawing quality of the AM and AV autochthonous breeds, well‐adapted to their local environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The list of standard abbreviations for JDS is available at adsa.org/jds-abbreviations-24. Nonstandard abbreviations are available in the Notes. In this paper, we present a comprehensive study of gestation length (GL) in 16 cattle breeds by using large genotype and animal record databases. Data included over 20 million gestations since 2000 and genotypes from one million calves. The study addressed the GL variability within and between breeds, estimation of its direct and maternal heritability coefficients, association with fitness and several economic traits, and QTL detection. The breed average GL varied from 279.7 to 294.4 d in Holstein and Blonde d'Aquitaine breeds, respectively. Standard deviations per breed were similar and ranged from 5.2 to 5.8 d. Direct heritability (i.e., for GL defined as a trait of the calf) was moderate to high (h2 = 0.40–0.67), whereas the maternal heritability was low (0.04–0.06). Extreme breeding values for GL were strongly associated with a higher mortality during the first 2 d of life and were associated with milk production of dams for dairy breeds and precocity of females. Finally, several QTL were detected affecting GL with cumulated effects up to a few days, and at least 2 QTL were found to be shared between different breeds. Our study highlights the risks that would be associated with selection toward a reduced GL. Further genomic studies are needed to identify the causal variants and their association with juvenile mortality and other economic traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the current study was to evaluate the effect of a novel recombinant eCG (reCG) on pregnancy rates to AI (P/AI) in suckled beef cows of different breeds that were synchronized with an estradiol/progesterone (P4)-based protocol for fixed-time AI (TAI). In experiment 1, 1244 Bos taurus suckled cows were used. On Day 0 all cows received an intravaginal P4 device (600 mg P4) and 2 mg of estradiol benzoate. On Day 7, devices were removed, and all cows received 0.150 mg of D-cloprostenol plus 1 mg of estradiol cypionate and were randomly divided to receive 140 IU or 105 IU of reCG or no reCG treatment (controls) at that time. Cows were tail painted for estrus detection and those in estrus by 48 h after P4 device removal were inseminated; whereas those not showing estrus were also inseminated and received GnRH at the same time. In experiment 2, 818 Bos taurus x Bos indicus crossbred suckled cows received the same FTAI protocol used in Experiment 1. Cows were randomly divided at the time of P4 device removal into 4 groups to receive 140 IU, 105 IU or 84 IU of reCG or no reCG treatment. In experiment 3, 345 Bos indicus suckled cows were submitted to the same FTAI protocol as those in previous experiments and were randomly divided into three groups to receive 140 IU or 105 IU of reCG, or 300 IU of serum derived eCG (PMSG). In Experiment 1, estrus rate and P/AI was greater (P < 0.05) in cows treated with reCG (79.9 and 53.5 %, 76.9 and 52.3 % for the 105 UI and 140 UI reCG groups, respectively) than those in the control group (69.9 and 44.4 %, respectively). In Experiment 2, cows treated with reCG tended (P < 0.1) to achieve a greater P/AI than control cows (38.6 %, 37.1 %, 36.2 % and 28.2 % for those receiving 84 IU, 105 IU,140 IU of reCG, and those in the control group); but when P/AI of all cows treated with reCG was contrasted to that of control cows, the difference was significant (P < 0.01). In Experiment 3, P/AI in cows treated with 84 IU of reCG (54 %) did not differ from that of cows treated with serum derived eCG (59 %) but both were greater (P < 0.05) than cows treated with 105 UI of reCG (41 %). In conclusion, treatment with reCG improved fertility in suckled Bos taurus and Bos taurus x Bos indicus beef cows. In suckled Bos indicus cows, although treatment with reCG and serum derived eCG were comparable, the higher dosage of reCG was detrimental to their P/AI. • ReCG increased fertility when it is used at device removal in E2/P4 based FTAI protocols in suckled beef cows. • In multiparous Bos indicus cows, treatment with reCG achieved similar P/IA than those obtained with serum derived eCG. • Sensitivity to reCG dosage is higher in Bos indicus cows, with higher dosages enhancing the risk of early ovulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we decided to test the hypothesis that the fungal biostarter M. flavus used during a 21-day beef dry-aging process significantly impacts the composition of other microorganisms, the profile of volatile compounds, meat hardness characteristics, and, consequently, the sensory quality. The experiments were performed on samples derived from animals crossbred between Holstein–Fresian cows and meat breed bulls. Two groups of samples were studied, including the control group, without biostarter, and a group inoculated with the M. flavus biostarter. Both sample groups were seasoned for 21 days in the dry-aging fridge. The physicochemical parameters (pH, color parameters), the chemical composition of muscle, the determination of the shear force, the profile of volatile compounds (VOCs), and the sensory quality were evaluated after aging. During this study, classical microbiological methods were used to investigate the influence of fungal biostarters on the growth and survival of bacteria and other fungi (e.g., yeasts) during the dry-aging process of beef (DAB). The M. flavus biostarter improved the sensory quality of DAB, allowing high sensory quality to be achieved after just 21 days. This is likely due to the diverse VOCs produced by the fungus, including 1-tetradecanol, 2-nonenal, trans-2-undecenoic acid, and the following esters: formic acid hexyl ester, 10-undecenoic acid methyl ester, and 4-methylpentanoic acid methyl ester. The presence of the biostarter had no significant effect on the number of the bacteria or the survivability of the L. monocytogenes on the meat's surface in laboratory conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bovine mastitis remains a major problem in the global dairy cattle industry. The acute invasion of udder by pathogens induces innate immune response as the first defence mechanism in subclinical and clinical mastitis. The aim of the study was to determine inflammatory and regulatory cytokines IL-2, IL-4, TGF-β1, IL-17A, beta-defensin 3 and IL-10 and their potential changes in milk of dairy cows with subclinical and clinical mastitis, and to compare the findings with healthy animals. Milk samples from 15 holstein Friesian breed cows were used in the study. Cows were divided into three groups based on their health status (5 healthy, 5 subclinical and 5 clinical animals). All samples were tested using immunohistochemistry to evaluate IL-2, IL-4, IL-10, IL17A, TGF-β1 and β-Def 3 proteins. Expression of all proteins was detected in all milk samples. High expression of IL-2, IL-4, IL17A, TGF-β1 was detected in healthy cows’ milk and in milk of cows with subclinical and clinical mastitis. However, expression of IL-10 and β-Def 3 in milk samples of healthy cows was significantly higher compared to the milk of cows with subclinical and clinical mastitis (p < .001). IL-10 and β-Def 3 can be considered as informative biomarkers in diagnosis of subclinical and clinical mastitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Dimensional conformation traits of dairy cows, which are in connection with their individual body features and production, are an important functional trait regulating feed efficiency and energy balance. That is why the scientific importance of these traits has increased recently. In this study, the genetic determination, association, and trend of selected dimensional traits, i.e., stature, chest width, body depth, and rump width, in Holstein Friesian cows were evaluated. Based on the results, according to positive but weak correlations and trends, the examined production and conformation traits did not result in meaningful change in the latter along with the increase in production yield. The objective of this study was to estimate the heritability of dairy production traits and that for dimensional traits and to calculate the correlation between the two heritability values in a Holstein Friesian cow herd bred in Hungary. Data of 15,032 Holstein Friesian cows born in the period 2008–2018 from 666 sires were collected for the study in 6 large dairy herds. Among the conformation traits, stature (ST), chest width (CW), body depth (BD), and rump width (RW), and for production traits, in the first lactation of cows, the 305-day milk yield (MY), milk butterfat yield (FY), and milk protein yield (MY) were evaluated. Heritability estimates of ST, CW, BD, and RW were 0.49, 0.25, 0.31, and 0.30, and those of MY, FY, and PY were 0.40, 0.35, and 0.30, respectively. BD and RW had no phenotypic (b = −0.01) or genetic (b = 0.00–0.01) change. The production traits (MY, FY, PY) increased to a greater extent (b = 2.2–43.3) than the examined conformation traits over time. Consequently, it is indicated that the selection for dairy production did not result in an increase in the studied dimensional traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multifunctional productive systems based on native species management, a new paradigm that counters colonial worldviews, offer sustainable sources of food and materials while preserving biodiversity. Despite extensive discussions in herbaceous and agricultural systems, applying this concept to native forests in Northern Patagonia remains unclear. Multifunctional system implementation can be approached from a fractal perspective, with evaluations at the stand level being essential for understanding ecological processes across scales. Here, we exemplify research and management for multiple native species, integrating results from 10 years of field experiments on the impacts of biomass harvesting intensity (HI) on nine Nature's Contributions to People (NCPs), including