Nutritional Evaluation of Milk Thistle Meal as a Protein Feedstuff for Diets of Dairy Cattle.

The objective of this work is to investigate the chemical and nutritional value of milk thistle meal (MTM) in order to improve it and to provide theoretical support for its application in dairy cattle production. MTM was assessed in comparison with seven conventional protein feed sources, namely, soybean meal (SBM), cottonseed meal (CS), canola meal (CN), palm kernel meal (PK), rice bran meal (RB), corn germ meal (CG), and sesame meal (SS). The chemical composition of these feedstuffs was assessed using wet chemical analysis, the Cornell Net Carbohydrate and Protein System was used to evaluate the carbohydrate and protein fractions, and the in situ nylon bag technique and the modified three-step in vitro method were used to assess the rumen degradation and intestinal digestibility. Additionally, Fourier transform infrared technology was used to determine the feedstuff protein spectral molecular structure and its amino acid profile was also assessed. The result showed that MTM acid detergent fiber, lignin, unavailable nitrogen, and non-degradable carbohydrate content were higher than those of the other feedstuffs. It had a 17% and 36% rumen effective degradation rate of neutral detergent fiber and dry matter, respectively, and had the lowest small intestinal rumen undegradable protein digestibility rate. It was low in leucine, histidine, arginine, and proline, but high in methionine. The total area of amide I and amide II in the protein secondary structure was similar to that of CN and CS, and the amide I and II ratio was not different from that of RB. To sum up, MTM has a poor carbohydrate composition and is high in fiber but, in comparison to most other protein feeds, has a higher crude protein rumen effective degradation rate, similar to that of SBM, and it is a good source of methionine, a limiting amino acid. Hence, its nutritional value can be further improved for application in dairy feeding through processes such as microbial or enzymatic fermentation.

Comparison of Antibiotic Use and the Frequency of Diseases Depending on the Size of Herd and the Type of Cattle Breeding.

Diseases are responsible for losses in livestock production by increasing animal mortality and reducing productivity. The administration of antibiotics can help mitigate these negative effects. However, inappropriate use can lead to severe complications, such as raising antibiotic resistance. The purpose of this study was to perform a comparative analysis of antibiotic use and disease frequency over four years, based on the size of dairy farms and the type of farm. The study covered a 4-year period and included medium dairy farms (20-50 cows, n = 13), large dairy farms (>250 cows, n = 8), and large beef farms (n = 8). The collected data involved antimicrobial use but also included farm demographics, animal health, disease frequency, and herd management practices. The criteria used to categorise antibiotics into groups A-D were based on the EMA guidelines. The carried-out study showed that the large dairy cattle farms had the highest antibiotic consumption (18.29 mg·PCU-1), due to the high frequency of diseases, and consequently, the treatment of calf (diarrhoea, lung inflammations) and cow diseases (general treatment and mastitis). Cattle on large beef farms suffer mainly from general diseases caused by maintenance and herd management conditions. The use of restrict antibiotics was, in some cases, unjustified (antibiotics for dry cow therapy). Future studies should consider a larger number of farms, taking into account the given direction of cattle production.

Base Characteristics, Preservation Methods, and Assessment of the Genetic Diversity of Autochthonous Breeds of Cattle, Sheep and Pigs in Serbia: A Review.

