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Simple Summary: The aim of this study was to compare profitability when feeding silages of different grass species to investigate if animal production or cost of silage is most important for profitability in production with cattle. Contribution margin calculations was conducted for three different geographical regions in Sweden for enterprises with either dairy cows, beef breed bulls, or beef suckler cows. Calculations were conducted for three different weather scenarios with either normal, delayed harvest due to wet weather conditions, or drought conditions. Even if there was less yield of grass of timothy, it was superior to tall fescue fed to dairy cows. For beef breed bulls, it depended on weather conditions if meadow fescue or tall fescue was the best choice. Reed canary grass fed to pregnant beef cows was always superior to festulolium and a mix of meadow fescue—timothy. The result from this study is of importance to farmers' decision-making in a changing climate. This study compared the profitability when feeding silages of different grass species in enterprises with either dairy cows, beef breed bulls, or beef suckler cows. Traditional (TR) grasses timothy and meadow fescue was compared to the alternative wet-and-drought-resistant (WD) grasses tall fescue, festulolium, and reed canary grass in three different weather scenarios with either normal conditions (Ref), delayed late harvest time due to wet weather conditions (Wet), or decreased grass yield due to dry weather conditions (Dry). Contribution margin calculation was conducted for three geographical regions in Sweden. In the Ref and Wet scenarios, TR was more competitive than WD for dairy cows and beef bulls in all regions. Also in the Dry scenario, TR was more competitive than WD for dairy cows, as the lower production cost of the WD was outweighed by a lower milk yield of cows fed WD compared to cows fed TR. Contrary, for beef bulls, WD gave a higher contribution margin than TR did in the Dry scenario, where the break-even for WD being superior over TR occurred when more than every second year was dry. WD reed canary grass was always more competitive than TR and WD festulolium for beef cows. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE To determine the presence of Tritrichomonas foetus in the accessory sex glands, epididymis, and testicular tissue of T foetus–positive bulls and to assess the impact of post mortem tissue acidity on quantitative reverse-transcription PCR results. METHODS 8 bulls were euthanized from June 12 through June 15, 2023, and samples from their accessory sex glands, testicles, and epididymis were collected for T foetus testing. Preputial smegma was obtained before and after euthanasia and tested for T foetus by quantitative reverse-transcription PCR. The pH of the penile and preputial epithelial surfaces was measured. RESULTS Tritrichomonas foetus was not detected in samples from the testicle, epididymis, or epididymal semen. A post mortem decrease in the pH of the penis and prepuce correlated with a rise in cycle threshold values. CONCLUSIONS Tritrichomonas foetus was not present in samples taken, suggesting its absence in these specific reproductive tissues. A decrease in the pH of the penis and prepuce over time post mortem correlated with an increase in cycle threshold values in the samples. This relationship indicates that changes in pH may impact the detectability or stability of genetic material in these tissues, possibly affecting diagnostic outcomes as time from death progresses. CLINICAL RELEVANCE This research enhances the understanding of T foetus pathology in bulls and suggests that epididymal semen recovery could be a viable method for preserving genetic material from valuable bulls that test positive for T foetus. It also emphasizes the need for timely post mortem sampling to ensure accurate detection and management of T foetus in the cattle industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nonbreeding white rhino bulls are traditionally housed individually in zoos, but space limitations require the exploration of alternative techniques. There are no studies of group-housed bulls, and the feasibility of managing a bachelor group is unknown. Six bulls (two bulls each of 3-, 5-, and 8-yr-olds) in a 3.1 ha enclosure were observed for 30 min each 2×/wk for 20–31 wks. The 3-yr-olds were relocated after the first 20 weeks. Rhino location, nearest neighbor, aggressive behaviors, and dominance interactions were recorded. There was no evidence of habitat spatial segregation. The 3- and 5-yr-olds grouped together by age; 8-yr-olds did not associate as much as younger rhinos. Aggressive vocalizations and physical aggression were infrequent (range 0–1.5/h/bull and 0–1/h/bull, respectively). Eight-year-olds displayed and received aggressive vocalizations the most; three-year-olds displayed and received physical aggression the most. After the 3-yr-olds were removed, the habitat usage and social proximity of the remaining bulls did not change. Aggressive behaviors increased, but vocalizations (range 0.18–3.1/h/bull) remained more frequent than physical aggression (range 0.18–0.73/h/bull). The highest-ranking 8-yr-old engaged in physical altercations the least. The bulls shared space, and the use of vocalizations more than physical aggression deterred injury. These findings indicate that bachelor group management is feasible in a large enclosure with young bulls.

