Bubalus Bubalis Research Articles

Unveiling the mysteries of Asian herbivores resource partitioning in tropical wet-grassland ecosystem

Ecological niche partitioning is fundamental for the coexistence of sympatric species. However, the relationship between herbivore body size and forage availability on resource segregation and selection remains debatable. This study quantifies the niche differentiation and selectivity of forage species consumed by six Asian large herbivores (SLH), including mega-herbivores like Greater one-horned rhino (Rhinoceros unicornis), Asian elephant (Elephas maximus) and Asiatic wild buffalo (Bubalus arnee), and meso-herbivores like swamp deer (Rucervus duvaucelii), hog deer (Axis porcinus) and sambar (Rusa unicolor) in tropical wet-grasslands of the Brahmaputra floodplains. We hypothesized that body size influences dietary niche breadth and interspecific dietary similarities or dissimilarities, while forage availability influences forage selectivity among Asian herbivores. We used micro-histological technique, harvest method and Jacobs Index to quantify SLH foraging patterns, forage availability and preference, respectively. Results of the study revealed high niche breadth for elephant (0.56>Bs≤0.74) among mega-herbivores and for sambar (0.49>Bs≤0.64) among meso-herbivores. SLH showed a significant positive correlation between body size and niche breadth in wet season. High dietary overlap was recorded between buffalo and hog deer (0.79–0.86) and swamp deer and hog deer (0.75–0.86) among SLH, rhino and buffalo (0.80–0.83) among mega-herbivores, and swamp deer and hog deer (0.75–0.86) among meso-herbivores. High dietary dissimilarity was recorded between elephant and swamp deer (36–37 %), elephant and buffalo (27–33 %), and swamp deer and sambar (27–29 %). Compared to dry season (1354.54 ±641.30 g m˗2), significantly higher biomass was recorded in wet season (3026.93 ±1632.65 g m˗2; p<0.05). From dry to wet season, rhino, buffalo and hog deer shift their preferred forage from dicot to monocot. Dicot was the most preferred forage of elephant among mega-herbivores, and monocot of swamp deer and sambar among meso-herbivores. Mega- and meso-herbivores avoid invasives Merremia umbellata and Mimosa spp., while meso-herbivores avoid Mikania micrantha. Body size explains niche partitioning only for rhino, elephant and swamp deer. Forage availability contributed to niche breadth and forage preference. In conclusion, forage segregation, despite being challenging to interpret at taxonomic level, influences niche partitioning among mega- and meso-herbivores.

Biochemical profile differences during the transition period based on different levels of non-esterified fatty acids at 7 weeks before parturition in Mediterranean Italian dairy buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis).

Metabolic adaptations to negative energy balance, as well as lipomobilization, influence inflammatory responses, immune function, and oxidative stress in animals. This study aimed to evaluate the biochemical profile of Mediterranean buffaloes with different levels of lipomobilization from the prepartum to the postpartum period. A total of 76 Mediterranean buffaloes were enrolled, and a weekly blood sample was taken from 7 weeks before to 6 weeks after calving. The concentration of non-esterified fatty acids (NEFAs) was determined in serum and was used to categorize buffaloes into three lipomobilization groups 7 weeks before calving: mild (NEFA-I; NEFA ≤ 0.29 mEq/L; n = 18), medium (NEFA-II; 0.29 < NEFA < 0.57 mEq/L; n = 20), and severe (NEFA-III; NEFA ≥ 0.57 mEq/L; n = 38). Two-way repeated measures ANOVA was used to assess changes within and between the groups and over time. Significant differences were found in the concentration levels of NEFA, β-hydroxybutyrate, glucose, cholesterol, protein profile, oxygen radicals, antioxidants, lysozyme, complement, and minerals. These results suggest that both medium and severe lipomobilization groups are associated with metabolic alterations. In conclusion, buffaloes with higher NEFA levels (>0.29 mEq/L; NEFA-II and NEFA-III) at 7 weeks before calving should be monitored more closely to reduce the risk of metabolic diseases. Furthermore, the medium (NEFA-II) and severe (NEFA-III) lipomobilization groups could be associated with differences in the animals' ability to manage their metabolic status. Specifically, the severe mobilization group was most associated with a greater energy deficit during both the prepartum and postpartum periods without oxidative stress. On the contrary, the medium mobilization group was associated with a less severe energy deficit but was also associated with an inflammatory status and oxidative stress during the prepartum period. These distinctions highlight the need for tailored management strategies to address varying levels of metabolic stress in dairy buffaloes.