habitat creation, pollination, soil formation, hazard regulation, prevention of invasions, and provision of energy, food, materials, and options. Our findings reveal that some regulating NCPs peak with null HI, while certain material and regulating NCPs maximize at the highest HI. Low to intermediate HI (30-50%) show a more balanced provision of all NCPs. Our results suggest that some biomass extraction is necessary to enhance most NCPs, emphasizing the importance of balancing material provisioning and biodiversity conservation in management schemes. We propose future directions for designing multifunctional forest systems, advocating for low-density plantation of native tree species with high wood quality within the natural forest matrix. This approach may yield higher NCPs levels over time compared to the current cattle breeding and wood extraction system, with implications beyond Patagonia, considering historical associations of such practices with colonial worldviews globally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this paper was to review the genetic diversities and selection signatures in economical important traits of Ethiopian indigenous cattle. This allows obtaining rapid genetic gain, predicting genomic potential and developing conservation strategies. A genetic variation among Ethiopian breeds ranging from 0.1 to 4.55% and a within variation of 95.45 to 99.9% was reported by various scholars. About 3.51% differentiation between Boran and Fogera from Begait and 2.82% differentiation of Boran from Fogera and Begait was reported. Even though the observed and expected heterozygosity values among Ethiopian cattle population was lower, research reports shown considerably higher values ranging from 0.638±0.015 in Boran and 0.714±0.022 in Raya-Azebo to 0.700± 0.014 in Ambo and 0.735±0.017 in Sheko. Genes responsible for heat tolerance, control of metabolic disease, immunity genes, high altitude and low altitude adaptation were reported in Ethiopian cattle breeds. In African indicus and European taurian cattle different genes responsible for milk production, milk fat yield and synthesis and milk composition, were reported. Genes associated with milk traits; fertility and reproduction genes were also reported in Ethiopian cattle. The presence of high within breed variation in Ethiopian cattle creates favorable conditions for further improvement through selection. Beyond identifying candidate potential genes, a detailed study targeting genomic prediction of milk yield and genomic inbreeding had better be done, which allows getting information to optimize and speed up the breeding programs and genetic improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sowing date of maize significantly impacts its main yield elements. The experiment, conducted at the Research and Development Station for Cattle Breeding (R.D.S.C.B.) Târgu Mureș, Sângeorgiu de Mureș, România, from 2018 to 2021, involved nine maize hybrids from different maturity groups, sown on three dates: early sowing (ES) at 6 °C soil temperature, optimal sowing (OS) at 10 °C soil temperature, and late sowing (LS) two weeks after the optimal date. The experiment was placed in a poly-factorial experience of type: A × B × C × C − R: 3 × 9 × 4 − 3, organized according to the subdivided plots method. The study examined the influence of sowing date on grain yield (GY), thousand-kernel weight (TKW), test weight (TW), percentage of grains per cob (% G/C), and grain humidity at harvest (GHH). The results indicated that yield was not negatively impacted by early or late sowing compared to the optimal date, with differences of 52 kg ha−1 between ES and OS, 147 kg ha−1 between ES and LS, and 95 kg ha−1 between OS and LS. ES increased TW (723.4 kg hl−1) and % G/C (86.7%), but reduced GY (13,377 kg ha−1), TKW (335.3 g), and GHH (19.5%). Conversely, LS positively influenced GY (13,524 kg ha−1), TKW (356.7 g), and GHH (23.9%), but negatively affected TW (692.8 kg hl−1) and % G/C (84.9%). Yield data obtained by P9900 and Kapitolis hybrids suggest that they are suitable for early sowing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluates the utilization of in vitro embryo production (IVEP) technology for the conservation and breeding of the Auliekol cattle breed, a primary beef breed in Kazakhstan facing population decline due to the cessation of breeding programs and the incursion of transboundary diseases. We assessed the effect of consecutive ovum pick-up (OPU) procedures on oocyte yield and embryo production in Auliekol and Aberdeen Angus cows. A total of 2232 and 3659 oocytes were aspirated from Auliekol and Aberdeen Angus donors, respectively, with significantly higher yields and embryo production observed in Aberdeen Angus cows. The application of a meiotic block using Butyrolactone I (BLI) and subsequent in vitro fertilization (IVF) protocols was employed, with embryo development monitored up to the morula/blastocyst stage. Results indicated that Auliekol cows exhibited lower oocyte recovery, cleavage, and blastocyst rates compared to Aberdeen Angus cows, likely due to genetic characteristics. Despite the challenges, IVEP presents a valuable tool for the preservation and future propagation of the Auliekol breed, highlighting the need for further research to enhance reproductive outcomes and conservation strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Despite the widespread adoption of TMR or PMR and the formulas designed to sufficiently cover the cows' requirements, individual dairy cows' milk production varies significantly. The liver is one of the most important organs in cow lactation metabolism and plays an essential role in the initiation of lactation. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the potential key genes in the liver contributing to the different milk production. Methods: We enrolled 64 cows and assigned them to high or low milk yield (MY) groups according to their first 3 weeks of milk production. We performed RNAseq for 35 liver samples with 18 from prepartum and 17 from postpartum cows. Results: The continuous milk yield observation showed a persistently higher milk yield in high MY cows than low MY cows in the first 3 weeks. High MY cows showed better feed conversion efficiency. We identified 795 differentially expressed genes (DGEs) in the liver of high MY cows compared with low MY cows, with up-regulated genes linked to morphogenesis and development pathways. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) revealed four gene modules positively correlating with milk yield, and protein and lactose yield (p < 0.05). Using the intersected genes between the four gene modules and DEGs, we constructed the linear mixed-effects models and identified six hub genes positively associated and two hub genes negatively associated with milk yield (Coefficients > 0.25, p < 0.05). Random forest machine learning model training based on these eight hub genes could efficiently predict the milk yield (p < 0.001, R2 = 0.946). Interestingly, the expression patterns of these eight hub genes remained remarkably similar before and after parturition. Conclusions: The present study indicated the critical role of liver in milk production. Activated processes involved in morphogenesis and development in liver may contribute to the higher milk production. Eight hub genes identified in this study may provide genetic research materials for dairy cow breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(1) Background: Target capture sequencing (TCS) is potentially a cost-effective way to detect single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and an alternative to SNP array-based genotyping. (2) Methods: We evaluated the effectiveness and reliability of TCS in cattle breeding scenarios using 48 female and 8 male samples. DNA was extracted from blood samples, targeted for 71,746 SNPs with TWIST probes, and sequenced on an MGI platform. GATK and BCFtools were evaluated for the best genotyping calling tool. The genotypes were compared to existing genotypes from the Versa50K SNP array of the same animals by measuring accuracy as concordance (%) and R2. (3) Results: In this study, 71,553 SNPs and 166 indels were identified. The genotype comparison of 37,130 common SNPs between TCS and SNP arrays yielded high agreement, with a mean concordance of 98%, R2 of 0.98 and Cohen's kappa of 0.97. The concordances of sex prediction, parent verification and validation of five genotype markers of interest important for Wagyu breeding were 100% between TCS and SNP array. The elements of the genomic relationship matrix (GRM) constructed from the SNP array and TCS data demonstrated a correlation coefficient approaching unity (r = 0.9998). (4) Conclusions: Compared to the SNP array, TCS is a comparable, cost-effective and flexible platform for genotyping SNPs, including non-model organisms and underrepresented commercial animal populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(1) Background: Mengshan cattle from the Yimeng mountainous region in China stand out as a unique genetic resource, known for their adaptive traits and environmental resilience. However, these cattle are currently endangered and comprehensive genomic characterization remains largely unexplored. This study aims to address this gap by investigating the genomic features and selection signals in Mengshan cattle. (2) Methods: Utilizing whole-genome resequencing data from 122 cattle, including 37 newly sequenced Mengshan cattle, we investigated population structure, genetic diversity, and selection signals. (3) Results: Our analyses revealed that current Mengshan cattle primarily exhibit European taurine cattle ancestry, with distinct genetic characteristics indicative of adaptive traits. We identified candidate genes associated with immune response, growth traits, meat quality, and neurodevelopment, shedding light on the genomic features underlying the unique attributes of Mengshan cattle. Enrichment analysis highlighted pathways related to insulin secretion, calcium signaling, and dopamine synapse, further