Multiparous Buffaloes Research Articles

Serum calcium and its relationship with immunoglobulin G (IgG) levels in prepartum buffaloes from the Venezuelan humid tropics

The immune system partially recognizes specific antigens due to the role of calcium (Ca2+) as an intracellular second messenger that regulates the humoral immune response. To consider a physiological association between serum Ca2+ levels and its modulatory effect on immunoglobulin G (IgG) synthesis before calving in dairy buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) in southern Lake Maracaibo, Venezuela, twenty clinically healthy Murrah x Mediterranean crossbred female buffaloes with excellent body condition were considered for this study. Ten were young females of 33.6±14.15 months, with nine months of gestation and 432±44.27 kg body weight. The other ten were adult buffaloes of 563±53.6 kg body weight at nine months of gestation and reproductive history of four calvings. The sampling consisted of collecting 6 milliliters (mL) of blood by jugular venipuncture in tubes without anticoagulant; then, the serum was separated by centrifugation at 3,300 r.p.m. for 20 minutes at 25 °C using a BOECO®-Germany centrifuge. Next, 1 mL of serum was taken to determine the serological parameters under study. Ca2+ was found in the blood through the Arsenazo III method using a Selectra ProsS ELITech®- Netherlands Analyzer and, to quantify the levels of IgG; the immunoturbidimetry technique was used with the Cobas c311 Roche® Analyzer®-USA. The data were subjected to the Kruskal-Wallis nonparametric test and Spearman correlation analysis. According to the results obtained, primiparous B. bubalis females close to parturition presented serum Ca2+ levels (8.03±0.25 mg/dL) similar to multiparous buffaloes (8.07±0.7 mg/dL) adjusted to the reference range (6.05-11.98 mg/dL) for water buffaloes. In contrast, IgG in young females was higher (761.33±21.81 mg/dL) concerning adult buffaloes (735. 83±17.39 mg/dL) with no statistically significant differences (p>0.05) between groups for both variables; however, the correlation test indicated that, in first calving buffaloes, the circulating Ca2+ level is negatively associated (r=-0.56) with IgG concentration, a physiological response that was statistically different (p<0.05) concerning multiparous buffaloes (r=0.83). There is evidence of an association between serum calcium concentration and IgG levels that depends on the number of calvings, possibly because different metabolic pathways for Ca 2+ exchange determine the immune response among the categories of buffaloes included in the study. Thus, the functional significance of Ca2+ signaling for the prepartum B. bubalis immune system is just beginning to emerge.

Evaluation of Parity Effect on Characteristics and Minerals in Buffalo (Bubalus Bubalis) Colostrum and Mature Milk.

Colostrum is a vital performance for buffaloes and potentially functional foods in the future. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the difference between the parity of buffalo colostrum and mature milk. Twenty pregnant buffaloes (primiparous = 10; multiparous = 10) were assigned to the same diet prepartum and milking routine postpartum. Calves were separated from the dams immediately after birth and colostrum was harvested within 2 h, whilst mature milk was harvested at 7 days postpartum. The colostrum was analyzed for immunoglobulin G and milk composition as the mature milk. The results showed that there was a higher level of protein, solid not fat, and milk urea nitrogen (p < 0.05), with a tendency for higher total solids (p = 0.08) in primiparous buffaloes' colostrum compared with multiparous. No parity effect was observed in colostrum immunoglobulin G, fat, lactose, and yields of colostrum and composition (p > 0.05). There was no difference in mature milk composition and yield by parity affected (p > 0.05). Compared with mature milk composition, colostrum had a higher content protein, total solids, solid not fat, and milk urea nitrogen (p < 0.05); however, fat and lactose were lower than that of mature milk (p < 0.05). For minerals, multiparous buffaloes' colostrum had a higher concentration of Fe (p = 0.05), while the mature milk had higher concentrations of K and P compared with primiparous. Buffalo colostrum had higher concentrations of Na, Mg, Co, Fe, and K with a lower concentration of Ca relative to mature milk (p < 0.05). It was observed that parity affected colostrum characteristics rather than mature milk and caused subtle variations in minerals in colostrum and mature milk of buffaloes. As lactation proceeded, both milk composition and minerals in the milk changed drastically.

