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Greater sage‐grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus; sage‐grouse) populations in the western United States have declined, necessitating conservation efforts. The United States Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service and livestock producers implemented the Sage Grouse Initiative (SGI) to improve sage‐grouse habitat using regional‐specific management actions such as rotational grazing. We assessed the effect of SGI grazing management, the influence of brood female and chick morphometric traits, and multiple environmental and anthropogenic disturbance factors on chick mortality risk in a sage‐grouse population in central Montana, USA, from 2011–2019. We used a Kaplan‐Meier survival function to evaluate chick survival, Cox proportional hazards models to evaluate chick mortality risk as a function of brood female and chick morphometric traits, and the Andersen‐Gill formulation of the Cox proportional hazards model to assess the effects of time‐dependent habitat characteristics on chick mortality risk. Survival to 45 days post‐hatch for 510 chicks varied annually from 0.26 ± 0.07 (SE) to 0.69 ± 0.07. The 45‐day survival rate for all years combined was 0.51 ± 0.03. Chick mortality risk was not affected by changes in livestock grazing management implemented through the SGI grazing program. Brood female age and body condition, sex of chicks, vegetation, and anthropogenic variables were also unassociated with chick mortality risk. There were small protective effects of chick mass adjusted for age and mean minimum monthly temperature; greater chick mass and lower monthly temperatures correlated with reduced mortality risk. Overall, our study suggests the SGI grazing program does not confer additional benefits to sage‐grouse chicks beyond existing grazing practices. Incentivizing grazing practices that adhere to fundamental principles of rangeland ecology and maintain intact rangelands may be more effective than specific prescribed grazing systems for sage‐grouse conservation in this region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In biological systems, nucleotide quadruplexes (such as G‐quadruplexes) in DNA and RNA that are held together by multiple hydrogen bonds play a crucial functional role. The biomimetic formation of these hydrogen‐bonded quadruplexes captured by artificial systems in water poses a significant challenge but can offer valuable insights into these complex functional structures. Herein, we report the formation of biomimetic hydrogen‐bonded G ⋅ C ⋅ G ⋅ C quadruplex captured by a tetraphenylethene (TPE) based octacationic spirobicycle (1). The spirobicyclic compound possesses a three‐dimensional (3D) crossing dual‐cavity structure, which enables the encapsulation of four d(GpC) dinucleotide molecules, thereby realizing 1 : 4 host–guest complexation in water. The X‐ray structure reveals that four d(GpC) molecules further form a two‐layer G ⋅ C ⋅ G ⋅ C quadruplex with Watson–Crick hydrogen bonds, which are stabilized within the dual hydrophobic cavities of 1 through the cooperative non‐covalent interactions of hydrogen bonds, CH⋅⋅⋅π interactions, and hydrophobic effect. Due to the dynamically‐rotational propeller chirality of TPE units, 1 with adaptive chirality can further serve as a chiroptical sensor to exhibit opposite Cotton effects with mirror‐image CD spectra for the pH‐dependent hydrogen‐bonded assemblies of d(GpC) including the Watson–Crick G ⋅ C ⋅ G ⋅ C (pH 9.22) and Hoogsteen G ⋅ C+ ⋅ G ⋅ C+ (pH 5.74) quartets through the host–guest chirality transfer in water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In biological systems, nucleotide quadruplexes (such as G‐quadruplexes) in DNA and RNA that are held together by multiple hydrogen bonds play a crucial functional role. The biomimetic formation of these hydrogen‐bonded quadruplexes captured by artificial systems in water poses a significant challenge but can offer valuable insights into these complex functional structures. Herein, we report the formation of biomimetic hydrogen‐bonded G ⋅ C ⋅ G ⋅ C quadruplex captured by a tetraphenylethene (TPE) based octacationic spirobicycle (1). The spirobicyclic compound possesses a three‐dimensional (3D) crossing dual‐cavity structure, which enables the encapsulation of four d(GpC) dinucleotide molecules, thereby realizing 1 : 4 host–guest complexation in water. The X‐ray structure reveals that four d(GpC) molecules further form a two‐layer G ⋅ C ⋅ G ⋅ C quadruplex with Watson–Crick hydrogen bonds, which are stabilized within the dual hydrophobic cavities of 1 through the cooperative non‐covalent interactions of hydrogen bonds, CH⋅⋅⋅π interactions, and hydrophobic effect. Due to the dynamically‐rotational propeller chirality of TPE units, 1 with adaptive chirality can further serve as a chiroptical sensor to exhibit opposite Cotton effects with mirror‐image CD spectra for the pH‐dependent hydrogen‐bonded assemblies of d(GpC) including the Watson–Crick G ⋅ C ⋅ G ⋅ C (pH 9.22) and Hoogsteen G ⋅ C+ ⋅ G ⋅ C+ (pH 5.74) quartets through the host–guest chirality transfer in water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon content is a key property of soils with importance for all ecosystem functions. Measures to increase soil carbon storage are suggested with the aim to compensate for agricultural emissions. In Norway, where soils have relatively high carbon content because of the cold climate, adapting management practices that prevent the loss of carbon to the atmosphere in response to climate change is also important. This work presents an overview of the potential for carbon sequestration in Norway from a wide range of agricultural management practices and provides recommendations based on certainty in the reported potential, availability of the technology, and likelihood for implementation by farmers. In light of the high priority assigned to increased food production and degree of self‐sufficiency in Norway, the following measures were considered: (1) utilization of organic resources, (2) use of biochar, (3) crop diversification and the use of cover crops, (4) use of plants with larger and deeper root systems, (5) improved management of meadows, (6) adaptive grazing of productive grasslands (7) managing grazing in extensive grasslands, (8) altered tillage practices, and (9) inversion of cultivated peat with mineral soil. From the options assessed, the use of cover crops scored well on all criteria evaluated, with a higher sequestration potential than previously estimated (0.2 Mt CO2‐equivalents annually). Biochar has the largest potential in Norway (0.9 Mt CO2‐equivalents annually, corresponding to 20% of Norwegian agricultural emissions and 2% of total national emissions), but its readiness level is not yet achieved despite interest from industry to apply this technology at large scale. Extensive grazing and the use of deep‐rooted plants also have the potential for increasing carbon storage, but there is uncertainty regarding their implementation and the quantification of effects from adapting these measures. Based on the complexities of implementation and the expected impacts within a Norwegian context, promising options with substantial payoff are few. This work sheds light on the knowledge gaps remaining before the presented measures can be implemented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rotational closures have potential fisheries benefits, yet their impact on coral cover is unknown. Research has shown that permanent closures can protect herbivorous fish, indirectly benefiting corals, but these observations may not apply when closed periods alternate with fishing. Here, we examine how rotational closures affect coral, focusing on systems with the potential to switch between alternative stable states, a context in which temporary closures may have persistent effects. We show that rotational closures can trigger coral recovery, and in some contexts lead to better coral recovery than fixed closures of similar size. Such benthic effects are only possible if closures last long enough for change to occur. We also note that very large fixed or rotating closures may concentrate fishing effort in areas where fishing remains permitted, leading to lower overall coral cover. Our findings offer crucial guidance to managers regarding rotational closures' potential advantages and drawbacks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Australia is renowned for its climate variation, featuring years with drought and years with floods, which result in significant production and profit variability. Accordingly, to maximise profitability, dryland farming systems need to be dynamically managed in response to unfolding weather conditions. Aims: The aim of this study is to identify and quantify optimal tactical livestock management for different weather-years. Methods: This study employed a whole-farm optimisation model to analyse a representative mixed enterprise farm located in the Great Southern region of Western Australia. Using this model, we investigated the economic significance of five key livestock management tactics. These included timing of sheep sales, pasture-area adjustments, rotational grazing, crop grazing and sheep nutrition adjustments. Key results: The results showed that, on the modelled dryland mixed-enterprise farm in the Great Southern region of Western Australia, short-term adjustments to the overall farm strategy in response to unfolding weather conditions increased expected profit by approximately 16%. Each tactic boosted profit by between A$7704 and A$53,171. However, we outline several complexities that farmers must consider when implementing tactics. Conclusions: The financial gains from short-term tactical management highlighted their importance and farmers' need to develop and apply those skills. The tactical skills promote business resilience and adaptability in the face of climate uncertainties. Implications: The study highlighted the economic value of dynamic livestock management in response to climate variations, offering farmers in the Great Southern region the means to underpin profitable and sustainable farm practices. Under Australia's renowned climate variation, it is profitable for farmer to implement short-term tactical management adjustments in response to the unfolding weather conditions. This paper has identified and quantified optimal tactical livestock management for different weather-years for a mixed-farming system in the Great Southern region of Western Australia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to identify the status, determining factors, and challenges in adopting climate smart livestock production practices by farmers. Three-staged sampling techniques were used to select the research sites and 233 sample farmer household respondents. Data were collected mainly using a pre-tested structured questionnaire. Key informant interviews and focus group discussions were also conducted to complement the household survey data. Descriptive statistics and an ordered logistic regression model were applied to analyze the quantitative data. The result revealed that the most adopted practices were composting (85.41%) and manure management (70.39%) while the least adopted technologies were biogas generation (3.86%) and rotation