Pregnancy and calving rate of artificial insemination with sexed semen in swamp buffaloes under field conditions

Abstract Artificial Insemination (AI) with sexed semen in buffaloes has been applied for increased calf sex ratio as well as genetic improvement. A field study was conducted to evaluate conception and calving rates following artificial insemination (AI) with sexed semen in swamp buffaloes from different agroecosystems. The study was carried out in different agroecosystems: riverside (Brebes Regency) and oil palm plantations (Pandeglang Regency). A total of 72 buffalo cows aged 5–9 years old had normal body conditions. All buffalo cows were given estrus synchronization treatment using prostaglandin hormone (PGF) twice at 11-day intervals. The sexed semen was inseminated at a fixed time, 72 hours after the second PGF injection. A conception check was done 60 days after AI using ultrasonography and rectal palpation. The parameters observed were conception and calving rate. The data were analysed descriptively. The results showed the mean conception rate and calving rate were 50.7% and 46.2%, respectively. The differences in conception (43.3 vs. 57.1%) and calving rate (40.0 vs. 52.3%) between the agroecosystems of riverside and palm oil plantations, respectively. The use of sexed semen resulted in moderate conception and calving rates. This research indicated that sexed semen can be applied in an AI program for buffaloes at farm levels.

Atypical cyclopia with ankylosed monster calf and its management through fetotomy- A case report

A case of dystocia associated with malpresentation and atypical cyclopic monster with ankylosed limbs was delivered Per-vaginal with the help of fetotomy in a Murrah (Bubalus bubalis) buffalo.

Detection of Polymorphisms in FASN, DGAT1, and PPARGC1A Genes and Their Association with Milk Yield and Composition Traits in River Buffalo of Bangladesh.

This study aimed to identify SNPs in the intron, exon, and UTR regions of the FASN, DGAT1, and PPARGC1A genes and to investigate their possible association with milk yield and composition traits in the riverine buffalo of Bangladesh. A total of 150 DNA samples from riverine buffalo were used for PCR amplification with five pairs of primers, followed by association studies using a generalized linear model in R. SNP genotyping was performed by direct sequencing of the respective amplicon. Traits analyzed included DMY, fat%, protein%, and SNF%. This study identified 8 SNPs in FASN (g.7163G>A and g.7271C>T), DGAT1 (g.7809C>T and g.8525C>T) and PPARGC1A (g.387642C>T, g.387758A>G, g.409354A>G, and g.409452G>A). Genotypic and allelic frequencies differed significantly for each SNP genotype and did not follow the Hardy-Weinberg principle (p < 0.01 or p < 0.001) in most cases. The g.7163G>A and g.7271C>T SNP genotypes of the FASN gene were significantly associated with milk fat%, with the latter also significantly associated with SNF%. The g.8525C>T polymorphism of the DGAT1 gene significantly affected protein% (p < 0.01). Additionally, PPARGC1A gene polymorphisms showed significant associations: g.387642C>T with fat% (p < 0.05); g.387758A>G and g.409354A>G with protein% (p < 0.001) and SNF% (p < 0.01); and g.409452G>A with DMY (p < 0.001), fat% (p < 0.05), and protein% (p < 0.01). Reconstructed haplotypes of the PPARGC1A gene were significantly associated (p < 0.01) with all traits except SNF%. These findings suggest that polymorphisms in these three candidate genes have the potential as molecular markers for improving milk yield and composition traits in the riverine buffalo of Bangladesh.

