Search Results (89)

This study evaluated the implementation of reproductive technologies and their effects on pregnancy rates (PRs) and calving distribution. Producers (n = 11) were enrolled in Level 1 or 2 and subsequently transitioned to Level 2 or 3. Level 1: females were exposed to natural service (NS) only versus estrous synchronization (7d-CIDR) before NS (SynNS). Level 2: SynNS versus fixed-time artificial insemination (SynAI; 7d-CO-Synch + CIDR) with conventional semen. Level 3: conventional versus sex-skewed semen (FTAI-con and FTAI-sexed, respectively). Artificial insemination occurred 60–66 h post CIDR removal (SynAI; FTAI-con; FTAI-sexed) and bulls were introduced on d 0 (NS and SynNS) or 10–14 d post artificial insemination (SynAI; FTAI-con; FTAI-sexed). Breeding season PRs did not differ between treatments (p > 0.50). In Level 2, SynNS had greater 21 d PRs compared to SynAI (p < 0.01). For Level 3, FTAI-con had greater 21 d PRs compared to FTAI-sexed (p < 0.01). In Level 1, the proportion of cows that calved by day 14 was greater for SynNS compared to NS (p < 0.01). In Level 2, SynAI had a greater proportion calved by day 7 (p = 0.01); however, SynNS had a greater proportion calved by day 21 and 42 (p < 0.01). In Level 3, FTAI-con had a greater proportion calved by day 14 and 21 (p < 0.01) compared to FTAI-sexed. In conclusion, reproductive technologies altered the calving distribution with more calves born earlier. Full article

The Moon is at the centre of many popular beliefs, including the notion that the number of parturitions increases during Full Moon days, a belief widely held among breeders to anticipate calving periods. However, this association has been rarely explored in dairy cattle farming. This retrospective study was conducted to evaluate the association between the lunar cycles and calving distribution, with particular focus on a potential increase during full-moon nights. Data from 383,926 calvings of Montbéliard breed, recorded between March 2022 and January 2025, mostly in Franche-Comté (98.2%), France, were analyzed using a Generalized Linear Model (GLM). Results revealed a significant association between the lunar cycle and calving distribution. Model-adjusted means were significantly higher than the overall mean during the New Moon and the Last Quarter phases (+2.6%, p < 0.05), and significantly lower during the Full Moon phase (−3.1%, p < 0.01). At the synodic day level, days 21 and 29 presented the highest model-adjusted means (+23.2% and +23.4% above the overall mean, respectively; p < 0.001), while days 4 and 15 presented the lowest (−35.2% and −31.1%, respectively; p < 0.001). Across all seasons, a consistent trend toward increased calving frequency was observed during the New Moon phase, reaching statistical significance only in Spring (+5.7%, p < 0.05). These findings may offer potential implications for veterinarians and breeders, particularly when considering approaches to ensure adequate colostrum intake, which may contribute to improving management of parturition periods. Full article

A study was conducted to evaluate the effect of neutral detergent fiber (NDF) levels of calf starter and weaning time on growth, rumen fermentation characteristics, serum metabolites, and rumen microbial diversity of Holstein calves. A total of 24 newly born male Holstein calves were randomly distributed to four groups in a completely randomized design with a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement of NDF levels (14% and 24%) and weaning time (d 44 and d 54). There was no interaction between starter NDF levels and weaning time for any trait except rumen acetic acid in the immediate post-weaning phase (p = 0.013). Starter NDF levels had no effect on growth, feed intake, and hay intake. Late-weaned calves had greater (p = 0.050) weight gain in the pre-weaning phase whereas, early-weaned calves showed greater weight gain (p = 0.004) and starter intake (p = 0.004) in the post-weaning phase although overall weight gain, and starter and hay intakes were not affected by weaning time. Rumen pH, ammonia nitrogen, and most volatile fatty acids remained unaffected by starter NDF levels and weaning except isobutyric acid which was greater in calves fed 24% NDF starter (p = 0.001) in the immediate post-weaning and isovaleric acid which was greater in early-weaned calves (p = 0.044) at the end of experiment. Serum metabolites were largely affected (p < 0.05) by starter NDF levels and weaning time in the pre-weaning phase only. Alpha diversity of rumen microbes was greater and chaotic in 14% NDF starter group (early- and late-weaned) in the pre-weaning phase which converged in the immediate post-weaning phase and diverged on starter NDF basis at the end of experiment. Microbial ecology at phylum and genus levels composition were greatly driven by starter NDF levels in the pre-weaning phase, by weaning time in the immediate post-weaning phase, and two distinct bifurcated microbial ecologies based on starter NDF levels appeared at the end of experiment. In conclusion, the comparable growth with distinct microbial diversity but largely in favor of 24% NDF starter suggests that calves can be subjected to early weaning with 24% starter NDF levels for smooth transition from liquid to solid feed in Holstein calves. Full article

