Impact of residual antibiotics on microbial decomposition of livestock manures in Eutric Regosol: Implications for sustainable nutrient recycling and soil carbon sequestration.

The land application of livestock manure has been widely acknowledged as a beneficial approach for nutrient recycling and environmental protection. However, the impact of residual antibiotics, a common contaminant of manure, on the degradation of organic compounds and nutrient release in Eutric Regosol is not well understood. Here, we studied, how oxytetracycline (OTC) and ciprofloxacin (CIP) affect the decomposition, microbial community structure, extracellular enzyme activities and nutrient release from cattle and pig manure using litterbag incubation experiments. Results showed that OTC and CIP greatly inhibited livestock manure decomposition, causing a decreased rate of carbon (28%-87%), nitrogen (15%-44%) and phosphorus (26%-43%) release. The relative abundance of gram-negative (G-) bacteria was reduced by 4.0%-13% while fungi increased by 7.0%-71% during a 28-day incubation period. Co-occurrence network analysis showed that antibiotic exposure disrupted microbial interactions, particularly among G- bacteria, G+ bacteria, and actinomycetes. These changes in microbial community structure and function resulted in decreased activity of urease, ß-1,4-N-acetyl-glucosaminidase, alkaline protease, chitinase, and catalase, causing reduced decomposition and nutrient release in cattle and pig manures. These findings advance our understanding of decomposition and nutrient recycling from manure-contaminated antibiotics, which will help facilitate sustainable agricultural production and soil carbon sequestration.

Identification and quantification of goat milk adulteration using mid-infrared spectroscopy and chemometrics.

The fraudulent adulteration of goat milk with cheaper and more available milk of other species such as cow milk is occurrence. The aims of the present study were to investigate the effect of goat milk adulteration with cow milk on the mid-infrared (MIR) spectrum and further evaluate the potential of MIR spectroscopy to identify and quantify the goat milk adulterated. Goat milk was adulterated with cow milk at 5 different levels including 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, and 50%. Statistical analysis showed that the adulteration had significant effect on the majority of the spectral wavenumbers. Then, the spectrum was preprocessed with standard normal variate (SNV), multiplicative scattering correction (MSC), Savitzky-Golay smoothing (SG), SG plus SNV, and SG plus MSC, and partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) and partial least squares regression (PLSR) were used to establish classification and regression models, respectively. PLS-DA models obtained good results with all the sensitivity and specificity over 0.96 in the cross-validation set. Regression models using raw spectrum obtained the best result, with coefficient of determination (R2), root mean square error (RMSE), and the ratio of performance to deviation (RPD) of cross-validation set were 0.98, 2.01, and 8.49, respectively. The results preliminarily indicate that the MIR spectroscopy is an effective technique to detect the goat milk adulteration with cow milk. In future, milk samples from different origins and different breeds of goats and cows should be collected, and more sophisticated adulteration at low levels should be further studied to explore the potential and effectiveness of milk mid-infrared spectroscopy and chemometrics.

Peptidomic profile of human milk as influenced by fortification with different protein sources: An in vitro dynamic digestion simulation.

Fortification of human milk (HM) is often necessary to meet the nutritional requirements of preterm infants. The present experiment aimed to establish whether the supplementation of HM with either an experimental donkey milk-derived fortifier containing whole donkey milk proteins, or with a commercial bovine milk-derived fortifier containing hydrolyzed bovine whey proteins, affects peptide release differently during digestion. The experiment was conducted using an in vitro dynamic system designed to simulate the preterm infant's digestion followed by digesta analysis by means of LC-MS-MS. The different fortifiers did not appear to influence the cumulative intensity of HM peptides. Fortification had a differential impact on the release of either donkey or bovine bioactive peptides. Donkey milk peptides showed antioxidant/ACE inhibitory activities, while bovine peptides showed opioid, dipeptil- and propyl endo- peptidase inhibitory and antimicrobial activity. A slight delay in peptide release from human lactoferrin and α-lactalbumin was observed when HM was supplemented with donkey milk-derived fortifier.

Evaluation of the potential of annatto seed powder to reduce the formation of heterocyclic amines in charcoal-grilled and pan-fried beef patties.