Trade directions of Indian buffalo meat exports and its profitability in Punjab

India is the habitat of about 55% of the world’s buffalo populace. However, the current production and marketing structure of buffalo meat for the indigenous and international market is endowed with multitudinous challenges. At present, there is an elevation in demand for Indian buffalo meat in the global market, especially when processing units in Brazil and Argentina continued to be closed due to the outbreak of the Covid 19. Keeping this in mind, knowledge regarding the performance of Indian buffalo meat export and identification of its profitability is required. The study examined the cost-return pattern in Punjab state. Further, it examined the pattern of trade, fluctuating directions of the buffalo meat trade in India by Markov Chain Analysis, and projected exports of Indian Buffalo meat till 2023 to 2024. The Transitional Probability Matrix found that Indonesia, Malaysia, and Vietnam were the most consistent and trustworthy markets for Indian Buffalo meat, with probability retention of 81.06, 79.58, and 74.75%, respectively. Saudi Arab would be considered an unstable importer. The projections of Buffalo meat export up to 2023 to 2024 showed an increase in Vietnam’s export share. There is a need to popularise and commercialise the buffalo male calf rearing business in rural areas, especially in Punjab. Further, linking these farms to meat processing plants is also crucial. Pertinent inspection of the quality of buffalo meat to meet international market standards is a pressing priority to grab additional share in the global market.

A Comparative Assessment Study on the Prolactin Gene as a Genetic Marker for Milk Production in High Milk-Producing Mammals through Phylogenetic Analysis

The prolactin (PRL) gene is a focus in milk-related studies for high-yielding ruminants like dairy cows, water buffaloes, dairy goats, and sheep. Despite its recognition as a genetic marker for milk traits, little is known about the specific genetic features enabling heightened milk production. The PRL nucleotide sequence of the ruminants and the human outgroup were obtained from the GenBank database. Using the MEGA 7 software, amino acid translation was conducted and multisequence analysis was done, allowing for the construction of phylogenetic trees. In both trees, ruminants were consistently clustered together forming pairings of the dairy cow: water buffalo and the dairy goat: sheep. In the nucleotide sequences of all the involved taxa, cytosine and guanine were the unanimous most and least comprised nucleotide. In the amino acid composition, the unanimous most and least amino acid percentages were leucine and tryptophan, respectively. Leucine, being the highest comprised, was substantiated by related studies stating that such amino acid is highly involved in milk production and yield. Glycine percentages were found to be higher in ruminants than in humans, providing a possible reasoning for such milk-yield disparity in the involved taxa.

Bovine Alphaherpesvirus 1, Bovine Alphaherpesvirus 5 and Bubaline Alphaherpesvirus 1 in Palatine Tonsils from Water Buffaloes in Northern Brazil and Possible Links with the Origin of Bovine Alphaherpesvirus Type 5.

Herpesviruses are significant pathogens of ruminants. In water buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis), however, herpesviruses have not been thoroughly studied. Although bubaline alphaherpesvirus 1 (BuAHV1) and bovine alphaherpesvirus 1 (BoAHV1) have already been recovered from water buffaloes, to date, no reports on the occurrence of bovine alphaherpesvirus 5 (BoAHV5) in these animals have been published. Therefore, the aim of this study was to search for BuAHV1, BoAHV1, and BoAHV5 in palatine tonsils of apparently healthy water buffaloes from the Pará state, Northern Brazil. Tissue samples of tonsils (n = 293) were screened by a nested PCR (nPCR) targeting a region of UL44 (gC coding gene), followed by sequencing, to detect and differentiate between the viral types. Viral genome segments were detected in 18 out of 293 (6.1%) of the palatine tonsil samples. Two animals carried genomes of BoAHV1 only, eleven animals carried BoAHV5 genomes only, and four animals carried BuAHV1 only. Another animal had both BoAHV1 and BoAHV5 genomes in its tonsils. No infectious virus could be recovered from any of the samples. The BuAHV1 sequences identified here were more closely related to BuAHV1 genomes identified in India. Phylogenetic analyses suggested a closer relationship between the recovered BoAHV5 and BuAHV1 genomes. Therefore, evidence is provided here to confirm that not only BoAHV1 and BuAHV1, but also BoAHV5, can infect water buffaloes. This report highlights (i) the first detection of BoAHV5 in water buffaloes and (ii) the occurrence of coinfections with BoAHV1 and BoAHV5 in that species. Such findings and the similarity of BoAHV5 to Indian herpesvirus genomes suggest that the origin of type 5 may be linked to recombinations between bovine and bubaline herpesviruses within bubalines, since the scenario for generation of recombinants in buffaloes is potentially present.