grazing (22.32%). The adoption status of the sampled farmers was also categorized into low (19.74%), medium (67.81%), and high adopter (12.45%). The high cost of improved breed, use of manure for fuel, free grazing, lack of information and awareness were the major constraints to adopting the climate smart livestock production technologies. The result also revealed that education, grazing land, total livestock holding, and extension agent contact contributed significantly and positively to the adoption of smart livestock production technology, while the distance from the water source had an insignificant and negative effect on the adoption status of climate smart livestock production practices. The study suggests the relevance of the cooperation of stakeholders and strengthening extension services for the maximum benefits of climate smart livestock production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: This study investigated the impact of terminal sire (Dorset) use and supplementation with agro-byproducts, specifically corn gluten feed and soy hull, on the carcasses and meat quality of landrace hair sheep (Barbados Blackbelly and St. Croix) under rotational grazing. The crossbred lambs had greater carcass weights and more substantial wholesale cuts from the shoulder, rack, loin, and leg than their purebred counterparts. The purebred supplemented lambs showed comparable enhancements in their carcass characteristics to those of the crossbred lambs. Fresh lamb from the purebred animals displayed a more vivid red and yellow hue compared to the crossbred lambs. The meat from the purebred lambs was found to be softer than that from their crossbred counterparts. Supplementation played a more crucial role than crossbreeding in enhancing carcass quality under the conditions of these experiments. The protein content was notably higher in the meat from the crossbred lambs, while the supplemented lambs produced meat with an increased fat content. Pasture-only lambs had elevated levels of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, displaying a healthier fatty acid profile than those receiving supplementary agro-byproducts. However, they benefited from the improved lipid oxidation stability and texture properties of the meat. The supplement type had no effects on the carcass characteristics, but it affected the meat composition. The effects of breed type (purebred or crossbred) and supplementation of agro-byproducts on the growth, carcass characteristics, and meat quality of landrace hair (Barbados Blackbelly; BB and St. Croix; SX) lambs was evaluated. Thirty-six 7.5-month-old purebred hair (BB and SX; body weight = 24.1 ± 4.26 kg) and terminal sire (Dorset; DO) crossbred lambs (DO × BB and DO × SX; body weight = 31.4 ± 3.50 kg) rotationally grazed predominantly on Jesup tall fescue pasture during spring with or without agro-byproduct supplementation (soyhull or corn gluten feed at 2% of BW). Following a 77d grazing period, the lambs were harvested, and their carcass characteristics and meat composition were evaluated. Both supplementation and crossbreeding significantly increased their carcass weight and primal cuts, whereas only supplementation increased (p < 0.01) the dressing percentage, and crossbreeding increased the shear force (p < 0.01). Regardless of breed type, supplementing agro-byproducts improved the lipid oxidation stability and texture properties of the fresh lamb, whereas the pasture-only lambs had healthier fatty acid profiles compared with the supplemented lambs. The results indicate that both terminal sire crossbreeding and byproduct supplementation can be used to affect the carcass characteristics and meat composition of landrace hair sheep lambs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Octopus cyanea (Gray, 1849), abundant in the South‐West Indian Ocean (SWIO), constitutes a vital resource for both subsistence and commercial fisheries. However, despite this socioeconomic importance, and recent indications of overfishing, little is known about the population structure of O. cyanea in the region. To inform sustainable management strategies, this study assessed the spatio‐temporal population structure and genetic variability of O. cyanea at 20 sites in the SWIO (Kenya, Tanzania, Mozambique, Madagascar, Mauritius, Rodrigues, and the Seychelle Islands) by complementary analysis of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) noncoding region (NCR) sequences and microsatellite markers. MtDNA analysis revealed a shallow phylogeny across the region, with demographic tests suggesting historic population fluctuations that could be linked to glacial cycles. Contrary to expectations, NCR variation was comparable to other mtDNA regions, indicating that the NCR is not a hypervariable region. Both nuclear and mtDNA marker types revealed a lack of genetic structure compatible with high gene flow throughout the region. As adults are sedentary, this gene flow likely reflects connectivity by paralarval dispersal. All samples reported heterozygote deficits, which, given the overall absence of structure, likely reflect ephemeral larval recruitment variability. Levels of mtDNA and nuclear variability were similar at all locations and congruent with those previously reported for harvested Octopodidae, implying resilience to genetic erosion by drift, providing current stock sizes are maintained. However, as O. cyanea stocks in the SWIO represent a single, highly connected population, fisheries may benefit from additional management measures, such as rotational closures aligned with paralarval ecology and spanning geopolitical boundaries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Octopus cyanea (Gray, 1849), abundant in the South‐West Indian Ocean (SWIO), constitutes a vital resource for both subsistence and commercial fisheries. However, despite this socioeconomic importance, and recent indications of overfishing, little is known about the population structure of O. cyanea in the region. To inform sustainable management strategies, this study assessed the spatio‐temporal population structure and genetic variability of O. cyanea at 20 sites in the SWIO (Kenya, Tanzania, Mozambique, Madagascar, Mauritius, Rodrigues, and the Seychelle Islands) by complementary analysis of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) noncoding region (NCR) sequences and microsatellite markers. MtDNA analysis revealed a shallow phylogeny across the region, with demographic tests suggesting historic population fluctuations that could be linked to glacial cycles. Contrary to expectations, NCR variation was comparable to other mtDNA regions, indicating that the NCR is not a hypervariable region. Both nuclear and mtDNA marker types revealed a lack of genetic structure compatible with high gene flow throughout the region. As adults are sedentary, this gene flow likely reflects connectivity by paralarval dispersal. All samples reported heterozygote deficits, which, given the overall absence of structure, likely reflect ephemeral larval recruitment variability. Levels of mtDNA and nuclear variability were similar at all locations and congruent with those previously reported for harvested Octopodidae, implying resilience to genetic erosion by drift, providing current stock sizes are maintained. However, as O. cyanea stocks in the SWIO represent a single, highly connected population, fisheries may benefit from additional management measures, such as rotational closures aligned with paralarval ecology and spanning geopolitical boundaries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Number 2 Dairy (No. 2 Dairy) unit at Ruakura, Hamilton, New Zealand was established as a dairy research farm in 1943 and became recognised globally as one of the leading institutes for farm systems science. The research undertaken was fundamental to the 'systemisation' of component research into replicable, efficient, competitive, and sustainable dairy systems. From McMeekan's seminal research in the 1950s on rotational grazing to the experiments of Carter, Campbell, Bryant, Penno and others, who brought greater resolution to the key principles influencing successful outcomes on-farm, the more than 60 years of experimental research led to 'good practice' rules that were to transcend geographical, climatic, and system-level interactions. Much of the research can only be found in Annual Reports or in summary form in conference proceedings and not in an electronic form. Our objective was to collate and discuss the research undertaken, thereby ensuring that the legacy of this great work and the wisdom amassed are not lost. To this end, we have compiled a compendium of the research undertaken at No. 2 Dairy, with the hope that it be used to inform the scientific rationale for system design and to stimulate future hypotheses for system improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study proposes to examine the effect of adding increasing levels of palm kernel cake (PKC) to the supplement fed to pasture-finished heifers on their performance, carcass traits, and meat quality. The study involved 32 heifers (½ Holstein × Zebu) aged 20 months which were supplemented at 0.4% of their body weight and finished on a Urochloa brizantha pasture in a rotational grazing system. The heifers were distributed into four treatment groups in a completely randomised design, which consisted of 0%, 15%, 30%, and 45% PKC added in the total dry matter (DM) of the supplement. All animals were followed for 140 days and subsequently slaughtered. The inclusion of PKC did not influence the intakes of DM from forage (5.58 kg day-1) or supplement (1.44 kg day-1). Rumination time increased, whereas the average daily gain of the heifers decreased by 12% with the inclusion of PKC. The inclusion of PKC did not influence carcass weight (187 kg) or subcutaneous fat thickness (4.8 mm), but increased muscle lipids levels as well as the C13:0 and C22:6n-3 contents in the meat fat. Up to 45% palm kernel cake can be included in the supplement of heifers finished on tropical pasture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The objective was to characterize the pastures by grazing cycle, as well as to evaluate the performance of buffaloes in intensive rotational grazing in a silvopastoral system in the eastern Amazon supplemented with agro-industry co-products in order to characterize the grazing cycles, the composition of the fractions and the carcass yield. Fifteen non-castrated, crossbred water buffaloes (Murrah × Mediterranean) were used. Forage protein varied: leaves contained 11.4% protein in the leaves and 50% FDA in the stems. The grass had higher amounts of B3/B2 proteins, which are less indigestible in leaves (17.16%). Forage production varied; the second cycle was better (leaf/stem 2.11). Despite a varied supplement intake, daily weight gain (1 kg/day) and carcass yield (49.23%) showed no differences, ensuring cost-effective, sustainable production. Incorporating supplements derived from coconut and palm kernel co-products enhances performance and carcass yield, comparable to standard supplements. This practice lowers production expenses, optimizes forage utilization, and enhances production chain sustainability, making it a recommended approach. The objective was to characterize the pastures by grazing cycle, as well as to evaluate