Various strategies are being explored to reduce the formation of undesirable compounds during the thermal processing of foods. This study investigates the impact of incorporating annatto seed powder (Bixa orellana L.) into beef patties to reduce the formation of heterocyclic amines (HAs) during charcoal-grilling and pan-frying. A three-level full factorial design was used to assess the effect of both annatto seed powder concentration and cooking times on HAs formation. The results showed that HA formation increased with longer cooking times and decreased with higher concentrations of annatto seed powder. A significant reduction in HA content was observed in both charcoal-grilled and pan-fried beef patties when annatto seed powder was added, with a particularly notable 91 % reduction at the 1 % addition level. These findings demonstrate that the addition of annatto seed powder is a highly effective strategy for reducing HA formation in beef patties. CHEMICAL COMPOUNDS STUDIED IN THIS ARTICLE: 2-amino-3,8-dimethylimidazo[4,5-f]quinoxaline (MeIQx) (PubChem CID: 62275); 2-amino-3,4,8-trimethylimidazo[4,5-f]quinoxaline (4,8-DiMeIQx) (PubChem CID: 104739); 2-amino-3,7,8-trimethylimidazo[4,5-f]quinoxaline (7,8-DiMeIQx) (PubChem CID: 104855); 2-amino-1-methyl-6-phenylimidazo[4,5-b]pyridine (PhIP) (PubChem CID: 1530); 3-amino-1,4-dimethyl-5H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Trp-P-1) (PubChem CID: 5284474); 3-amino-1-methyl-5H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Trp-P-2) (PubChem CID: 5284476); 2-amino-9H-pyrido[2,3-b]indole (AαC) (PubChem CID: 62805); 2-amino-3-methyl-9H-pyrido[2,3-b]indole (MeAαC) (PubChem CID: 62244); Bixin (PubChem CID: 5281226).

Insights into the flavor endowment of aroma-active compounds in cloves (Syzygium aromaticum) to stewed beef.

Clove (Syzygium aromaticum) is one of the most commonly used spices in stewed beef to enrich and improve its aroma during the stewing process. Gas chromatography ion mobility spectroscopy (GC-IMS), Q Exactive GC-Orbitrap-MS-O (QE-GC-MS/O), combined with sensory evaluation were employed to analyze the flavor endowment of aroma-active compounds in cloves to stewed beef. A total of 173 volatiles were identified in the clove powder (CP), stewed beef with clove (SBC), and stewed beef with salt (SBS), of which 21 volatiles were considered as aroma-active compounds. The concept of flavor endowment of aroma-active compounds in cloves was defined innovatively, and the endowment rate values (ERVs) of stewed beef were calculated. Nine aroma-active compounds in cloves were found to have a flavor endowment effect on stewed beef, while the terpenoids exhibited high ERVs. Despite the low ERV of eugenol, it still significantly impacted the aroma profile of SBC due to its high odor activity value (OAV) and flavor dilution (FD) factor. These volatiles offered mainly the clove, herbal, anise, and floral odor to stewed beef, which was also confirmed by sensory evaluation. These findings indicated that the terpenoids, phenolics and ethers in cloves had a significant influence on the overall aroma of stewed beef through the flavor endowment, which contributed to the precise use of cloves and improved the aroma of stewed beef.

Specific buffer effects on the formation of BSA protein corona around amino-functionalized mesoporous silica nanoparticles.

The effect of buffer species on biomolecules and biomolecule-nanoparticle interactions is a phenomenon that has been either neglected, or not understood. Here, we study the formation of a BSA protein corona (PC) around amino-functionalized mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSN-NH2) in the presence of different buffers (Tris, BES, cacodylate, phosphate, and citrate) at the same pH (7.15) and different concentrations (10, 50, and 100 mM). We find that BSA adsorption is buffer specific, with the adsorbed amount of BSA being 4.4 times higher in the presence of 100 mM Tris (184 ± 3 mg/g) than for 100 mM citrate (42 ± 2 mg/g). That is a considerable difference that cannot be explained by conventional theories. The results become clearer if the interaction energies between BSA and MSN-NH2, considering the electric double layer (EEDL) and the van der Waals (EvdW) terms, are evaluated. The buffer specific PC derives from buffer specific zeta potentials that, for MSN-NH2, are positive with Tris and negative with citrate buffers. A reversed sign of zeta potentials can be obtained by considering polarizability-dependent dispersion forces acting together with electrostatics to give the buffer specific outcome. These results are relevant not only to our understanding of the formation of the PC but may also apply to other bio- and nanosystems in biological media.

Serological and molecular survey of Toxoplasma Gondii in aborted livestock fetuses from Northeast Iran.