Efficacy of Second Prostaglandin F2 Alpha Treatment during Ovsynch Protocol on Pregnancy Rate Inseminated with Sex-sorted Semen in Buffaloes

Background: Ovsynch is one of the most adopted estrus synchronization protocols used for synchronization of ovulation and fixed-time artificial insemination however, new corpus luteum (CL) induced by the first GnRH treatment in Ovsynch is inappropriately regressed with a single treatment with prostaglandin F2α. Inadequate CL regression reduces fertility. Considering this rationale, present research was implemented with the effect of second prostaglandin F2 alpha treatment during Ovsynch protocol on pregnancy rate inseminated with sex-sorted semen in buffaloes. Methods: Post-partum true anestrus multiparous buffaloes (n=24) were categorized as a group I (Ovsynch; n=12) and group II (Double PG Ovsynch; n=12). Buffaloes from group I were treated with standard Ovsynch protocol (D=7; G-P-G), while additional second prostaglandin F2 alpha injection was administered on day eighth (D=7; G-P-P-G) in group II (Double PG Ovsynch). All the buffaloes were inseminated 16-20 hrs after the last GnRH injection with sex-sorted semen. Result: The estrus signs exhibited were numerically higher in group II than in group I. The first service pregnancy rate in double PG Ovsynch was higher than the Ovsynch group. The addition of a second prostaglandin F2 alpha injection in the Ovsynch protocol improves the estrus quality and increases pregnancy rate.

Prepartum maternal supplementation of Capsicum oleoresin improves colostrum quality and buffalo calves' performance.

The present study aims to evaluate the effects of prepartum maternal supplementation of Capsicum oleoresin (CAP) on colostrum quality and growth performance in newborn buffalo calves. Twelve multiparous buffaloes were randomly assigned to two groups starting from 4 weeks prepartum: the control group with a basal diet (CON) and the treatment group with a basal diet supplemented with 20 mg CAP/kg dry matter (CAP20). After birth, all calves were weighed and received colostrum from their respective dam directly within 2 h. After that, calves received pasteurized milk and starter feed till 56 days of age. The results showed that CAP increased lactose (P < 0.05) in colostrum, and it tended to increase monounsaturated fatty acids; however, it decreased colostrum urea nitrogen (P < 0.10). CAP did not affect colostrum yield and immunoglobulin G and M concentrations. The weekly starter intake was not affected by maternal CAP supplementation during the first 6 weeks of life. There was an increasing tendency in weekly starter intake from weeks 7 and 8 (P < 0.10) in CAP20 compared with CON. At 7 days of age, calves in CAP20 had higher immunoglobulin G (P < 0.05) and a decreased tendency in calves' serum glucose compared with CON. Additionally, maternal CAP supplementation increased calves' serum β-hydroxybutyric acid (P < 0.05) and tended to increase total protein (P < 0.10), while decreased non-esterified fatty acids (P < 0.05) at 56 days of age. Calves in CAP20 had higher final withers height, final heart girth, average withers height, and average heart girth than the CON (P < 0.05). These results suggest that maternal CAP supplementation could improve colostrum quality and positively affect the performance of buffalo calves.

Body Condition Scoring and Serum Metabolic Profiles vis-a-vis Parity in Postpartum Surti Buffaloes

Background: Lactating animals tend to lose body tissue reserves in support of lactation and move into a negative energy balance that leads to a higher incidence of metabolic disorders and compromised productive performance. Despite several efforts to assess the influence of parity on BCS and metabolic profiles in postpartum buffaloes, systematic information is less. The current study was conducted to evaluate the effect of parity on metabolic profile and changes in BCS in postpartum Surti buffaloes. Methods: In the present study conducted from September-2017 to May-2018, fourteen postpartum Surti buffaloes were selected and grouped based on parity as primiparous and multiparous (2nd to 5th lactation). The blood sample was collected from all the selected animals on the day of calving, 15th, 30th and 60th day post calving. Serum biochemical parameters viz., glucose, total protein, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), cholesterol and Non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) were analysed. The body condition score (BCS) was assessed from the day of calving up to 60th day of the study at 15-day interval. Result: The study revealed that the BCS was significantly higher in multiparous buffaloes as compared to primiparous group. Among biochemical parameters, glucose was significantly higher in primiparous group as compared to their multiparous counterparts. Parity did not have a significant influence on serum total protein, BUN, cholesterol and NEFA. However, NEFA was slightly higher in multiparous group of Surti buffaloes. High NEFA and low serum glucose indicated a greater degree of negative energy balance in multiparous buffaloes due to higher milk output.

Effect of Different Synchronization Regimens on Reproductive Variables of Crossbred (Swamp × Riverine) Nulliparous and Multiparous Buffaloes during Peak and Low Breeding Seasons.

