Repeat Breeding Research Articles

Bovine reproductive tract and microbiome dynamics: current knowledge, challenges, and its potential to enhance fertility in dairy cows

The cattle production system focuses on maintaining an animal-based food supply with a lower number of cattle. However, the fecundity of dairy cows has declined worldwide. The reproductive tract microbiome is one of the important factors which can influence bovine fecundity. Therefore, reproductive tract microbiomes have been explored during the estrus cycle, artificial insemination, gestation, and postpartum to establish a link between the micro-communities and reproductive performance. These investigations suggested that microbial dysbiosis in the reproductive tract may be associated with declined fertility. However, there is a scarcity of comprehensive investigations to understand microbial diversity, abundance, shift, and host-microbiome interplay for bovine infertility cases such as repeat breeding syndrome (RBS). This review summarizes the occurrence and persistence of microbial taxa to gain a better understanding of reproductive performance and its implications. Further, we also discuss the possibilities of microbiome manipulation strategies to enhance bovine fecundity.

Identification of an osteopontin structural element for the restoration of a normal endometrial epidermal growth factor (EGF) profile determined by the EGF concentration on day 3 of estrous cycle and pregnancy outcome in repeat breeder dairy cows

The loss of a cyclic change with two peaks of increased endometrial epidermal growth factor (EGF) concentration on days 2−4 and 13−14 during the estrous cycle has been linked to low fertility in repeat breeder (RB) cows. We have shown that an intravaginal infusion of osteopontin (OPN) restored the EGF profile in RB cows. The present study aimed to determine a structural element of OPN to restore the normal EGF profile and fertility. Holstein RB cows were diagnosed the EGF profile by a single examination of the endometrial EGF concentration on day 3 of the estrous cycle. Those with an altered EGF profile were intravaginally infused with OPN and its fragments on the day of insemination (day 0); the concentration of endometrial EGF was measured on day 3, and pregnancy was diagnosed on days 30−35. In Study 1, recombinant OPN (rOPN) (16 nmol), thrombin-cleaved N- and C-terminal fragments of rOPN (N-rOPN and C-rOPN, respectively), and a combination of these fragments (Th-rOPN) were infused (n = 13−20). The restoration rate of the normal EGF profile of the N-rOPN group (25.0%) was a level in between the C-rOPN group (7.7%) and both the rOPN (55.6%) and Th-rOPN (64.3%) groups. In Study 2, PBS (n = 47), rOPN (9.5 nmol, n = 83), and peptides of integrin binding motifs, GRGDSVAYGLK (peptide 1; 32, 320, and 1,600 nmol), GRGDS (peptide 2; 320 and 1,600 nmol), and SVAYGLK (peptide 3; 320 and 1,600 nmol), were infused (n = 20−25). Restoration rates of the normal EGF profile of peptide 1 (320 and 1,600 nmol) and peptide 3 (1,600 nmol) groups (44.0−56.3%) were comparable with those of the rOPN group (63.9%) and higher than those of the PBS group (15.6%). Restoration rates of the other groups were similar to those of the PBS group. Additional cows received infusions to determine the effect on fertility. Conception rates of the peptide 1 (320 and 1,600 nmol; n = 50 each), peptide 3 (1,600 nmol; n = 55), and rOPN (n = 111) groups (41.8−50.0%) were comparable and higher than that of the PBS group (21.6%, n = 75). In Study 3, PBS (n = 24), peptide 1 (320 nmol; n = 78), and GRGESVAYGLK peptide (peptide 4; 320 and 1,600 nmol; n = 50 and 26, respectively) were infused. Restoration rates of the normal EGF profile of peptide 4 and PBS groups (16.0−19.2%) were comparable and lower than those of the peptide 1 group (44.9%). Thus, the SVAYGLK motif may be an OPN structural element to restore the normal EGF profile and fertility in RB cows, and the RGD motif may enhance its effect.

Repeat Breeder Syndrome Therapies in Dairy Cows: A Review.