Preserving local autochthonous domestic animal populations and the products derived from them is a crucial aspect of managing human utilization of the biosphere. This management approach aims to ensure sustainable benefits for both present and future generations. The diversity of autochthonous domestic animal populations plays a vital role in the functionality and sustainability of the food production system. It encompasses both productive and non-productive aspects, contributing significantly to the overall health, nutrition, and food security of the landscape by providing a wide range of animal-derived food resources. Based on the data contained in the Draft Program of Rural Development, a significant presence of more than 44 autochthonous and local breeds of domestic animals has been noted in Serbia. In order to enable the sustainable preservation of local domestic animals, the competent Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Serbia has, through a number of projects, implemented models for the preservation of local breeds on farms (in situ), as well as provided technical assistance to small farms that keep animal collections. It also helps the local population to procure animals, conducts product quality research, and provides opportunities to integrate conservation programs through tourism. Given that molecular characterization is a key factor for the preservation of autochthonous breeds, in the Republic of Serbia, DNA markers are used for identification and to investigate the belonging to a specific breeds or strain. All the mentioned activities led to an immediate increase in the number of animals, which is especially true for the autochthonous breeds of cattle (Busha), sheep (Sjenicka, Svrljiska, and Vlach-vitohorn) and pigs (Mangalitsa, Moravka, and Resavka) that are discussed in this paper. In addition to the significant measures undertaken to preserve animal genetic resources (AnGR), it is necessary to continue to work primarily on ex situ conservation in order to prevent the loss of their gene pools. However, regardless of the evident effort that has been made to preserve autochthonous genetic resources in Serbia, we believe that there is still a lot of room for further improvement. This primarily refers to advanced technologies that have not been applied so far, mostly related to the identification of genomic regions associated with economic traits, resistance to diseases, and adaptability to emerging climate changes. In this way, the production capacity and functional characteristics of autochthonous species and breeds of domestic animals in Serbia will be improved.

Pain Relief Interventions in Australian Livestock Husbandry: A Review of Animal Welfare and Pain Duration.

In veterinary medicine and livestock production, ensuring good animal husbandry is vital for the physical and emotional wellbeing of animals under our care. Pain poses challenges for assessment and mitigation, especially in species unable to express pain overtly. This review examines current pain mitigation interventions in routine husbandry, focuses on the duration of pain after procedures and implications for animal welfare. Pain behaviours have been observed for days or weeks after regular husbandry procedures, and many studies have noted pain-related behaviour persisting until study finalisation, suggesting potential undocumented pain beyond study completion. Current products registered in Australia for pain mitigation in livestock primarily target immediate pain associated with procedures. The future of pain relief in livestock demands longer-acting solutions to address post-procedural pain adequately. Providing pain relief for at least 72 h post surgery is recommended, but current products require retreatment intervals to achieve this, posing practical challenges, especially in livestock. Methods of pain relief provision, such as voluntary consumption of medicated feed, transdermal medication delivery and long-acting formulations offer potential solutions for prolonged pain relief, with research ongoing in these areas. There is a need for further research and development of longer-acting pain relief to ensure optimal welfare of livestock.

Relationship between Selected SNPs (g.16024A/G, g.16039T/C and g.16060A/C) of the FASN Gene and the Fat Content and Fatty Acid Profile in the Milk of Three Breeds of Cows.

Fat is an important energy and nutritional component of milk and consists of fatty acids. FASN (fatty acid synthase) is an enzyme that regulates the synthesis of fatty acids in the milk and meat of cattle. It was hypothesized that knowing the relationships between the genotypes of the tested single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and the content of fat and specific fatty acids would make it possible to improve milk quality in the selection process during cattle breeding. This study aimed to analyze the relationships of SNPs (g.16024A/G, g.16039T/C) of the FASN gene and their genotypes with the fat and fatty acid content of the milk of the following breeds: Polish Red-White (ZR), Polish Red (RP), and Polish Holstein-Friesian Red-White (RW). The SNP g.16060A/C was included in the study, although its effect on the fat composition of cow's milk has not yet been widely studied. Milk was obtained during test milkings. SNP genotyping was performed using the real-time PCR (HRM) method. The milk from ZR and RP cows was more often characterized by a more favorable fatty acid profile than the milk from RW cows. This information can be used by cattle breeders and consumers of so-called functional food.

Buccal Swab Samples from Japanese Brown Cattle Fed with Limonite Reveal Altered Rumen Microbiome.