elucidating the genetic basis of their phenotypic traits. (4) Conclusions: Our results provide valuable insights for further research and conservation efforts aimed at preserving this endangered genetic resource. This study enhances the understanding of population genetics and underscores the importance of genomic research in informing genetic resources and conservation initiatives for indigenous cattle breeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study was conducted on the species diversity of ectoparasites of cattle, sheep, and goats in the Northern and Central zones of Ebonyi State, Southeastern Nigeria. A total of 710 livestock (280 cattle, 200 sheep, and 230 goats) were examined in the two zones using standard entomological methods and a half-body tick count technique to determine the whole-body tick burden. The results showed that out of 440 animals in Ebonyi, 336 (76.3%) were infected, and out of 270 animals in Ebonyi Central, 234 (86.6%) were infected. The Ectoparasite infestation showed that 170 (85.0%) white Fulani cattle, 63 (31.5%) sheep, and 103 goats (51.5 %) were infested with different species of ectoparasites. A total of 709 visible individual ectoparasites were collected from the northern Ebonyi area. Hyalomma dromedarii 188 (26.5%) had the highest number of counts, whereas, in Ebonyi central, 171 ticks were collected from local breed cattle. Ambylomma variegatum 59 (34.5%) had the highest number of counts. Rhipicephalus appendiculatum had the highest diversity (1.60) in Ebonyi North, whereas Ambylomma variegatum and Ambylomma hebraeum shared similar diversity (1.37) in Ebonyi Central. The results obtained from this study helped in determining the ectoparasite species abundance in this area and were added to the entomological database which will help in the control of ectoparasites and tick-borne diseases of livestock in Nigeria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The production of kilograms of weaned calf per cow is a variable that depends on multiple factors, with fertility being a determining factor in the final result. When a greater proportion of females are pregnant and more pregnancies are obtained in the first month of breading season, the number of kilograms of calf weaned at a fixed date per cow included in the breeding season is greater. FTAI allows to increase the kilograms of weaned calves due to the shortening of the average interval between the beginning of breading season and conception, the increase in pregnancy percentage and the impact in the genetic improvement achieved through AI on weaning weight. The objective of this work is to compare, using simulation models, the productive impact of the implementation of a FTAI protocol in two cow-calf systems with different levels of cyclicity at the beginning of the service (50 vs 20%) and in the same farm with a low level of cyclicity at the beginning of the service (20%) with two criteria for including animals in the protocol. The productivity benefits achieved by the application of FTAI according to the simulation model were 34.7 kilos and 17.3 kilos for the conditions of 20% and 50% of cyclicity, respectively. This increase represents between 11 and 22% of the average weight at weaning compare to the NS strategy. In cases of initial cyclicity of 20%, the difference in kilos of weaned calf per cow between including all animals regardless of cyclicity vs including 70% of cyclic and in superficial anestrus, excluding those in deep anestrus, was 4.5 kg per cow. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Calving interval data by the National Association of Hungarian Holstein Friesian Breeders in Hungary were processed. According to our results the relatively low proportion of genetic variances indicates that the selection of Holstein-Friesian cattle for reproductive traits (such as calving interval) may render low magnitudes and long-term responses. Nevertheless, the economic importance of these traits should not be overlooked. Our results on genetic trends, according to which the average calving interval decreased a little during the examined period, suggest that, despite the relatively low genetic determination, it is possible to achieve some improvement in reproductive traits. Calving interval (CI) data (N = 37,263) from 17,319 cows born 2008–2018 in six herds were assessed. The data were made available by the National Association of Hungarian Holstein Friesian Breeders in Hungary. The effects of some genetic and environmental factors, population genetic parameters, breeding value (BV) of sires, and phenotypic and genetic trends of the CI were estimated. The GLM method was used for studying different effects on the CI. BLUP animal model was used for heritability (h2) and BV estimation. Linear regression analyses were applied for the trend calculation. The mean of the CI was 412.2 ± 2.0 days. The h2 of the CI proved to be low (0.07 ± 0.01 and 0.08 ± 0.01). There were relatively high differences among the sires in the estimated BV. Based on the phenotypic trend calculation, the CI of cows showed decreasing direction by an average of 1.80 days per year (R2 = 0.94; p < 0.01). In the case of genetic trend calculation, the average BV of sires in the CI has decreased −4.94 and −0.31 days per year (R2 = 0.91 and 0.41; p < 0.01). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The list of standard abbreviations for JDS is available at adsa.org/jds-abbreviations-24. Nonstandard abbreviations are available in the Notes. Cow–calf contact (CCC) rearing is becoming an increasingly popular alternative to the common practice of early separation of cow and calf in dairy management. Milkability can be impaired in nursing cows, which contributes to the loss of machine milk yield caused by calf intake, especially in pure dam–calf contact (DCC) systems. The aims of this study were (1) to describe the current status quo of DCC rearing regarding management and milking and (2) to evaluate the effects of DCC (suckling and milking vs. milking alone) and the effects of different types of DCC on milkability parameters, teat condition, and behavior during milking on Swiss DCC farms. By means of 17 telephone interviews with DCC farmers, we collected data on DCC management, housing, separation and weaning processes, milking procedures and techniques, and perceived milkability problems. Subsequently, we collected data on 10 of the interviewed DCC farms (183 cows): 4 DCC farms with a whole-day contact (WDC) system, 3 farms with DCC before milking (CBM), and 3 farms with DCC after milking (CAM). Five farms on which calves had no contact with dams were chosen as reference farms (178 cows). Using a milk flow meter, the occurrence of ejection disorders, bimodality of the milk flow curve, machine milk yield, duration of the decline phase, and duration of prestimulation were measured. The average mouthpiece chamber vacuum during the main milking phase and hind leg activity during milking were measured using a pressure sensor and an accelerometer, respectively. After cluster removal, the teat condition was evaluated, and a stripping milk sample was taken for fat content analysis. The interview results revealed that 8 of the 17 farms surveyed had a WDC system, and 2 farms operated a daytime DCC system. Contact before milking was applied by 3 farms, and 3 farms allowed CAM. On one farm, calves had access to dams 3 times a day. A great diversity in cow–calf management was found. In the on-farm data collection, 20 milkings of a total of 701 milkings examined met the criteria for a clear ejection disorder, with 17 of these observations occurring on WDC farms and none on reference farms. The stripping milk fat content was lower in nursing cows, indicating a lower degree of udder emptying. Machine milk yield was higher in nursing CAM cows than in nursing WDC and CBM cows. Farm types did not differ regarding teat condition, hind leg activity, or the occurrence of bimodal milk flow curves. In conclusion, the large variation in individual management approaches to DCC rearing even within DCC types, such as calf housing or cow breeds, implies caution when interpreting results. Contact after milking may be the system most beneficial for some productivity parameters, but adequate calf supply must be ensured. Higher amounts of milk remaining in the udder after cluster removal indicate that nursing can affect milkability, but future research should consider the effects of udder filling before milking to better interpret the fat content of stripping milk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The list of standard abbreviations for JDS is available at adsa.org/jds-abbreviations-24. Nonstandard abbreviations are available in the Notes. The objective of this study was to determine the potential effect and interaction of 3-nitrooxypropanol (3-NOP; Bovaer, DSM-Firmenich Nutrition Products Ltd.) and whole cottonseed (WCS) on lactational performance and enteric methane (CH 4) emission of dairy cows. A total of 16 multiparous cows, including 8 Holstein Friesian (HF) and 8 Brown Swiss (BS; 224 ± 36 DIM, 26 ± 3.7 kg milk yield, mean ± SD), were used in a split-plot design, where the main plot was the breed of cows. Within each subplot, cows were randomly assigned to a treatment sequence in a replicated 4 × 4 Latin square design with 2 × 2 factorial arrangements of treatments with four 24-d periods. The experimental treatments were as follows: (1) control (basal TMR), (2) 3-NOP (60 mg/kg TMR DM), (3) WCS (5% TMR DM), and (4) 3-NOP + WCS. The treatment diets were balanced for ether extract, crude protein, and NDF contents (4%, 16%, and 43% of TMR DM, respectively). The basal diets were fed twice daily at 0800 and 1800 h. Dry matter intake and milk yield were measured daily, and enteric gas emissions were measured (using the GreenFeed System, C-Lock Inc.) during the last 3 d of each 24-d experimental period when animals were housed in tiestalls. There was no difference in DMI on treatment level, whereas the WCS treatment increased ECM yield and milk fat yield. No interaction of 3-NOP and WCS occurred for any of the enteric gas emission parameters, but 3-NOP decreased CH 4 production (g/d), CH 4 yield (g/kg DMI), and CH 4 intensity (g/kg ECM) by 13%, 14%, and 13%, respectively. Further, an unexpected interaction of breed by 3-NOP was observed for different enteric CH 4 emission metrics: HF cows had a greater CH 4 mitigation effect compared with BS cows for CH 4 production (g/d; 18% vs. 8%), CH 4 intensity (g/kg milk yield; 19% vs. 3%), and CH 4 intensity (g/kg ECM; 19% vs. 4%). Hydrogen production was increased by 2.85-fold in HF and 1.53-fold in BS cows receiving 3-NOP. Further, a 3-NOP × time interaction occurred for both breeds. In BS cows, 3-NOP tended to reduce CH 4 production by 18% at approximately 4 h after morning feeding, but no effect was observed at other time points. In HF cows, the greatest mitigation effect of 3-NOP (29.6%) was observed immediately after morning feeding, and it persisted at around 23% to 26% for 10 h until the second feed provision, and 3 h thereafter, in the evening. In conclusion, supplementing 3-NOP at 60 mg/kg DM to a high-fiber diet resulted in 18% to 19% reduction in enteric CH 4 emission in Swiss HF cows. The lower response to 3-NOP by BS cows was unexpected and has not been observed in other studies. These results should be interpreted with caution due to the low number of cows per breed. Finally, supplementing WCS at 5% of DM improved ECM and milk fat yield but did not enhance the CH 4 inhibition effect of 3-NOP of dairy cows. