Cattle Population Research Articles

Impact Analysis of The Agribusiness System on The Profit of Beef Cattle Farming in Minahasa Regency, Indonesia

Objective: The research aims to analyze the impact of all subsystems on farmer profits in the beef cattle agribusiness system in Minahasa Regency, Province of North Sulawesi, Indonesia. Theoretical Framework: Agribusinesses may engage in a various activities related to the production (agro-production), processing (agro-processing/agro-industry), marketing (agro-marketing), and distribution (agro-distribution) of food and fiber products. Agribusiness as a system, including livestock business, cannot be separated from various interrelated components or subsystems starting from upstream components (input sources) to downstream (post-harvest and marketing), as well as supporting institutional components (policies, funding, extension, etc.). Method: The research used a survey method, with a purposive sampling method. The research was carried out by collecting sample data through interviews and observations based on questionnaires. The data analysis model uses multiple regression analysis, the impact of each subsystem in the agribusiness system on beef cattle farming profit. Results and Discussion: The research showed that only the downstream subsystem, especially cattle marketing component, has a very significant impact on the beef cattle farming profit. Meanwhile, the upstream subsystem, on-farm subsystem, downstream subsystem and supporting subsystem each has non-significant impact on the beef cattle farming profit. The research results concluded that partially only the downstream beef cattle farming subsystem had a very significant influence on the profit of the beef cattle farming, due to the effectiveness of the blantik system of beef cattle market as local wisdom in Kawangkoan which is the beef cattle production center of Minahasa Regency. Research Implications: It is recommended for stakeholders and supporting intitutions of beef cattle agribusiness in Minahasa Regency to trans-orient from the traditional agribusiness system (cattle labor orientation) to an agribusiness system oriented, towards cattle as a source of meat to meet domestic demand which is still met by imports relatively high. Originality/Value: The marketing and processing sector (downstream subsystem), serious attention needs to be paid because it greatly affects the profits of cattle farming and farmers' income. Because this is the main incentive for farmers to increase the population and production of beef cattle to meet the increasing needs of consumers.

A habitat suitability analysis for three Culicoides species implicated in bluetongue virus transmission in the Southeastern United States.

Culicoides biting midges adversely impact animal health through transmission of multiple orbiviruses, such as bluetongue virus (BTV). This study used light trapping data collected in the Southeastern United States for three Culicoides midge species that are confirmed or suspected BTV vectors: Culicoides insignis, Culicoides stellifer and Culicoides venustus. Midge presence datasets were combined with meteorological data and ecological data to model habitat suitability for each species. Logistic regression and machine learning models were used to generate individual species distribution models (SDMs). Results for each SDM method were combined in an ensemble model to create a distribution model for each midge species. Based on overlay analyses of livestock populations and midge suitable habitat, there is extensive overlap of cattle and goat populations and suitable habitat for C. insignis in Florida. Suitable habitat for C. stellifer intersects with cattle and goat populations in various counties in Alabama, Arkansas, the Carolinas, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana and Tennessee; and suitable habitat for C. venustus intersects with cattle and goat populations in the same states as C. stellifer, except for Florida. It is critical for orbivirus and midge surveillance to continue in the Southeastern United States as the habitat of all three midge species intersect with livestock populations.

Molecular epidemiological survey of Babesia species infecting cattle in Paraguay

Paraguay, an agricultural country in South America, has a high prevalence of tick infestations in its cattle population due to warm temperatures, high humidity, and extensive grazing management practices. Consequently, Babesia infections, which are transmitted by ticks, might have a wide distribution in Paraguay, but the current status of these infections remains uncertain. Therefore, we aimed to assess the infection status of three clinically significant Babesia species, including Babesia bovis, Babesia bigemina, and Babesia naoakii, among cattle populations in Paraguay. Blood samples were collected from a total of 326 cattle across nine departments in Paraguay, and their DNAs were screened with species-specific PCR assays. Of the surveyed cattle, single infections of B. bovis and B. bigemina were detected in 24 (7.4 %) and 127 (39.0 %), respectively, while co-infection with both the parasite species was detected in 38 (11.7 %). In contrast, all of the surveyed cattle were negative for B. naoakii infection. The prevalence of B. bigemina-single infection was higher in the Eastern region (49.0 %) compared to the Western region (34.6 %), in cattle under extensive management (51.3 %) compared to those under semi-intensive management (34.6 %), and in Bos indicus cattle (50.3 %) compared to Bos taurus (15.8 %). Our findings demonstrated a wide distribution of B. bovis and B. bigemina infections among cattle in Paraguay, underscoring the importance of implementing effective control measures to reduce the potential economic losses associated with bovine babesiosis.