Simple SummaryParity and season are two prominent variants which influence buffalo reproductive performance and synchronization outcome. The present study compared modified new Ovsynch synchronization (GPGMH) protocol with conventional Ovsynch (OVS) in reproductive parameters of buffaloes with different parity (nulliparous and multiparous) in different seasons (peak and low breeding seasons). Compared to the conventional Ovsynch, the modified GPGMH protocol was more effective to enhance the estrus rate, ovulation rate and pregnancy rate in multiparous crossbred buffaloes. In addition, the application of GPGMH protocol improve the reproductive performance during the peak breeding season than low breeding season.The present study was conducted to examine the effect of conventional the Ovsynch protocol (OVS) and a modified Ovsynch synchronization (GPGMH) protocol on the follicular dynamics, estrus, ovulation, and pregnancy in nulliparous and multiparous crossbred (swamp × riverine) buffaloes during different seasons. GPGMH or OVS protocols were used to synchronize nulliparous (n = 128; GPGMH = 94, OVS = 34) and multiparous (n = 154; GPGMH = 122, OVS = 32) buffaloes during the peak (n = 186; GPGMH = 143, OVS = 43) and low breeding (n = 96; GPGMH = 73, OVS = 23) seasons. Buffaloes were monitored for follicular dynamics, estrus response, ovulation, and pregnancy rates. The results showed that protocol, parity, and season had significant effects on estrus, ovulation, and pregnancy variables, and interactions among parity and protocol, season and protocol, and season and parity were observed for few of reproductive indices in the crossbred buffaloes. There were no significant (p > 0.05) interaction for protocol, parity and season. In multiparous buffaloes, the application of the GPGMH protocol significantly (p < 0.05) increased the interaction to the interval to estrus onset after the second GnRH, estrus response, ovulation rate, and pregnancy rate, and lowered (p < 0.05) the silent estrus when compared with the conventional OVS protocol. During the peak breeding season, the application of the GPGMH protocol significantly (p < 0.05) improved the interaction to the estrus response, ovulation rate, and pregnancy rate, while it lowered (p < 0.05) the silent estrus incidence when compared to the conventional OVS protocol. In conclusion, the GPGMH protocol, in comparison to the OVS protocol, improves the follicular dynamics, estrus response, ovulation, and pregnancy rates in crossbred multiparous buffaloes during the peak breeding seasons.

Ultrasound scanning of ovarian activity in postpartum Iraqi buffaloes

Endometritis is one of the most common infections in buffaloes and occurs several weeks postpartum, causes severe economic losses, including increased open days and calving intervals. This study was aimed to demonstrate the ovarian activity in postpartum buffaloes two months after calving. Moreover, this study was aimed to demonstrate the incidence of endometritis during 21–24 days postpartum in buffaloes.&#x0D; A total of 72 multiparous buffaloes, 3-10 years and three weeks post-birth were involved in the current research. All the buffaloes were examined weekly from week 3 after birth by routine rectal palpation, ultrasound scanning, and vaginal discharge checking. A 4-value point (0 = bright mucus, 1 = discharge with little pus, 2 = discharge with less than 50% pus discharges, and 3 = with &gt; 50% pus discharges) was depended to classify vaginal discharges of these buffaloes. Cytobrush specimens were dependent to get endometrial samples from these animals. Ten from seventy-two buffaloes (13.8%) suffered from abnormal vaginal discharges grade (1-3) and pointed to acute clinical endometritis (CE), and about (16.6%) 12 of 72 clinically healthy buffaloes had subclinical endometritis (SCE) (≥ 8 % neutrophils). The diameter of the large follicle was significantly (p &lt; 0.05) greater in healthy buffaloes compared with the animals that suffered from clinical and subclinical endometritis in the postpartum period. The size of the corpus luteum was significantly (p &lt; 0.05) lower (7 mm) in clinical endometritis postpartum buffaloes than the healthy and subclinical endometritis buffaloes. In conclusion the ultrasound technique is a precise method to evaluate ovarian activity in postpartum buffaloes.

The Association of the Potential Risk Factors and Nutrition Elements with Abortion and Calving Rates of Egyptian Buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis).