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The list of standard abbreviations for JDS is available at adsa.org/jds-abbreviations-24. Nonstandard abbreviations are available in the Notes. Connections between the 2 scientific fields of physiology and dairy science have existed for a very long time—since the 19th century. One possible explanation for this circumstance could have been the necessity for financial support, which might have played a significant role for many theoretical physiologists to conduct studies on dairy products. This study discusses a correspondence written by the physiologist R. Gscheidlen to J. A. Winter, the main editor of the German (previously Saxon) journal "Schmidt's Yearbooks on the Entire Field of Domestic and Foreign Medicine" ("Schmids Jahrbücher der in–und ausländischen gesammten Medicin"). Gscheidlen submitted a review manuscript on the composition of milk to Winter's journal. In that work, which was published later as the first issue's very first article of the first volume (of in total 4 quarterly volumes) in 1871, Gscheidlen mainly refers to Eduard Kemmerich, who later became a pioneer of cattle breeding in Argentine. Therefore, studies on dairy products and on dairy science, although regularly not very significant from a theoretical and physiological point of view, obviously had concrete implications for practical purposes. Furthermore, other parts of Winter's journal, volume 1871, indicate that Gscheidlen tried to connect these studies with his early theoretical works on physiological metabolism. These theoretical studies included experiments that already explored basic principles of the urea cycle from today's point of view. Of course, these works, which were partly carried out on animals, must have been extravagant and expensive. For that reason, it is possible to assume that early dairy science and other scientific fields in Germany around 1870, which were linked to the developing food industry, had a very significant influence on the advances in theoretical metabolism physiology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study seeks a comprehensive exploration of genome-wide selective processes impacting morphometric traits across diverse cattle breeds, utilizing an array of statistical methods. Morphometric traits, encompassing both qualitative and quantitative variables, play a pivotal role in characterizing and selecting livestock breeds based on their external appearance, size, and physical attributes. While qualitative traits, such as color, horn structure, and coat type, contribute to adaptive features and breed identification, quantitative traits like body weight and conformation measurements bear a closer correlation with production characteristics. This study employs advanced genotyping technologies, including the Illumina BovineSNP50 Bead Chip and next-generation sequencing methods like Reduced Representation sequencing, to identify genomic signatures associated with these traits. We applied four intra-population methods to find evidence of selection, such as Tajima's D, CLR, iHS, and ROH. We found a total of 40 genes under the selection signature, that were associated with morphometric traits in five cattle breeds (Kankrej, Tharparkar, Nelore, Sahiwal, and Gir). Crucial genes such as ADIPDQ, DPP6, INSIG1, SLC35D2 in Kankrej, LPL, ATP6V1B2, CDC14B in Tharparkar, HPSE2, PLAG1 in Nelore, PCSK1, PRKD1 in Sahiwal, and GNAQ, HPCAL1 in Gir were identified in our study. This approach provides valuable insights into the genetic basis of variations in body weight and conformation traits, facilitating informed selection processes and offering a deeper understanding of the evolutionary and domestication processes in diverse cattle breeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aneuploidy is a genetic condition characterized by the loss or gain of one or more chromosomes. Aneuploidy affecting the sex chromosomes can lead to infertility in otherwise externally phenotypically normal cattle. Early identification of cattle with sex chromosomal aneuploidy is important to minimize the costs associated with rearing infertile cattle and futile breeding attempts. As most livestock breeding programs routinely genotype their breeding populations using single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) arrays, this study aimed to assess the feasibility of integrating an aneuploidy screening tool into the existing pipelines that handle dense SNP genotype data. A further objective was to estimate the prevalence of sex chromosome aneuploidy in a population of 146,431 juvenile cattle using available genotype intensity data. Three genotype intensity statistics were used: the LogR Ratio (LRR), R‐value (the sum of X and Y SNP probe intensities), and B‐allele frequency (BAF) measurements. Within the female‐verified population of 124,958 individuals, the estimated prevalence rate was 0.0048% for XO, 0.0350% for XXX, and 0.0004% for XXY. The prevalence of XXY in the male‐verified population was 0.0870% (i.e., 18 out of 20,670 males). Cytogenetic testing was used to verify 2 of the XXX females who were still alive. The proposed approach can be readily integrated into existing genomic pipelines, serving as an efficient, large‐scale screening tool for aneuploidy. Its implementation could enable the early identification of infertile animals with sex‐chromosome aneuploidy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

Simple Summary: This study proposes an automatic classification system for determining body condition score in dairy cows using a deep learning architecture. An original dataset was created by categorizing images of different breeds from different farms into five body condition score classes: Emaciated, Poor, Good, Fat, and Obese. In the experimental analysis, the proposed deep learning model accurately classified 102 out of 126 cow images in the test set, achieving an average accuracy of 0.81 for all classes in Holstein and Simmental cows and an average area under the precision–recall curve of 0.87. The proposed body condition score classification system can help to accurately monitor rapid declines in body condition in dairy cows and serve as a tool for production decision-makers to reduce negative energy balance during early lactation. Body condition score (BCS) is a common tool used to assess the welfare of dairy cows and is based on scoring animals according to their external appearance. If the BCS of dairy cows deviates from the required value, it can lead to diseases caused by metabolic problems in the animal, increased medication costs, low productivity, and even the loss of dairy cows. BCS scores for dairy cows on farms are mostly determined by observation based on expert knowledge and experience. This study proposes an automatic classification system for BCS determination in dairy cows using the YOLOv8x deep learning architecture. In this study, firstly, an original dataset was prepared by dividing the BCS scale into five different classes of Emaciated, Poor, Good, Fat, and Obese for images of Holstein and Simmental cow breeds collected from different farms. In the experimental analyses performed on the dataset prepared in this study, the BCS values of 102 out of a total of 126 cow images in the test set were correctly classified using the proposed YOLOv8x deep learning architecture. Furthermore, an average accuracy of 0.81 was achieved for all BCS classes in Holstein and Simmental cows. In addition, the average area under the precision–recall curve was 0.87. In conclusion, the BCS classification system for dairy cows proposed in this study may allow for the accurate observation of animals with rapid declines in body condition. In addition, the BCS classification system can be used as a tool for production decision-makers in early lactation to reduce the negative energy balance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The clinical implications of Theileria sp. Yokoyama, a recently identified Theileria species in cattle, remain uncertain. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the anemia status in cattle infected with Theileria sp. Yokoyama. Blood samples were collected from 206 cattle across seven Veterinary Ranges in Sri Lanka and analyzed for red blood cell (RBC) indices, including hemoglobin concentration, hematocrit, and RBC counts. Additionally, DNA was extracted from the samples and screened with a newly developed Theileria sp. Yokoyama-specific PCR assay targeting the cytochrome b gene. The PCR results revealed that 60 (29.1%) of the surveyed cattle tested positive for Theileria sp. Yokoyama, with 47 (78.3%) of them being co-infected with other hemopathogen species. Our findings revealed that the cattle breeds, management systems, and tick infestations are potential risk factors for the Theileria sp. Yokoyama infection. Next, we evaluated the anemia status among the surveyed cattle based on the RBC indices. We found that all non-infected cattle were non-anemic. By contrast, anemia was observed in 15 Theileria sp. Yokoyama-infected cattle, including 3 singly infected (anemia rate 3/13, 23.1%) and 12 co-infected cattle (12/47, 25.5%). Our findings suggest that Theileria sp. Yokoyama causes anemia in infected cattle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article is devoted to the development of traditional cattle breeding of the Kalmyks at the beginning of the XIX century. Based on the instructions of commanders on the Caucasian line and civil governors to provide information on the state of cattle breeding among nomadic peoples. Information is given on the state of Kalmyk cattle breeding (on the dynamics of prices for cattle and cattle products in the ulus, etc.). It should be noted that the increase in the number of sheep in comparison with other types of livestock indirectly indicates the transition to semi-sedentary cattle breeding due to the fact that small cattle, unlike large ones, are incapable of long transitions. In addition, depending on the natural and climatic conditions, Kalmyk cattle breeding acquired subethnic specificity when the economy of Derbet and Torgut ulus began to differ in the predominance of horses among some and sheep among others. At the same time, judging by the figures, some Aimags maintained a nomadic lifestyle, and some led a semi-nomadic lifestyle, which is clearly seen by the number of camels belonging to those clans that still roamed. A striking indicator of the departure from a nomadic lifestyle to semi-sedentary and sedentary is the increase in the goat population in the personal household of Major Tyumen Jirgalan. The article also discusses the issues of the species composition of Kalmyk cattle on the example of the Torgut ulus in the early 19th century. The Russian government was interested not only in the number of Kalmyk cattle, but also in their loss (death) due to the harsh conditions of the nomads’ natural habitat, despite the fact that local livestock breeds were maximally adapted to the difficult natural and climatic conditions of the arid territory. The Russian government was also interested in this information, so that it would be clear how much the number of Kalmyk cattle could decrease in the event of a particularly unfavorable winter or epizootic.

Archaeozoological studies, carried out according to the methodological scheme of the Institute of Archaeology of the Russian Academy of Sciences, analyzed collections of animal bone remains from excavations of nine cities and six rural settlements of the Golden Horde state. The main finds in these collections were bones of domestic ungulates with traces of meat cutting. The study found that the main meat product for residents of cities and settlements was beef; lamb and horse meat played a significantly smaller role in meat menu. Cow and bull hides were the main export goods of the Golden Horde, so cattle were bred in large numbers in rural settlements. The role of nomads in the economy of the state was revealed by the analysis of bone finds, discovered in cities in craft districts. In bone accumulations the set of species is common, but the leading role in the osteological spectrum belonged to small cattle. The anatomical set recorded a large number of individual bones from large and small cattle, which is possible only with mass slaughter of cattle. In one of the clusters, the fact of slaughtering horses for hides was established. In the economy of the Golden Horde, nomads played the role of suppliers of their animals to the cities - sheep and horses periodically and mainly for the production of hides.

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

Global warming is a major challenge to the sustainable and humane production of food because of the increased risk of livestock to heat stress. Here, the example of the prolactin receptor (PRLR) gene is used to demonstrate how gene editing can increase the resistance of cattle to heat stress by the introduction of mutations conferring thermotolerance. Several cattle populations in South and Central America possess natural mutations in PRLR that result in affected animals having short hair and being thermotolerant. CRISPR/Cas9 technology was used to introduce variants of PRLR in two thermosensitive breeds of cattle – Angus and Jersey. Gene‐edited animals exhibited superior ability to regulate vaginal temperature (heifers) and rectal temperature (bulls) compared to animals that were not gene‐edited. Moreover, gene‐edited animals exhibited superior growth characteristics and had larger scrotal circumference. There was no evidence for deleterious effects of the mutation on carcass characteristics or male reproductive function. These results indicate the potential for reducing heat stress in relevant environments to enhance cattle productivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The list of standard abbreviations for JDS is available at adsa.org/jds-abbreviations-24. Nonstandard abbreviations are available in the Notes. The performance of an adult dairy cow may be influenced by events that occur before her birth. The present study investigated the potential effects of 2 prenatal groups of factors, assisted reproductive technologies and maternal characteristics (e.g., dam parity), on offspring performance during their first lactation in populations of 2 dairy cow breeds: French Holstein and Montbéliarde. The different assisted reproductive technologies studied included the type of semen (conventional or X-sorted) used for AI and the technology of conception used (AI, embryo transfer, or in vitro fertilization). Three maternal characteristics were considered: (1) the dam age at first calving, (2) dam parity number, and (3) indicators of dam udder health during gestation (SCS and events of clinical mastitis). First, we investigated whether heifer survival from 3 d to 18 mo old was associated with any of the prenatal factors considered. We then estimated the associations of these prenatal factors with 8 traits of commercial interest: (1) stature, (2–4) milk, fat, and protein yields, (5) SCS, (6) clinical mastitis, and (7–8) heifer and cow conception rate, all measured on genotyped cows. Linear models were used for this study with the prenatal factors as covariates in the model, and for the 8 traits, phenotypes were adjusted for their corresponding genomic EBV. The results indicated that the survival rate of heifers born from embryo transfer was significantly higher than that of heifers born from AI (probably due to preferential management practices), and the other prenatal factors did not explain large differences in heifer survival. Among the Montbéliarde cows born from AI, those born from X-sorted semen showed a lightly but significantly lower milk yield than those born without X-sorting of the semen (−52 kg of milk in the first lactation). Among the Holstein cows, those born from embryo transfer presented significantly lower milk performance than cows born from AI. Regarding the maternal characteristics, none or very weak associations were found between the dam age at first calving and the offspring performance in both breeds. Dam parity, on the other hand, was associated with offspring performance for milk, fat, and protein yield in both breeds, but not in the same direction. In the Holstein breed, an increase in dam parity was favorable for offspring performance for milk, fat, and protein yield, whereas in the Montbéliarde breed, an increase in dam parity was associated with lower milk and protein yield and no association was found for fat yield. The udder health of the dam during gestation was not or only weakly associated with the traits studied in the offspring. Although some significant associations were identified due to the large sample size, the effects were modest, typically less than 1% of the phenotypic mean, and were not consistently observed across the 2 breeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The list of standard abbreviations for JDS is available at adsa.org/jds-abbreviations-24. Nonstandard abbreviations are available in the Notes. Antimicrobial use (AMU) in Switzerland is above target and requires reduction, especially in dairy cattle. Measuring AMU is pivotal to identifying starting points for AMU reduction, and so are studies investigating its potential drivers in dairy farms worldwide. However, although AMU in dairy farms is high, studies estimating AMU specifically in tiestall farms are scarce. Tiestalls are a common housing system and their prevalence among dairy farms accounts to approximatively 73%, 41%, and 40% in Canada, the United States, and Switzerland, respectively. The objectives of this cross-sectional, retrospective observational study were to estimate AMU using the newly established Swiss national reporting system for AMU in livestock and to identify associated factors on Swiss tiestall dairy farms. We calculated the treatment incidence (TI) by using the European Medicines Agency methodology and their defined daily dose (DDD) and defined course dose (DCD) standards. Data on factors potentially associated with AMU were obtained through personal interviews with farm managers on 221 farms. Retrospectively, during a 1-year period, data on a total of 7,619 treatments were extracted from the national database. Associations between management factors and TI were analyzed using a generalized linear model with gamma distribution. The mean (± SD) overall TI was 5.46 DDD/cow-year (± 4.10 DDD/cow-year). Intramammary treatment during lactation accounted for highest TI (3.24 ± 3.16 DDD/cow-year), whereas dry-cow therapy accounted for lowest TI (0.44 ± 0.49 DCD/cow-year). We found that 5 of the investigated management factors were significantly associated with TI. Organic production (estimate = −2.16; 95% CI = −3.62 to −0.70) and herd size (estimate = −0.81; 95% CI = −1.23 to −0.39) were negatively associated with TI. Specific cow breeds (Brown Swiss estimate = 1.56; 95% CI = 0.45–2.68) and Holstein Friesian (estimate = 1.42; 95% CI = 0.03–2.82; reference: other breeds) and the use of hygienic powders on the lying area (estimate = 1.10; 95% CI = 0.04–2.17) were positively associated with TI. Overall, the Swiss national reporting system is a valuable tool for AMU estimation. Several herd characteristics and management factors were associated with AMU in tiestall farms. Further studies focusing on factors associated with AMU and which are amenable to intervention will help improve stewardship programs and subsequently reduce AMU in dairy cows. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: This study synthesizes reports on body conformation traits in dairy cows, emphasizing their importance in dairy farming. It elucidates the potential role of these traits in enhancing dairy cattle breeding programs by summarizing their genetic parameters and impact on size, conformation, production, health, and fitness. The review underscores the use of genome-wide association studies (GWAS), a powerful genetic tool that identifies specific genes and genomic regions influencing body conformation. By integrating global research on these genetic markers, the study offers valuable insights for advancing the selection and breeding of dairy cows, ultimately benefiting farmers and the dairy industry through more informed breeding strategies and improved herd quality. Body shape traits are very important and play a crucial role in the economic development of dairy farming. By improving the accuracy of selection for body size traits, we can enhance economic returns across the dairy industry and on farms, contributing to the future profitability of the dairy sector. Registered body conformation traits are reliable and cost-effective tools for use in national cattle breeding selection programs. These traits are significantly related to the production, longevity, mobility, health, fertility, and environmental adaptation of dairy cows. Therefore, they can be considered indirect indicators of economically important traits in dairy cows. Utilizing efficacious genetic methods, such as genome-wide association studies (GWASs), allows for a deeper understanding of the genetic architecture of complex traits through the identification and application of genetic markers. In the current review, we summarize information on candidate genes and genomic regions associated with body conformation traits in dairy cattle worldwide. The manuscript also reviews the importance of body conformation, the relationship between body conformation traits and other traits, heritability, influencing factors, and the genetics of body conformation traits. The information on candidate genes related to body conformation traits provided in this review may be helpful in selecting potential genetic markers for the genetic improvement of body conformation traits in dairy cattle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Simple Summary: This article studies runs of homozygosity (ROHs) across the genome using high-density single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) arrays for the structural and functional annotation of genes localized inside or in close proximity to selected sections of the genome of Aberdeen Angus cattle. The obtained results could serve as a foundation for future studies aimed at identifying the genes and markers required to determine the most significant productive traits of cattle. The data confirm the effect of targeted selection on increasing the height, body size, and live weight in the population of Aberdeen Angus cattle. A large number of cattle breeds have marked phenotypic differences. They are valuable models for studying genome evolution. ROH analysis can facilitate the discovery of genomic regions that may explain phenotypic differences between breeds affecting traits of economic importance. This paper investigates genome-wide ROH of 189 Aberdeen Angus bulls using the Illumina Bovine GGP HD Beadchip150K to structurally and functionally annotate genes located within or in close ROH of the Aberdeen Angus cattle genome. The method of sequential SNP detection was used to determine the ROH. Based on this parameter, two ROH classes were allocated. The total length of all ROH islands was 11,493 Mb. As a result of studying the genomic architecture of the experimental population of Aberdeen Angus bulls, nine ROH islands and 255 SNPs were identified. Thirteen of these overlapped with regions bearing 'selection imprints' previously identified in other breeds of cattle, and five of these regions were identified in other Aberdeen Angus populations. The total length of the ROH islands was 11,493 Mb. The size of individual islands ranged from 0.038 to 1.812 Mb. Structural annotation showed the presence of 87 genes within the identified ROH islets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Simple Summary: This study examines how breeding dairy cows with high immune response (HIR) sires affects their reproductive performance. We looked at factors like calving time, how long they stay open for insemination, and the ease of calving. We found that cows related to HIR sires tended to have shorter intervals between calving, which is good for farm productivity. However, there were also more cases of twin pregnancies and difficult births among these cows. This suggests that while there are some benefits to breeding with HIR sires, there are also potential challenges. Understanding these effects can help farmers make better decisions about breeding strategies, ultimately contributing to the efficiency and success of dairy farming. Reproductive traits in dairy cattle are crucial for herd productivity and profitability. This study investigates the influence of relatedness to high immune response (HIR) Immunity+ sires on reproductive performance indicators in Polish Holstein-Friesian cows. A total of 5094 cows were analyzed, categorized based on their relatedness to HIR Immunity+ sires, and assessed for various reproductive parameters, including age at first insemination, gestation length, days open, calving interval, and calving ease. The results showed that the level of relatedness to HIR Immunity+ sires influenced certain reproductive traits, such as service period, gestation length, and age at first and second calving. Additionally, cows related to HIR Immunity+ sires exhibited a higher frequency of twin pregnancies and more complicated births. While some benefits were observed in certain reproductive traits among cows related to HIR Immunity+ sires, such as reduced age at first insemination and shortened gestation length, the overall impact on reproductive efficiency remains inconclusive. Further studies are needed to fully elucidate the effects of using semen from HIR Immunity+ sires on reproductive performance in dairy cattle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An increasing trend in ancestral and classical inbreeding coefficients as well as inbreeding depression for longevity were found in the German Brown population. In addition, the proportion of US Brown Swiss genes is steadily increasing in German Browns. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to analyze the presence and genomic localization of runs of homozygosity (ROH) in order to evaluate their associations with the proportion of US Brown Swiss genes and survival rates of cows to higher lactations. Genotype data were sampled in 2364 German Browns from 258 herds. The final data set included 49,693 autosomal SNPs. We identified on average 35.996 ± 7.498 ROH per individual with a mean length of 8.323 ± 1.181 Mb. The genomic inbreeding coefficient FROH was 0.122 ± 0.032 and it decreased to 0.074, 0.031 and 0.006, when genomic homozygous segments > 8 Mb (FROH>8), >16 Mb (FROH>16) and >32 Mb (FROH>32) were considered. New inbreeding showed the highest correlation with FROH>32, whereas ancestral inbreeding coefficients had the lowest correlations with FROH>32. The correlation between the classical inbreeding coefficient and FROH was 0.572. We found significantly lower FROH, FROH>4, FROH>8 and FIS for US Brown Swiss proportions <60% compared to >80%. Cows surviving to the 2nd, 4th, 6th, 8th, and 10th lactation had lower genomic inbreeding for FROH and up to FROH>32, which was due to a lower number of ROH and a shorter average length of ROH. The strongest ROH island and consensus ROH shared by 50% of the animals was found on BTA 6 at 85–88 Mb. The genes located in this genomic region were associated with longevity (NPFFR2 and ADAMTS3), udder health and morphology (SLC4A4, NPFFR2, GC and RASSF6), milk production, milk protein percentage, coagulation properties of milk and milking speed (CSN3). On BTA 2, a ROH island was detected only in animals with <60% US Brown Swiss genes. Genes within this region are predominantly important for dual-purpose cattle breeds including Original Browns. For cows reaching more than 9 lactations, an exclusive ROH island was identified on BTA 7 with genes assumed to be associated with longevity. The analysis indicated that genomic homozygous regions important for Original Browns are still present and also ROH containing genes affecting longevity may have been identified. The breeding of German Browns should prevent any further increase in genomic inbreeding and run a breeding program with balanced weights on production, robustness and longevity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mastitis is a significant factor that decreases milk production in cows of different breeds in Kazakhstan. The objective of this study was to determine the genetic makeup of Holstein cows by analysing specific gene loci (SELL, MX1, CXCR1+291C>T and CXCR1+1093C>T) that are linked to resistance against mastitis. The goal was to identify cows with favourable genotypes that are less prone to udder diseases. At the SELL gene locus c.567T>C, all three genetic variants were identified in the control population with the respective frequencies: TT (0.20), CT (0.44), and CC (0.36). Genetic variation was also detected at the MX1 gene c.567T>C, CXCR1 c.