A Preliminary Screening of Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) of A1 and A2 Beta-casein Alleles in Dairy Cattle

Milk containing A1 variants in the beta-casein gene is considered to be a risk factor for coronary heart disease (CHD), type I diabetes (DM-I), autism, and schizophrenia due to the release of beta-casomorphin 7 (BCM-7). The objectives of this study were to screen for polymorphism of beta-casein in dairy cattle and to examine the allelic and genotypic frequencies of A1 and A2 variants. A total of 290 cattle blood samples were collected from two states and the samples were extracted. This was followed by PCR amplification for exon 7 of the beta-casein gene (CSN2). The PCR products were then subjected to DNA sequencing. The sequencing results were aligned and the variants were screened. In Pahang, 125 samples are of the A2A2 genotype, followed by A1A2 (n=97) and A1A1 (n=28). While in Melaka, the highest genotype was A2A2 (n=20) as compared to A1A2 (n=18) and A1A1 (n=2). Meanwhile, the frequency of the A2 allele was higher than A1 in both states. The high genotypic frequencies of A2A2 in these cattle populations could be influenced by the cattle breed as well as the rate of crossbreeding on the farm. Thus, screening of dairy cattle for A1 and A2 beta-casein could be used in selecting the preferred animals for breeding.

ПОЛИМОРФИЗМ ГЕНА ПРОЛАКТИНА В ПОПУЛЯЦИИ МОЛОЧНОГО СКОТА ОМСКОЙ ОБЛАСТИ

The purpose of the study is to determine the polymorphism of the prolactin gene in the dairy cattle population of the Omsk Region. Objectives – to carry out genetic monitoring of the cow population for the presence of the desired allele of the PRL gene in the genotype;to determine the frequency of genotypes and alleles of the PRL gene in the studied population. The object of the study is a population of dairy cattle of the red steppe breed, bred at 2 enterprises – a breeding reproducer and a leading commodity farm in the Omsk Region. In cattle bred at the enterprises of the Omsk Region, with the greatest frequency there were animals that were not carriers of the PRL gene leading to/associated with the studied phenotype. In the enterprises of the Omsk Region, with the highest frequency, there were animals that were not carriers of the PRL gene leading to/associated with the studied phenotype, which had values in the range from 0.74 to 0.8. Analysis of the frequency distribution of heterozygous genotypes for the studied PRL gene was only from 0.40 to 0.52. The frequency of occurrence of genotypes with the desired allele A among animals bred in a commercial farm turned out to be higher by 0.12 compared to the frequency of occurrence in a breeding reproducer. In the studied animals of the red steppe breed, bred at the enterprises, there was no homozygous genotype for the A-allele. In a breeding reproducer, with the age of animals, the frequency of carriers of the desired allele increases. 58 % of first-calf heifers are carriers of the A allele of the PRL gene. The maximum frequency of occurrence of genotypes with the associated allele A of the PRL gene in the group of cows of the 3rd lactation is 90 %, and only 10 % of cows in this group have the BB genotype. The revealed frequency of genotypes in the context of lactations makes it possible to judge the organization of selection and breeding work in herds. To increase in the population of animals with the A/A and A/B genotypes, it is necessary to select and assign sires with the A/A genotype for the PRL gene to the cows of this population.