BACKGROUND: Toxoplasmosis not only leads to abortion in humans but also in herbivores, which causes significant financial and quality-adjusted life-year losses. The present study aimed to determine the prevalence of toxoplasmosis in aborted fetuses via serological and molecular assays. Moreover, the genotypes of the obtained isolates were detected. METHODS: Serological and molecular methods were used to study aborted fetuses from Bojnourd City, North Khorasan Province, Iran, which included 52 ovines and 16 bovines. Nested PCR of the B1 gene was used to detect parasite DNA in brain tissues. The PCR-RFLP method for the GRA6 gene was used to determine the genotype of T. gondii. RESULTS: Out of 68 aborted fetuses, 16.1% showed the presence of anti-T. gondii IgG. Among these, 11.7% were identified in bovine fetuses and 4.4% in ovine fetuses. Additionally, two (2.94%) samples of ovine tested positive for anti-T. gondii IgM. Our PCR analysis detected parasite DNA in two cases (2.94%) among 11 IgG-positive samples. All obtained isolates belong to type I of T. gondii. CONCLUSION: Infection with Type I of T. gondii during the neonatal period may partly be responsible for abortion and economic losses in livestock farming in our studied region. To understand the molecular epidemiology and genotypes of T. gondii associated with abortion, further evaluation of aborted samples from different geographical locations is necessary.

Impact of a teat disinfectant based on Lactococcus cremoris on the cow milk proteome.

BACKGROUND: Dairy cow milking practices require cleaning and disinfection of the teat skin before and after milking to ensure the safety and quality of milk and prevent intramammary infections. Antimicrobial proteins of natural origin can be valuable alternatives to traditional disinfectants. In a recent field trial, we demonstrated that a teat dip based on a nisin A-producing Lactococcus cremoris (L) had comparable efficacy to conventional iodophor dip (C) in preventing dairy cow mastitis. Here, we present the differential shotgun proteomics investigation of the milk collected during the trial. METHODS: Four groups of quarter milk samples with low (LSCC) and high somatic cell count (HSCC) collected at the beginning (T0) and end (TF) of the trial were analyzed for a total of 28 LSCC (14 LSCC T0 and 14 LSCC TF) and 12 HSCC (6 HSCC T0 and 6 HSCC TF) samples. Milk proteins were digested into peptides, separated by nanoHPLC, and analyzed by tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) on an Orbitrap Fusion Tribrid mass spectrometer. The proteins were identified with MaxQuant and interaction networks of the differential proteins were investigated with STRING. The proteomics data have been deposited to the ProteomeXchange Consortium via the PRIDE partner repository with the dataset identifier PXD045030. RESULTS: In healthy milk (LSCC), we detected 90 and 80 differential proteins at T0 and TF, respectively. At TF, the Lactococcus group showed higher levels of antimicrobial proteins. In mastitis milk (HSCC), we detected 88 and 106 differential proteins at T0 and TF, respectively. In the Lactococcus group, 14 proteins with antimicrobial and immune defense functions were enriched at TF vs. 4 proteins at T0. Cathelicidins were among the most relevant enriched proteins. Western immunoblotting validation confirmed the differential abundance. CONCLUSIONS: At T0, the proteomic differences observed in healthy milk of the two groups were most likely dependent on physiological variation. On the other hand, antimicrobial and immune defense functions were higher in the milk of cows with mammary gland inflammation of the Lactococcus-treated group. Among other factors, the immunostimulatory action of nisin A might be considered as a contributor.

Feeding habits and malaria parasite infection of Anopheles mosquitoes in selected agroecological areas of Northwestern Ethiopia.