The areas of the Mount Aso grasslands in Kumamoto, Japan, are the primary location for the breeding of the Kumamoto strain of Japanese Brown cattle (JBRK). Although Aso limonite, deposited by volcanic ash and magma, has been commonly fed to pregnant JBRK in this area, the mechanisms of its salutary effects on pregnant JBRK have not yet been elucidated. Approximately 100 days before the expected day of calf delivery, seven JBRK (four supplemented with limonite and three controls without limonite) were assigned to this study, from which a buccal swab was collected at the highest rumination every 30 days for 90 days. DNA extracted from these swabs was then analyzed using a 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequence analysis. Statistically significant differences between the two groups were discovered through beta-diversity analysis, though results from alpha-diversity analysis were inconclusive. The microbiota identified were classified into six clusters, and three of the main clusters were core-rumen bacteria, primarily cellulose digestion in cluster 1, oral bacteria in cluster 2, and non-core-rumen bacteria in cluster 3. In the limonite group, core-rumen bacteria decreased while non-core-rumen bacteria increased, suggesting that limonite feeding alters rumen microbiota, particularly activation of non-core-rumen microbiota.

Updates and Current Challenges in Reproductive Microbiome: A Comparative Analysis between Cows and Women.

The microbiota plays an important role in numerous physiological processes, pathogenesis, development, and metabolism in different animal species. In humans, several studies have demonstrated an association between the vaginal microbiota and fertility rates, and even success in assisted reproduction techniques. In the context of cattle reproduction, although few studies have addressed the microbiota in a healthy state (which is not associated with diseases that affect the reproductive tract of cows), changes in its composition also seem to influence fertility. This review aims to explain the importance of the reproductive microbiota in female bovines and what is available in the literature regarding its possible role in increasing fertility. What are the challenges involved in this process? Future perspectives on its use and manipulation as a selection or intervention tool. Will it be possible to one day extrapolate the findings to reality and apply them in the field? In short, understanding the role of the reproductive microbiota of female bovines can signal the prospect of increasing production, whether of milk or meat, from the same number of animals, as it can optimize reproductive efficiency and perhaps become an allied tool for the economic profitability and sustainability of livestock farming.

Relationship between Pelvic Dimensions and Maximum Traction Forces Required during Parturition in Holstein Cows Using a Biomechanical Obstetric Simulator.

The primary aim of this study was to investigate the effect of the pelvic dimensions of Holstein cows on the traction forces during parturition. Additionally, the relationship between calf measurements and traction forces was explored. For this purpose, a modified in vitro biomechanical model simulating obstetric tractions was used. For the requirements of the experiment, six bone pelvises of deceased Holstein cows were collected based on their estimated pelvic inlet area (EPA) and prepared. Additionally, six stillborn calves were collected based on their body weight (BW). The parameters of the pelvic inlet and cavity were measured using computed tomography (CT). Using the simulator, every calf was pulled in a random order through all pelvises, realizing a total of 36 obstetrical tractions, and the required forces were documented with appropriate software. In each extraction, three peaks of forces were recorded, with the first peak occurring at the entrance of the elbows into the maternal pelvic cavity, the second peak at the entrance of the thorax, and the third at the entrance of the calf's pelvis. Logistic regression revealed an exponential relationship between pelvic parameters and traction forces for the entrance of the elbows and the pelvis, with the recorded forces being higher in the two smallest pelvises and stabilizing at a lower level thereafter, while for the entrance of the thorax, the correlations were either exponential or linear. The adjusted coefficients of determination (r2) were generally above the threshold of 0.5 for the entrance of the elbows and pelvis and lower (0.3-0.4) regarding the thorax and were statistically significant (p < 0.05) in all cases. Regarding the relationships between the calf dimensions and the required traction forces, the types of correlations were primarily linear and of lower magnitude. The combination of pelvic and calf parameters in a multivariate model resulted in an r2 of 0.72 for the entrance of the elbows using the pelvic diagonal and calf's body weight, an r2 of 0.62 using the pelvic area and calf's thoracic circumference, and an r2 of 0.75 using the pelvic diagonal and calf's fetlock joint width. In conclusion, under the conditions of the present experimentation, the applied traction forces were mainly influenced by the pelvic dimensions in an exponential manner, whereas the calf body measurements showed a weaker effect. Based on these findings, critical cut-off points exist, different for every pelvic parameter, below which a significant increase in the required traction forces is expected.