This study examines the critical role of whole milk or milk replacer as a liquid diet (LD) with 15% solids in combination with different physical forms of starter as a solid diet (SD), on performance, health, and behavior of pre-weaned calves. Sixty male Holstein calves were used in a 2 × 2 factorial design, and randomly distributed into the following treatments: Whole milk powder diluted to 12.5% of solids and enriched with 25 g/L of milk replacer to achieve 15% solids, associated with either micropelleted stater (WM+micro) or texturized stater (WM+text); milk replacer diluted to 15% solids associated with either micropelleted stater (MRmicro) or texturized stater (MRtext). Starter intake and, consequently, total DMI were higher in the MRtext treatment compared to WM+micro. Calves fed texturized starter showed higher DMI, starter intake time, and rumination time. Calves in the WM+Text group showed greater ADG compared with MR treatments, regardless of starter type. Calves fed WM+ presented a lower number of days with fecal score ≥2, and the first day of diarrhea occurred at older ages. Calves fed MR showed more health challenges but similar feed efficiency with WM+, while texturized starter increased intake, eating duration, and rumination compared with micropelleted starter. Full article

Studies in taurine breeds have shown that genetic selection can improve the fatty acid (FA) profile of bovine milk, but studies are scarce considering Zebu animals. In this study, genetic parameters for FA concentrations and unsaturation indexes in the milk fat of Zebu cows were estimated, with emphasis on Gir and Guzerá breeds. Milk samples from 299 Gir and 266 Guzerá cows belonging to 22 herds distributed throughout Brazil were analyzed using gas chromatography. Fourteen individual FAs, 11 FA groups, four nutritional indexes, and five unsaturation indexes were evaluated. Tri-trait Bayesian models were applied, including 305-day milk and fat yields as “anchor” traits. Systematic effects such as contemporary group, age at calving, diet, sampling age class, and days in milk were considered. Palmitic acid was the most abundant FA, followed by oleic, stearic, and myristic acids. Heritability estimates ranged from moderate to high: 0.28–0.66 in Gir cows, and 0.25–0.74 in Guzerá cows, for individual FAs and FA groups. Unsaturation indexes also showed moderate to high heritability. Genetic correlations were generally strong, with long-chain FAs negatively correlated with short- and medium-chain FAs. The results suggest that genetic selection can be applied to improve the nutritional profile of milk fat in Zebu cattle. Full article

Beef production on chemically uniform grass monocultures can limit nutrient synchrony and contribute to uneven pasture use. We evaluated whether supplementing tannins with bioactive plant secondary compounds improves foraging dynamics and landscape use by beef cattle grazing a meadow bromegrass monoculture in ways aligned with rangeland sustainability. Twenty-four Angus cow–calf pairs were allocated to six 3.6-ha paddocks (four pairs/paddock), randomly assigned to Control (Ctrl; n = 3) or Tannin treatment (TT; n = 3). Animals received 1 kg/cow/day of DDGs, with TT receiving an added 0.4% tannins (2:1 condensed:hydrolyzable). Grazing occurred during four 15-day periods (July–September) across two years. Data were analyzed with mixed-effects models. Tannins did not alter biomass removal or cow weight loss (p > 0.05). However, TT cows exhibited longer evening grazing (2.9 vs. 2.1 h), fewer standing-to-lying transitions (5.7% vs. 7.3%), and more even spatial grazing distribution (CV = 1.861 vs. 2.13; p < 0.05), and greater water consumption (147 vs. 121 L/day; p < 0.01). Average daily gain of calves was numerically greater in TT compared to Ctrl (1.03 vs. 0.93 kg/day; p = 0.27). Collectively, these shifts promoted by tannins point to enhanced evening intake opportunities and reduced patch overuse, outcomes consistent with improved welfare and more uniform pasture utilization two pillars of sustainable grazing. Increased water demand under tannins highlights a management consideration for arid systems. Overall, moderate tannin inclusion was compatible with sustainable grazing by promoting even pasture use and potentially improving nutrient use efficiency without compromising intake. Full article