BACKGROUND: Surveillance of the host-anopheline mosquitoes' interaction is important for assessing malaria transmission risk and guiding vector control. We assume that changes in malaria vector species' feeding habits, as well as the surrounding environment, have a substantial impact on varied malaria transmission. In this study, we determined the vertebrate host feeding patterns of anopheline mosquitoes to characterize entomologic risk factors for malaria in Jabi Tehnan, Northwestern Ethiopia. METHODS: Blood-fed anophelines surveyed during malaria surveillance in Jabi Tehnan district of northwestern Ethiopia were utilized in this study. They were collected using Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) light traps deployed in selected households per village, placed indoors and outdoors, spanning three agroecological settings (dry mountain, plateau, and semiarid highlands) between June 2020 and May 2021. The engorged mosquitoes were analyzed for host blood meal sources and Plasmodium infection via polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and/or sequencing. Infection rates and bovine and human blood indices were calculated and compared for abundant species; between indoors and outdoors and between agroecology using a chi-squared test for equality of proportion in R package at a significant level of p ≤ 0.05. RESULTS: A total of 246 mosquitoes were successfully typed (indoor, 121; outdoor, 125), with greater relative abundance indoors in mountain and plateau highlands, and outdoors in semiarid areas. Despite ecological differences in blood-fed capture rates, cattle served as the most utilized blood meal source by 11 anopheline species with an overall bovine blood index (BBI) of 74.4%. This trend was dictated by Anopheles gambiae s.l. (198/246; BBI = 73.7%), which exhibited the most plastic feeding habits that included humans (human blood index = 15.7%) and other livestock and rodents. A total of five anopheline species (An. gambiae s.l., An. funestus s.l., An. coustani s.l., An. pretoriensis, and An. pharoensis) fed on humans, of which the first three were found infected with Plasmodium parasites. Most of the infected specimens were An. arabiensis (5.6%, 11/198) and had recently fed mainly on cattle (72.7%, 8/11); one each of infected An. funestus s.l. and An. coustani s.l. had fed on humans and cattle, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The results demonstrate communal feeding on cattle by anophelines including primary and secondary malaria vectors. This study also indicates the importance of cattle-targeted interventions for sustainable control of malaria vectors in the study areas.

Spatio-temporal distribution and international context of bovine viral diarrhoea virus genetic diversity in France.

Bovine viral diarrhoea (BVD) is one of the most economically damaging livestock enzootic diseases in the world. BVD aetiological agents are three pestiviruses (BVDV-1, -2 and HoBi-like pestivirus), which exhibit high genetic diversity and complex transmission cycles. This considerably hampers the management of the disease, which is why eradication plans have been implemented in several countries. In France, a national plan has been in place since 2019. Our understanding of its impact on the distribution of BVDV genotypes is limited by the availability of French genetic data. Here, we conducted a molecular epidemiology study to refine our knowledge of BVDV genetic diversity in France, characterise its international relationships, and analyse national spatio-temporal genotypic distribution. We collated 1037 BVDV-positive samples throughout France between 2011 and 2023, with a greater sampling effort in two major cattle production areas. We developed a high-throughput sequencing protocol which we used to complete the 5'UTR genotyping of this collection. We show that two main BVDV-1 genotypes, 1e and 1b, account for 88% of genotyped sequences. We also identified seven other BVDV-1 genotypes occurring at low frequencies and three BVDV-2 samples (genotype 2c). Phylogenetic analyses indicate different worldwide distribution patterns between the two main BVDV-1 genotypes. Their relative frequencies present no major changes in France since the 1990s and few variations at the national scale. We also found some degree of local spatial structuring in western France. Overall, our results demonstrate the potential of large-scale sequence-based surveillance to monitor changes in the epidemiological situation of enzootic diseases.

Molecular characteristics and antimicrobial susceptibility profiles of bovine mastitis agents in western Türkiye.

IMPORTANCE: Identifying bovine mastitis agents using molecular methods to reveal their phylogenetic relationships and antimicrobial resistance profiles is essential for developing up-to-date databases in mastitis cases that cause severe economic losses. OBJECTIVE: This study examined bacterial mastitis agents in cows with clinical and subclinical mastitis observed in various dairy cattle farms to reveal their phylogenetic relationships and antibiotic resistance properties. METHODS: Sixty-two clinical and subclinical bovine mastitis milk samples were collected from 15 dairy farms. The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to amplify the 16S rRNA gene regions of the bacteria. The 16S rRNA gene sequences obtained from sequencing include the V4-V6 regions. The strains were compared using a similarity analysis method that produced phylogenetic trees using the Molecular Evolutionary Genetics Analysis 11 program. Antibiotic susceptibilities were determined using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method. RESULTS: Sixty-three bacteria were isolated and identified in this study. The most isolated bacteria from all mastitis cases were Staphylococcus spp. (30.2%), Escherichia coli (25.4%), Streptococcus spp. (14.3%), and Aerococcus spp. (7.9%), respectively. The phylogenetic trees were drawn from the 16S rRNA sequences. Some of these bacteria showed resistance to different types of antibiotics at varying rates. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: The bacteria isolated in this study originated from environmental sources. Regular cleaning of barns and proper hygiene practices are essential. Regular screenings for mastitis should be conducted in herds instead of the random or empirical use of antibiotics.