the performance of buffaloes in intensive rotational grazing in a silvopastoral system in the eastern Amazon supplemented with agro-industry co-products in order to characterize the grazing cycles, the composition of the fractions, and the carcass yield. Fifteen non-castrated, crossbred water buffaloes (Murrah × Mediterranean) were used. All animals used in the study were clinically healthy and weighed approximately 458 kg. The animals were grazed in a single group, and supplementation (1% of live weight—LW/day) was divided into three treatments: control (control—conventional ingredients); Cocos nucifera coconut cake (Cocos nucifera) (coconut cake—70%); and palm kernel cake (Guinean elaeis) (palm kernel cake—70% palm kernel cake). The chemical composition of the forage is different in each part of the plant, with higher protein values in the leaves (11.40%) and higher acid detergent fiber (ADF) values in the stems (50.03%). Among the ingredients of the supplement, corn has the highest percentage of indigestible protein (35.57%), most of the protein in palm kernel cake is B3 (49.11%), and in Coco, B2 (51.52%). Mombasa grass has a higher percentage of B3 and B2 proteins; the indigestible fraction is lower in the leaves (17.16%). The leaf/stem ratio also varied between grazing cycles, being better in the second cycle (2.11%) and with an overall average of 1.71. Supplement consumption varied between cycles and was higher in the control treatment, with an overall mean of 4.74. There was no difference in daily weight gain and carcass yield, with an average of 1 kg/day and 49.23%, respectively. Therefore, it can be concluded that including supplements based on by-products from the coconut and palm oil agro-industries promotes performance and carcass yields compatible with conventional supplements. Their use reduces production costs, optimizes the utilization of forage mass, enhances the sustainability of the production chain, and, therefore, is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Green water electrolysis holds promise for clean energy production. One low-cost variant, Dynamic Magnetic Field (DMF) assisted water electrolysis, shows high hydrogen evolution rates (HER). However, its efficiency diminishes at high magnet rotational speeds, posing a challenge to its widespread adoption. This study aims to enhance the efficiency of DMF-assisted water electrolysis by providing adaptive control for DMF, particularly at high magnet rotational speeds. We employ a Double Deep Q Learning (DDQN) based artificial intelligence (AI) system to design and implement this adaptive control. We utilized a Double Deep Q Learning (DDQN) based artificial intelligence (AI) system to design an adaptive control mechanism for DMF. The DDQN agent learned parameter tuning to adjust the rotational speed of the motor, with a magnet bar attached, for optimal performance. The optimum control behavior was achieved after 52 training episodes, and minor adjustments were made to ensure practical applicability. Our study reveals that the DDQN-based AI control is effective in continuously tuning the rotational speed of the motor with a magnet bar attached, triggering a bifurcation in the electrolyte. This adaptive control mechanism significantly improves and maintains the efficiency of DMF-assisted water electrolysis. The DDQN based AI control is effective to alter and maintain efficiency of DMF assisted water electrolysis. [Display omitted] • The hydrogen production of DDQN controlled DMF is superior to fixed RPM DMF. • DDQN AI provide realtime optimization of DMF electrolysis efficiency. • DDQN ensures correct and applicable control behavior after 52 episodes. • DDQN AI control optimizes DMF electrolysis to sustain the efficiency. • RPM tuning enhances performance by triggers electrolyte bifurcation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review aimed to evaluate the impacts of oil palm-cattle integration systems on food security and environmental sustainability. We reviewed more than 100 papers and selected those that reported the advantages of these systems. Oil palm-cattle integration has been implemented in some Southeast Asian countries, especially in Malaysia and Indonesia, but it is not widely adopted by oil palm plantations. These systems are mainly driven by policies to enhance food security and reduce environmental impacts. Oil palm-cattle integration can contribute to several Sustainable Development Goals, such as (SDG 1 and 2) no poverty and zero hunger, because it allows for more and diverse food production on the same land, and it increases the income per hectare by up to 15% due to higher oil palm yield (up to 4 t FFB/ha) and lower weed control costs (up to 60%) with rotational grazing. It can also support (SDG 6, 12, 13) responsible production and consumption, clean water and sanitation, and climate action, because it can decrease herbicide use, enhance biodiversity (understory and beneficial species), and improve soil quality. Moreover, it can mitigate the risk of indirect land use change associated with deforestation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The objective of this work was to evaluate the effects of climatic conditions and supplementation based on palm kernel cake, on the thermoregulation of crossbred buffaloes in the eastern Amazon. Over a 12-month period, 24 female buffaloes with an initial age of 54 ± 7 months and an average weight of 503.1 ± 23 kg were divided into four groups with different levels of palm kernel cake supplementation relative to body weight. The animals were kept in Brachiaria brizantha pastures with access to water and mineral salt. Supplementation did not influence the physiological variables of thermoregulation. Throughout the year, mean values of rectal temperature, respiratory rate and body surface temperature were higher in the afternoon (p > 0.05). Supplementation with palm cake did not result in influences on the thermoregulation of buffaloes in the study region. The respiratory rate showed an association with the annual seasonality of temperatures, with higher averages in the afternoons of the rainy season. The positive correlation between the rectal temperature, respiratory rate, and body surface temperature indicates that buffaloes respond to atmospheric thermal elevations (afternoon period), which is reflected in increasing thermal indices. In ruminants, diet composition has a positive correlation with heat production, which can influence thermoregulation, energy expenditure and, consequently, animal performance. The objective of this work was to evaluate the effects of climatic conditions and supplementation based on palm kernel cake, on the thermoregulation of crossbred buffaloes in the eastern Amazon. The research was carried out at Embrapa Amazônia Oriental (01°26′ S and 48°24′ W), Belém, Pará, and lasted 12 months (representing the entire year). Twenty-four buffaloes, females, with initial age and an average weight of 54 ± 7 months and 503.1 ± 23 kg, respectively, non-pregnant, non-lactating and clinically healthy were used, divided into four treatments based on the supplementation content of the palm cake (%DM) in relation to their body weight (%): 0, 0.25, 0.50 and 1.0. The animals were kept in paddocks with Brachiaria brizantha (cv. Marandu), in a rotating system, with water to drink and mineral salt ad libitum. Equipment was installed to record environmental data (temperature and relative humidity, dew point temperature, wet bulb and black globe) and physiological data: rectal temperature (RT); respiratory rate (RR); and body surface temperature (BST), recorded twice a day, always in the morning (6:00 a.m. to 7:00 a.m.) and afternoon (12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.) shifts, and were used to calculate the Globe Temperature and Humidity Index (GTHI). Supplementation did not influence the physiological variables of thermoregulation (p > 0.05). However, there were differences in the GTHI between the shifts, with higher means in the afternoon shift, especially in the less rainy period of the year, where the GTHI reached 92.06 ± 2.74 (p < 0.05). In all periods of the year, the mean values of RT, RR and BST were higher in the afternoon shift (p > 0.05). The respiratory rate (RR) is associated with the annual seasonality of the thermal waters, with higher averages in the afternoons of the rainy season. The positive correlation for rectal temperature, respiratory rate and body surface temperature indicated that buffaloes respond to thermal elevations in the atmosphere (afternoon period) and, consequently, reflect on the GTHI. Supplementation does not influence thermoregulation; the changes observed occurred in response to the region's thermal and rainfall conditions (mainly in the afternoon shift), with higher GTHI values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: This study explored the associations of the lengths of time spent grazing and ruminating with performance parameters (milk yield, milk fat, milk protein, milk solids, liveweight, and the body condition score) in grazing dairy cows. The study selected a group of grazing dairy cows of different breeds and milking ages to record individual animals' grazing and ruminating behaviours and performance parameters over three consecutive milking seasons. To record behaviour, an automated device AfiCollar was used,. The cows were mainly offered grass, with some additional feeds in various seasons, and milked once a day at 5:00 h. The behavioural variables showed weak to moderate relationships with the performance parameters. Compared with the grazing time, rumination time explained a larger proportion of the variance in milk yield, milk fat, milk protein, and milk solids. These findings support the recording of grazing and rumination behaviours to evaluate the milk yield and its composition. This study investigated the relationship of the length of time spent grazing and ruminating with the performance parameters of spring-calved grazing dairy cows (n = 162) over the lactation period for three lactation seasons (n = 54 per season). The cows were Holstein Friesian (HFR), Jersey (JE), and a crossbreed of Holstein Friesian/Jersey (KiwiCross), with 18 cows from each breed. The cows were either in their 1st, 2nd, 3rd, or 4th lactation year, and had different breeding worth (BW) index values (103 < BW > 151). The cows were managed through a rotational grazing scheme with once-a-day milking in the morning at 05:00 h. The cows were mainly fed on grazed pastures consisting of perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne), red clover (Trifolium pretense), and white clover (Trifolium repens), and received additional feeds on various days in the summer and autumn seasons. This study used an automated AfiCollar device to continuously record the grazing time and rumination time (min/h) of the individual cows throughout the lactation period (~270 days) for three consecutive years (Year-1, Year-2, and Year-3). The milk yield, milk fat, milk protein, milk solids, liveweight, and body condition score data of the individual animals for the study years were provided by the farm. PROC CORR was used in SAS to determine the correlation coefficients (r) between the behaviour and production parameters. A general linear model fitted with breed × lactation year, individual