The Strait of Gibraltar (SG) is a key biogeographic and ecological corridor connecting the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, enabling the seasonal migrations of fin whales (Balaenoptera physalus). The objective of this study was to characterize, for the first time, the spatial and temporal exposure of the species to maritime traffic during its migration through the SG, quantifying movement patterns, individual composition, and collision risk to identify critical areas for conservation. Validated observations collected between April 2016 and October 2024, with additional records in January and March 2025, were integrated with EMODnet vessel density layers to assess monthly distributions of sightings, individuals, calves, migration patterns, and behavior. A total of 347 sightings comprising 692 individuals were recorded, revealing predominantly westward movements between June and August. Spatial overlap analyses indicated that the highest exposure occurred both near the Bay of Algeciras/Gibraltar and in the northern half of the Central SG, where cargo ship and tanker traffic coincides with dense migration routes and where injuries have been documented in the field. These findings delineate high-risk areas for fin whales throughout the SG and provide an empirical basis for spatial management measures, including speed reduction zones, adaptive route planning, and the possible designation of the area as a cetacean migration corridor. The proposed measures aim to mitigate collision risk and ensure long-term ecological connectivity between the Mediterranean and the Atlantic. Full article

Adopting a human-centered approach, this study investigates the influence of seat parameters on comfort for elderly users. Twenty healthy older adults (61–70 years) assessed age-friendly seats with varying seat heights (knee popliteal height H mm, H − 50 mm, H − 25 mm, H + 25 mm, and H + 50 mm) and backrest inclinations (90°, 105°, 120°, 135°). Body pressure distribution analysis and subjective comfort evaluations were conducted to assess the impact of these parameters. Key findings demonstrated that optimal subjective and objective comfort ratings were achieved at a seat height of H mm or H − 25 mm combined with a backrest inclination of 105°. Seat height showed a positive correlation with contact area, while exhibiting negative correlations with average pressure and maximum pressure. Regional comfort (feet, calves, coccyx, anterior thighs) exhibited significant positive correlations with overall comfort (p < 0.01). Furthermore, increasing the backrest inclination angle led to a higher-pressure gradient, and slippage perception negatively correlated with comfort (p < 0.05). This research confirms that the parameter optimization—specifically height and backrest inclination—effectively optimizes pressure distribution and significantly enhances sitting comfort for the elderly. The findings provide a scientific basis for designing comfortable, age-friendly seating solutions that support sustainable quality of life. Full article

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of sequential supplementation with different crude protein levels and periods on performance, nutritional and metabolic characteristics, and efficiency of nitrogenous compounds use in grazing male Nellore calves at pre-weaning. Fifty male Nellore calves during pre-weaning were distributed in a completely randomized design in a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement. The strategies were as follows: Supplementation period in the initial pre-weaning was 1–78th experimental day and in the final pre-weaning was 79–156th experimental day. The Low and high protein levels in the supplement were 150 g CP/kg) and 300 g CP/kg, respectively. All animals received 6 g/kg BW of supplement. Protein levels in the supplement did not affect intake of forage DM, and neutral detergent fiber in the animals. However, a higher CP intake and the CP to DOM ratio (p-value < 0.05) was evidence for the high calves compared with low calves. Supplementation strategies did not affect the blood concentrations of IGF-1, glucose, and total protein. Likewise, protein levels in the supplement did not affect the ADG and number and diameter of muscle fibers. In conclusion, the decrease in protein levels in the supplement from 300 to 150 g CP/kg DM does not detrimentally affect performance and nutritional and metabolic characteristics in male beef calves under a grazing system at pre-weaning. Full article