Repeat breeder (RB) cows are clinically healthy animals with regular oestrous cycles that do not become pregnant after three or more services. This syndrome has an incidence ranging between 10.1% and 24%. Repeat breeder syndrome (RBS) in dairy cows leads to economic losses to dairy farmers by increasing the calving interval and consequently reducing milk and calf production. RBS has a complex oetiopathogenesis as many factors are involved in its onset. The causes can be grouped into two categories: causes leading to fertilisation failure and factors leading to early embryonic death. Accurate identification of the cause and early diagnosis of RBS is essential to minimise the problems that this issue brings to the farm, but is not always possible. Hypothesising the underlying aetiology of the syndrome is also crucial for targeted therapy, whether pharmacological or managerial. The aim of this review is to report the different therapies, proposed in the literature, for the treatment of RBS in cattle, based on the knowledge of possible aetiological causes.

Prevalence and Risk Factor of Repeat Breeder Syndrome in Dairy Cows in KUD Bebarengan Anggayuh Tentrem Urip, Batu City, East Java Province

This study aims to contribute valuable insights to readers and serve as a reference for dairy farmers looking to enhance their operations. By examining the prevalence and risk factors associated with repeat breeder syndrome in dairy cows within the Village Unit Cooperation (KUD) Bebarengan Anggayuh Tentrem Urip, Batu City, East Java Province, this study aims to aid in preventing such occurrences and ultimately improve dairy cow productivity. The survey method was employed, utilizing data sourced from cooperative and farmer records, as well as observations, interviews, and questionnaire responses. Analysis revealed that out of 50 farmers owning a total of 281 cows, 30 farmers possessed a combined total of 58 dairy cows classified as repeat breeders. Consequently, the prevalence rate of repeat breeders among farmers was found to be 20.64%. Descriptive analysis was conducted on the collected data, with additional SPSS Chi-Square (X²) analysis performed to identify risk factors associated with repeat breeders. These risk factors include breeder experience, knowledge of reproduction and estrus phases, communication with artificial inseminators and veterinarians, housing conditions, as well as factors related to livestock feed and water.

Phytogenic feed additives as an alternative to control postpartum problems in organic dairy farming

Organic dairy farming presents unique challenges, particularly regarding postpartum problems in dairy cows. This article explores the potential of phytogenic feed additives as an alternative solution to control such issues in organic dairy farming. Postpartum problems, including retained placenta, metritis, and mastitis, can have serious consequences for dairy cow health and productivity. The conventional treatment methods, such as antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs, are restricted in organic farming, necessitating the search for alternative solutions. Phytogenic feed additives, derived from plant sources, offer a promising alternative to conventional treatments. They provide anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant effects, which can help prevent and manage postpartum problems in dairy cows. Studies have shown the efficacy of various plant-based remedies in treating specific postpartum issues, such as retained placenta, uterine prolapse, uterine infections, repeat breeding, mastitis, and post parturient hypocalcemia. The use of herbal remedies for postpartum problems aligns with the principles of organic farming, offering sustainable and environmentally friendly solutions. By exploring the potential of phytogenic feed additives, this article aims to contribute to the advancement of natural and eco-friendly practices in organic dairy farming, promoting the health and welfare of dairy cows while ensuring farm sustainability and profitability. In conclusion, phytogenic feed additives have shown promising results in controlling postpartum problems in organic dairy farming. They offer a safe, effective, and sustainable alternative to conventional allopathic treatments, helping to address the unique challenges faced by organic dairy farmers. However, more research and professional guidance are necessary to fully harness the potential of phytogenic feed additives in organic dairy farming.