A scoping review on the epidemiology and public significance of Brucella abortus in Chinese dairy cattle and humans.

Brucellosis, caused by Brucella spp., is a re-emerging One Health disease with increased prevalence and incidence in Chinese dairy cattle and humans, severely affecting animal productivity and public health. In dairy cattle, B. abortus is the primary causative agent although infections with other Brucella species occur occasionally. However, the epidemiological and comparative importance of B. abortus in dairy cattle and humans remains inadequately understood throughout China due to the heterogeneity in locations, quality, and study methods. This scoping review aims to describe the changing status of B. abortus infection in dairy cattle and humans, investigate the circulating Brucella species and biovars, and identify factors driving the disease transmission by retrieving publicly accessible literature from four databases. After passing the prespecified inclusion criteria, 60 original articles were included in the final synthesis. Although the reported animal-level and farm-level prevalence of brucellosis in dairy cattle was lower compared to other endemic countries (e.g. Iran and India), it has been reported to increase over the last decade. The incidence of brucellosis in humans displayed seasonal increases. The Rose Bengal Test and Serum Agglutination Test, interpreted in series, were the most used serological test to diagnose Brucella spp. in dairy cattle and humans. B. abortus biovar 3 was the predominant species (81.9%) and biovar (70.3%) in dairy cattle, and B. melitensis biovar 3 was identified as the most commonly detected strain in human brucellosis cases. These strains were mainly clustered in Inner Mongolia and Shannxi Province (75.7%), limiting the generalizability of the results to other provinces. Live cattle movement or trade was identified as the key factor driving brucellosis transmission, but its transmission pattern remains unknown within the Chinese dairy sector. These knowledge gaps require a more effective One Health approach to be bridged. A coordinated and evidence-based research program is essential to inform regional or national control strategies that are both feasible and economical in the Chinese context.

Comparing hoof dimensional measurements in cows based on 3D image creation and manual measurement.

In this study, the accuracy of using 3D measurements from a 3D image creation application (3DICA) as a potential tool for measuring hoof dimensions in cattle was determined. Fifty distal limbs of cattle obtained from a slaughterhouse were included after the data was trimmed by the functional hoof trimming method. The lengths of six dimensional variables determined by manual measurements served as the true values. Then, the images of these hooves were captured with the 3DICA, and the same variables were determined by the measurement function in the 3DICA. A strong positive correlation was obtained between the 3D and manual measurements for five of the six points, and the mean difference was within 2 mm at all six points. However, the limits of agreement varied at three of the six points. In conclusion, compared with manual measurements, the 3D measurements provided approximately equivalent measurements for the hoof dimensions. However, these findings are preliminary, and further investigations are needed.

Beef Cattle Genome Project: Advances in Genome Sequencing, Assembly, and Functional Genes Discovery.

Beef is a major global source of protein, playing an essential role in the human diet. The worldwide production and consumption of beef continue to rise, reflecting a significant trend. However, despite the critical importance of beef cattle resources in agriculture, the diversity of cattle breeds faces severe challenges, with many breeds at risk of extinction. The initiation of the Beef Cattle Genome Project is crucial. By constructing a high-precision functional annotation map of their genome, it becomes possible to analyze the genetic mechanisms underlying important traits in beef cattle, laying a solid foundation for breeding more efficient and productive cattle breeds. This review details advances in genome sequencing and assembly technologies, iterative upgrades of the beef cattle reference genome, and its application in pan-genome research. Additionally, it summarizes relevant studies on the discovery of functional genes associated with key traits in beef cattle, such as growth, meat quality, reproduction, polled traits, disease resistance, and environmental adaptability. Finally, the review explores the potential of telomere-to-telomere (T2T) genome assembly, structural variations (SVs), and multi-omics techniques in future beef cattle genetic breeding. These advancements collectively offer promising avenues for enhancing beef cattle breeding and improving genetic traits.