Modeling the Transmission Dynamics of Avian Influenza in Cattle

Avian Influenza (AI) poses a critical threat to cattle production worldwide, resulting in significant yield losses and economic damages. Despite the severity of AI, comprehensive modeling studies on its transmission dynamics within cattle populations remain limited. In this study, we present a mathematical model to describe the spread of AI among cattle. The model is based on the Susceptible-Infectious-Recovered (SIR) framework, adapted to capture the unique characteristics of AI transmission. The disease-free equilibrium of the model was computed, and the basic reproduction number for AI was calculated using the next-generation matrix method. Sensitivity analysis was conducted using normalized forward sensitivity method to determine the impact of various parameters on the basic reproduction number ($\mathcal{R}_0$). Analytical and numerical analyses indicate that increased contact rates between susceptible cattle and infected virus significantly raise the transmission rate of AI, impacting cattle health and productivity. Sensitivity analysis highlights that the recruitment rates of cattle and infection rates are the most influential parameters affecting $\mathcal{R}_0$. Control measures such as introducing AI-resistant cattle breeds and improving farm management practices to reduce infection rates may be used to mitigate the disease spread. This study enhances the understanding of AI transmission dynamics, providing valuable insights for developing targeted control strategies to protect cattle health and improve production.

Surveillance of Schmallenberg virus in cattle populations in Northeastern Brazil.

The objective of this study was to conduct a serological investigation of Schmallenberg virus (SBV) infection in cattle raised in the State of Alagoas. A total of 460 serum samples from the Agricultural Defense Agency of Alagoas (ADEAL) serum bank were analyzed. These samples were collected from unvaccinated cattle on 100 properties across 99 municipalities in Alagoas, representing the three mesoregions: Agreste, Leste, and Sertão. Serological diagnosis was performed using commercial indirect Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) kit. The results showed that 0.87% (4 out of 460) of the samples yielded questionable results in the indirect ELISA (with calculated percentages > 50.00% and ≤ 60.00%). Upon further testing with competitive ELISA, only one sample tested positive. These findings underscore the need to strengthen regional surveillance and control strategies for emerging pathogens. Additionally, further studies, including viral isolation from both ruminants and vectors, are crucial to confirm the circulation of this pathogen. Such comprehensive investigations are essential for improving our understanding of SBV dynamics and for developing effective control measures.

Sustainability Strategy and Development of Village Breeding Center: Evaluation of Morphometric Characteristics of Female Peranakan Ongole Cattle in Napis Village

This study evaluates the morphometric characteristics of female Peranakan Ongole (PO) cattle in Napis Village, Bojonegoro Regency, East Java, as part of a strategy for developing sustainable village breeding centers. The selection of the research location was conducted through purposive sampling, and the material in this study consists of female Peranakan Ongole cattle with age criteria (PI) based on the SNI for Peranakan Ongole cattle, namely PI0 (aged <1 year), PI2 (1 – 1.5 years), PI4 (1.5 - 2 years), PI6 (2 – 3 years), PI8 (aged > 3.5 years). Measurements include body height, body length, hip height, chest depth, chest circumference, ossa cervical vertebrae, ossa thoracic vertebrae, ossa vertebrae lumbar, ossa scapula, hip width, head length, head width and body weight, as well as morphometric indices such as head index, height slope, body index, index of compression, conformation index, length index, body ratio, proportionality and thoracic development on 206 female cattle grouped by age (PI0-PI8). Data were analyzed using multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) and post hoc tests, as well as key indices to identify growth patterns and body size stability. The research results show a significant increase in body size in the young-to-adult age group, where adult cows reach size stability. The morphometric index reveals consistent proportional development in the body of cattle as they age, reflecting structural maturity. Evaluation based on the Indonesian National Standard (SNI) shows that most cattle are in Class II and III, indicating excellent body quality in the productive age group. This research emphasizes that morphometric characteristics are important indicators in determining optimal management strategies to support the sustainability of local PO cattle development. These findings provide a foundation for the maintenance and development programs of the PO cattle population by prioritizing quality livestock management, supporting the conservation of local genetic resources, and enhancing cattle productivity in Indonesia.

Vaccine candidates based on MVA viral vectors expressing VP2 or VP7 confer full protection against Epizootic hemorrhagic disease virus in IFNAR(-/-) mice.