cows, seasons, feed within the season, grazing time, rumination time, as well as their interactions, was assessed to test the differences in milk yield, milk fat, milk protein, milk solids, liveweight, and body condition score. The type I sum of squares values were used to quantify the magnitude of variance explained by each of the study factors and their interactions in the study variables. Grazing time exhibited positive associations with MY (r = 0.34), MF (r = 0.43), MP (r = 0.22), MS (r = 0.39), LW (r = −0.47), and BCS (r = −0.24) throughout the study years. Rumination time was associated with MY (r = 0.64), MF (r = 0.57), MP (r = 0.52), and MS (r = 0.57) in all study years, while there were no effects of rumination time on LW (r = 0.26) and BCS (r = −0.26). Grazing time explained up to 0.32%, 0.49%, 0.17%, 0.31%, 0.2%, and 0.02%, and rumination time explained up to 0.39%, 6.73%, 4.63%, 6.53%, 0.44%, and 0.17% of the variance in MY, MF, MP, MS, LW, and BCS, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Grazing practices affect the soil and vegetation of grasslands, which further influence the provision of ecosystem services and the productivity of grasslands. We determined the ecosystem resilience of a mesic grassland under three grazing management systems in the Pakkies area, (30°33′08″ S, 29°25′22″ E), South Africa: cooperative (continuously grazed since 2017), commercial (rotationally grazed for >20 years), and communal (continuously grazed for >20 years) farms. This was carried out by measuring the penetration resistance and infiltration, soil nutrients, forage quality contents for livestock, veld condition, plant species composition and richness, and functional diversity. The soils had a higher penetration resistance in the continuously grazed communal farm, while water infiltration was highest in the continuously grazed cooperative farm. The plant species and functional diversity were greater in the rotationally grazed commercial farm than in the continuously grazed communal and cooperative farms. The continuously grazed cooperative farm had the highest veld condition score (97%), while the rotationally grazed commercial and the continuously grazed communal farms had 82% and 56% veld condition scores, respectively. The forage quality and soil nutrients were generally similar among all farms. The lower plant diversity observed with continuous grazing may indicate that the ecological system was not as resilient concerning this type of grazing. However, for forage quality, soil nutrients and veld condition, continuous grazing was resilient, which indicates that rotational grazing may not be better than continuous grazing for livestock production in this specific region. As long as a minimum level of ecological resilience can be retained, continuous grazing can sustain effective animal production, particularly for small-holder farmers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study assessed the nitrogen nutrition index, morphogenic characteristics and tiller structure of Alexandergrass (Urochloa plantaginea (LINK) Hitch) pasture submitted to different nitrogen (N) levels (zero, 150 or 300 kg ha-1 of N). The experimental design was entirely randomized with repeated measures arrangement. The experimental animals were Angus heifers under rotational stocking grazing method. The number of animals was variable to keep 30±5 cm post-grazing sward height. Nitrogen nutrition index increased linearly according N levels (Ŷ = 59.8 + 0.1216N; P < 0.0001; r²=0.53). The leaf appearance rate adjusted to a positive linear regression model according the thermal sum (TS) with zero of N (Ŷ0N = 0.0077 + 0.0000087TS; P = 0.0308; r² = 0.72) and 150 kg ha-1 of N (Ŷ150N = 0.0020 + 0.000021 TS; P = 0.0022; r² = 0.92). The use of 300 kg ha-1 of N did not alter the leaf appearance rate (0.0124 leaf degree-days-1). The use of up to 300 kg ha-1 of N increases the Alexandergrass nitrogen content. The leaf appearance rate in Alexandergrass is modified using N while the morphogenic characteristics leaf expansion, stem expansion, phyllochron, leaf lifespan, leaf elongation duration and tiller structure are not altered by N utilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mine closure in the Witwatersrand Goldfields of South Africa has resulted in an acid mine drainage (AMD) legacy that is difficult to manage and costly to address. As a short-term measure, three large high-density sludge (HDS) plants were erected that treat 185 megalitres of AMD per day (ML/day), at great cost to taxpayers. Longer-term solutions are sought, as the salt load to the Vaal River System is unacceptable. Long-term modelling was used to assess whether the untreated and HDS-treated AMD could be used for irrigation and to determine the scale of the potential opportunity. The Goldfields waters are not very acidic, and simulations indicate it should be feasible to utilise even the untreated water for irrigation, especially if growers commit to applying limestone to their fields. HDS treatment lowers the corrosivity and trace element concentrations, and because the water is gypsiferous, double cropping will precipitate more than a third of the salts in solution as gypsum in the soil profile, thereby reducing salt load to the water environment. The potential irrigated area depends on the cropping system; it is about 9000 ha for rotational cropping and 30,000 ha for supplemental maize irrigation. It is prudent to seriously consider irrigation as a potential long-term water management option for the Goldfields AMD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the factors that determine the abundance of populations is of key importance in conservation biology, ecology, and biogeography. For grassland‐associated species, such as the Hungarian meadow viper (Vipera ursinii rakosiensis), habitat management is particularly important. We aimed to study the effects of the three most common types of grassland management (grazing, mowing, and mowing + grazing) on the abundance of reptile species in meadow viper habitats in Kiskunság National Park, in Hungary. We surveyed grasslands repeatedly (n = 15 occasions) for reptiles in one autumn and one spring season in three 1‐ha quadrates per grassland management type. We recorded all reptiles and their activity related to operative temperatures and analyzed data by n‐mixture models. All reptile species known to occur in the habitats were observed during the surveys, but only the green lizard, sand lizard, and Hungarian meadow viper reached the minimum number of observations required for detailed analyses. Grazing had a strong positive effect on the abundance of Hungarian meadow vipers and sand lizards, while both mowing and mowing + grazing rotation had a negative effect. None of the grassland management types affected green lizard abundance. Our results suggest that grazing is the ideal type of grassland management for the endangered Hungarian meadow viper and the sand lizard. Mowing and mowing + grazing should be replaced by grazing to ensure the effectiveness of habitat management for conservation and to maintain healthy populations of grassland‐associated reptile species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: This study aims to understand how virtual livestock fences (VFs), introduced to the UK in 2020, were being used and to identify the animal welfare opportunities and challenges of VF systems. VF systems work by training livestock to respect a virtual fence line by pairing an audible warning tone with an electric shock. Semistructured interviews were conducted with key stakeholders (n = 8), including policymakers, leading conservation managers, and regenerative farmers. We found VF systems were utilised in three main settings: 1. Extensive grassland, where physical fences were prohibited or uneconomical, such as national parks or mountains; 2. Conservation grazing, where livestock grazing is primarily used to manage habitat for biodiversity, such as nature reserves; 3. In mob, strip, or rotational grazing systems, where VFs replace physical electric fencing to reduce workload. This study finds that, in extensive settings, VFs can help safeguard livestock from dangers and aid stockpersons to locate and care for animals. However, in restricted settings, VFs are less predictable and controllable for livestock than physical fences, resulting in livestock (cattle) receiving a greater number of electric shocks than experienced with physical electric fences. The use of VFs in a restricted setting poses a significant risk to livestock welfare. Protocols are needed to encourage best practices and help prevent the misuse of VF systems. Virtual fences for livestock facilitated by a GPS shock collar (GPS-SC) and phone app were introduced to the UK in cattle herd trials in 2020. Technology which uses aversive shocks to control livestock movement on farms and in other settings poses a significant risk to livestock welfare. There are currently no welfare protocols in place in the UK to ensure the ethical use of GPS-SCs. The objective of this study was to understand how GPS-SCs were being used in practice in the UK and gather data to assist researchers and policymakers in the future research and development of a welfare protocol for the UK. We studied how the technology performs in terms of welfare challenges and opportunities, covering extensive livestock production, conservation settings, "rewilding", and regenerative farming practices, where the technology is currently being applied. Semistructured interviews were conducted with key stakeholders. In-depth interviews (n = 8) supported the previous literature that the use of GPS-SCs in restricted grazing settings poses a risk to animal welfare. This is due to the wavering virtual fence boundary line (which is affected by satellite movements), a lack of visual markers, and, in some "rewilding" and conservation settings, livestock keepers, which require training and support to enable optimal welfare in practice and prevent misuse of the technology. Results also indicated that there are opportunities for enhancing livestock welfare with GPS-SCs in very extensive farm settings, where targeted care can be facilitated by using the data to monitor and track livestock using GPS-SCs, and which can also prevent cattle injury or fatality through virtual pastures designed to protect livestock from hazards such as roads or bogs. Future research is needed to focus on minimising shocks in the training period and to better understand the value of visual electric fences in the training process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: We proposed a pragmatic method for quantifying the grazing density (GD) and herding proximities (HP) based on unmanned aerial vehicles. We further tested its feasibility at three typical household pastures on the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau, China. The proposed method is ideal for studying animal behavior and determining the correlation between the distribution of pastoral livestock and resource usability. Grazing management is one of the most widely practiced land uses globally. Quantifying the spatiotemporal distribution of livestock is critical for effective management of livestock-grassland grazing ecosystem. However, to date, there are few convincing solutions for livestock dynamic monitor and key