348 Repeat breeding syndrome: Dexamethasone decreases the prevalence of anti-sperm antibodies in dairy cows

Abstract Cows that require greater than two inseminations to conceive are diagnosed with repeat breeding syndrome (RBS). Anti-sperm antibodies (ASA) in serum are in greater abundance among individuals exhibiting fertility challenges. In humans, treatment with glucocorticoids has been shown to decrease the prevalence of ASA and improve fertility. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine the impact of dexamethasone on ASA and pregnancy outcomes in RBS cattle. Holstein multiparous cows (n = 18) diagnosed as having RBS were randomly allotted to one of three treatment groups: Control (C; n = 6), low dexamethasone (LD; n = 6) and high dexamethasone (HD; n = 6). Intramuscular injections of saline (C), 0.05 mg/kg of BW of dexamethasone (LD), or 0.10 mg/kg of BW of dexamethasone (HD) were administered daily starting 4 d prior to insemination (d 0) through insemination (d 4). All treatment volumes were standardized with saline to achieve the same treatment level. Blood was collected on d 0, 4, 8 and 18, with serum extracted on d 0 through 8. Additionally, milk weights were recorded until d 34. For breeding, cows were synchronized using the Double Ovsynch protocol and only one insemination was conducted at the time of breeding. The MIXED procedure in SAS was used to determine the relationship of treatment with the repeated measures of ASA abundance and milk yield. Additionally, a non-parametric chi-square analysis was conducted in SAS using PROC GENMOD to determine the relationship of treatment with immune cell count and pregnancy outcomes. Day, Treatment and Treatment × Day were designated as fixed effects, and a protected post hoc analysis was conducted to account for multiple comparisons. Anti-sperm antibodies tended to decrease (P ≤ 0.082) as dexamethasone increased compared with C, however, there was no Treatment × Day interaction. Daily milk yields for both LD and HD decreased (P < 0.002) compared with C cows, but there was no interaction with day. Though there was an effect for Treatment × Day (P ≤ 0.002) for white blood cell count, percentage lymphocytes, eosinophils, and neutrophils, there was no effect of treatment (P ≥ 0.181). Therefore, interaction differences were largely driven by day (P < 0.001). Surprisingly, there was a trend (P = 0.069) for an increase in pregnancy rates for C cows compared with LD and HD cows. In fact, one-half of the C cows achieved pregnancy compared with just one cow for LD and HD treatments. Overall, dosage of dexamethasone did not differ for ASA or pregnancy outcomes. However, dexamethasone did decrease ASA but did not increase pregnancy rates. Based on these results, we suggest that alternative treatment measures should be explored to improve pregnancy rates in RBS cows.

Knowledge Level of Women Dairy Farmers on Dairy Animal Management in Guntur District of Andhra Pradesh

An investigation was undertaken to study knowledge level of women dairy farmers on dairy animal management in Guntur district of Andhra Pradesh. A total of 225 randomly selected women dairy farmers in three animal husbandry divisions of Guntur district in Andhra Pradesh viz., Pedaravuru, Guntur and Narasaraopeta. The farm women in the study area had good knowledge regarding importance of Artificial Insemination (96.40%), followed by identifying the animals in estrus (95.10%), importance of treatment of anestrus and repeat breeding animals (92.90%), culling of unproductive animals (87.10%) and pregnancy diagnosis at 3 months after insemination (86.70%). Poor knowledge was observed regarding dry period (20.90%), feeding concentrates according to the level of production (16.00%), strip cup test to detect mastitis (13.78%), urea treatment of paddy straw (4.90%) and practicing of dry cow therapy (4.89%) in the study area.