Genomic Characterization of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A H5N1 Virus Newly Emerged in Dairy Cattle.

In March 2024, the emergence of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) A (H5N1) infections in dairy cattle was detected in United States for the first time. We genetically characterize HPAI viruses from dairy cattle showing an abrupt drop in milk production, as well as from two cats, six wild birds, and one skunk. They share nearly identical genome sequences, forming a new genotype B3.13 within the 2.3.4.4b clade. B3.13 viruses underwent two reassortment events since 2023 and exhibit critical mutations in HA, M1, and NS genes but lack critical mutations in PB2 and PB1 genes, which enhance virulence or adaptation to mammals. The PB2 E627 K mutation in a human case associated with cattle underscores the potential for rapid evolution post-infection, highlighting the need for continued surveillance to monitor public health threats.

Identification of potential differences in salivary proteomic profiles between estrus and diestrus stage of estrous cycle in dairy cows.

In the present study, a comparative global high-throughput proteomic analysis strategy was used to identify proteomic differences between estrus and diestrus stage of estrous cycle in dairy cows. Saliva was collected from cows during estrus and diestrus, and subjected to LC-MS/MS-based proteomic analysis. A total of 2842 proteins were detected in the saliva of cows, out of which, 2437 and 1428 non-redundant proteins were identified in estrous and diestrous saliva, respectively. Further, it was found that 1414 and 405 salivary proteins were specific to estrus and diestrus, respectively while 1023 proteins were common to both groups. Among the significantly dysregulated proteins, the expression of 56 proteins was down-regulated (abundance ratio <0.5) while 40 proteins were up-regulated (abundance ratio > 2) in estrous compared to diestrous saliva. The proteins, such as HSD17B12, INHBA, HSP70, ENO1, SRD5A1, MOS, AMH, ECE2, PDGFA, OPRK1, SYN1, CCNC, PLIN5, CETN1, AKR1C4, NMNAT1, CYP2E1, and CYP19A1 were detected only in the saliva samples derived from estrous cows. Considerable number of proteins detected in the saliva of estrous cows were found to be involved in metabolic pathway, PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, toll-like receptor signaling pathway, steroid biosynthesis pathway, insulin signaling pathway, calcium signaling pathway, estrogen signaling pathway, oxytocin signaling pathway, TGF-ß signaling pathway and oocyte meiosis. On the other hand, proteins detected in saliva of diestrous cows were involved mainly in metabolic pathway. Collectively, these data provide preliminary evidence of a potential difference in salivary proteins at different stages of estrous cycle in dairy cows.

Metagenomic analysis reveals a dynamic rumen microbiome with diversified adaptive functions in response to dietary protein restriction and re-alimentation.

Understanding the dynamics of the rumen microbiome is crucial for optimizing ruminal fermentation to improve feed efficiency and addressing concerns regarding antibiotic resistance in the livestock production industry. This study aimed to investigate the adaptive effects of microbiome and the properties of carbohydrate-active enzymes (CAZy) and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in response to dietary protein shifts. Twelve Charolais bulls were randomly divided into two groups based on initial body weight: 1) Treatment (REC), where the animals received a 7 % CP diet in a 4-week restriction period, followed by a 13 % CP diet in a 2-week re-alimentation period; 2) Control (CON), where the animals were fed the 13 % CP diet both in the restriction period and the re-alimentation period. Protein restriction decreased the concentrations of acetate, propionate, isovalerate, glutamine, glutamate, and isoleucine (P < 0.05), while protein re-alimentation increased the concentrations of arginine, methionine sulfoxide, lysine, and glutamate (P < 0.05). Protein restriction decreased the relative abundances of Bacteroidota but increased Proteobacteria, with no difference observed after re-alimentation. Protein restriction decreased relative abundances of the genera Bacteroides, Prevotella, and Bifidobacterium. Following protein recovery, Escherichia was enriched in CON, while Pusillibacter was enriched in REC, indicating that distinct microbial adaptations to protein shifts. Protein restriction increased GH97 while reducing GH94 and GT35 compared to CON. Protein restriction decreased abundances of KO genes involved in VFA production pathways, while they were recovered in the re-alimentation period. Protein restriction reduced tet(W/32/O) abundances but increased those of tet(X), nimJ, and rpoB2. Following protein re-alimentation, there was a decrease in ErmQ and tet(W/N/W), and an increase in Mef(En2) compared to CON, highlighting the impact of dietary protein on the distribution of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Overall, comprehensive metagenomic analysis reveals the dynamic adaptability of the microbiome in response to dietary shifts, indicating its capacity to modulate carbohydrate metabolism and ARGs in response to protein availability.