Simple SummaryThe association of the risk factors, serum constituents related to abortion and calving rates were investigated. Multiparous buffaloes were less likely to abort and more likely to calving than primiparous. Dry buffaloes had lesser odds of abortion and were six times more likely to give birth than those lactating. Conversely, the sex of the fetus had no impact. In aborted animals, serum glucose and copper were higher, whereas urea, uric acid, total proteins, total cholesterol, phosphorus, magnesium and iron were lower than in normal pregnancy. This emphasizes that risk factors and serum constituents associated with abortion aid to construct suitable preventive measures to raise reproductive performance.The aim of the present study was to investigate risk factors, serum minerals, and metabolites associated with non-infectious abortion and calving rates of Egyptian buffaloes. Data were obtained from 364 pregnant buffaloes of different ages and parities over 7 years from 2014 to 2020. Body condition score (BCS) was a risk factor regarding abortion and calving; the thinnest buffaloes were more likely to abort and less likely to calving than those with body energy reserves. In comparison with the spring season, aborting probability decreased 49.7% the odds ratio (OR = 0.503), while the chance of calving increased 72.1% (OR = 1.721) during winter. The parity was another significant factor related to abortion and calving rates; multiparous buffaloes were less likely to abort and more likely to calving than primiparous. Dry buffaloes had 88.2% (OR = 0.118) lesser odds of abortion and six times (OR = 6.012) more likely to give birth than those lactating. The sex of the fetus was not a risk factor regarding abortion or calving. Other variables significantly associated with abortion rate were glucose and copper in the sera of aborted buffaloes were significantly higher (p < 0.05), and those of urea, uric acid, total protein, total cholesterol, phosphorus, magnesium and iron were significantly (p < 0.05) lower than a normal pregnancy. In conclusion, the present results emphasize that the identification of the risk factors, serum minerals and metabolites associated with fetus abortion of Egyptian buffalo may provide useful information, which assists to construct suitable preventive measures to raise reproductive performance.

Milk yield and composition, blood, and urinary parameters of Murrah buffaloes in different maturity stages during the transition period and early lactation

ABSTRACT This study aimed to evaluate differences in productive performance between primiparous and multiparous Murrah buffaloes and the interrelationships between metabolic traits during the transition period and early lactation. Thirty pregnant buffaloes were monitored during the transition period and at the beginning of the lactation. Animals were randomly assigned within the two experimental groups considering the calving number and the estimated calving date: primiparous (n = 15) and multiparous buffaloes (n = 15). The buffaloes were monitored every week during the last 30 days of pregnancy, and the first 63 days postpartum. Buffaloes were kept in the same environment condition, and management practices. Multiparous buffaloes, at the postpartum period, showed higher milk fat, protein, lactose, total dry extract production, non-fat dry extract contents, and higher milk urea nitrogen and casein contents than primiparous buffaloes. Primiparous buffaloes showed higher urine pH and hematocrit concentration than the multiparous group at the prepartum period and higher leukocyte and lymphocytes concentrations at the postpartum. During the transition period, primiparous buffaloes exhibited negative interrelationships between metabolic traits and productive performance related to variations in their metabolic status. These results may indicate that multiparous buffaloes fewer sensitive to variations of metabolic status during the transition period.

Improvement of Reproductive Parameters in Postpartum Buffalo Cows

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of the hormonal treatment during early postpartum period on the days open, serum progesterone hormone levels at 28 and 42 days post injection and pregnancy percentage following different hormone protocols in multiparous and primiparous buffaloe- cows. The experiment was carried out on 65 (40 multiparous -25 primiparous) clinically healthy animals, randomly allotted into five groups: each (n=8) multiparous and (n=5) of primiparous. The first group; received saline 0.9% intramuscular at day 14 postpartum (control). The second group; injected by 5 ml Receptal (20 µg Buserelin ) at day 14 post-partum. The third group; injected by 5 ml Receptal at day 14 post-partum and day 21 then 3ml Estrumate (750 µg cloprostenol) at day 28. The fourth group received 2 vials of Gonaser (1000 IU eCG) at day 14 post-partum. The fifth group injected by 1000 IU eCG at day 14 post-partum, and at day 21 receive 5 ml Receptal then 7 days later at day 28 receive 3ml Estrumate. Fertile bulls were ensured for all buffaloes. Blood samples collection were performed at the days 28 and 42 day from treatment for serum progesterone levels determination. Ultrasound pregnancy check was done at day 40-45 days later. The present study demonstrated that group 4 has significant (P>0.05) decrease of the current days open than other groups of multiparous buffalo and have lower significant (P < 0.01) difference from previous days open and Primiparous buffaloes. Meanwhile, control group showed the highest current days open (113.3 ± 4.4) compared to other groups of multiparous buffalo cows and have significant (P < 0.05) difference from primiparous buffalo cows. Highly significant (P < 0.05) differences in serum progesterone concentration at 28 and 42 day among groups of multiparous buffalo cows where, group 4 at 28 day had greater (0.56±0.11 ng/mL) concentration than both group 2 (0.31±0.07 ng/mL) and group 3 (0.29±0.06 ng/mL). No significant differences in percentages of pregnancy rates within multiparous and primiparous buffaloes but group 1 and group 3 of primiparous buffaloes had the lowest pregnancy rate percentage compared to other groups. In conclusion, the application of hormonal treatment during early postpartum period at day 14 postpartum especially group 4 resulted in decreased days open and could be used for improvement of the reproduction in postpartum buffaloe-cows.