Spatio-temporal patterns of stomoxyine flies (Diptera: Muscidae) in a forested area of Thailand.

Understanding the distribution patterns of vector populations is crucial for comprehending the dynamics of vector-borne diseases. However, data on vector composition and abundance in areas of forest and wildlife-human interface in Thailand remain limited. This research aimed to investigate the spatio-temporal distribution and species diversity of stomoxyine flies (Diptera: Muscidae) in Salakpra Wildlife Sanctuary, Thailand's first wildlife sanctuary. A longitudinal entomological survey was conducted monthly from May 2022 to April 2023 in four habitats: core forest, grassland forest, a wildlife breeding center, and a local cattle farm. A total of 11,256 stomoxyine flies from four genera were captured. Based on morphological keys, nine species of stomoxyine flies were identified: Stomoxys pullus (29.63%), Stomoxys calcitrans (19.65%), Stomoxys indicus (16.09%), Haematostoma austeni (14.23%), Haematobia irritans exigua (8.22%), Haematobosca sanguinolenta (7.96%), Stomoxys uruma (1.98%), Stomoxys sitiens (1.75%), and Stomoxys bengalensis (0.49%). Heterogeneous variations in abundance across months and habitats were observed, in which abundance increased in the rainy season (June-October), exhibiting bimodal peaks at seasonal transitions. Human-disturbed areas, such as the cattle farm, exhibited the highest density and species diversity of stomoxyine flies. In contrast, areas with minimal human disturbance, like core forest, had low diversity and density but supported unique species, like the abundant Haematostoma austeni, which had minor populations in other types of habitats. The results of this study can be integrated into epidemiological models and lay the groundwork for more comprehensive research on vector-borne diseases at the wildlife-livestock interface to mitigate transmission risks and preserve biodiversity.

Title: Schémas spatio-temporels des stomoxes (Diptera : Muscidae) dans une zone forestière de Thaïlande. Abstract: Comprendre les schémas de distribution des populations de vecteurs est essentiel pour comprendre la dynamique des maladies à transmission vectorielle. Cependant, les données sur la composition et l'abondance des vecteurs dans les zones de forêt et d'interface faune-humain en Thaïlande restent limitées. Cette recherche visait à étudier la distribution spatio-temporelle et la diversité des espèces de stomoxes (Diptera : Muscidae) dans le sanctuaire faunique de Salakpra, le premier sanctuaire faunique de Thaïlande. Une enquête entomologique longitudinale a été menée mensuellement de mai 2022 à avril 2023 dans quatre habitats : forêt centrale, forêt de prairie, un centre d'élevage d'animaux sauvages et une ferme d'élevage locale. Au total, 11 256 stomoxes de quatre genres ont été capturés. Sur la base des clés morphologiques, neuf espèces de stomoxes ont été identifiées : Stomoxys pullus (29,63 %), Stomoxys calcitrans (19,65 %), Stomoxys indicus (16,09 %), Haematostoma austeni (14,23 %), Haematobia irritans exigua (8,22 %), Haematobosca sanguinolenta (7,96 %), Stomoxys uruma (1,98 %), Stomoxys sitiens (1,75 %) et Stomoxys bengalensis (0,49 %). Des variations hétérogènes de l'abondance selon les mois et les habitats ont été observées, l'abondance augmentant pendant la saison des pluies (juin à octobre), présentant des pics bimodaux aux transitions saisonnières. Les zones perturbées par l'homme, comme la ferme d'élevage, présentaient la plus forte densité et la plus grande diversité d'espèces de stomoxes. En revanche, les zones peu perturbées par l'homme, comme la forêt centrale, présentaient une faible diversité et une faible densité, mais abritaient des espèces uniques, comme l'abondant Haematostoma austeni, dont les populations étaient mineures dans d'autres types d'habitats. Les résultats de cette étude peuvent être intégrés dans des modèles épidémiologiques et posent les bases d'une recherche plus complète sur les maladies à transmission vectorielle à l'interface faune-bétail afin d'atténuer les risques de transmission et de préserver la biodiversité.

Impact of virginiamycin on the ruminal microbiota of feedlot cattle.