Proteomic profile in plasma as a biomarker of pregnancy in cows.

Pregnancy has its own protein dynamics, reflecting the hormonal profile. Quantitative and qualitative changes in plasma protein profile may provide useful information about this condition. Any alterations may be a signal heralding clinical or subclinical pathology. The objective of our study was to compare the plasma protein profile between selected months of pregnancy in cows for a better understanding gestation course. For this purpose, we collected blood from healthy pregnant (n = 30; n = 6 for each pregnancy stage) and non-pregnant (C; n = 6) Holstein-Friesian cows during a routine veterinary examination. Collected samples were selected according to pregnancy month (first, second, third, sixth, and ninth), prepared, and separated by two-dimensional electrophoresis. The Delta-2D program compared and statistically evaluated scanned gel images from the appropriate months. The mean volume of the spots was considered. The MALDI TOF/TOF spectrometer was used to identify statistically significant proteins. There were 11 distinct proteins found, including peptidyl-prolyl cis-trans isomerase F, oligoribonuclease, and PRELI domain-containing protein 3B (all of them have the lowest abundance in the C group), alpha-1B-glycoprotein, L-gulonolactone oxidase, hemopexin (first month with higher abundance than control), alpha-2-HS-glycoprotein (significantly higher abundance in the first month than in remaining groups), ermin (absent in the first month and lower abundance in the third and sixth months than in the remaining groups and control), endophilin-A2 (significant differences between the control and the second, third, sixth, and ninth months), apolipoprotein A-I (significant difference between control and the first and sixth months), alpha-1-antiproteinase (significant difference between control and the ninth month). The study demonstrated the distinctions between plasma protein composition and alterations during the pregnancy course which may potentially serve as diagnostic tools.

Prevalence and risk factors of Toxoplasma gondii infection in dairy cattle from the Western Region of Thailand.

In total, 901 dairy cow sera and data were collected from 51 farms in Nakhon Pathom, Ratchaburi and Kanchanaburi provinces (Western Region of Thailand). Serum samples were processed via the multispecies ELISA method to detect IgG antibodies against Toxoplasma gondii infection. The results demonstrated that the calculated true prevalence was 1.48% (95% CI, 0.64-2.75%) for the individual-level and 29.41% (95% CI, 18.71-43%) for the farm-level. The univariate risk factor analysis showed that the number of total owned cats, the presence of stray cats, and the frequency of cleaning per day were significant factors (p < 0.2). These three factors were subjected to logistic regression analysis, and the results revealed that the frequency of cleaning farms per day was a potential risk factor for T. gondii-seropositive farms (OR = 2.745, 95% CI, 1.15-8.69, p = 0.02). The frequency of cleaning might increase the T. gondii oocyst distribution within the barn area, thus increasing the possibility of infection. Our findings show that T. gondii continues to circulate in the dairy cow population in the western part of Thailand. The presence of cats on farms was not found to be associated with T. gondii infection, but the high frequency of cleaning the floor was, and contributed to the potential risk of infection.