Epizootic hemorrhagic disease (EHD), caused by Epizootic hemorrhagic disease virus (EHDV), is an emerging and severe livestock disease. Recent incursion and distribution of EHDV in Europe have outlined the need for vaccine research against this viral disease. In this work, we report modified vaccinia virus Ankara (MVA)-vectored vaccines designed to express protein VP2 of EHDV-8 or protein VP7 of EHDV-2. Prime boost immunization of adult IFNAR(-/-) mice with the MVA-VP2 vaccine candidate induced high titers of EHDV-8-specific neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) and conferred full protection against homologous lethal challenge with EHDV-8. However, no heterologous protection was observed after lethal challenge with EHDV-6. In contrast, the MVA-VP7 vaccine candidate elicited strong cytotoxic CD8+ T-cell responses against VP7 and conferred complete protection against lethal challenge with either EHDV-8 or EHDV-6 in IFNAR(-/-) mice in the absence of NAbs, being the first multiserotype vaccine candidate against EHDV. Moreover, we expressed recombinant proteins VP2 and VP7 of EHDV in the baculovirus expression system, which were used to analyze the potential DIVA (differentiating infected from vaccinated animals) character of these vaccine candidates.IMPORTANCEEmergence and re-emergence of arthropod-borne viruses are major concerns for both human and animal health. The most recent example is the fast expansion of EHDV-8 through Europe. Besides, EHDV-8 relates with a high prevalence of pathologic cases in cattle populations. No vaccine is currently available in Europe, and vaccine research against this arboviral disease is negligible. In this work, we present novel DIVA vaccine candidates against EHDV, and most importantly, we identified the protein VP7 of EHDV as an antigen capable of inducing multiserotype protection, one of the major challenges in vaccine research against orbiviruses.

Genetic Diversity and Population Structure of Five Chinese Local Cattle Breeds in Guizhou Province, China

Background: This project analyzed the genetic diversity and population structure of five local cattle breeds in Guizhou, in order to implement the conservation plan for local cattle breeds and promote their sustainability. Methods: The experiments used a 100K SNP chip to obtain genotype data from the local cattle breeds, which was compared with that of two introduced breeds (Red Angus and Limousin) as controls (N=112). The genetic diversity, LD decay, PCA and phylogenetic tree were analyzed. Result: The effective number of alleles (Ne), nucleotide diversity (Pi) and LD decay rate of the local cattle breeds were higher than those of introduced breeds. The results of PCA, phylogenetic tree, G matrixand genetic distance analyses indicated that the five local breeds were on the same evolutionary branches without obvious clustering. The proportion of polymorphic markers (Pn), genetic diversityand genetic differences in the Weining cattle population was much higher than that of other populations. These findings provide a reference for the genetic structure and efficient protection and utilization of local cattle in Guizhou.

BVDV comprehensive studies and species identification in high-yielding livestock populations in the Sverdlovsk Oblast

The paper presents results of comprehensive studies of the bovine viral diarrhea virus circulating in cattle populations in the Sverdlovsk Oblast. In 2018–2024, 113 biological samples were tested using polymerase chain reaction, the viral RNA specific regions were detected in 15.9% of cases.The BVDV RNA was isolated from biological samples collected from aborted cows (61.1%) and calves under one month of age (38.9%). Based on typing results, the virus isolates detected in four samples (nasopharyngeal swabs of calves, suspension prepared from aborted fetus organs and placenta) were classified as BVDV-1 virulent genotypes. The BVDV RNA, Mycoplasma bovis and Chlamydophila pecorum DNAs were detected simultaneously in 44% of vaginal swab samples from aborted cows and, in single cases, in the placenta and parenchymatous organs of dead calves; BVDV RNA and Bovine herpesvirus type 1 DNA were detected in 16% of pathological samples from dead calves. In some cases, the BVDV RNA, Chlamydophila pecorum and Mycoplasma bovigenitalium DNA were detected in nasopharyngeal swabs of calves. The “Comprehensive Programme for Biosecurity and Bovine Viral Diarrhea Situation Improvement in Agricultural Organizations”implemented in the Sverdlovsk Oblast in 2018 resulted in decreased number of agricultural establishments affected by bovine viral diarrhea. Acute and persistent infection forms among young animals were recorded 4 and 3.5 times less frequently, respectively, but at the same time, a 2.5-fold increase in the diagnosed latent form of the disease was observed in adult livestock, which is associated with an increase in the number of laboratory tests performed.