parameters quantification under actual grazing situations. In this study, we proposed a pragmatic method for quantifying the grazing density (GD) and herding proximities (HP) based on unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). We further tested its feasibility at three typical household pastures on the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau, China. We found that: (1) yak herds grazing followed a rotational grazing pattern spontaneously within the pastures, (2) Dispersion Index of yak herds varied as an M-shaped curve within one day, and it was the lowest in July and August, and (3) the average distance between the yak herd and the campsites in the cold season was significantly shorter than that in the warm season. In this study, we developed a method to characterize the dynamic GD and HP of yak herds precisely and effectively. This method is ideal for studying animal behavior and determining the correlation between the distribution of pastoral livestock and resource usability, delivering critical information for the development of grassland ecosystem and the implementation of sustainable grassland management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The viscosity of fuel oil is significantly influenced by temperature, with higher temperatures leading to lower viscosity. To ensure optimal combustion, it's crucial to maintain the fuel's viscosity within a specific range. With regard to variable, spacedependent and uniform heat sources, the impact of variable viscosity on the stability of Buoyancy Rayleigh-Bénard convection is demonstrated. The impact of non-inertial acceleration on natural convection is also studied in the problem. The Fourier series representation of stream function, temperature distribution describes how to derive an analytical expression for the thermal Rayleigh number. Here we noticed that the heat source parameter, the viscosity parameter, and the Taylor number effect the stability of the fluid system. Also, it is demonstrated here the impact of rotational strength accompanied with the stabilized system, where as an increase in the internal Rayleigh number and thermorheological parameter is to destabilize the same. It is also observed that, it is possible to control convection by proper tuning these parameters. A comparative study of external Rayleigh number and stability analysis for the onset of instability is presented in the problem. Some of the important new results have been revealed in the context of heat sources [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

African wildlife populations are declining at an alarming rate. To stop further population declines and restore ecosystems, more areas for wildlife are needed. Community‐based conservation with wildlife‐livestock coexistence in the vast rangelands of Africa presents a major opportunity. However, the efficacy of wildlife conservation in mixed land‐use areas remains an outstanding question. To assess the ecological outcomes of land‐sharing between regulated livestock herds and wildlife populations in African savannas, we test how rotational cattle grazing affects spatiotemporal dynamics of 15 large herbivore species in the Maasai Mara, Kenya.First, we tested how wild herbivore distributions across the Greater Mara Ecosystem (the Mara, ~2600 km2) are related to cattle density and environmental variables using 584,561 observations of wild herbivores (ecosystem scale). In a second analysis, we tested how rotational cattle grazing affects wild herbivore distributions in a 300 km2 subsection of the Mara using 30,583 observations (landscape scale). Finally, we tested how functional traits of wild herbivores affect species‐level spatiotemporal responses to cattle grazing.At the ecosystem scale, the presence of five wild herbivore species was positively correlated with cattle density, while cattle effects on wild herbivore abundances were species‐dependent with both increases and decreases. At the landscape scale, rotational cattle grazing strongly impacted the spatiotemporal habitat selection of wild herbivores, resulting in distinct lag periods with which different species are attracted to areas previously grazed by cattle. These lag periods were linked to functional traits, with body mass and herd size explaining 35% of the interspecific differences. Small to medium‐sized herbivores with large herds select areas recently grazed by cattle, whereas large species with large herd sizes and small species with small herd sizes avoid recently grazed areas.Synthesis and applications: Our results revealed that the effect of cattle on wild herbivores varies considerably among species, suggesting that cattle‐wildlife interactions range from facilitation to competition. To maintain species that strongly avoid cattle, designated livestock‐free zones remain essential, also in rotational grazing systems. Rotational grazing systems with regulated livestock densities present an important opportunity to better manage wildlife‐livestock coexistence and thus improve wildlife conservation in African rangelands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies evaluating the crude protein (CP) supplementation strategies across the year for grazing cattle and its association with the enzymes involved in the urea cycle and muscle and mammary gland developments are scarce. Thus, we aimed to evaluate the effect of supplementation with different levels of CP on the expression of genes involved in the urea cycle and muscle and mammary gland development of Holstein × Gyr crossbreed heifers grazing intensively managed Brachiaria decumbens throughout the year. Thirty-eight heifers with average initial BW of 172.5 ± 11.15 kg (mean ± SE) and 8.2 ± 0.54 mo of age were randomly assigned to 1 of 4 treatments: 3 protein supplements (SUP) fed at 5g/kg of body weight, plus a control group (CON, non-supplemented animals). The supplement CP levels evaluated were: 12, 24, and 36%. The study was divided into 4 seasons: rainy, dry, rainy-dry transition (RDT), and dry-rainy transition (DRT). On the penultimate day of each season, ultrasound images of the carcass and mammary gland were taken. Five animals from each treatment were randomly chosen on the last day of each season, and liver and muscle tissue biopsies were performed. The target genes were the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) and adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) in the muscle samples. Carbamoyl phosphate synthetase (CPS), ornithine transcarbamylase (OTC), argininosuccinate synthetase (ASS), arginosuccinate lyase (ASL), and arginase (ARG) were evaluated in the liver samples. Data were analyzed using PROC GLIMMIX of the SAS with repeated measures. We observed a greater rib eye area (cm2) and fat thickness (mm) in SUP animals than in non-supplemented animals. However, we did not observe differences among SUP levels for both variables. No effects of supplementation were detected on mammary gland development. Nevertheless, seasonal effects were observed, where the RDT and dry season had the most and least accumulated fat in the mammary gland. In muscle, we observed greater expression of AMPK in non-supplemented animals than SUP animals. On the other hand, no differences were observed in gene expression between SUP and non-supplemented animals and among SUP animals for mTOR. Season affected both AMPK and mTOR; heifers had a greater AMPK gene expression on rainy than RDT. For mTOR, we observed greater gene expression in RDT and DRT than in rainy. No differences were observed among RDT, dry, and DRT, and between dry and rainy seasons for mTOR. We observed greater CPS, ASL, and ARG gene expression in SUP animals than in non-supplemented animals. Among SUP animals, supplement CP linearly affected CPS. In conclusion, the supplementation strategy did not affect mammary gland development and mTOR expression in muscle tissue. However, we observed a seasonal effect on mammary gland development and AMPK and mTOR expression. The CP supplementation increased the rib eye area and fat thickness, directly affecting AMPK expression in the muscle. Moreover, the CP supplementation increased urea cycle enzyme expression, indicating greater urea production in the liver. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil organic matter (SOM) mineralization and nitrogen (N) release are key biogeochemical processes for which the relative contribution of particulate (POM) and mineral-associated organic matter (MAOM) fractions is poorly understood. MAOM is generally considered to be a more stable fraction that contains most of the soil organic N, whereas POM is more readily decomposable and contains less N. Here, we measured variations in the potentially mineralizable N from each SOM fraction across three contrasting land-uses (forest, pasture, and croplands) and two different grazing managements (rotational and continuous grazing). Contrary to expectations, we found that the MAOM fraction consistently supplied more N than the POM fraction during SOM mineralization in all land-uses evaluated. Across our environmental gradient, potentially mineralizable N from POM increased with the carbon (C) concentration and C/N ratio of POM, while potentially mineralizable N from MAOM increased with the C concentration of MAOM but decreased with clay content. Our work suggests that MAOM contributions to short-term N mineralization and N supply to plants have been undervalued. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pastoralists have managed their lands for a thousand years, but they are ignored in the land management approaches. They have comprehensive information about their rangelands, coming from extensive observations and experiences in continuous herding. This research has focused on revealing the mechanism of knowledge-based behavior of pastoralists for rangeland management. The statistical population is made up of 50 pastoralists, all of whom were included in census. The research instrument was a researcher-made questionnaire that measured the knowledge-based behavior of pastoralists with 58 items in three indicators i.e. exploitation, conservation, and restoration. The validity and reliability of the research instrument were assessed using the opinions of local experts and Cronbach's alpha (α = 0.877). The knowledge-based behavior of pastoralists were from the highest to the lowest related to exploitation, conservation, and restoration with the average of 2.35, 2.07 and 1.58 respectively. Exploitation knowledge, restoration knowledge and conservation knowledge had the strongest and weakest significant relationship with the knowledge-based behavior of pastoralists. "The adequate growth of palatable plants is a sign of the start of grazing" and "the soil should not be wet for the start of grazing" had the highest importance for rangeland exploitation with a values of 0.816 and 0.784 respectively. For rangeland conservation, "holding meetings by elders regarding rangeland conservation is useful" and "reducing the number of pastoralists during droughts is one of the rangeland conservation ways" were the most importance items with the values of 0.852 and 0.848 respectively. For rangeland restoration, "implementation of grazing systems (rotation or rest rotation grazing systems) is one of the rangeland restoration ways" and "the appropriate