Bridging Local Wisdom and Modernity: Swamp Buffalo Cultivation in Tampakang Village as a Model of Nature Conservation and Sustainable Community Welfare

This journal explores how swamp buffalo cultivation in Tampakang Village, South Kalimantan, is a model for integrating local wisdom and modernity in achieving sustainable development. Through a qualitative descriptive analysis approach, this study reveals the important role of swamp buffalo in maintaining the balance of wetland ecosystems and as a source of livelihood for local communities. By utilizing field observation methods, in-depth interviews, and literature studies, it was found that local wisdom in swamp buffalo cultivation not only preserves local traditions and culture but also provides economic benefits through ecotourism. In addition, challenges in providing feed during the rainy season and limited knowledge of farmers were identified as obstacles that needed to be overcome. However, the opportunity to develop swamp buffalo tourism can improve community welfare through job creation and income increase. This research provides practical recommendations to conserve swamp buffalo cultivation and maximize its potential as a source of sustainable community welfare.

Therapeutic Management of Anoestrus in Swamp Buffalo Heifers and Cows using Bypass Fat

Therapeutic Management of Anoestrus in Swamp Buffalo Heifers and Cows using Bypass Fat

An Assessment of Indian Livestock Owners’ Selective Management Practices for Risk Amelioration of Obstructive Urolithiasis in Water Buffalo Male Calves

An Assessment of Indian Livestock Owners’ Selective Management Practices for Risk Amelioration of Obstructive Urolithiasis in Water Buffalo Male Calves

Maternal genetic diversity and phylogenetic analysis of Indian riverine and swamp buffaloes: insights from complete mitochondrial genomes.

This study explored the genetic diversity and evolutionary history of riverine and swamp buffaloes in India, utilizing complete mitochondrial genome sequences. Through comprehensive sampling across varied agro-climatic zones, including 91 riverine buffaloes from 12 breeds and 6 non-descript populations, along with 16 swamp buffaloes of the Luit breed, this study employed next-generation sequencing techniques to map the mitogenomic landscape of these subspecies. Sequence alignments were performed with the buffalo mitochondrial reference genome to identify mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) variations and distinct maternal haplogroups among Indian buffaloes. The results uncovered the existence of 212 variable sites in riverine buffaloes, yielding 67 haplotypes with high haplotype diversity (0.991), and in swamp buffaloes, 194 variable sites resulting in 12 haplotypes, displaying haplotype diversity of 0.950. Phylogenetic analyses elucidated the genetic relationships between Indian buffaloes and the recognized global haplogroups, categorizing Indian swamp buffaloes predominantly into the SA haplogroup. Intriguingly, the haplogroup SB2b was observed for the first time in swamp buffaloes. Conversely, riverine buffaloes conformed to established sub-haplogroups RB1, RB2, and RB3, underscoring the notion of Northwestern India as a pivotal domestication site for riverine buffaloes. The study supports the hypothesis of independent domestication events for riverine and swamp buffaloes, highlighting the critical role of genetic analysis in unraveling the complex evolutionary pathways of domestic animals. This investigation contributes to the global understanding of buffalo mitogenome diversity, offering insights into this important livestock species' domestication and dispersal patterns.