Background: Legg–Calvé–Perthes disease (LCPD) is a rare avascular osteonecrosis of the proximal femoral epiphysis and typically occurs during the childhood growth phase. LCPD is a complex illness of unknown origin, which is considered the main difficulty in the study of this disease. Various theories on LCPD etiology have been proposed; however, no consensus has been reached about its origin. Our research objective was to evaluate the polymorphisms FVL rs6025, FVIII rs5987061, FIX Malmö rs6048, PAI-1 rs1799889, eNOS rs17899983/rs2070744, IL-23R rs1569922/rs154655686/7539625, and TNF-α rs180062, and their relationship with LCPD. Methods: A blood sample was taken from each study participant. Complete blood count, coagulation times and factors, antithrombotic proteins, and homocysteine (Hcy) were determined using a coagulometric method. DNA was obtained and genotyped using real-time PCR with TaqMan probes. Genotypic and allelic distributions were analyzed using comparative analysis, the Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium, and OR. Results: This study included 46 children: 23 with LCPD (cases) and 23 without (controls). Statistically significant differences were found in Prothrombin Time, Factor V, and Factor IX activity, as well as Hcy concentration; these values suggest the presence of hypercoagulable states in patients, which can cause thrombotic events. On the other hand, significant differences were also found in the neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio and systemic immune-inflammation index, showing major inflammation states in the patient group. Moreover, statistically significant differences were found in the IL-23R rs1569922 polymorphism; it was found that carriers of the T/T and C/T genotypes have an increased risk of developing LCPD. Conclusions: Our results show greater hemostatic activity and inflammation in the group of patients included in this study, supporting various theories previously proposed. Therefore, we believe that LCPD is a multifactorial condition in which hemostatic, inflammatory, and genetic factors play a central and triggering role in the disease. Full article

Pasteurized colostrum has significantly contributed to improving the health and growth of newborn calves by reducing total bacterial count. However, previous research on animal responses to pasteurized colostrum has primarily focused on physiological functioning and production performance, especially during the preweaning period, with limited attention to any postweaning effects from the feeding of pasteurized colostrum at birth. We conducted a comprehensive investigation into the growth, health, blood immunity, and microbiota responses of dairy calves in these two groups from birth to 180 d of age. In this study, a total of 32 healthy female Holstein calves [mean birth weight = 39.8 ± 1.22 kg (mean ± standard deviation)] were selected and divided into two groups (n = 16; fed either pasteurized or unpasteurized colostrum at birth). The results demonstrated that calves fed pasteurized colostrum exhibited enhanced growth performance as indicated by higher body weight (BW) and average daily gain (ADG) compared to those fed unpasteurized colostrum (p < 0.05). Calves fed pasteurized colostrum displayed higher lymphocyte ratio (W-SCR) and platelet distribution width (PDW), along with lower neutrophil ratio (W-LCR) and neutrophil count (W-LCC) (p < 0.05). Additionally, substantial differences were identified in microbial richness and diversity between the pasteurized and unpasteurized colostrum-fed groups (p < 0.05). Distinct microbial communities were observed in the ruminal and fecal regions (p < 0.05), and we detected shared beneficial microbiota (Alloprevotella, Parabacteroides, and unidentified_Prevotellaceae) and metabolic functions (metabolism of energy, amino acids, and glycan) in both gut regions of the pasteurized group. Furthermore, our study revealed intricate and robust interactions among microbiota, volatile fatty acid (VFA) and blood indicators (|r| > 0.5 and p < 0.05). In conclusion, the findings in the present experiment suggest that the positive effects from d 0 pasteurized colostrum feeding may be seen up to d 180, including improved growth performance, health, and blood immunity, and these may be attributed to modifications in microbiota development induced by pasteurized colostrum. Full article

Lipedema is a chronic, progressive adipose connective tissue disorder characterized by symmetrical, disproportionate fat accumulation, typically affecting the lower extremities and arms, accompanied by pain, swelling, and a sensation of heaviness. This study introduces intermediate Stages 1.5 and 2.5 to the established lipedema classification (Stages 1, 2 and 3), and other affected areas, based on physical examination, a questionnaire, and photographic documentation. Bioelectrical Impedance Spectroscopy (BIS) was employed to quantify total body water (TBW) across stages. A significant and linear increase in BMI was observed from Stage 1 to 3, correlating with increased reported pain and heaviness in the thighs, calves, and upper arms. Systemic symptoms of brain fog, debilitating fatigue, and hypothermia were significantly prevalent. TBW demonstrated a significant, stage-dependent increase in the lower extremities. Adipose tissue accumulation over the knees and feet significantly increased with lipedema stage. In contrast, shin involvement was evident in early stages and remained consistently elevated throughout later stages. Skeletal Muscle Mass (SMM) exhibited a significant increase across lipedema stages, positively correlating with fat mass (FM) in Stage 3. This study elucidates previously underrecognized clinical features and distribution patterns of lipedema, offering a refined staging system to improve understanding of its progression and burden. Full article