PRESENT SCENARIO OF LIVESTOCK BREEDING AND MANAGEMENT PRACTICES IN THE NORTHERN PART OF BANGLADESH

<p><strong>Background: </strong>Bangladesh has a rich heritage of livestock rearing. The management and breeding practices differ across the country. <strong>Objectives:</strong> To study the present scenario of breeding and management practices of livestock at northern Teesta river basin based Lalmonirhat district in Bangladesh. <strong>Methodology: </strong>Total 100 farmers were selected using random sampling technique from 5 upazilas of Lalmonirhat district during July to December, 2022. Data were analyzed using SPSS 23.0 statistical package. <strong>Results: </strong>Results showed that most of the farmers (65%) at the northern part of Bangladesh were middle-aged, 41% of them completed secondary education, and their occupation was mainly agriculture (55%). About 37.78% of respondents supplied roadside grass as roughage to their livestock. Maximum number of respondents (60.24%) supplied hand mixed feed as a source of concentrate whereas 39.76% of respondents used commercial feed. 96% of farmers practiced artificial insemination to inseminate their cows and heifers while in goat nearly all respondent farmers (98.41%) practiced natural mating. Among the breeding companies, 41.41% farmers preferred semen from the Bangladesh Rural Advancement Committee (BRAC), followed by Advanced Chemical Industries (ACI) (30.30%), Government (Department of Livestock Services (DLS) (22.22%), and others (6.07%). About 41.76% respondents used 50% Sahiwal - 50% local genotype bull to breed the cows whereas 23.08% respondents used 100% Sahiwal, 18.68% used 75% Holstein Friesian-25% local, 5.49% used 100% Holstein Friesian, 3.30% used 50% Holstein Friesian-50% Local and only 3.30% used 87.5% Holstein Friesian-12.5% Local genotype bull semen, respectively.<strong> </strong>On the other hand, most of the farmers (98.41%) chosen Black Bengal breeding buck during breeding and remaining used crossbred (Black Bengal Goat- Jamunapari) to breed their does. The actual price of bull semen from Govt. (DLS) was 30 Bangladeshi Taka (BDT) on average for all the breeds whereas, the price ranged 110-200 BDT depending on cattle breeds and bull/bucks Identification (ID) in different private enterprises. Farmers had to pay on an average<strong> </strong>181.18 BDT for DLS originated semen in addition to that BRAC Artificial Insemination (AI) workers took an average of 425.61 BDT from farmers to inseminate their cows. The average milk yield/d was 1.82±0.14, 3.35±0.40, and 2.74±0.27 liters for local, HF crossbred and Sahiwal crossbred respectively in that region. The prevalence of repeat breeding incidences was 13.74%, 14.21%, and 15.17%, for Local, Sahiwal crossbred, and Holstein Friesian crossbred genotypes respectively. The highest incidence of disease was found as Lumpy Skin Disease (14.67%) followed by Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) (11.98%) and other parasitic and metabolic diseases. In the study area, it was found that maximum number of the respondents (95%) faced excessive feed price problem along with some other problems. <strong>Implications: </strong>Government intervention is necessary to improve the situation of livestock production in the country. <strong>Conclusion:</strong> This study showed the overall scenario of livestock production, breeding, and management in the northern part of Bangladesh which could be helpful for the govt., Non-governmental organizations (NGO’s) and policymakers to take realistic steps for the improvement of livestock production in the northern part of Bangladesh.</p>

Assessment of Reproductive Health Disorders in Dairy Cattle and Its Associated Risk Factors in Melka Belo Woreda of East Hararghe Zone, Oromia, Ethiopia

One of the key elements affecting the profitability of the cow-calf business is reproductive disorders. From March to August of 2022, a cross-sectional study was conducted in Melka Belo Woreda East Hararghe Zone with the aim of identifying reproductive health issues in dairy cattle and the risk factors associated with them. According to the current study, of the 50 respondents, 37 (74%) were men and 13 (26%) were women, with respect to various occupational and educational backgrounds. Of the 50 respondents, 2 (4%) worked in Artificial Insemination, 17 (34%) in animal health, and 31 (62%) as animal owners. All of these respondents were representative of the study population in the study area. Out of the 397 cows that were analyzed, 126 (31.74%) had at least one reproductive issue that was found through both routine follow-up (n = 13) and retrospective analysis (n = 384). The study found that dystocia (8.85%), retained fetal membrane (7.3%), repeat breeder (5.2%), prolapse of the uterus and vagina (4.43%), anestrous (3.13%), and abortion (2.34%) were the main reproductive issues. Breeds and parity had no statistically significant (p>0.05) impact on the incidence of reproductive difficulties in dairy cattle, while the prevalence of assessed reproductive disorders showed a significant difference (p<0.05) with respect to age and body condition. In general, the current findings showed that reproductive health issues are prevalent in the study region, as indicated by their percentage and categories, which occasionally vary. This study demonstrated the strong correlation between reproductive problems and dairy cows’ ability to reproduce. Therefore, consistent control of reproductive health and appropriate husbandry techniques may offer ways to mitigate issues that arise in various production systems. The primary reproductive health conditions in the research region should be the subject of more thorough investigations.