Molecular Characterization and Gene Expression of MHC II DRB3 Gene Associated with Subclinical Mastitis in Goats

The Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) genes have a vital role in the immune response of vertebrates by encoding molecules involved in self/non-self-discrimination and antigen presentation. This study focused on the MHC II DRB3 gene in goats, specifically comparing its nucleotide and amino acid sequences with those of other ruminant species. Four different goat breeds (Native, Upgraded, Anglo-Nubian, and Saanen) were analyzed, and their MHC II DRB3 sequences were aligned with sequences from NCBI GenBank. The nucleotide sequences exhibited high similarity between the different goat breeds and other ruminant species, indicating a conserved structure across mammalian species. Results from sequence comparisons revealed varying degrees of similarity between goat MHC II DRB3 sequences and those of Capra hircus, Ovis aries, Bos taurus, Bos grunniens, and Bubalus bubalis. Phylogenetic analysis further supported the close relationship between goats and other ruminants. Functional domain analysis identified conserved regions in the MHC II DRB3 gene across different breeds of goats and other ruminants. Moreover, polymorphism analysis using the HaeIII restriction enzyme highlighted genetic variability within the MHC II DRB3 gene in goats. This study enhances our understanding of the MHC II DRB3 gene in goats, its similarities to other ruminant species, and its potential role in immune responsiveness.

Nuclear Genome-Encoded Mitochondrial OXPHOS Complex I Genes in Female Buffalo Show Tissue-Specific Differences.

Buffalo physiology intricately balances energy, profoundly influencing health, productivity, and reproduction. This study explores nuclear-mitochondrial crosstalk, revealing OXPHOS Complex I gene expression variations in buffalo tissues through high-throughput RNA sequencing. Unveiling tissue-specific disparities, the research elucidates the genomic landscape of crucial energy production genes, with broader implications for veterinary and agricultural progress. Post-slaughter, tissues from post-pubertal female buffaloes underwent meticulous processing and RNA extraction using the TRIzol method. RNA-Seq library preparation and IlluminaHiSeq 2500 sequencing were performed on QC-passed samples. Data underwent stringent filtration, mapping to the Bubalus bubalis genome using HISAT2. DESeq2 facilitated differential expression gene (DEG) analysis focusing on 57 Mitocarta 3-derived genes associated with OXPHOS complex I. Nuclear-encoded mitochondrial protein transcripts of OXPHOS complex 1 exhibited tissue-specific variations, with 51 genes expressing significantly across tissues. DEG analysis emphasized tissue-specific expression patterns, highlighting a balanced OXPHOS complex I subunit expression in the kidney vs. brain. Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment showcased mitochondria-centric terms, revealing distinct proton motive force-driven mitochondrial ATP synthesis regulation. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses emphasized Thermogenesis and OXPHOS pathways, enriching our understanding of tissue-specific energy metabolism. Noteworthy up-regulation of NDUFB10 in the heart and kidney aligned with heightened metabolic activity. Brain-specific up-regulation of NDUFAF6 indicated a focus on mitochondrial function, while variations in NDUFA11 and ACAD9 underscored pivotal roles in the heart and kidney. GO and KEGG analyses highlighted tissue-specific mitochondrial ATP synthesis and NADH dehydrogenase processes, providing molecular insights into organ-specific metabolic demands and regulatory mechanisms. Our study unveils conserved and tissue-specific nuances in nuclear-encoded mitochondrial OXPHOS complex I genes, laying a foundation for understanding diverse energy demands and potential health implications.

Studi Tingkah Laku Makan dan Berkubang Kerbau Lumpur (Bubalus bubalis carabanesis) di Desa Teluk Kayu Putih

This study is to investigate the feeding and washing habits of swamp buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis carabanesis) in Teluk Kayu Putih Village, VII Koto District, Tebo Regency. This study was carried out from July to October 2023, involving a sample of 5 buffalo. The sample included adult male and female buffalo, as well as immature male and female buffalo (referred to as "girl"), and male calves. This study employs the One Zero technique, utilizing 10-minute intervals, conducted between 06:00 and 16:00 WIB. The research findings indicated that adult female buffalo exhibited the most feeding activity, specifically 16.36 times, whereas male buffalo calves shown the lowest feeding activity, specifically 9.00 times. The frequency of rumination, a type of ruminant behavior, was highest in young males at a rate of 7.42 times, whereas young female buffalo exhibited the lowest frequency of rumination at 5.93 times. The study revealed that adult male buffalo engage in wallowing activity more frequently than any other group, with an average of three times per day. In contrast, cub males engage in wallowing behavior just once per day, which is the lowest frequency seen. The average duration of wallowing was determined to be 37.33 minutes.