Genetic diversity and footprint of the Ethiopian cattle population, and the application of molecular information on sustainable cattle genetic improvement: Opportunities, challenges, and future directions in Ethiopia. A comprehensive review

AbstractEthiopia has over 70 million cattle, and about 97.4% of the total cattle in the country are local breeds. The remaining are hybrid and exotic breeds, which account for about 2.3% and 0.31%, respectively. The genetic diversity and genomic footprint of Ethiopian cattle populations represent a valuable reservoir of biodiversity with profound implications for sustainable agriculture and food security. The application of molecular information in sustainable cattle breeding improvement presents significant opportunities for Ethiopia's livestock sector. The review explores the genetic diversity, genomic footprint, potential benefits, challenges, and future directions associated with integrating molecular technologies into cattle breeding programs in the country. Molecular tools, such as genomics and marker‐assisted selection, enable the identification and utilization of genetic variation related to desirable traits, including productivity, disease resistance, and adaptation to changing climatic conditions. By utilizing these tools, Ethiopian breeders can accelerate genetic progress, enhance the resilience of cattle populations to climate change, and improve overall productivity. However, several challenges must be addressed to effectively harness the benefits of molecular technologies. These challenges include limited infrastructure and resources for genomic research, inadequate data on cattle genetics and performance, and the need for capacity building among stakeholders involved in breeding programs. By incorporating genetic markers associated with important traits, breeders can identify superior animals at an early age, accelerating genetic progress within the population. Integration of this technology with traditional breeding practices and the identification of selection signatures can lead to more sustainable and effective breeding strategies. In conclusion, the application of molecular information in sustainable cattle breeding improvement offers promising opportunities for Ethiopia's livestock sector. By investing in genomic research, building collaborations, and implementing comprehensive breeding programs, Ethiopia can harness the full potential of molecular technologies to enhance cattle productivity.

Morphological and Molecular Characterization of Tick Species Infesting Cattle in South Africa.

Ticks are a significant threat to livestock globally, with certain species displaying distinct host preferences at various developmental stages. Accurate species-level identification is essential for studying tick populations, implementing control strategies, and understanding disease dynamics. This study evaluated ticks infesting cattle across six provinces in South Africa using morphological and molecular methods. Ticks were preserved, examined morphologically using an Olympus Digital Camera Microscope, and identified using the 16S rRNA gene. The study identified four genera, namely Amblyomma, Hyalomma, Ixodes, and Rhipicephalus, comprising 15 ixodid species. Amblyomma hebraeum was the most prevalent species, with an infestation rate of 54.4%. Molecular analysis revealed genetic relationships among tick species, with genetic distances ranging from 0.00 to 0.13, and phylogenetic analysis clustered species into distinct genera with high bootstrap support. Principal Component Analysis highlighted clear genetic relatedness among species. These findings enhance our understanding of tick diversity, morphology, and distribution in South Africa's cattle populations, emphasizing their economic significance. The study provides critical baseline data for monitoring and developing effective strategies to manage tick-borne diseases, ensuring improved livestock health and productivity.

Genome-Wide Association Study of Insertions and Deletions Identified Novel Loci Associated with Milk Production Traits in Dairy Cattle.

Genome-wide association study (GWAS) have identified a large number of SNPs associated with milk production traits in dairy cattle. Behind SNPs, INDELs are the second most abundant genetic polymorphisms in the genome, which may exhibit an independent association with complex traits in humans and other species. However, there are no reports on GWASs of INDELs for milk production traits in dairy cattle. In this study, using imputed sequence data, we performed INDEL-based and SNP-based GWASs for milk production traits in a Holstein cattle population. We identified 58 unique significant INDELs for one or multiple traits. The majority of these INDELs are in considerable LD with nearby significant SNPs. However, through conditional association analysis, we identified nine INDELs which showed independent associations. Genomic annotations of these INDELs indicated some novel associated genes, i.e., TRNAG-CCC, EPPK1, PPM1K, PTDSS1, and mir-10163, which were not reported in previous SNP-based GWASs. Our findings suggest that INDEL-based GWASs could be valuable complement to SNP-based GWASs for milk production traits.