Friesian Holstein (FH) Dairy Cows Milk Quality that Experienced Repeated Breeding in Sendang District, Tulungagung Regency

This study observe the milk quality decrease in Friesian Holstein (FH) dairy cows that experience repeated breeding (repeat breedings) at KUD Tani Wilis Sendang Tulungagung when viewed from density, fat content, Total Solid (TS), and Solid Non Fat (SNF). The milk samples to be used in this study were 32 with a ratio of 10 normal cow's milk samples as a control. The milk sample was examined using a lactoscan. The data obtained were analyzed using the Independent T-Test test. The results of the repeat breeding cow's milk samples for specific gravity, fat content, and Total Solids (TS) showed a significant difference (p <0.05) between the treatment group and the control of normal cow's milk. Samples of repeat breeding cow's milk on Solid Non Fat (SNF) showed that it was not significantly different (p>0.05). The average specific gravity of repeat breeding cows was 1.0282 and that of normal cow's milk was 1.0260, which means that there is an increase in repeat breeding cow's milk when compared to normal cow's milk. The fat content of repeat breeding cows was 1.08% and that of normal cows was 4.18%. Total Solid (TS) of repeat breeding cows was 9.38% and normal cows was 12.73%.

Correlation of Body Condition Score and Parity in Dairy Cows that Experienced Repeated Breeding in Sendang, Tulungagung

Repeat breeding is a syndrome which affected the reproduction and production efficacy of dairy cattle. Dairy cow is one of an animals which produce milk. This syndrome may cause high economic losses in dairy cattle farm. This research was conducted from February to March 2023. The aim of this research was to determine the correlation of body condition score and parity of repeat breeding on the dairy cow at Tani Wilis Cooperation, Sendang, Tulungagung. A total of 46 dairy cows that contributed to the repeat breeding were used in this study. Sampling was done by purposive sampling with the following condition the date AI and the date of parturition. This research was conducted in a survei with primary and secondary data collection. Primary data retrieval is done by interviewing farmers, body condition score of each dairy cow, and direct observation. As for the secondary data obtained by recording the card Artificial Insemination (AI) owned by inseminator. Data were analyzed using correlate statistics followed by Spearmann Test. The result of the research indicated that no significant difference (P>0,05) in body condition score and parity.

The Determination of Minerals in Soil, Water, Fodder, and Serum and their Effects on Reproductive Efficiency of Nili Ravi Buffaloes

Introduction: Minerals play an essential role in the reproductive performance of dairy animals, especially in buffaloes. The present study aimed to evaluate the mineral concentrations in different types of samples, including soil used for fodder cultivation, canal water used for fodder irrigation, drinking water for buffaloes, fodder used for buffalo feeding, and serum of buffaloes and their effects on the reproductive efficiency of buffaloes. Materials and methods: The current study was carried out for three months and samples were analyzed twice at the beginning and the end of the study. The concentrations of calcium, magnesium, and inorganic phosphorus in the soil were checked through the versinate method. The concentration of calcium, magnesium, and inorganic phosphorus in water was checked through the titration method and the concentration of calcium, magnesium, and inorganic phosphorus contents in fodder was checked through the wet digestion method. The minerals of blood serum (n = 80) were analyzed through commercial kits. Results: In canal water, calcium concentration was higher for irrigation compared to buffalo drinking water. Similarly, on the upper surface of the soil compared to its low surface, the level of calcium was high. Calcium values of serum were higher in cyclic buffaloes compared to buffalo heifers. In comparison to all groups, the levels of inorganic phosphorus were found to be lower in non-cyclic buffaloes. Similarly, the calcium-to-phosphorus ratio was found to be lower in non-cyclic buffaloes and heifers compared to repeat breeders and cyclic buffaloes. At the beginning of the study, cyclic buffaloes had higher magnesium levels than all other groups, except for non-cyclic buffaloes. By the end of the study, magnesium concentrations were higher in non-cyclic buffaloes and heifers compared to repeat breeders and cyclic buffaloes. Conclusion: The mineral deficiencies in water and soil can affect the fodder content in the feed of buffaloes.