Factors affecting calving ease in Egyptian buffalo.

Calving ease (CE) is a trait of economic importance that affects animal welfare and farm profitability. The objective of present study was to investigate genetic and environmental factors affecting CE among Primiparous (PP) and multiparous (MP) buffaloes. A total of 9,627 records from 1999 MP and 2,110 PP recorded during the period from 1988 to 2018 were considered. Herd, season of calving, year of calving, birth weight, parity order and gestation length significantly affected CE rate, while age at first calving and sex of calf had no significant effects. Direct and maternal heritabilities of CE in PP and MP were 0.06 and 0.01, respectively. The low heritability of CE indicated that direct selection may not be an effective method to improve CE trait in Egyptian buffalo.

Assessment of Hemato-biochemical, mineral and oxidative changes in postpartum anoestrous (true anoestrus) Murrah Buffaloes

The present study was aimed to assess the hemato-biochemical, mineral and oxidative changes in postpartum anoestrous Murrah buffaloes. A total of 30 multiparous buffaloes of almost same age and body weight were used for the experiment. The experimental group I (GI) consisted of 15 postpartum anoestrous buffaloes (PPA) and control group II (GII) consisted of 15 normal cyclic buffaloes. Blood samples were collected by jugular vein puncture and analyzed for hematological parameters. Further, the serum was separated from another aliquot of blood sample and utilized for biochemical, mineral, MDA and SOD activity. The mean Hb, PCV, glucose, cholesterol and phosphorous values were significantly (p 0.05) difference was observed in total protein and calcium concentration between groups. From the present study, it was concluded that postpartum anoestrous can be attributed to oxidative stress, which induces significant changes in hemato-biochemical and mineral profile.

Evaluation of Double Ovsynch Protocol in Acyclic Jaffarabadi Heifers and Buffaloes with Respect to Ovarian Dynamics, Hormonal Profile and Fertility

Background: Anestrus is one of the most commonly encountered infertility problems in cattle and buffalo in India. Jaffarabadi is one of the heaviest buffalo breeds of the world and is a native of Saurashtra region of Gujarat. The breed is known for poor reproductive efficiency. To improve its reproductive efficiency, this study was undertaken on acyclic Jaffarabadi animals employing double Ovsynch protocol and its assessment through ovarian dynamics and blood biochemical and endocrine profile on a farm. Methods: The study included acyclic post-pubertal Jaffarabadi heifers (age 42±2 and 48±2 months; Gr-I and Gr-II, n=6 each) and the postpartum lactating acyclic buffaloes (Gr-III, n=6) using a double Ovsynch protocol, which consisted of i/m injections of 20 µg Buserelin acetate on days 0, 10, 17 and 26 and 500 µg Cloprostenol sodium on days 7 and 24, with a timed insemination on day 27. Ovarian dynamics was monitored by performing ultrasonography using real-time B-mode ultrasound scanner together with blood sampling for hormonal and biochemical profile on each day of hormone therapy and then on days 0, 12, 21 and 35 post-AI. The animals inseminated at induced estrus/FTAI were followed for return to estrus, if any. Pregnancy was confirmed in non-return cases on day 35 by ultrasonography and on day 70 by per rectal examination. The findings on ovarian dynamics, plasma endocrine and biochemical profile were compared statistically between groups and periods and fertility rates between groups. Result: In animals of treatment group I and II, a significant (p less than 0.05) increase in numbers of small follicles was observed on day 26. Number of large sized follicles was significantly (p less than 0.05) higher on day 26 in comparison to day 0 and day 7 in group III animals. Large and subordinate follicular diameters increased gradually, but the differences between periods were significant (p less than 0.001) only in group III with the highest diameter of large follicle on day 17. Plasma FSH and LH concentrations differed significantly (p less than 0.001) among groups at all-time intervals. Plasma LH in group I and III differed significantly (p less than 0.001). Plasma estrogen level was significantly (p less than 0.05) higher in group II than group III. Plasma progesterone concentrations in group I and II animals were significantly higher on day 35 post-AI. Plasma insulin levels were significantly (p less than 0.01) lower on all days for group III animals than group I and II. Blood glucose level was significantly (p less than 0.001) higher in group I on day 17 as compared to group II and III. Plasma total cholesterol was significantly (p less than 0.05) higher in group III as compared to group I and II. The conception rates at first service/FTAI in double Ovsynch treated animals of group I, II and III were 66.66, 83.33 and 16.66 %, respectively. Thus it was concluded that ovarian structures and the plasma endocrine profile reflected the ovarian response to different hormonal injections and that double Ovsynch protocol could be a better choice for improving conception rate in post-pubertal acyclic Jaffarabadi buffalo heifers as compared to multiparous acyclic buffaloes.