Background/Objectives: This study aimed to examine the dynamic thermal variations that occur in the posterior body regions of pregnant women by employing thermal imaging techniques. Methods: The study involved the participation of 34 women in various stages of pregnancy. The skin temperature (Tsk) distribution in specific body areas, including the spinal region and lower limbs, was analyzed under standard conditions. Results: The most considerable increase in body temperature (Tsk) recorded in female volunteers was achieved during the second trimester of pregnancy in physiologically stressed areas, such as the upper back (0.4 °C), lower back (0.77 °C), thighs (0.94 °C) and calves (0.32 °C). Contrastingly, a decrease in Tsk of noteworthy magnitude was observed in all body regions during the third trimester, with an average decrease of 1.7 °C. The lower back’s most substantial decrease was observed (1.95 °C). Furthermore, a disparity was observed in the Tsk distribution of the calves, with the highest ∆T_mean value recorded at approximately 0.5 °C, and the thighs exhibiting a ∆T_mean value of 0.25 °C. Conclusions: Preliminary studies have demonstrated the potential of thermal imaging as a reliable and safe method to support prenatal diagnosis. Its application can facilitate the early detection of health complications, including inflammatory states or posture and circulatory system disorders, thereby enhancing the standard of prenatal care. Full article

Neospora caninum, as well as Toxoplasma gondii, secrete proteins that facilitate the invasion of host cells and the regulation of host immune response and metabolism. However, the localization of the secretory proteins in infected animal brains has not been studied in detail. Here, we investigate the brain and intracellular distribution of the secretory proteins in experimentally infected mice and naturally infected calves through histopathology and immunohistochemistry (IHC) to detect surface antigen 1 (NcSAG1), cyclophilin (NcCYP), profilin (NcPF), dense granule protein 6 (NcGRA6), and NcGRA7. These methods revealed that numerous tachyzoites positive for NcSAG1, NcCYP, NcPF, NcGRA6, and NcGRA7 were localized in and around the animals’ necrotic lesions, and NcGRA7 was diffusely observed in the necrotic lesions of the infected mice. Moreover, IHC revealed that NcGRA6 and NcGRA7 were distributed in the cytoplasm of infected neurons around the parasites in the infected mice and calves. This suggests that NcGRA6 and NcGRA7 might be directly related to the alteration of neuronal metabolism and activity, and that NcGRA7 might be related to the formation of necrotic lesions. Full article

Mineral imbalances in livestock can critically impair growth, immunity, and productivity. Yaks inhabiting the Qinghai–Tibetan Plateau face unique environmental challenges, including high-altitude-induced nutrient variability. This study investigated the status of mineral elements and their correlations with altitude in healthy yak calves across five regions in Ganzi Prefecture, located at elevations ranging from 3100 to 4100 m. Hair and serum samples from 35 calves were analyzed for 11 essential elements (Na, K, Ca, Mg, S, Cu, Fe, Mn, Zn, Co, and Se). The results revealed widespread deficiencies. Key deficiencies were identified: hair Na and Co were significantly below references value (p < 0.05), and Se was consistently deficient across all regions, with deficiency rates ranging from 35.73% to 56.57%. Serum Mg and Cu were generally deficient (Mg deficiency > 26% above 3800 m). S, Mn (low detection), and Co were also suboptimal. Serum selenium deficiency was notably severe in lower-altitude areas (≤59.07%). Significant correlations with altitude were observed: hair sodium levels decreased with increasing altitude (r = −0.72), while hair manganese (r = 0.88) and cobalt (r = 0.65) levels increased. Serum magnesium deficiency became more pronounced at higher elevations (r = 0.58), whereas selenium deficiency in serum was more severe at lower altitudes (r = −0.61). These findings indicate prevalent multi-element deficiencies in yak calves that are closely linked to altitude and are potentially influenced by soil mineral composition and feeding practices, as suggested by previous studies. The study underscores the urgent need for region-specific nutritional standards and altitude-adapted mineral supplementation strategies to support optimal yak health and development. Full article