FSH HORMONE LEVELS IN BALI CATTLE WITH REPEATED MATING IN SOBANGAN VILLAGE, MENGWI SUBDISTRICT, BADUNG REGENCY, BALI

Repeat breeder is a condition where a female cow fails to become pregnant after artificial insemination (IB) or natural mating. This study aims to determine the number of results of FSH levels in Balinese cows that experience repeated breeding. The research was conducted by surveying the location directly to interview several farmers with questionnaires whose cattle experienced repeated mating problems, interviews using questionnaires and data analyzed descriptively. The research location was in Sobangan Village, Mengwi District. The samples used were 3-10 years old Balinese cows with HCS between 3-4. The results showed FSH levels in repeatedly mated cows 40.21 - 63.85 mIU/ml and normal cows 34.48 mIU/ml and 56.04 mIU/ml. It can be concluded that FSH levels are not associated with the occurrence of repeated mating. The results of this study can be used as a basis for further research by testing Luteinizing Hormone (LH) levels.

Analysis of Factors Affecting the Success of Beef Cattle Artificial Insemination (AI) in Jepon District, Blora Regency

Abstract This study aims to investigate the factors that influence the success of artificial insemination, the effect of successful artificial insemination on livestock rearing, and the income of beef cattle farmers in Palon Village, Jepon District, Blora Regency. The research method is quantitative descriptive with a survey approach. Primary data were obtained through direct observations, interviews, and questionnaires with beef cattle farmers in Palon Village and inseminators of the Food, Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries Office (DP4) of Blora Regency, while secondary data were obtained from DP4 and the Statistics Indonesia (BPS) of Blora Regency. Multiple linear regression and beef cattle farming analysis were used in this study. The findings show that the number of repeat breeding cases in Palon Village remains significantly high. Several factors were identified as influencing the success of artificial insemination, including female livestock characteristics, thawing and handling semen, breeder conditions, and inseminators’ skills and attitudes. Livestock health, administration of anthelmintics and vitamins, rectal palpation examination, body condition score, age of the breeder, feed, and the origin or breed of the livestock are all important characteristics of female livestock. The handling and thawing of semen were discovered to be critical factors influencing the type of straw used. Farmer conditions, which include age, education level, length of time involved in beef cattle farming, basic livelihood, and the number of owners, also play a role. Age, experience in the field, and the extent of training received were discovered to influence the success of artificial insemination. Repeated mating contributes to increased maintenance costs and the costs associated with artificial insemination in beef cattle.

Novel Approach for Evaluating Pregnancy-Associated Glycoprotein and Inflammation Markers during the Postpartum Period in Holstein Friesian Cows.

We evaluated the relationship between decreased pregnancy-associated glycoprotein (PAG) levels, inflammatory parameters (serum amyloid A [SAA] and milk amyloid A [MAA]), postpartum inflammatory conditions (mastitis, ketosis, and follicular cysts), and the FOXP3 gene. Nineteen Holstein-Friesian cows were included in this study. Up to approximately eight weeks after delivery, weekly health examinations were performed for mastitis and ketosis, and reproductive organ ultrasonography was performed. The decreasing PAG rate was negatively correlated with SAA concentration (r = -0.493, p = 0.032). Cows with mastitis exhibited a slower trend of PAG decrease (p = 0.095), and a greater percentage of these cows had MAA concentrations above 12 µg/mL (p = 0.074) compared with those without mastitis. A negative correlation, although nonsignificant (r = -0.263, p = 0.385), was observed between the day-open period and decreased PAG rate. The day-open period was correlated with the presence or absence of follicular cysts (p = 0.046). Four cows that developed follicular cysts were homozygous for the G allele of the FOXP3 gene related to repeat breeders. These results indicate a relationship between a decreased PAG rate and inflammatory status during the postpartum period. Thus, suppressing inflammation during the perinatal period may improve reproductive efficiency in the dairy industry.