Growth-promoting antibiotics have been used in cattle, but concern about antimicrobial overuse has prompted a re-evaluation of this practice. To evaluate changes in the ruminal microbiota of feedlot cattle by virginiamycin, a total of 76 crossbreed beef cattle from 2 batches of cattle at different sampling periods (B1 and B2) were divided into 2 groups: one receiving virginiamycin in their diet (ATB) and the other receiving the same diet without any growth promoter (CON). The use of virginiamycin was associated with significant changes in the diversity and composition of the ruminal microbiota of cattle in B1, but not in cattle in B2. Several bacterial taxa were significantly more abundant in samples from CON, e.g., an unclassified genus of the TM7 phylum, whereas others were associated with the use of virginiamycin, e.g., Holdemania and Selenomonas spp. In conclusion, virginiamycin can affect bacterial diversity and composition in the rumen of feedlot cattle, but its effect is inconsistent in different seasons of the year.

Des antibiotiques promoteurs de croissance ont été utilisés chez les bovins, mais les préoccupations concernant la surutilisation des antimicrobiens ont incité à réévaluer cette pratique. Pour évaluer les changements dans le microbiote ruminal des bovins en parc d'engraissement causés par la virginiamycine, 76 bovins de boucherie croisés issus de deux lots de bovins de boucherie (B1 et B2) ont été divisés en deux groupes : l'un recevant de la virginiamycine (ATB) et l'autre recevant le même régime sans aucun promoteur de croissance (CON). L'utilisation de la virginiamycine a été associée à des changements significatifs dans la diversité et la composition du microbiote ruminal des animaux B1, mais pas chez B2. Plusieurs taxons bactériens étaient significativement plus abondants dans les échantillons de CON (par exemple, un genre non classé du phylum TM7), tandis que d'autres étaient associés à l'utilisation de la virginiamycine (par exemple Holdemania et Selenomonas spp.). En conclusion, la virginiamycine peut affecter la diversité et la composition bactériennes du rumen des bovins en parc d'engraissement, mais son effet est incohérent selon les différentes saisons de l'année.(Traduit par les auteurs).

Serum selenium concentrations in neonatal calves: Influence of postnatal selenium injection and health status.

Background: Selenium supply plays a major role in calf rearing, as a deficiency can lead to health problems, economic loss, and even death. Therefore, postnatal selenium injections are often administered as a preventive measure. Objective: In this study, we examined the serum selenium concentrations of healthy and sick calves within the first days of life. Further, serum concentrations after injection with selenium were determined. Animals and procedure: Serum selenium concentrations from 75 calves were measured until the 10th d of life and the differences between sick and healthy calves were investigated. The variations in selenium concentration were analyzed 3 and 6 d after subcutaneous injection of 5.5 mg sodium selenite in 32 calves.To compare serum concentrations between healthy and sick calves, an independent samples t-test was used. For unequal variances, the Satterthwaite method was used; and for equal variances, the pooled sample variance was used. To analyze the statistical differences between the concentrations at different time points, the data were log-transformed and the Bonferroni correction was used. Results: The mean initial selenium concentration was 46 ± 37 µg/L. There was no statistically significant difference (P = 0.60) between sick (46 ± 34 µg/L) and healthy (46 ± 47 µg/L) calves. Serum selenium concentrations 3 and 6 d after injection of calves over 3 samples were 62 ± 19 µg/L and 50 ± 13 µg/L, respectively. Calves with an initial serum concentration of ≥ 72 µg/L showed a decrease of serum selenium concentration despite the injection. Conclusion and clinical relevance: Newborn calves showed a high variation in selenium concentration that was not influenced by health status. A single injection of 5.5 mg of sodium selenite did increase the selenium concentration in calves with selenium undersupply. After injection, none of the calves showed serum concentrations above the reference range for adult cattle. Therefore, the indication for a selenium injection can be interpreted generously if selenium undersupply is suspected.