distribution of watering points is one of the rangeland restoration factors" were the most importance items with the values of 0.840 and 0.812 respectively. There was a positive and significant relationship between the age, history of pastoralism and income with the knowledge-based behavior of pastoralists in rangeland management. Therefore, the presented approach based on indigenous knowledge can be considered as an effective component for rangeland management and can strengthen the positive effects of both management systems and create a transformation in the status of natural resources by a compatible combination of indigenous knowledge and modern knowledge. It is worth noting that by knowing these indicators, we can take an effective step in planning and policy making as well as proper management of rangelands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a structural optimization method driven by tribo-dynamic mechanism is proposed for the staved water-lubricated bearings (SWLBs). To this end, a tribo-dynamic model considering mass conservation cavitation is established, and the accuracy of this model is verified by comparing it with the experimental and numerical results in published literature studies. The comparative studies emphasize the significant role of mass conservation cavitation on the tribo-dynamic responses of SWLBs under the mixed lubrication regime. Based on numerical simulations, the optimal stave structure for a specific working operation under heavy load condition is identified from the perspective of the tribo-dynamic mechanism. Furthermore, in order to evaluate the applicability of the proposed optimization method, the influences of key parameters, including the rotational speed, the radial clearance, and the surface roughness, on the optimization results are comparatively analyzed. The comparative results reveal that the optimal stave structure is highly dependent on the mentioned key parameters, and the optimal method is effective for a wide range of working conditions. Moreover, the effects of the stave parameters, including stave width and number, on tribo-dynamic characteristics of SWLBs are also investigated, suggesting a more comprehensive optimization scheme for SWLBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The experiment aims to study the growth performance, slaughter performance, organ development, and economic benefits of winter and spring lambs of grassland Tibetan sheep. A total of 90 basic ewes were selected for grazing management in the same group, and three rams were used for natural mating. 30 winter lambs and 30 spring lambs with similar weight and healthy body condition were selected according to the time of birth, with three replicates in each group and 10 lambs in each replicates. The two groups were divided into groups for rotational grazing management. After being returned to the herd, 10 lambs were selected from each group for supplementary feeding. At the end of the trial, 10 lambs were slaughtered from each group. The results showed that there was a significant difference in birth weight between the two groups at two months, four months, six months, eight months, and nine months of age (P<0.01); There were significant differences in body height and length at two months, body length at four months, chest circumference at six months, and body height at nine months between the two groups (P<0.05). There were extremely significant differences in body height and length at four months, body height and length at six months, body height and length at eight months, body length and chest circumference at eight months, and body length and chest circumference at nine months (P<0.01), while there was no significant difference in tube circumference at two months, four months, six months, eight months, and nine months (P>0.05); the difference in live weight, carcass weight, slaughter rate, and eye muscle area between the two groups was extremely significant (P<0.01), while the difference in grade rule (GR) value was not significant (P>0.05); there were significant differences (P<0.05) between the two groups in heart weight, liver weight, kidney weight, rumen weight, reticulum weight, abomasum weight, heart index, fur index, proportion of rumen to regurgitation, and proportion of reticulum to regurgitation. There were significant differences (P<0.01) between the two groups in spleen index, liver index, head index, hoof index, tumor stomach index, reticulum index, omasum index, and abomasum index. There were also significant differences (P<0.01) between the two groups in spleen weight, lung weight, head weight, hoof weight, fur weight There was no significant difference in the weight of the omasum, lung index, kidney index, and the proportion of the omasum to the complex stomach, as well as the proportion of the abomasum to the complex stomach (P>0.05); The net profit of each sheep in the winter lamb group increased by 29.61% compared to the spring lamb group. In summary, it can be seen that the growth performance, slaughter performance, organ development, and economic benefits of winter lambs are higher than those of spring lambs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The φ -divergence-based moment method was recently introduced Abdelmalik et al. for the discretization of the radiative transfer equation. At the continuous level, this method is very close to the entropy-based MN methods and possesses its main properties, i.e., entropy dissipation, rotational invariance and energy conservation. However, the φ -divergence based moment systems are easier to resolve numerically due to the improved conditioning of the discrete equations. Moreover, exact quadrature rules can be used to compute moments of the distribution function, which enables the preservation of energy conservation, entropy dissipation and rotational invariants, discretely. In this paper, we consider different variants of the φ − divergence closures that are based on different approximations of the exponential function and the Planck function. We compare the approximation properties of the proposed closures in the numerical benchmarks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To define the best grazing management strategy, it is important to assess animals' responses to variations in the structure and composition of tropical forages. This 2‐year study evaluated animal response to Marandu palisadegrass (Urochloa brizantha)‐calopo (Calopogonium mucunoides) mixed pastures managed under rotational grazing. Treatments consisted of three defoliation frequencies defined by rest periods interrupted at 90% (90LI), 95% (95LI) and 100% (100LI) of photosynthetically active radiation interception (LI). The stubble post‐grazing height target was 15 cm. Statistical difference was declared at p <.10. The 100LI had lowest crude protein (CP) and in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDDM) for the Marandu palisadegrass (p = <.001 both) and calopo (p =.003 and p =.067, respectively). Also, the OM digestibility decreased 7.0% in the 100LI condition than 90LI and 95LI treatment (p =.005). There was no difference in forage, grass, and legume intakes between the treatments (p >.10). The 100LI treatment decreased CP intake from grass in 33.3% (p = <.001) compared to other treatments. Greatest production of microbial N (p =.093) occurred with the 90LI treatment. The CP/digestible organic matter (DOM) ratio, urinary N excretion and retained N were lowest in the 100LI treatment (p = <.001, p =.007 and p =.014, respectively). The recommendation for grazing between 90 and 95% of LI is recommended because of greater CP intake and N utilization for the animals and improved the nutritive value of Marandu palisadegrass and calopo mixed pastures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present a close coupling study of the bending relaxation of H2O by collision with He, taking explicitly into account the bending–rotation coupling within the rigid-bender close-coupling method. A 4D potential energy surface is developed based on a large grid of ab initio points calculated at the coupled-cluster single double triple level of theory. The bound states energies of the He–H2O complex are computed and found to be in excellent agreement with previous theoretical calculations. The dynamics results also compare very well with the rigid-rotor results available in the Basecol database and with experimental data for both rotational transitions and bending relaxation. The bending–rotation coupling is also demonstrated to be very efficient in increasing bending relaxation when the rotational excitation of H2O increases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Grassland butterflies are undergoing worldwide population decline due to habitat loss and degradation. Rangelands in the Southern Great Plains can provide a habitat for grassland butterflies depending on management practices. Patch‐burn grazing is a management regime that involves burning portions of grazed pastures at different times. The combination of rotational fire and grazing creates a shifting mosaic of recently burned to older burned areas and lightly grazed to heavily grazed areas. However, the impact of fire and grazing on butterfly communities is complex and the effects of different management regimes on butterfly communities are not clear.We investigated the impact of time since prescribed fire and season of fire on butterfly communities in eight cattle‐grazed pastures, each with three burn units, in northern Oklahoma. Treatments included units burned in spring 2018, summer 2018, summer 2019, and spring 2020, with three replicates of each for a total of 12 burn units. Surveys were conducted three times per year in each burn unit in 2019 and 2020 using two standardised Pollard transects.A total of 909 butterflies and 35 species were observed. Species diversity varied by time since fire and season of fire, with spring‐burned sites having the lowest species diversity and summer‐burned sites having the highest. Dominant vegetation cover and blooming forb presence differed with time since fire and season of fire.Patch‐burn grazing creates a mosaic of successional vegetation stages which can benefit different butterfly species and support the overall community. Some species such as Cercyonis pegala, Danaus plexippus, and Atrytone arogos may benefit from fire every 1–2 years, while other species such as Echinargus isola may need longer times between fire treatments. Patch‐burn grazing regimes can support butterfly communities with species that need different fire return intervals by providing a mosaic of areas with different times since fire and associated grazing intensities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increased average Irish dairy herd size in a post-quota environment has put heightened pressure on grazing infrastructure. In a rotational grazing system, grazing infrastructure consists of the paddock system, which delineates the grazing areas into appropriately sized grazing parcels, and the roadway network, which connects these paddocks to the milking parlor. Where herd size has increased without corresponding adaptations to the infrastructure, farm management and roadway network performance has been affected. The links between suboptimal grazing infrastructure and roadway network efficiency are poorly