Sustainability analysis and decision-making strategy for swamp buffalo (Bubalus bubalis carabauesis) conservation in Jambi Province, Indonesia

Abstract The objective of this study is to analyze the sustainability of swamp buffalo cultivation and develop decision-making strategies. Data were collected through focus group discussions with key informants in swamp buffalo cultivation and surveys of buffalo farmers in three regencies in Jambi Province. This study examines 37 attributes contained in four dimensions: ecological, economic, social, and technological dimensions. Data were analyzed using multidimensional scaling through the Rapid appraisal for buffalo technique and analytical hierarchy process (AHP) The results showed that the sustainability index of swamp buffalo cultivation in Sarolangun Regency was 59.39%, Batanghari 58.23%, and Tebo 55.93%. This study identified 12 leverage attributes obtained from 37 attributes that affect the sustainability of swamp buffalo, i.e., forage feed, agricultural waste, land use, agricultural infrastructure, land ownership, buffalo manure, buffalo ownership, livestock motivation, environmental impact, agricultural waste treatment, land processing, and post-harvest technology. Then, from the results of four-dimensional weighting with 12 attributes using AHP, there are 5 alternative strategies in decision making, namely, (1) build internet network infrastructure, (2) determine the number of livestock that can be raised in an area, (3) establish buffalo farming institutions, (4) prevent land use conflicts, and (5) increase farmer participation in raising buffalo livestock. This research provides input to policy makers to develop swamp buffalo cultivation by considering ecological, economic, social, and technological dimensions.

Comparative transcriptome profile of embryos at different developmental stages derived from somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) and in-vitro fertilization (IVF) in riverine buffalo (Bubalus bubalis).

Somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) is a very important reproductive technology with many diverse applications, such as fast multiplication of elite animals, the production of transgenic animals and embryonic stem (ES) cells. However, low cloning efficiency, a low live birth rate and the abnormally high incidence of abnormalities in the offspring born are attributed to incomplete or aberrant nuclear reprogramming. In SCNT embryos, the aberrant expression pattern of the genes throughout embryonic development is responsible for the incomplete nuclear reprogramming. The present study was carried out to identify the differential gene expression (DEGs) profile and molecular pathways of the SCNT and IVF embryos at different developmental stages (2 cell, 8 cell and blastocyst stages). In the present study, 1164 (2 cell), 1004 (8 cell) and 530 (blastocyst stage) DEGs were identified in the SCNT embryos as compared to IVF embryos. In addition, several genes such as ZEB1, GDF1, HSF5, PDE3B, VIM, TNNC, HSD3B1, TAGLN, ITGA4 and AGMAT were affecting the development of SCNT embryos as compared to IVF embryos. Further, Gene Ontology (GO) and molecular pathways analysis suggested, SCNT embryos exhibit variations compared to their IVF counterparts and affected the development of embryos throughout the different developmental stages. Apart from this, q-PCR analysis of the GDF1, TMEM114, and IGSF22 genes were utilized to validate the RNA-seq data. These findings contribute valuable insights about the different genes and molecular pathways underlying SCNT embryo development and offer crucial information for improving SCNT efficiency.