Concentrations sériques de sélénium chez les veaux nouveau-nés : influence de l'injection postnatale de sélénium et de l'état de santé. Contexte: L'apport en sélénium joue un rôle majeur dans l'élevage des veaux, car une carence peut entraîner des problèmes de santé, des pertes économiques et même la mort. Par conséquent, des injections postnatales de sélénium sont souvent administrées à titre préventif. Objectif: Dans cette étude, nous avons examiné les concentrations sériques de sélénium de veaux sains et malades au cours des premiers jours de vie. De plus, les concentrations sériques après injection de sélénium ont été déterminées. Animaux et procédure: Les concentrations sériques de sélénium de 75 veaux ont été mesurées jusqu'au 10e jour de vie et les différences entre les veaux malades et sains ont été étudiées. Les variations de concentration en sélénium ont été analysées 3 et 6 jours après l'injection sous-cutanée de 5,5 mg de sélénite de sodium chez 32 veaux.Pour comparer les concentrations sériques entre les veaux sains et malades, un test t sur échantillons indépendants a été utilisé. Pour les variances inégales, la méthode de Satterthwaite a été utilisée; et pour des variances égales, la variance de l'échantillon groupé a été utilisée. Pour analyser les différences statistiques entre les concentrations à différents moments, les données ont été transformées par logarithme et la correction de Bonferroni a été utilisée. Résultats: La concentration initiale moyenne en sélénium était de 46 ± 37 µg/L. Il n'y avait pas de différence statistiquement significative (P = 0,60) entre les veaux malades (46 ± 34 µg/L) et sains (46 ± 47 µg/L). Les concentrations sériques de sélénium 3 et 6 jours après l'injection des veaux sur 3 échantillons étaient respectivement de 62 ± 19 µg/L et de 50 ± 13 µg/L. Les veaux avec une concentration sérique initiale ≥ 72 µg/L ont montré une diminution de la concentration sérique en sélénium malgré l'injection. Conclusion et pertinence clinique: Les veaux nouveau-nés ont montré une forte variation de la concentration en sélénium qui n'était pas influencée par l'état de santé. Une injection unique de 5,5 mg de sélénite de sodium a augmenté la concentration de sélénium chez les veaux présentant un apport insuffisant en sélénium. Après l'injection, aucun veau n'a présenté de concentrations sériques supérieures à la plage de référence pour les bovins adultes. Par conséquent, l'indication d'une injection de sélénium peut être interprétée de manière généreuse si un apport insuffisant en sélénium est suspecté.(Traduit par Dr Serge Messier).

Ultrafast transient absorption spectra and kinetics of human blue cone visual pigment at room temperature.

The ultrafast photochemical reaction mechanism, transient spectra, and transition kinetics of the human blue cone visual pigment have been recorded at room temperature. Ultrafast time-resolved absorption spectroscopy revealed the progressive formation and decay of several metastable photo-intermediates, corresponding to the Batho to Meta-II photo-intermediates previously observed with bovine rhodopsin and human green cone opsin, on the picosecond to millisecond timescales following pulsed excitation. The experimental data reveal several interesting similarities and differences between the photobleaching sequences of bovine rhodopsin, human green cone opsin, and human blue cone opsin. While Meta-II formation kinetics are comparable between bovine rhodopsin and blue cone opsin, the transition kinetics of earlier photo-intermediates and qualitative characteristics of the Meta-I to Meta-II transition are more similar for blue cone opsin and green cone opsin. Additionally, the blue cone photo-intermediate spectra exhibit a high degree of overlap with uniquely small spectral shifts. The observed variation in Meta-II formation kinetics between rod and cone visual pigments is explained based on key structural differences.

Patterns of variation and relationships among fat, protein, and milk yield of individual dairy cattle in a Thai multibreed population.

This study systematically examines the patterns of milk yield (MY, kg), fat (FAT, %), and protein (PROT, %) in a diverse population of Thai multibreed dairy cattle, considering the tropical environment's impact on lactating cows. Using a dataset of 47,205 monthly test-day records from 4,440 first-lactation cows across 446 farms, we analyze variations and interrelationships through mathematical averaging and introduce the fat-to-protein ratio (FPR) to assess acidosis (FPR < 1.1) and ketosis (FPR > 1.5) risks during lactation. Pearson correlation analysis elucidated trait associations. The findings, aligned with established lactation norms, indicate peak production at 297 days in milk (DIM) for FAT (4.08%; SD = 0.96%), PROT (3.43%; SD = 0.47%), and 52 DIM for MY (18.09 kg; SD = 4.91 kg). Nadirs are observed at 72 DIM for FAT (3.27%; SD = 0.74%), 47 DIM for PROT (2.86%; SD = 0.36%), and 299 DIM for MY (9.05 kg; SD = 2.95 kg). FPR variations highlight acidosis (46.48%), normal (43.66%), and ketosis (9.86%), especially during early lactation (100 DIM). Significant negative correlations emerge between MY, FAT, and PROT (P < 0.05), while a positive correlation is identified between FAT and PROT (P < 0.01), with robust correlations during early lactation. This study contributes to understanding tailored nutritional strategies for dairy cows' holistic health and sustainability in tropical environments, guiding efficient production practices and mitigating health-related productivity impediments.