understood and not widely documented. The aims of this study were to (1) analyze the effect of herd expansion and paddock size on pasture allocations per paddock, (2) identify the factors that affect the total distance walked per year, and (3) create a metric to compare the efficiency of roadway networks across farms of varying grazing platforms. A sample population of 135 Irish dairy farms with a median herd size of 150 cows was used for this analysis. Herds were split into the following 5 categories: <100 cows, 100 to 149 cows, 150 to 199 cows, 200 to 249 cows, and ≥250 cows. Herds with ≥250 cows had a greater number of paddocks per farm and rotated around the grazing paddocks more frequently, with 46% of paddocks only suitable for 12 h allocations relative to herd size, compared with just 10% to 27% of paddocks for herds with <100 cows to herds with 200–249 cows. When predicting the total distance walked per year on each study farm, the mean distance from a paddock to the milking parlor was the strongest indicator (R2 = 0.8247). Other metrics, such as herd size, have failed to account for the location of the milking parlor relative to the grazing platform. The creation of the relative mean distance from a paddock to milking parlor (RMDMP) metric allowed the calculation of a farm's roadway network efficiency for moving the herd between paddocks and the milking parlor. The analyzed farms increased their efficiency in terms of RMDMP (0.34–40.74%) as they increased herd size post quota. However, the position of new additional paddocks relative to the milking parlor substantially affected their RMDMP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the traditional generation is gradually replaced by inverter-based resources, a lack of rotational inertia is now a common issue of modern power systems, which leads to an increasingly larger rate of change of frequency (RoCoF) following contingencies and may result in frequency collapse. As a crucial index of the frequency security and stability of power systems, the accurate estimation of the RoCoF can be a foundation for the development of advanced operations and control techniques of the future power system. This paper firstly analyzes the role of the RoCoF in typical blackouts occurring in recent years and discusses the physical and numerical nature of the RoCoF; then, by introducing the frequency spatial distribution of the power system, the paper discusses the concept of the "center" RoCoF that can present the frequency security and stability of the entire system. The estimation and prediction techniques of the maximal power system RoCoF following a contingency and the existing real-time tracking techniques of the power system RoCoF are comprehensively reviewed. Finally, the open questions and related research topics of the RoCoF estimation are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present a method for efficient calculation of intramolecular vibrational excitations of H2O inside C60, together with the low-energy intermolecular translation-rotation states within each intramolecular vibrational manifold. Apart from assuming rigid C60, this nine-dimensional (9D) quantum treatment is fully coupled. Following the recently introduced approach [P. M. Felker and Z. Bačić, J. Chem. Phys. 151, 024305 (2019)], the full 9D vibrational Hamiltonian of H2O@C60 is partitioned into two reduced-dimension Hamiltonians, a 6D one for the intermolecular vibrations and another in 3D for the intramolecular degrees of freedom, and a 9D remainder term. The two reduced-dimension Hamiltonians are diagonalized, and their eigenvectors are used to build up a product contracted basis in which the full vibrational Hamiltonian is diagonalized. The efficiency of this methodology derives from the insight of our earlier study referenced above that converged high-energy intramolecular vibrational excitations of weakly bound molecular complexes can be obtained from fully coupled quantum calculations where the full-dimensional product contracted basis includes only a small number of intermolecular vibrational eigenstates spanning the range of energies much below those of the intramolecular vibrational states of interest. In this study, the eigenstates included in the 6D intermolecular contacted basis extend to only 410 cm−1 above the ground state, which is much less than the H2O stretch and bend fundamentals, at ≈3700 and ≈1600 cm−1, respectively. The 9D calculations predict that the fundamentals of all three intramolecular modes, as well as the bend overtone, of the caged H2O are blueshifted relative to those of the gas-phase H2O, the two stretch modes much more so than the bend. Excitation of the bend mode affects the energies of the low-lying H2O rotational states significantly more than exciting either of the stretching modes. The center-of-mass translational fundamental is virtually unaffected by the excitation of any of the intramolecular vibrational modes. Further progress hinges on the experimental measurement of the vibrational frequency shifts in H2O@C60 and ab initio calculation of a high-quality 9D potential energy surface for this endohedral complex, neither of which is presently available. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: With rising concerns regarding the effects of red meat on human and environmental health, a growing number of livestock producers are exploring ways to improve production systems. A promising avenue includes agro-ecological practices such as rotational grazing of locally adapted ruminants. Additionally, growing consumer interest in pasture-finished meat (i.e., grass-fed) has raised questions about its nutritional composition. Thus, the goal of this study was to determine the impact of two common finishing systems in North American bison—pasture-finished or pen-finished on concentrates for 146 d—on metabolomic, lipidomic, and fatty acid profiles of striploins (M. longissimus lumborum). Results: Six hundred and seventy-one (671) out of 1570 profiled compounds (43%) differed between pasture- and pen-finished conditions (n = 20 animals per group) (all, P < 0.05). Relative to pasture-finished animals, the muscle of pen-finished animals displayed elevated glucose metabolites (~ 1.6-fold), triglycerides (~ 2-fold), markers of oxidative stress (~ 1.5-fold), and proteolysis (~ 1.2-fold). In contrast, pasture-finished animals displayed improved mitochondrial (~ 1.3-fold higher levels of various Krebs cycle metabolites) and carnitine metabolism (~ 3-fold higher levels of long-chain acyl carnitines) (all P < 0.05). Pasture-finishing also concentrated higher levels of phenolics (~ 2.3-fold), alpha-tocopherol (~ 5.8-fold), carotene (~ 2.0-fold), and very long-chain fatty acids (~ 1.3-fold) in their meat, while having lower levels of a common advanced lipoxidation (4-hydroxy-nonenal-glutathione; ~ 2-fold) and glycation end-product (N6-carboxymethyllysine; ~ 1.7-fold) (all P < 0.05). In contrast, vitamins B5, B6, and C, gamma/beta-tocopherol, and three phenolics commonly found in alfalfa were ~ 2.5-fold higher in pen-finished animals (all P < 0.05); suggesting some concentrate feeding, or grazing plants rich in those compounds, may be beneficial. Conclusions: Pasture-finishing (i.e., grass-fed) broadly improves bison metabolic health and accumulates additional potential health-promoting compounds in their meat compared to concentrate finishing in confinement (i.e., pen-finished). Our data, however, does not indicate that meat from pen-finished bison is therefore unhealthy. The studied bison meat—irrespective of finishing practice—contained favorable omega 6:3 ratios (< 3.2), and amino acid and vitamin profiles. Our study represents one of the deepest meat profiling studies to date (> 1500 unique compounds), having revealed previously unrecognized differences in animal metabolic health and nutritional composition because of finishing mode. Whether observed nutritional differences have an appreciable effect on human health remains to be determined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the realm of rural modern cattle farming, the challenges and new trends are intricately intertwined with the ongoing advancements in technology. Innovations such as precision agriculture, smart livestock management systems, and data-driven decision-making tools are altering the way cattle farms operate. These technologies not only enhance productivity and resource management but also promote animal welfare through real-time monitoring and health assessment. Changing consumer demands exert a profound influence on the cattle industry. Consumers increasingly seek transparency in the production process, demanding ethically raised and sustainably sourced beef products. This shift has led to a growing interest in grass-fed and organic cattle farming practices, challenging conventional feedlot methods. Environmental concerns are a pressing issue for modern cattle farms. The industry faces scrutiny regarding its environmental footprint, particularly in terms of greenhouse gas emissions and water usage. Cattle farms are adopting strategies such as rotational grazing, waste management solutions, and carbon sequestration initiatives to mitigate their impact on the environment. Economic considerations play a pivotal role in the decision-making processes of cattle farmers. Market dynamics, fluctuating prices, and operational costs can greatly influence the profitability of cattle farming. Farms are exploring diversification, value-added products, and cooperative models to navigate economic uncertainties. In this ever-evolving landscape, the confluence of technological advancements, evolving consumer preferences, environmental responsibilities, and economic pragmatism shapes the trajectory of rural modern cattle farms. Adapting to these challenges and embracing new trends is essential for the sustainability and success of the industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to investigate experimentally and analytically the effects of different machining parameters such as cooling methods and cutting tool materials on surface roughness and chip thickness ratio for milling of AA7075-T6 aluminum alloy. The carbide and high-speed steel (HSS) end mills were used as cutting tools and the conventional, vapor, and compressed air were used as cooling methods in the experiments. The experiment conditions for compressed air at the cutting zone were 6 bar pressure and 30 m/s speed flow rate. A mixture of boron oil and water (1/20 mixture ratio) was used as cutting fluid in conventional cooling. The study was carried out using three levels of feed rates (20, 40, 80 mm/min), rotational speeds (780, 1330, 2440 rpm), and a constant 2 mm deep cut. As a result of the experiments, the surface roughness values increased with the increasing levels of feed rate. Besides surface roughness values decreased with increasing levels of the rotational speed. In addition, a better surface quality was obtained in milling processes by using carbide cutting tools compared to HSS tools. It was concluded that the most important parameter affecting the surface roughness and chip thickness ratio is feed rate and the rotational speed, respectively. Better surface roughness and chip thickness ratio were obtained from the vapor processing than the conventional and compressed air. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anything that is not recycled and/or recovered from waste represents a loss of raw materials. Recycling plastics can help to reduce this loss and to reduce greenhouse gases, improving the goal of the decarbonization of plastic. While the recycling of single polymers is well assessed, the recycling of mixed plastics is very difficult because of the strong incompatibility among the different polymers usually present in urban waste. In this work, heterogeneous mixed polymers, i.e., polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS) and polyethylenetherephthalate (PET) were processed using a laboratory mixer under different conditions of temperature, rotational speed and time to evaluate the effect of the above parameters on morphology, viscosity and mechanical properties of the final blends. Morphological analysis shows a strong incompatibility between the polyethylene matrix and the other dispersed polymers. The blends show, of course, a brittle behavior, but this behavior slightly improves with decreasing temperature and increasing rotational speed. A brittle-ductile transition was observed only at a high level of mechanical stress obtained by increasing rotational speed and decreasing temperature and processing time. This behavior has been attributed to both a decrease in the dimensions of the particles of the dispersed phase and to the formation of a small amount of copolymers that act as adhesion promoters between matrix and dispersed phases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Beef production is criticized for its contribution to global warming and its use of human-edible food as feed and hence needs to innovate. Relying on three case studies of beef production systems in Belgium, France, and Germany, we test, using the single-farm model FarmDyn, the interest of fast rotational grazing associated (redesign scenarios) or not (FRG scenarios) to crossbreeding strategies as innovation. The redesign scenarios are adapted to local conditions using early-maturing beef breeds on a French farm or Belgian Blue breeds in a German dairy system and a Belgian suckler cow system becoming, in this last type, a growing and fattening system. Fast rotational grazing induced a higher profit through cheaper feed but an increased workload in pasture management compared to the baseline situation. Beef production from crossbred dairy cows reduces the global warming potential of the systems because of the share of the environmental load with milk production. Crossbreeding with early-maturing breeds, in the French type, has little impact on global warming. The feed-food competition diminished by adapting the stocking rate to the grassland production potential and feeding of by-products. In the future, these simulations should be validated by field trials and a larger diversity of farms. In the context of a growing population, beef production is expected to reduce its consumption of human-edible food and its contribution to global warming. We hypothesize that implementing the innovations of fast rotational grazing and redesigning existing production systems using crossbreeding and sexing may reduce these impacts. In this research, the bio-economic model FarmDyn is used to assess the impact of such innovations on farm profit, workload, global warming potential, and feed-food competition. The innovations are tested in a Belgian system composed of a Belgian Blue breeder and a fattener farm, another system where calves raised in a French suckler cow farm are fattened in a farm in Italy, and third, a German dairy farm that fattens its male calves. The practice of fast rotational grazing with a herd of dairy-to-beef crossbred males is found to have the best potential for greenhouse gas reduction and a reduction of the use of human-edible food when by-products are available. Crossbreeding with early-maturing beef breeds shows a suitable potential to produce grass-based beef with little feed-food competition if the stocking rate considers the grassland yield potential. The results motivate field trials in order to validate the findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The water use by short rotation coppices (SRC) has been a focus of ongoing research in the last decades. Nevertheless, investigations that consider site factors and present long-term monitoring of the components of the water balance are rare. This research quantified the tree-based transpiration in the 4th growing season of uncoppiced 1st rotational hybrid poplar stands (Populus deltoides Bart. ex Marsh × P. nigra L. "AF2") in western Slovakia. The aim of the study was to determine the influence of meteorological and soil-related site conditions on transpiration rates. Three experimental plots were located in the Morava River floodplains, on loamy sand-textured soils with different groundwater accessibilities: higher, low, and fluctuating groundwater level. We measured sap flow (Heat Ratio Method), volumetric water content, matric potential, groundwater level, and meteorological variables throughout the growing season in 2019. The results indicated that transpiration in the three sites was almost constant during that period, which was characterized by distinct conditions. The average cumulative transpiration at the site with a higher groundwater level (1105 mm) was larger than at the site with a lower groundwater level (632 mm) and the site with fluctuating groundwater (863 mm). A principal component analysis (PCA) and correlation analysis identified that the contribution of meteorological and soil-related site variables to transpiration differed among the sites. Soil water availability and groundwater accessibility are critical variables for the water use of poplar SRC. We concluded that the combination of site conditions needs to be reconsidered for the expansion of sustainable short rotation plantations in Europe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Virtual fencing is a new way of enclosing livestock without the use of physical barriers. The system relies on GPS technology and works by deterring escapes using auditory warnings and electric impulses. This study examines the effectiveness of one such system in a rotational strip grazing regime with 17 Angus bull calves. This study also aimed to determine which bull calves were more likely to receive electric impulses. The system proved effective at containing the bull calves within the designated enclosure. The bull calves learned to associate the auditory warning with the electric impulse, and as such, received increasingly fewer impulses as time went on. However, in accordance with previous studies, there were clear differences in the number of warnings and impulses received between individuals. The results regarding which bull calves received the most impulses did not show any clear trends. In conclusion, the virtual fencing system proved to be effective and the animals learnt how to interact with the system while receiving very few impulses. Large grazers are essential for nature conservation. In order to prevent grazers from moving to unintended areas, it may be necessary to keep them inside enclosures. Physical fences present a number of problems, such as fragmenting the landscape. Virtual fencing, however, is a possible replacement for physical fencing, making it possible to enclose grazers without physical boundaries. Virtual fencing systems utilise collars with GPS technology to track animals and deliver auditory warnings and electric impulses to keep animals within predefined boundaries. This study examines how effective the virtual fencing system Nofence© is at enclosing calves in a holistically managed setting. Holistic management is a rotational grazing technique where an enclosure is grazed in small strips at a time. It is investigated whether the calves become habituated to the virtual fence and whether there is a correlation between the number of warnings received by every two calves in order to explore potential herd behaviour. Finally, this study examines which calves interact the most with the virtual fence by investigating the relationship between physical activity and number of interactions. Seventeen calves were fitted with a GPS collar from the company Nofence© and placed in a holistically managed enclosure. Data were gathered from 4 July to 30 September 2022. The study found that virtual fence was able to contain calves inside the designated enclosure, and over time the calves received notably fewer electrical impulses compared to auditory warnings. The results of Pearson's correlation between auditory warnings received by two random calves were inconclusive, but the use of a sliding window analysis should be further explored. Lastly, the most physically active animals were the ones who received the most auditory warnings, but they did not receive more impulses. No significant correlation was found between the number of electric impulses received and the physical activity of the animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Ticks are one of the main problems in production units, mainly because they have become resistant to the chemicals used to control them. Several alternative methods to chemicals have been sought to control tick infestations in cattle, which are practical and friendly to the environment. In this work, we implement rotational grazing to combat ticks at the pasture level. We found that a 30-day rest period for pastures (without animals) is not enough to reduce the presence of ticks in animals but that a 45-day rest period does reduce the presence of ticks in cattle. These studies are critical since they would help cattle producers design better strategies that help reduce the use of chemical acaricides and the presence of chemicals in milk, meat, and the environment. Rotational grazing has been mentioned as a potential tool to reduce losses caused by high tick loads. This study aimed: (1) to evaluate the effect of three grazing modalities (rotational grazing with 30- and 45-day pasture rest and continuous grazing) on Rhipicephalus microplus infestation in cattle, (2) to determine population dynamics of R. microplus in cattle under the three grazing modalities mentioned in the humid tropics. The experiment was carried out from April 2021 to March 2022 and consisted of 3 treatments of grazing with pastures of African Stargrass of 2 ha each. T1 was continuous grazing (CG00), and T2 and T3 were rotational grazing with 30 (RG30) and 45 d of recovery (RG45), respectively. Thirty calves of 8–12 months of age were distributed to each treatment (n = 10). Every 14 days, ticks larger than 4.5 mm were counted on the animals. Concomitantly, temperature (°C), relative humidity (RH), and rainfall (RNFL) were recorded. Animals in the RG45 group had the lowest count of R. microplus compared to the RG30 and CG00 groups; these results suggest that RG45 days of rest could be a potential tool to control R. microplus in cattle. Yet, we also observed the highest population of ticks on the animals under rotational grazing with a 30-day pasture rest. A low tick infestation characterized rotational grazing at 45 days of rest throughout the experiment. The association between the degree of tick infestation by R. microplus and the climatic variables was nil (p > 0.05). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]