Major Reproductive Disorders Causing Infertility of Dairy Herds in West Shoa Zone, Ethiopia

Reproduction is a complex process in which individuals produce their offspring to perpetuate life. Breeding efficiency depends on the normal function of the reproductive system. Reproductive disorders are the most common problems affecting the reproductive efficiency and productivity of dairy cows. Although, major reproductive disorders are greatly responsible for high economic losses in dairy herds, there is a scarcity the research done and consistent information on the prevalence and relative importance of these problems causing infertility in dairy herds in the West Shoa Zone. Therefore, the current study was conducted in the West Shoa Zone of Oromia regional state to assess the major reproductive disorders of dairy cows in the areas. These districts, namely Adeaberga, Ambo, and Walmera were purposively selected based on their accessibility and potential for dairy production. A total of 180 dairy producers (60 households from each) were randomly selected for individual interviews using a semi-structured questionnaire. The major reproductive disorders found were 82.2% repeat breeding, 22.2% calf mortality, 27.2% retention of the fetal membrane, 23.3% abortion and 16.3% stillbirth. The prevalence of reproductive problems showed a significant difference within the woredas. The prevalence of repeat breeding, retained fetal membrane and calf mortality were severe in Walmera districts compared to the remaining two districts whereas the prevalence of abortion and stillbirth were severe in Adeaberga. Repeat breeding shows a higher prevalence whereas the stillbirth rates show a lower prevalence. The ultimate goal of dairy herd production is to increase milk yield and manipulate early first service and calving, lower the calving interval and days open and decrease the number of services per conception. However, repeat breeding, retained fetal membrane, abortion, calf mortality and stillbirth were the major causes of infertility in dairy cows in the study areas. Proper breeding strategies and keeping the health conditions of dairy cattle should be employed to ensure improvements in fertility traits.

The Study of Body Condition Score and Macro Minerals on Fertile and Repeat Breeding Cattle in Ngaglik Sub-District

Beef is a source of animal protein in demand by the Indonesians. The development of cattle breeding in Indonesia needs to grow. One factor that causes the stagnation of cattle breeding is reproductive disorders. A reproductive disorder that local farmers in Indonesia often find is repeat breeding. This study aimed to know the Body Condition Score (BCS), Sodium (Na), and Chloride (Cl) between fertile and repeat-breeding cattle. This study used ten Simmental-PO cattle, and the research was conducted in Ngaglik Sub-District, Sleman City, Special Region of Yogyakarta Province. Cattle were divided into two groups, with five cattle in each group. Anamnesis examinations among farmers and reproduction records tests aimed to determine the fertile and repeat breeding cattle. Furthermore, body condition scoring is achieved by examining and palpating the costume and vertebrae. Blood samples were collected to determine the sodium and chlorine levels. Body Condition Score parameters among cattle were analyzed descriptively, and Na and Cl levels were analyzed using an independent T-test. The results of the BCS study on fertile cattle are 3,3 on average, and repeat breeding cattle are 2,5 on average. In addition, the results of the Na study on fertile cattle were 132.7±3.8, and repeat-breeding cattle were 131.6±2.5 (P>0.05). The results of the Cl study on productive cattle were 91.7±3.0 and repeat-breeding cattle 89.3±4.7 (P>0.05). The conclusion is that BCS is fertile range 2-3 and repeats breeding range 3-4. In conclusion, Na and Cl have no significant differences in productive and repeat-breeding cattle.

Occurrence of Coxiellosis in ruminants and its associated risk factors

Coxiellosis in animals is caused by the zoonotic pathogen, Coxiella burnetii. Although the disease is of public health importance it remains underdiagnosed and underreported. The cross- sectional study was aimed to estimate the occurrence of the disease in livestock of study area and also to identify the risk factors associated with the disease in animals. Blood, serum, and vaginal swabs samples were collected from 200 ruminants (cattle, sheep, and goats), across various farms in Karnataka, India. These samples were then screened using ELISA and PCR (com1 and IS1111). A questionnaire was administered to the farm owners to collect the risk factor-related information. About 5.26 % cattle, 12.3 % sheep, and 12.5 % goats were positive by ELISA. By PCR, 9.47 % cattle, 9.3 % sheep, and 10 % goats were positive. Overall, the occurrence of 14.73 %, 18.46 % and 17.5 % was estimated in cattle, sheep and goat, respectively. PCR targeting the IS1111 gene detected higher number of samples as positive as compared to the com1 gene PCR. Higher number of vaginal swab samples were detected as positive as compared to blood. History of reproductive disorders (OR: 4.30; 95 %CI:1.95- 9.46), abortion (OR: 30.94; 95 %CI:6.30- 151.84) and repeat breeding (OR:11.36; 95 %CI:4.16- 30.99) were significantly associated with coxiellosis (p < 0.005). Multivariable analysis by logistic regression model analysis suggested retained abortion, repeat breeding and rearing of animal in semi-intensive system as factors significantly associated with the infection. Cultural identification of the PCR positive samples were cultured using embryonated egg propagation and cell culture techniques and positivity was confirmed in six samples. Phylogenetic analysis of the com1 and IS1111 gene revealed clustering based on similar geographic locations. The study estimated the occurrence of the disease in the study area and identified the potential risk factors.