Title: Prévalence et facteurs de risque de l'infection à Toxoplasma gondii chez les bovins laitiers de la région occidentale de la Thaïlande. Abstract: Au total, 901 sérums de vaches laitières et des données ont été collectés dans 51 fermes des provinces de Nakhon Pathom, Ratchaburi et Kanchanaburi (région occidentale de la Thaïlande). Les échantillons de sérum ont été traités via la méthode ELISA multi-espèces pour détecter les anticorps IgG contre l'infection à Toxoplasma gondii. Les résultats ont démontré que la prévalence réelle calculée était de 1,48 % (IC à 95 %, 0,64­2,75 %) au niveau individuel et de 29,41 % (IC à 95 %, 18,71­43 %) au niveau des exploitations. L'analyse factorielle a montré que le nombre total de chats possédés, la présence de chats errants et la fréquence quotidienne de nettoyage étaient des facteurs significatifs (p < 0,2). Ces trois facteurs ont été soumis à une analyse de régression logistique et les résultats ont révélé que la fréquence quotidienne de nettoyage des exploitations était un facteur de risque potentiel pour les exploitations séropositives à T. gondii (OR = 2,745, IC à 95 % = 1,15­8,69, p = 0,02). La fréquence du nettoyage pourrait favoriser la répartition des oocystes de T. gondii dans les étables, augmentant ainsi le risque d'infection. Nos résultats indiquent que T. gondii continue de circuler dans la population de vaches laitières de l'ouest de la Thaïlande. La présence de chats dans les fermes n'a pas été associée à l'infection à T. gondii, mais la fréquence élevée du nettoyage du sol l'était et contribuait au risque potentiel d'infection.

A newly identified IncY plasmid from multi-drug-resistant Escherichia coli isolated from dairy cattle feces in Poland.

Comprehensive whole-genome sequencing was performed on two multi-drug-resistant Escherichia coli strains isolated from cattle manure from a typical dairy farm in Poland in 2020. The identified strains are resistant to beta-lactams, aminoglycosides, tetracyclines, trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, and fluoroquinolones. The complete sequences of the harbored plasmids revealed antibiotic-resistance genes located within many mobile genetic elements (e.g., insertional sequences or transposons) and genes facilitating conjugal transfer or promoting horizontal gene transfer. These plasmids are hitherto undescribed. Similar plasmids have been identified, but not in Poland. The identified plasmids carried resistance genes, including the tetracycline resistance gene tet(A), aph family aminoglycoside resistance genes aph(3″)-lb and aph (6)-ld, beta-lactam resistance genes blaTEM-1 and blaCTX-M-15, sulfonamide resistance gene sul2, fluoroquinolone resistance gene qnrS1, and the trimethoprim resistance gene dfrA14. The characterized resistance plasmids were categorized into the IncY incompatibility group, indicating a high possibility for dissemination among the Enterobacteriaceae. While similar plasmids (99% identity) have been found in environmental and clinical samples, none have been identified in farm animals. These findings are significant within the One Health framework, as they underline the potential for antimicrobial-resistant E. coli from livestock and food sources to be transmitted to humans and vice versa. It highlights the need for careful monitoring and strategies to limit the spread of antibiotic resistance in the One Health approach. IMPORTANCE: This study reveals the identification of new strains of antibiotic-resistant Escherichia coli in cattle manure from a dairy farm in Poland, offering critical insights into the spread of drug resistance. Through whole-genome sequencing, researchers discovered novel plasmids within these bacteria, which carry genes resistant to multiple antibiotics. These findings are particularly alarming, as these plasmids can transfer between different bacterial species, potentially escalating the spread of antibiotic resistance. This research underscores the vital connection between the health of humans, animals, and the environment, emphasizing the concept of One Health. It points to the critical need for global vigilance and strategies to curb the proliferation of antibiotic resistance. By showcasing the presence of these strains and their advanced resistance mechanisms, the study calls for enhanced surveillance and preventive actions in both agricultural practices and healthcare settings to address the imminent challenge of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

Epidemiology and diagnostic accuracy of Clostridium perfringens toxins in the intestinal contents of camels, sheep, and cattle: a cross-sectional study in Dakahlia governorate, Egypt.