+291C>T and CXCR1+1093C>T loci. Deviation from the expected Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium was observed for two gene loci, MX1 g.143182088 and CXCR1+1093C>T, with increased chi‐square values of 10.6261 and 9.7137, respectively. The analysis of subclinical mastitis incidence indicates that cows carrying the heterozygous CT genotype at the L‐selectin gene locus exhibit greater resistance to the disease. Animals carrying the CCCCCT genotype at the MX1 c.567T>C, CXCR1 c.+291C>T and CXCR1+1093C>T gene loci were discovered to have a significant likelihood of developing subclinical mastitis. This suggests that these genes could serve as potential indicators of susceptibility to the condition. The practical significance of this study lies in determining the frequency of genotypes linked to mammary gland morbidity in Holstein breeding farms in Kazakhstan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the ancient times, the Kazakhstan population were considered as nomadic people, where a cult of all types of cattle breeding had a leading position. However, currently the processing approaches of livestock slaughter wastes and secondary meat raw materials are weakly developed. The presented review of waste-free technologies considers the utilization processes of following: carcasses, skins, bones, meat scraps, blood, adipose tissue, horns, feet, hooves, and internal organs. These substances are an important source of animal protein, collagen, bioactive peptides, blood plasma, minerals, and fats that can be applied in various industries: food, feed, medical, and technological. When slaughtering livestock, meat on bones makes up almost half of the total weight of livestock, yet the remaining half contains offal and inedible raw materials. Blood consists of: erythrocytes, leukocytes, platelets, and plasma. Animal bones have mostly proteins (30-50%) and lipids (13-20%) from bone tissues. Tendons, bones and skins contain a large amount of collagen. Animal fat and adipose tissue have 54.9% saturated acids, 40.9% unsaturated fatty acids and 4.2% polyunsaturated fatty acids. Bioactive peptides from collagen derivatives contain from 2 to 20 amino acids and have various biological (antihypertensive, antioxidant, and antimicrobial) activity. This review considers a world current status, modern prospects and opportunities in the slaughter wastes and themeat by-products recycling technologies. Overview of existing approaches for waste processing with the subsequent use of the final product in the food industry, the production of feed, medicines and technical products is considered. The complete processing within the slaughtering livestock and the secondary meat raw materials allows to expand the wide-range products with a low prime cost, thereby promoting to the sustainable development of agroecology by applying the waste hierarchy: Reducing, Reusing, and Recycling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: This study examined the skull characteristics of Holstein and Simmental cattle to provide reference values for future research. We collected 54 skulls of young male cattle from Turkey to conduct 27 measurements and calculate eight indices. Holstein skulls tended to be longer, though not markedly, but they exhibited notably longer nasal bones and shorter skull lengths. Holsteins also had wider faces. A statistical analysis showed that overall size differences did not separate the breeds, but certain skull features did. Simmental skulls had higher basal index values and wider occipital regions, likely due to their larger skull size and weight, which provides more space for muscle attachment. Holsteins had more oval-shaped eye sockets, while Simmentals had wider, rounder ones. These findings help identify breed-specific traits and offer insights into how each breed's skull structure supports their functions. This knowledge is valuable for breeding and conservation, and future research should look into the genetic and environmental factors influencing these traits. This study aimed to reveal the morphological characteristics of pure Holstein and Simmental skulls and to obtain reference values for morphometric analysis. Moreover, 54 skulls from 12- to 14-month-old male Holstein (n = 25) and Simmental (n = 29) cattle were collected from Turkey's Southeastern Anatolia Region between 2023 and 2024. Linear measurements indicated that Holsteins had longer skulls compared to Simmentals. Holsteins exhibited significantly higher values for the greatest length of nasals and the shortest skull length. The facial breadth was wider in Holsteins and statistically distinctive between the breeds. Holsteins had a more oval orbital bony roof, while Simmentals exhibited a wider orbital structure. The orbital index was higher in Holsteins, distinguishing between the two breeds. It was observed that Simmental cattle had a wider occipital region. This difference is likely due to the larger lateral appearance of the Simmental skull, which has more body weight and provides a larger surface area for muscle attachment. These differences not only aid in breed identification but also offer insights into the functional adaptations of each breed. Future research should explore the genetic and environmental factors contributing to these morphological traits, further enriching our knowledge of cattle morphology and its implications for breeding and conservation efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Turano-Mongolian cattle breeds are known for adaptation to extreme environmental conditions and for outstanding production traits. The Buryat and Wagyu Turano-Mongolian breeds are characterised by adaptation to harsh climates and poor forage, and top-quality marbled meat, respectively. In our study, we explored the genomes of these breeds to learn about the selection underlying these traits. A set of scans for genetic signatures of selection using complementary approaches allowed us to reveal candidate genes and variants likely shaping the biology of Buryat and Wagyu breeds. These findings could help with livestock improvement efforts. Past and ongoing selection shapes the genomes of livestock breeds. Identifying such signatures of selection allows for uncovering the genetic bases of affected phenotypes, including economically important traits and environmental adaptations, for the further improvement of breed genetics to respond to climate and economic challenges. Turano-Mongolian cattle are a group of taurine breeds known for their adaptation to extreme environmental conditions and outstanding production performance. Buryat Turano-Mongolian cattle are among the few breeds adapted to cold climates and poor forage. Wagyu, on the other hand, is famous for high productivity and unique top-quality marbled meat. We used hapFLK, the de-correlated composite of multiple signals (DCMS), PBS, and FST methods to search for signatures of selection in their genomes. The scans revealed signals in genes related to cold adaptation (e.g., STAT3, DOCK5, GSTM3, and CXCL8) and food digestibility (SI) in the Buryat breed, and growth and development traits (e.g., RBFOX2 and SHOX2) and marbling (e.g., DGAT1, IQGAP2, RSRC1, and DIP2B) in Wagyu. Several putatively selected genes associated with reproduction, immunity, and resistance to pathogens were found in both breed genomes. The results of our work could be used for creating new productive adapted breeds or improving the extant breeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The intensification of livestock farming can pose risks to the environment due to the increased use of veterinary products and the generation of waste in confined areas. The quality of water bodies near livestock establishments (Areco River (A) and Doblado stream (D), San Antonio de Areco, Buenos Aires, Argentina) was studied by physicochemical parameters, metals, pesticides, emerging contaminants, and lethal and sublethal toxicity (neurotoxicity and oxidative stress) in larvae of the native amphibian Rhinella arenarum. Six sites were selected: upstream (S1A and S1D), at the level (S2A and S2D), and downstream (S3A and S3D) from the establishments. A low concentration of dissolved oxygen was observed in Doblado stream (< 2.34 mg/L). Cu, Mn, V, and Zn exceeded the limits for the protection of aquatic life at various sites. Between 24 and 34 pesticides were detected in all sites, with 2,4-D, atrazine, and metolachlor being the most recurrent. In water and sediment, the concentrations of ivermectin (S2A, 1.32 μg/L and 58.18 μg/kg; S2D, 0.8 μg/L and 85.22 μg/kg) and oxytetracycline (S2A, < 1 mg/L and < 1 mg/kg; S2D, 11.8 mg/L and 39 mg/kg) were higher at sites near the establishments. All sites caused between 30 and 38.3% of lethality and produced neurotoxicity and alterations in the reduced glutathione content. Moreover, larvae exposed to samples from all sites incorporated ivermectin. These results demonstrate the degradation of the studied sites in relation to the agricultural activities of the area, highlighting the need to take measures to protect and preserve aquatic ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The milk's nutritional value is determined by its constituents, including fat, protein, carbohydrates, and minerals. The mammary gland's ability to produce milk is controlled by a complex network of genes. Thereby, the fat, protein, and lactose synthesis must be boost in milk to increase milk production efficiency. This can be accomplished by fusing genetic advancements with proper management practices. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the association between the Lipoprotein lipase (LPL), kappa casein CSN3, and Glucose transporter 1 (GLUT1) genes expression levels and such milk components as fat, protein, and lactose in different dairy breeds during different stages of lactation. Methods: To achieve such a purpose, 94 milk samples were collected (72 samples from 36 multiparous black-white and red-white Holstein–Friesian (HF) cows and 22 milk samples from 11 Egyptian buffaloes) during the early and peak lactation stages. The milk samples were utilized for milk analysis and genes expressions analyses using non- invasive approach in obtaining milk fat globules (MFGs) as a source of Ribonucleic acid (RNA). Results: LPL and CSN3 genes expressions levels were found to be significantly higher in Egyptian buffalo than Holstein–Friesian (HF) cows as well as fat and protein percentages. On the other hand, GLUT1 gene expression level was shown to be significantly higher during peak lactation than early lactation. Moreover, lactose % showed a significant difference in peak lactation phase compared to early lactation phase. Also, fat and protein percentages were significantly higher in early lactation period than peak lactation period but lactose% showed the opposite pattern of Egyptian buffalo. Conclusion: Total RNA can be successfully obtained from MFGs. The results suggest that these genes play a role in glucose absorption and lactose synthesis in bovine mammary epithelial cells during lactation. Also, these results provide light on the differential expression of these genes among distinct Holstein–Friesian cow breeds and Egyptian buffalo subspecies throughout various lactation phases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The social category of family cattle ranching represents a significant reality in family farming and an important ally to sustainability in the Brazilian rural sector. This study proposed to evaluate the main sustainability indices of family cattle ranching in the Cerrado and Pampa biomes. A total of 60 interviews were conducted in three municipalities belonging to the respective biomes, and IDRS scores of 7.23 and 7.32 were found for the Cerrado and Pampa, respectively. Under these conditions, it can be stated that family cattle ranching is an activity with the potential to contribute to the sustainability of the rural landscape of the municipalities of Pedra Preta, Quaraí, and Santana do Livramento, in terms of the environmental regulations of each territory and, to some extent, the production and reproduction of families, in a context of category representation for Mato Grosso and Rio Grande do Sul. The research results revealed realities of difficulties, potentialities, differences, and similarities in the different biomes with respect to cattle ranching. Future studies are suggested using MADERUS in other different Brazilian rural social categories. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A multi-year analysis of the state of the livestock sector in the period before the outbreak of war in 2022 is important for the post-war recovery of Ukraine's regions. The purpose of the research was to identify the factors of losses in the production of livestock products, methods and means of integrated development. The generally accepted methods in zootechnology were followed, the study was conducted over a thirty-year period (1991-2021) in accordance with the stages of research work number: 0121U113933 of 18.11.2021. It was found that the number of cattle decreased by 8.4 times, and cows - by 5.2 times. Gross milk production decreased by 2.7 times, and beef and veal production - by 4.5 times. Improving the genetic potential of livestock, feeding, and housing contributed to an increase in cow productivity by 2,842 kg on average in the region and by 4,693 kg at the enterprises. As of 01.01.2021, 5 stud farms of the Ukrainian Black-and-White dairy breed were established with a population of 12,369 heads, including 4,647 cows, with a milk yield of 9,749 kg in 2020. The profitability of milk production in 2019 was 20.6%, while cattle breeding for meat was unprofitable (-27.1%). Many farms turn manure into compost and apply it to the soil for ploughing. Between 1991 and 2021, the Kharkiv region lost the potential of the dairy industry, the number of cattle decreased, with the largest decline in 1991-2001 (6.54 times). Milk production decreased by 2.7 times and beef and veal production by 4.5 times, with the main "drop" occurring between 1990 and 2010 (by 2.7 and 4.5 times respectively). The average annual milk yield per cow in the region from 1990 to 2020 increased by 2,840 kg and in 2020 amounted to 5,821 kg. Practical value: the article is the first to provide a long-term analysis of the state of the cattle breeding industry before the outbreak of hostilities in Ukraine, taking into account technological, organisational and economic aspects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The assessment of genetic diversity, population structure, as well as within and across breed relationships using DNA markers is essential to develop conservation and genetic improvement programs. Objective: To assess the genetic diversity and population structure of Criollo Lechero Tropical (CLT) and Romosinuano (ROMO) cattle breeds in Mexico and compare them with other Criollo and Spanish breeds. Methods: The study included CLT and ROMO genotypes from the 65k Axiom©BovMDv3 array. Genomic data of Criollo and Spanish breeds were retrieved from a repository. Genetic diversity across breeds was evaluated by pairwise Wright's FST, principal components, and structure analysis. Results: Observed and expected heterozygosity, inbreeding coefficient, and effective population size (Ne) were 0.31, 0.30, -0.018 and 56 in CLT, and 0.32, 0.31, -0.023 and 99 in ROMO, respectively. Wright's FST indicated that both breeds are related to American Criollo and some Spanish cattle. ROMO cattle showed more significant Spanish ancestry than CLT. Conclusions: This study presents novel evidence indicating that, although the Ne of these breeds is small, they are still diverse and can be used as genetic reservoirs in conservation programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Türkiye is exposed to international animal and semen movements. For this reason, Türkiye is very affected by diseases and hereditary disorders. State Farms is a state organization that raises and distributes breeding cattle. This study was aimed at investigating the presence and distribution of mutant alleles causing cholesterol deficiency (CD) disorder in Holstein cattle on state farms. For this purpose, blood and sperm samples were collected from 466 Holstein cattle. The real-time PCR method was used for genotyping. A total of seven cattle were found to be heterozygous. The frequency of the mutant allele was determined to be 0.75%. The kinship of four cattle carrying the mutant allele with Mauglin Storm, the bull in which this disease was first detected, was determined. The presence of cattle carrying the mutant allele in Türkiye is quite low compared to other countries. The Apolipoprotein-B (APOB) mutant allele was found at low frequencies and detected for the first time at the State Farms in Türkiye. Therefore, it is necessary to develop control programs by screening other Holstein herds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For beef semen usage on dairy cows, much of the research has focused on the performance of the crossbred calves, yet little focus has been given to the subsequent performance of the cow herself. This study aimed to evaluate the performance of dairy cows for milk yield, fertility, and survival traits after giving birth to beef × dairy crossbred calves and compare this with the performance after giving birth to purebred dairy calves. Further, we aimed to study if the effect of a difficult calving was the same regardless of whether the calf was purebred dairy or beef × dairy crossbred. Phenotypic records from 587,288 calving events from 1997 to 2020 were collected from the Swedish milk recording system from cows of the dairy breeds Swedish Red (SR) and Swedish Holstein. The sire beef breeds studied were Aberdeen Angus, Hereford (combined in category LHT), Charolais, Limousin, and Simmental (category HVY). Sixteen traits were defined and grouped in 3 categories: cumulative and 305-d milk, fat, and protein yield, daily milk yield, and 75-d milk yield as yield traits; calving to first insemination interval, calving to last insemination interval, first to last insemination interval, calving interval, and number of inseminations as fertility traits; and survival to 75 d or to next calving and lactation length as measures of survival. The data were analyzed for all traits for first and second parities separately using mixed linear models, with a focus on the estimates of cow breed by service sire breed combinations. All traits in parity 2 were adjusted for previous 305-d milk yield based on the expectation that low-yielding cows would more likely to be inseminated with beef semen. Overall, milk yield was lower after beef × dairy calvings compared with the purebred dairy calvings. The largest effects were found on cumulative yields and in second parity, with lower effects for yields early in lactation and yields in first parity. The largest decrease was 13 to 14 kg (0.12 phenotypic SD) for cumulative fat yield when breeding beef breed sires with purebred SR dams. For fertility traits, for most breed combinations, the effects were not large enough to be significant. Conversely, all beef × dairy crossbred combinations showed significantly lower results for survival to the next lactation, and mostly also for lactation length. There was some indication that dairy cows with beef × dairy calvings in parity 2 that were the result of maximum 2 inseminations in parity 1, had lower survival than corresponding calvings resulting from more than 2 inseminations. This could indicate that the former cows were marked for culling already when inseminated. There was generally an unfavorable effect of a difficult calving on all traits, however, there were almost no significant interactions between calving performance and dam by sire breed combination, and these interactions were never significant in first parity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]