Seasonal Dynamics of Physiological, Oxidative and Metabolic Responses in Non-lactating Nili-Ravi Buffaloes Under Hot and Humid Climate.

Hot and humid weather exposes animals to high temperature and relative humidity that ultimately reduce their ability to disperse body heat. To avoid serious consequences of heat stress, it is imperative to understand animal physiological responses and biochemical changes during a state of altered body homeostasis across different seasons of the year. This study evaluated seasonal dynamics of physiological, oxidative, and metabolic responses of Nili-Ravi buffaloes to hot and humid climate. Twenty non-lactating multiparous buffaloes were enrolled for this 1-year study. Meteorological data were recorded twice daily to calculate temperature humidity index (THI). Physiological parameters including rectal temperature (RT), body surface temperature (BST), and respiratory rate (RR) were measured weekly. Blood samples were collected once in each season (spring, summer, autumn, and winter) to analyze biochemical and antioxidant parameters. We also measured activities of liver enzymes including alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST). The results revealed a significantly higher THI value (82) during summer which resulted in a significant increase in RR and BST as compared to winter. Higher oxidative stress was observed in summer owing to significantly higher malondialdehyde (MDA) content and lower levels of serum antioxidant enzymes (GPx, SOD, and CAT) as compared to other seasons. Moreover, serum cortisol was also significantly higher while adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), Triiodothyronine (T3), insulin, and growth hormone contents were significantly lower in summer. Contrarily, plasma thyroxin (T4) level was higher in summer. THI showed a positive correlation with physiological responses but a negative correlation with antioxidant parameters. Our study provides practical insights on the adaptive physiology of buffaloes and has several implications regarding the alleviation of heat stress in buffaloes to enhance the efficiency of production and reproduction under tropical climate. Our study suggests the use of appropriate cooling strategies to effectively manage the non-lactating buffaloes to avoid performance losses and animal welfare issues in summer season.

Phenotypic Characterization of Milk Yield and Quality Traits in a Large Population of Water Buffaloes.

Simple SummaryThe buffalo dairy industry has deep roots in Southern Italy, due to the traditional link with Mozzarella di Bufala, a Protected Designation of Origin cheese with high economic value and market demand. At farm level, strategies aiming to improve milk yield and quality are essential to maximize profitability and dairy chain efficiency. In this study, we analyzed a large data set of Italian Buffaloes (around 70 thousands animals) in order to detect the phenotypic sources of variation of milk yield and quality traits, disclose exploitable favorable correlations among milk traits, and provide useful information for dairy buffalo chain stakeholders.The buffalo milk industry has economic and social relevance in Italy, as linked to the manufacture of traditional dairy products. To provide an overview of the current status of buffaloes’ performances on a large scale, almost 1 million milk test-day records from 72,294 buffaloes were available to investigate milk yield, energy corrected milk, fat, protein, and lactose content, and somatic cell score (SCS). Phenotypic correlations between milk traits were calculated and analysis of variance was carried out through a mixed model approach including fixed effect of parity, stage of lactation, sampling time, month of calving, and all their interactions and random effects of buffalo, herd-test-date, and residual. Third-parity buffaloes were the most productive in terms of milk yield, while the lowest solid content was detected in sixth parity buffaloes. A considerable gap between primiparous and multiparous buffaloes was observed for milk yield, especially in early- and mid-lactation. Overall, SCS progressively increased with parity and showed a negative correlation with milk yield in both primiparous (−0.12) and multiparous (−0.14) buffaloes. Results suggested that, at the industrial level, milk of primiparous buffaloes may be preferred for transformation purposes, since it was characterized by greater solid content and lower SCS. Results of this study provide a picture of the Italian population of buffaloes under systematic performance records and might be beneficial to both dairy industry and breeding organizations.