This study aimed to establish an accurate epidemiological surveillance tool for the detection of different C. perfringens types from 76 diseased and 34 healthy animals in Dakhalia Governorate, Egypt. A total of 110 intestinal content samples were randomly collected from camels, sheep, and cattle. C. perfringens was isolated and biochemically identified by the VITEK2 system. Toxinotyping and genotyping of C. perfringens isolates were specified by a multiscreen ELISA and real-time qPCR (rt-qPCR). The occurrence of C. perfringens was highest among camels (20% in healthy and 25% in diseased) and was lowest in cattle (23.1% and 14.7%). The cpa toxin was detected in all isolates by rt-qPCR and in 7 isolates by ELISA, ext toxin was detected in 7 isolates by rt-qPCR and in 6 isolates by ELISA, and cpb toxin was detected in 2 isolates by both rt-qPCR and ELISA. Four types of C. perfringens were identified by rt-qPCR, type A (65.2%), B (4.3%), C (4.3%), and D (26.1%), and three types by ELISA, type D (17.4%), A (8.7%) and C (4.3%). Our study indicated the prevalence of infection in Dakahlia by C. perfringens type A and D, particularly camels, and recommends adopting an appropriate vaccination strategy among the studied animals.

Carnosine supplementation in cryopreservation solution improved frozen-thawed bovine embryo viability.

Cryopreservation adversely affects embryo quality and viability in vitro.We investigated the effects of cryopreservation solutions supplemented with the antioxidant carnosine on frozen-thawed bovine embryo viability. Bovine blastocysts were produced in vitro and cryopreserved using slow freezing. The rates of re-expanded and hatched blastocysts in the 50 µg/ml carnosine-supplemented group at 4, 24, and 48 h after thawing were higher than those in the control (P< 0.05) group. In frozen-thawed embryos, cryopreservation solution supplemented with carnosine (50 µg/ml) significantly reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production(P < 0.05), decreased TUNEL-positive apoptotic cells (P< 0.05), and increased the mRNA expression of BCL2 (P< 0.05), an apoptosis suppressor gene. The expression of translocase of outer mitochondrial membrane 20 (TOMM20), which is involved in protein mitochondrial transport, in the carnosine (50 µg/ml)-treated embryos was significantly higher than that in the control group (P < 0.05). ATP production in frozen-thawed embryos in the 50 µg/ml carnosine-supplemented group was significantly higher than that in the control group (P< 0.05), however no significant difference in the total number of cells per embryo among the groups was observed. These results suggest that supplementing the cryopreservation solution with carnosine can improve the viability of frozen-thawed bovine embryos by reducing oxidative damage.

A retrospective analysis of conception per embryo transfer in dairy cattle in South Korea.

The bovine embryo production industry has seen significant growth over the past two decades, particularly in the production of in vitro produced embryos. This growth, driven by advancements in cryopreservation, in vitro culture mediums, ovum pick-up (OPU) procedures, ultrasonography devices, and embryo transfer (ET) has been notable. Particularly, ET is crucial for disseminating high genetic merit and amplifying foreign breeds by importing frozen embryos. This retrospective study aimed to assess factors affecting conception per embryo transfer (CPET) in Holstein-Friesian cattle in South Korea from October 2008 to July 2022. We evaluated type of embryo breed, type of embryo production (fresh and frozen; in vitro and in vivo production), recipient conditions including estrus type, corpus luteum quality, parity (nulliparous heifers, primiparous, and multiparous cows), and the daily mean temperature-humidity index (THI) as an index for heat stress. Type of embryo breed and estrus had no significant impact on CPET. However, we observed higher CPET in recipients with good quality corpus luteum, nulliparous heifers, and surrogates receiving fresh in vitro and frozen in vivo embryos. Importantly, CPET was not adversely affected by mild heat stress conditions (up to daily mean THI 76), indicating that using frozen in vivo embryos produced by multiple ovulation embryo transfer and fresh in vitro embryos by OPU-ET can help alleviate the subfertility issues in dairy cattle caused by global warming in Korea.