Cattle Reproductive Disorders Documented from Gaushalas of Nepal.

Cow is the national animal of Nepal, yet it is one of the most abused animal species here. Under realized utilities of cow that is nonlactating or pregnant is the reason for demonic cruelty. Since the Vedic period, gaushalas have been caring for cows. At present, most gaushalas have responsibility to rescue, offer refuge, and treat poorly treated or confiscated cattle from smuggling rackets in Nepal. It is no surprise that these abused animals suffer from many health issues and compromised reproductive ability. This study was conducted to know about husbandry practice and to determine prevalence of reproductive disorders in cows of Gaushala from Nepal. Altogether, 27 gaushalas were visited throughout the study period and cows (≥2 years) (n = 2959) were included for the study. From the study, respondents from 14.81% Gaushala admitted indigenous cattle only, 11.11% admitted any breed (indigenous and crossbreed), 44.44% admitted stray animals only, and 29.63% admitted all types (indigenous, crossbreed, and stray animals). The study revealed that among (n = 2959) animals examined, 5.54% (n = 164) were affected by either one or more reproductive problems. The major reproductive disorders identified in study area were repeat breeding 0.47%, cervico-vaginal and uterine prolapse 0.34%, retention of placenta 2.13%, dystocia 0.61%, and abortion 1.66%. Herd size of Gaushala had a significant difference (P < 0.05) on the overall prevalence of reproductive problems in cows of Gaushala. The main issues with gaushalas included a lack of resources like adequate fund, feeds, fodder, and water, shortage of grazing acreage, veterinary services, and difficulties in managing male cattle. To mitigate the issues and welfare related to gaushalas strict adherence to disease surveillance and biosecurity rules, avoidance of unlimited reproduction in cows, and separation of males and females, fund raising and resource management, collaboration with local government and NGOs, veterinary hospital, clinics, research, and innovation with veterinary institution and universities.

Mineral patterns in hair: A decisive factor between reproducible and repeat breeder dairy cows.

Reproduction, especially impregnation, is a critical aspect of dairy cow management that directly influences herd milk productivity. We conducted a noninvasive hair mineral assay to compare the mineral profiles of two dairy cow groups: reproducible and repeat breeder, by investigating the levels of 11 essential minerals (Ca, Mg, Na, K, Fe, Cu, Mn, Zn, Cr, Se, and P) and 6 toxic elements (Hg, Pb, Cd, Al, As, and Ni) in both groups. We also conducted principal component and correlation matrix analyses to compare hair mineral patterns between the groups. Compared to their reproducible counterparts, repeat breeder cows had lower levels of Na, K, and Se. However, Fe, Cd, Al, and As levels were higher in repeat breeders than in their reproducible counterparts. The correlation matrix showed notable correlation patterns for each group. Ca, K, and Na levels were positively correlated in reproducible cows, whereas repeat breeder cows showed positive correlations only between Ca and K levels. Se showed positive correlations with Zn only in the reproducible cow group. Negative correlations were not found in the reproducible group, whereas the repeat breeder group exhibited 7 negative correlations. Despite the limitations of hair mineral analysis, this study provided useful insights into the reproductive potential of dairy cows. These findings aid in easing the prediction of repeat breeder occurrences in herds and are expected to facilitate timely mineral supplementation and other interventions to improve overall herd reproduction in dairy farms.