Effect of biostimulation and estrus synchronization on estrus response and fertility rate in primiparous and multiparous Kundhi buffaloes

Anestrus and unobserved estrus are one of the crucial managemental lapses in the livestock business. This research was planned to assess the efficiency of different estrus synchronization procedures with bull exposed and with non-bull exposed groups in primiparous and multiparous buffaloes at Kundhi buffalo farm Rorhi and its surroundings. Total 40 (n=20 primiparous, n=20 multiparous) buffaloes were used in this study. The chosen buffaloes were divided into two main groups, A (BE, Bull-Exposed) and group B (NE, Non-Exposed). Based on the treatments A group was further sub-divided into two sub-groups, OvSynch bull-exposed (OBE) A1 and prostaglandin bull exposed (PBE) A2. Also, B group was parted into dual sub-groups Ovsynch non-exposed (ONE) and prostaglandin non-exposed (PNE) group B2. Results of the present study showed that estrus response differed significantly among the primiparous and multiparous Kundhi buffalo in all groups (P<0.05). The overall estrus response (50% and 100%) and pregnancy rates (40% and 70%) were higher in both primiparous and multiparous animals of BE groups as compared to primiparous (60% and 70%), and multiparous animals (30% and 60%) of NE groups. The overall estrus, duration was also higher in the primiparous (22 ± 0.66 hours) and multiparous animals (20 ± 2.05 hours) of BE groups, in contrast to 16 ± 0.95 hours and 14 ± 0.84 hours of NE groups. These findings suggested that the use of bull with OvSynch protocol it could efficiently be used to improve the estrus incidence and pregnancy rate in primiparous and multiparous buffaloes as compararion double prostaglandin protocol. Keywords: Biostimulation; Estrus synchronization; Estrus response; Kundhi buffalo; Pregnancy rate http://dx.doi.org/10.19045/bspab.2019.80049

Survival analysis and seasonal patterns of pregnancy outcomes in Egyptian buffaloes

The objective of this study was to analyze the survival patterns of pregnancy outcomes in Egyptian buffaloes under subtropical environmental conditions. The overall reproductive and production indices were performed on a total of 1224 records. The means of days at first AI postpartum, days open and calving interval of Egyptian buffaloes are 62.29, 83.13 and 395.1 days, respectively. The survival analysis of pregnancy outcomes in the present study was restricted to the first AI (576 first AI records). Compared to the low temperature-humidity index (THI), the conception rate (P/AI at 30 days) was significantly decreased at high THI level (OR = 0.45; p = 0.029), however, no significant variations were recorded between the referent (low) THI level and the moderate one (OR = 0.86; p = 0.673). Additionally, the pregnancy loss rate was significantly increased at a high THI level (OR = 2.43; p = 0.008). In comparison with the referent (primiparous) group, the conception rates were significantly increased in the M1 (2–5 parities; OR = 2.84) and M2 (>5 parities; OR = 4.06) multiparous groups (p = 0.007 and 0.004, respectively). The Egyptian buffaloes produce a relatively higher daily milk yield (>9 kg) have significantly lower conception rate compared with the referent (<7 kg) group (OR = 0.46; p = 0.046). However, the daylight length (continuous variable) had no significant effects on the conception (OR = 0.88; p = 0.298) and pregnancy loss (OR = 0.92; p = 0.608) rates. The Cox Proportional-hazards model for the hazard of pregnancy outcome (P/AI at 30 days) revealed that multiparous buffaloes had a higher hazard of pregnancy than primiparous buffaloes (HR = 2.37, p = 0.001). Moreover, buffalo cows calving in the summer and spring have a lower hazard of pregnancy than buffaloes calve in the winter season (HR = 0.57 and 0.76, p = 0.001 and 0.002, respectively). The current study indicates that Egyptian buffaloes have the ability to tolerate the thermal stress up to 80 THI values without deterioration of pregnancy outcomes. Moreover, primiparous or high producing buffalo cows may require more effective reproductive strategies as modulation of breeding plans to get calving in the winter and autumn seasons.

Effects of calcium salt of palm fatty acid supplementation on production performance, nutrient utilization and blood metabolites in Surti buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis)