Transition Between Two Worlds: Morphological Continuity in Iron Age Cattle, Pig, and Sheep Populations (800–50 bc) of the Rhône Valley (France)

ABSTRACTThe Rhône valley is an important contact point between the Mediterranean and Northern Europe. In Iron Ages (800–50 bc), it was an area of circulation between different material and cultural worlds, where different practices and cultures met. In this particular context, archeozoological studies can offer a different view of these questions of exchange and potential influence, by approaching the issues of food and animal husbandry. This study seeks to approach this question through the prism of animal morphology, the result of a selection of morphotypes by breeders, notably cattle, pig, and sheep, the most common species in the region at the time. Thanks to the log size index method, a certain stability can be demonstrated in pig and cattle morphology over time and space, as well as a slow homogenization of their sizes, which is really visible at La Tène D (125–50 bc). Sheep show a specific pattern with a notable high increase during La Tène C (250–125 bc). Comparison with data from other parts of the Mediterranean world would suggest that the development of local morphotypes owes little or nothing to the influence of Mediterranean breeding practices.

Genetic Diversity and Phylogenetic Analysis of the Endangered Transylvanian Pinzgau Cattle: A Key Resource for Biodiversity Conservation and the Sustainability of Livestock Production

Animal biodiversity is essential for maintaining the functionality of local food systems and ensuring sustainable livelihoods. Starting in 2000, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (F.A.O.) has drawn attention to the decline in cattle populations, including the Transylvanian Pinzgau breed from Romania. Renowned for its hardiness, adaptability, and enhanced resistance to diseases and climate change, the Transylvanian Pinzgau is regarded as an important genetic asset for advancing livestock production. As a result, tracking genetic diversity has become a key focus in breeding programs, particularly for small, endangered local populations that play a vital role in regional agro-ecological systems. This research paper sought to assess the genetic diversity of a group of 24 head of cattle from the Transylvania region by analyzing two mtDNA markers, cytochrome b and D-loop sequences, both widely recognized for their relevance and importance in the analysis of genetic diversity of cattle and phylogenetic studies. The findings, derived through statistical analysis of nucleotide sequences using specialized software, indicated that the analyzed cattle are part of the ancestral T haplogroup, with a direct lineage tracing back to Bos taurus. This information can aid in developing crossbreeding programs focused on conserving essential genetic resources, improving other cattle breeds, and protecting biodiversity.

Determining the Effect of Varied Proportions of Cohort Administered Tulathromycin at Arrival on Nasopharyngeal Microbiota and Performance Characteristics in Yearling Steers in the First 56 Days on Feed.

Metaphylaxis or treating the entire population of cattle at arrival with an antimicrobial has been studied extensively in the cattle industry; however, little information is available on the impacts of treating only a proportion of the population with antimicrobials at arrival. The study objective was to determine potential associations between the proportion of animals in a pen treated with antimicrobial therapy with pen performance and nasopharyngeal microbiome. Yearling steers (n = 160) were randomly allocated to study pens (n = 40) and pens were systematically randomized to one of two antimicrobial treatments (META: all four head received tulathromycin; MIXED: two of four head randomly selected to receive tulathromycin). The study was conducted in conjunction with an essential oil feeding trial. Deep nasal pharyngeal (DNP) swabs were collected from every steer at Days 0, 14, 28, and 56. All DNP swabs were individually cultured for Pasteurella multocida and Mannheimia haemolytica. Samples of DNA were extracted from DNP swabs, pooled by pen, and analyzed by metagenomic shotgun sequencing to compare nasopharyngeal microbiome composition and quantity of resistance genes between test groups. Neither antimicrobial nor essential oil treatment groups had any significant associations with performance or DNP microbiome. Sampling day was significantly associated with alpha and beta diversity at the species level. Shannon's diversity and Inverse Simpson diversity were significantly lower on Day 14 versus both Day 0 and Day 56. These data indicated a shift in microbial populations across study days; however, the microbiome diversity and relative abundance were not significantly different between antimicrobial treatment groups.