Replacing maize silage with hydroponic barley forage in lactating water buffalo diet: Impact on milk yield and composition, water and energy footprint, and economics

This study investigated the feasibility of integrating hydroponic barley forage (HBF) production into dairy ruminant production, focusing on its effect on milk yield and components, energy and water footprints, and economic implications. Maize silage (MSil) was used as a benchmark for comparison. The research was conducted on a water buffalo dairy farm equipped with a fully automated hydroponic system producing approximately 6,000 kg/d of HBF as fed (up 1,000 kg/d on DM basis). Thirty-three lactating water buffaloes were assigned to 3 dietary treatments based on the level of MSil or HBF in the diet: D0 (100% MSil), D50 (50% MSil and 50% HBF), and D100 (100% HBF). The feeding trial lasted 5 wk, plus a 2-wk adaptation period during which each cow underwent a weighing, BCS scoring, recording of milk yield and components, including SCC and coagulation characteristics. Based on the data obtained from the in vivo study, the water and energy footprints for the production of MSil and HBF and buffalo milk, as well as income over feed cost, were evaluated. Complete replacement of MSil with HBF resulted in a slight increase in milk yield without significant impact on milk components. The resource footprint analysis showed potential benefits associated with HBF in terms of water consumption. However, the energy footprint assessment showed that the energy ratio of HBF was less than 1 (0.88) compared with 11.89 for MSil. This affected the energy efficiency of milk yield in the 3 diets, with the D50 diet showing poorer performance due to similar milk yield compared with D0, but higher energy costs due to the inclusion of HBF. The production cost of HBF was about 4 times higher than that of farm-produced MSil, making feed costs for milk yield more expensive. Nevertheless, HBF can potentially improve income over feed costs if it increases milk yield enough to offset its higher production costs. Overall, the results suggest that the current practice of using HBF to replace high-quality feedstuffs as concentrates is likely to result in energy and economic losses.

Interferon-Tau in Maternal Peripheral Blood and Its Relationship with Progesterone and Pregnancy-Associated Glycoproteins in the Early Phases of Gestation in Water Buffalo.

The aim of this study was to investigate the interferon tau (IFNt) concentration in the peripheral maternal blood during the early phase of pregnancy in buffalo cows and improve the knowledge on the physiological importance of circulating IFNt, evaluating the possible interaction with pregnancy-associated glycoproteins (PAGs) and progesterone (P4). Blood samples were taken from buffalo cows on day 0 (day of AI), 7, 14, 18, 28, and 40 post insemination for the IFNt, PAG, and P4 analysis and to determine the IFNt mRNA expression. The animals were categorized ex post into Pregnant, Non-pregnant and Embryo mortality groups. The interferon value was influenced by group (p = 0.003), being always higher in pregnant buffalo cows than in non-pregnant ones, while the embryo mortality group showed intermediate values between those for pregnant and non-pregnant animals. The mRNA expression of IFNt was not influenced by groups or any time points. The regression analysis that included IFNt as the independent variable showed that PAGs, from day 18 (p < 0.01), and P4, from day 28 (p < 0.05), were positively associated with IFNt values. The close associations among IFNt, PAGs and P4 demonstrate that all three molecules work together for fetal-placental well-being and pregnancy support. Unfortunately, the great individual variability in circulating IFNt makes this analysis unsuitable for early pregnancy diagnosis.

Relationship between body weight and hip width in dairy buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis).

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the relationship between body weight (BW) and hip width (HW) in dairy buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis). HW was measured in 215 Murrah buffaloes with a BW of 341 ± 161.6 kg, aged between three months and five years, and raised in southeastern Mexico. Linear and non-linear regressions were used to construct the prediction models. The goodness of fit of the models was evaluated using the Akaike information criterion (AIC), Bayesian information criterion (BIC), coefficient of determination (R2), mean squared error (MSE), and root MSE (RMSE). Additionally, the developed models were evaluated through internal and external cross-validation (k-folds) using independent data. The ability of the fitted models to predict the observed values was assessed based on the root mean square error of prediction (RMSEP), R2, and mean absolute error (MAE). The relationship between BW and HW showed a high correlation coefficient (r = 0.96, P < 0.001). The chosen fitted model to predict BW was: -176.33 (± 40.83***) + 8.74 (± 1.79***) × HW + 0.04 (± 0.01*) × HW2, because it presented the lowest MSE, RMSE, and AIC values, which were 1228.64, 35.05 and 1532.41, respectively. Therefore, with reasonable accuracy, the quadratic model using hip width may be suitable for predicting body weight in buffaloes.