Objective of the study was to investigate the effect of dietary supplementation of rumen protected fat on productive performance, nutrient utilization and blood biochemical profile of Surti buffaloes. Eighteen multiparous buffaloes (2-4 lactation) in early lactation were divided in three homogenous groups of CON (control), BF100 and BF200 with six animals in each group. The animals in CON were fed with a basal diet consisting of concentrate mixture, green sorghum and paddy straw as per ICAR nutrient requirements, while the animals in BF100 and BF200 group were fed with same ration and supplemented with 0.75% (100 g/d) and 1.5% (200 g/d) bypass fat on DMI basis, respectively for 15 days pre-partum to 90 days post-partum. The dry matter intake, body condition score, milk yield and milk composition parameters like protein, lactose and SNF were not influenced by supplemental bypass fat. Milk fat percentage, production of 4% fat corrected milk (FCM), solid corrected milk (SCM) and energy corrected milk (ECM) increased quadratically with the increasing level of rumen protected fat in the diet. Feed efficiency (FCM/DMI) and energetic efficiency of milk production improved in a quadratic manner. Nutrient intake of DCP, TDN and digestibility of DM, CP, CF and NFE except EE remained statistically non-significant. The serum triglycerides, cholesterol and calcium level were higher in bypass fat-supplemented group. However, serum total protein and glucose level remained statistically at par. Thus, bypass fat supplementation at 0.75% of the DM intake (100 g/d) increased the milk fat percentage, FCM production and feed efficiency along with serum triglycerides and cholesterol level in lactating Surti buffaloes.

Response of primiparous and multiparous buffaloes to yeast culture supplementation during early and mid-lactation.

Strains of live Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast have exhibited probiotic effects in ruminants. This study investigated the effects of the dietary yeast supplement, S. cerevisiae (Yea-Sacc1026), on primiparous (PP) and multiparous (MP) Egyptian buffaloes in early to mid-lactation. Lactating buffaloes were fed either a basal total mixed ration (TMR, control; 4 PP and 8 MP) or the basal TMR plus 10 g Yea-Sacc1026 per buffalo cow per day (yeast; 4 PP and 8 MP). The feeds were given from 15 days prepartum to 180 days postpartum. Feed intake, body weight, and milk yields (MY) were recorded, and milk and blood samples were collected for analyses. Feces were collected from days 45 to 47 during early lactation and from days 90 to 92 during mid-lactation to determine apparent digestibility of dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM), crude protein (CP) and crude fiber (CF). Energy corrected milk yield (ECM), feed conversion, and energy and nitrogen conversion efficiency were calculated. Yeast treated MP buffaloes consumed more DM (P ≤ 0.041) and CP than the untreated control group. Apparent digestibility of DM and OM were significantly greater at mid-lactation for treated versus control group (P = 0.001). Crude fiber digestibility was greater in MP than in PP buffaloes (P = 0.049), and yeast supplemented MP cows had a greater CF digestibility than control MP buffaloes at mid-lactation (P = 0.010). Total blood lipids decreased after yeast supplementation (P = 0.029). Milk yields, ECM, fat and protein yields increased for yeast treated MP buffaloes (P ≤ 0.039). The study concluded that the response to yeast supplementation in buffalo cows is parity dependent. Multiparous buffaloes respond to yeast supplementation with an increased DM intake and CF digestibility without significant weight gains, allowing a greater ECM yield with less fat mobilization. Supplementing buffaloes with yeast culture may increase milk production in early lactation and results in a more persistent milk production during mid-lactation. Feed conversion and energy and nitrogen conversion efficiency may be increased with the use of yeast supplementation in Egyptian buffaloes.

Diurnal variation of milk somatic and differential leukocyte counts of Murrah buffaloes as influenced by different milk fractions, seasons and parities

Milk cell counts are good indicators of a mammary infection and milk quality. The present study was done to record diurnal rhythmicity in the milk somatic and differential cell counts during different seasons, milk strips and parity in Murrah buffaloes. Milk somatic cell counts (SCC) were measured by SCC counter and milk differential cell counts were measured microscopically after making a milk smear and staining it to identify neutrophils, lymphocytes and macrophages. Maximum milk SCC was observed in the summer season. Milk neutrophils were lowest during thermoneutral (TN), intermediate during the winter season and highest during the summer season. Milk lymphocytes were highest during the winter season, intermediate in the TN and lowest in the summer season. Diurnal rhythm in the milk SCC and neutrophil percentage is noticed in the summer season only. Maximum milk SCC values were observed in the late strip but neutrophils were highest in the early strip. Diurnal rhythm was observed in the late strip for neutrophils and in mid strip for the lymphocytes. Milk SCC and milk neutrophils were found to be the highest in the multiparous buffaloes and diurnal rhythm was observed only in the lymphocytes of primiparous buffaloes. Milk macrophages were higher in the morning samples of primiparous as compared to the multiparous buffaloes. In this pioneer study, diurnal rhythms in the milk cell counts of buffaloes have been studied extensively. This will help in maintaining low milk cell counts in buffalo and thus help in getting more milk per buffalo during stress periods.