ANALYSIS OF COMPETITIVENESS AND THE IMPACT OF GOVERNMENT POLICIES ON DAIRY COMMODITIES IN PASURUAN DISTRICT

Milk is a food commodity that Indonesia continues to import in large quantities and continues to increase every year. This happens because demand continues to increase and cannot be matched by domestic production. This study aims to determine the competitiveness of dairy milk in Lekkok District, Pasuruan Regency which is the area with the largest dairy cattle population in East Java through the Policy Analysis Matrix (PAM) method. The analysis shows that the PCR value is -0.54 (<1), meaning that milk cultivated by farmers has a competitive advantage. The value of DRCR is 0.02 (<1) indicating that the milk cultivated by farmers also has a comparative. Overall, the input-output policy implemented by the government has not fully benefited farmers. The results of the sensitivity analysis showed that when the rupiah exchange rate weakened at 10% and 20%, the costs incurred by farmers increased and were directly proportional to the revenues that also increased.

Isolation and Identification of Lumpy Skin Disease Virus.

Lumpy skin disease virus (LSDV), a member of the capripoxvirus genus, induces lumpy skin disease (LSD) in cattle and buffalo populations. The initial documentation of LSD dates back to 1929 in Zambia, with subsequent rapid dissemination within the cattle community in Africa and Asia. Described as the "smallpox" equivalent in cattle, LSD manifests through clinical features such as fever, extensive cutaneous nodules, body wasting, lymph node enlargement, and skin edema. Isolation of LSDV constitutes an important step in evaluating virulence and implementing disease control measures. Skin samples obtained from afflicted cattle serve as the primary source for LSDV isolation due to its tropism for epidermal cells. Other tissues, including blood, lung, spleen, and saliva samples, are also employed for viral isolation. This chapter presents protocols for the convenient isolation of LSDV, relying on the plaque formation phenotype and utilizing MDBK cells. Emphasis is placed on stringent quality control methodologies to identify isolated viruses through multiple techniques, facilitating further investigations such as the in vitro growth of isolated LSDV.

Relationships Between Kidney, Pelvic, and Heart (KPH) Fat and Beef Carcass Yield

The contribution of kidney, pelvic, and heart (KPH) fat to predicting carcass yield in the official USDA Yield Grade equation has been questioned in the modern U.S. slaughter cattle population and has not been extensively studied. Many U.S. beef processors remove KPH fat at harvest to facilitate faster chilling and easier fabrication. The objective of this study was to understand the modern-day relationship of KPH fat to subprimal yield (SY). Fabrication data from carcasses (N = 816) evaluated across multiple studies in the last 15 y were summarized. SY, subprimal cutout value (SCO), and KPH percentage were adjusted to account for study effects. Values for SY, SCO, and KPH percentage were computed on a conventional (hot side weight [HSW] including KPH) and alternate (HSW without KPH) basis, and variance among these measures was tested. Relationships among HSW and carcass components, carcass components themselves, and conventional and alternate calculations of SY and KPH percentages were evaluated using linear and quadratic models. Variance in alternate KPH percentage was greater (P = 0.01) than conventional KPH, suggesting that variance in KPH was independent from variance associated with HSW. Among carcass components, KPH weight was least related (R2 linear = 0.167, and R2 quadratic = 0.201) to HSW. Subprimal (SUB) and fat, bone, and trimmings (FBT) weight were each more directly related (R2 = 0.899 to 0.953) to HSW. Weight of KPH was poorly related to weight of SUB (R2 = 0.074) and FBT (R2 = 0.127), although quadratic relationships of these same metrics were slightly stronger. Therefore, to increase accuracy, future models predicting carcass yield should incorporate an accurate measure of KPH or exclude KPH altogether from the denominator of the yield calculation.