Detection of putative loci affecting milk yield in Turkish Awassi sheep using microsatellite markers.

On the basis of comparisons between bovine and ovine genome mapping information, the aim of the study was to analyze the genetic diversity of selected DNA microsatellites from the bovine genome and to investigate their correlation with the average daily milk yield in Awassi sheep. 18 informative microsatellite markers were selected from the significant QTL regions affecting milk yield identified in the bovine genome in previous studies. The selected microsatellite markers were then amplified by PCR as reciprocal amplifications on the genomic DNA of Awassi sheep, with standard daily milk yield records. Thus, in this study, 18 microsatellite markers associated with milk yield in the bovine genome were examined for both determination of genetic polymorphism within the flock and the effects of marker loci on average daily milk yield in Awassi sheep. Allele frequencies of markers were determined based on the results of fragment analysis. The analysis of variance showed that the 123 bp allele at the marker locus BMS1341 on BTA2 significantly influenced the average daily milk yield of Ivesi sheep (P < 0.01). On the other hand, the BMS381 locus with a 115 bp allele on BTA2, the MCM140 locus with a 185 bp allele on BTA6, the BMS2721 locus with a 155 bp allele, the BM1237 locus with 174 and 180 bp alleles on BTA7, and finally, the BMS1967 locus with a 117 bp allele, the BM4208 locus with 176 and 182 bp alleles, and the INRA locus with a185 bp allele on BTA8 showed moderately significant effects on the average daily milk yield of Ivesi ewes (P < 0.05).

Effects of various levels of coated cysteamine hydrochloride in the diet on feed intake, digestibility, ruminal fermentation, and blood metabolites in growing Charolais crossbred cattle.

This study investigated the impact of different levels of coated cysteamine hydrochloride (CSH) supplementation on ruminal fermentation, nutrient digestibility, and blood metabolites in Charolais cross bulls. Twelve bulls were allotted to three feeding treatments in a replicated 3 × 3 Latin square design: 0% CSH (control), 0.5% CSH, and 1.0% CSH in concentrate. Animals were fed concentrate at 1.5% of body weight. Dry matter intake (DMI) and DMI as a percentage of body weight showed no significant differences among treatments (p > 0.10). Nutrient digestibility was consistent across treatments, except for a slight decrease in NDF digestibility with 1% CSH (p = 0.07). Ruminal pH, ammonia nitrogen, volatile fatty acid (VFA) proportions, and total VFA concentration were similar among treatments (p > 0.05). Total bacteria, fungal zoospores, and protozoa populations in the rumen did not vary significantly (p > 0.05). Blood glucose and triglyceride concentrations remained stable (p > 0.05), while blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels were higher in CSH-supplemented groups (p < 0.05). In conclusion, incorporating CSH levels ranging from 0.5% to 1.0% into the diet did not adversely affect feed intake, ruminal fermentation, or microbial populations. Additionally, 1.0% CSH improved BUN concentration in growing Charolais cross bulls.

Serosurvey and associated risk factors for bovine viral diarrhea virus infection in cattle in Egypt.

Bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV), is widely spread, poses a considerable risk of infection in the majority of dairy farms, causing respiratory, gastrointestinal, and reproductive problems. The aim of this study was to determine the seroprevalence and the risk variables associated with the seroprevalence of BVDV infection in cattle in four Egyptian governorates. A total of 680 blood samples were collected from cattle and examined for the presence of antibodies against BVDV using indirect ELISA (iELISA). Reproductive and management factors were considered, and epidemiological surveys were conducted. The total seroprevalence of BVDV in cattle was 18.24% (124/680) and it was significantly higher in females 19.66% (116/590), cattle older than 8 years 22.14% (62/280), dairy animals 22.65% (94/514), introduction of new animals to herd 21.39% (89/416), breeding with artificial insemination 28.46% (74/260), animals with history of abortion 28.76% (49/357), or during lactation stage 23% (89/387). The present findings suggest that BVD is prevalent in Egyptian dairy cattle and has an impact on farm productivity and production. Therefore, older, lactating, and aborted animals should also be identified for the disease, pose a risk of infection, and be handled appropriately.

Nodular skin disease in cattle.

This focus article was prepared by Caroline Fenemore and Vanessa Swinson of the APHA Cattle Species Expert Group, with Aiden Foster of the University of Bristol (Farm Animal Pathology Services).