Background: Haemoparasitic infections significantly threaten cattle health globally, leading to economic losses and welfare issues for farmers. Aim: This retrospective study aimed to investigate the prevalence and associated factors of haemoparasitic infections in fighting bulls in southern Thailand over an eight-year period. Methods: Laboratory records of 5,518 bulls from the Livestock Animal Hospital, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Rajamangala University of Technology Srivijaya, were reviewed for the period January 2016 to December 2023. Blood samples were analyzed using thin blood smear methods to identify haemoparasites, and packed cell volume was measured using the microhematocrit method. Detailed profiles and demographic data for each animal were recorded. Results: Among the fighting bulls, 323 (5.85%) tested positive for haemoparasitic infections, with five haemoparasites identified: Trypanosoma spp. (TP), Microfilariae, Anaplasma spp. (AP), Babesia spp. (BB), and Theileria spp. (TR). TP was the most prevalent at 2.90%. Bulls aged 1–5 years showed the highest infection rates at 7.04%, with a decline in infections as age increased. Annual trends peaked in 2018 at 8.80%, with significant yearly fluctuations for most parasites (P < 0.05) except AP and BB. Monthly analyses revealed the highest infection rates in March, particularly for TP, with significant monthly variations for TR (P < 0.05). Geographical differences in infection rates between the East and West coasts were minor and not statistically significant. However, seasonal variations were significant for BB and TR on the east coast during summer (P < 0.05). Bulls with PCV below 30% had a higher prevalence of haemoparasitic infections (8.06%) compared to those with PCV above 30% (5.87%), with significant differences in the prevalence of AP and TR infections (P < 0.05). Conclusion: This study adds to the understanding of haemoparasite infections in bulls, informing the development of educational materials for farmers and ultimately empowering them to make better herd health decisions. [Open Vet J 2024; 14(10.000): 2587-2598]

This study examined the effects of surgical castration and lidocaine-plus-meloxicam treatment on growth, physiology, behaviors, and leukocyte heat shock protein 90 (HSP 90) gene expression in Hanwoo (Korean cattle) bulls. Twenty Hanwoo bulls (body weight 248.8 ± 28.5 kg, age 9.4 ± 1.04 months) were assigned to three treatments: surgical castration with lidocaine injection (5 mL in the scrotum) and oral meloxicam administration (1 mg/kg body weight; LM; n = 7); surgical castration with placebo injection (5 mL of 0.9% NaCl) and oral placebo administration (lactose, 1 mg/kg body weight; CAS; n = 7); and shame castration (SHAM; n = 6). Meloxicam and lactose were administered 3 h before castration, and lidocaine and NaCl were injected immediately before castration. Surgical castration was performed with a Newberry knife and a Henderson castration tool. Wight was measured the day before and 14 d after castration, and behavior was observed from 0.5 h to 4.5 h post-castration. Blood was collected at −1 d, 0.5 h, 6 h, 1 d, 3 d, 7 d, and 14 d after castration to measure plasma cortisol, haptoglobin, and leukocyte HSP 90 mRNA. Castration tended to decrease average daily gain (p = 0.06), but the LM treatment did not affect weight gain. Bulls in CAS showed higher cortisol concentration (p < 0.05) at 0.5 and 6 h after castration compared to SHAM, with no difference between CAS and LM. Castration increased haptoglobin concentration at 1 and 3 d after castration (p < 0.05) while LM bulls showed decreased haptoglobin concentration (p < 0.05) than CAS bulls at these times. HSP90 mRNA was increased at 6 h post-castration while LM did not reduce its expression, suggesting HSP90 may serve as an acute stress marker in castrated bulls. Castration increased (p < 0.05) frequencies of drinking, lying, walking, leg lifting, kicking, and stiff gait, while decreasing (p < 0.05) eating frequency. LM alleviated (p < 0.05) drinking, leg lifting, kicking, and stiff gait. Collectively, castration resulted in physiological changes, increased leukocyte HSP90 gene expression, and altered behaviors. These findings suggest that lidocaine-plus-meloxicam treatment partially mitigates pain and inflammation in the castrated bulls. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bull fertility is a multi‐factorial trait and is affected by many factors, such as nutrition, genetics, and epigenetics. Superior quality male germplasm with high genetic merit helps to improve the livestock production trait. To achieve the target of livestock production, the availability of superior male germplasm is a great concern. In developing countries, there is a gap between the highly fertile frozen semen doses produced and the highly fertile frozen semen doses required. Improving the quality of existing low‐fertile semen from high genetic merit bulls seems to play a promising role in filling this gap. Seminal exosomes are extracellular vesicles secreted by the epithelial cells of the testis, epididymis, and accessory sex glands such as the prostate gland. They contain a cargo of bioactive molecules such as proteins, nucleic acids and various metabolites. These molecules are transferred to the spermatozoa during its maturation and help in sperm capacitation, maturation, acrosome reaction, and fertilisation. Studies reveal that seminal exosomes help to improve the sperm functionality of low‐quality sperm. Identification of the molecular profile of exosomes of bulls with proven fertility and their addition in an extender containing low‐fertile semen may help to ameliorate the sperm quality of low‐fertile semen, which may eventually aid in generating quantities of highly fertile ejaculates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nonbreeding white rhino bulls are traditionally housed individually in zoos, but space limitations require the exploration of alternative techniques. There are no studies of group-housed bulls, and the feasibility of managing a bachelor group is unknown. Six bulls (two bulls each of 3-, 5-, and 8-yr-olds) in a 3.1 ha enclosure were observed for 30 min each 2×/wk for 20–31 wks. The 3-yr-olds were relocated after the first 20 weeks. Rhino location, nearest neighbor, aggressive behaviors, and dominance interactions were recorded. There was no evidence of habitat spatial segregation. The 3- and 5-yr-olds grouped together by age; 8-yr-olds did not associate as much as younger rhinos. Aggressive vocalizations and physical aggression were infrequent (range 0–1.5/h/bull and 0–1/h/bull, respectively). Eight-year-olds displayed and received aggressive vocalizations the most; three-year-olds displayed and received physical aggression the most. After the 3-yr-olds were removed, the habitat usage and social proximity of the remaining bulls did not change. Aggressive behaviors increased, but vocalizations (range 0.18–3.1/h/bull) remained more frequent than physical aggression (range 0.18–0.73/h/bull). The highest-ranking 8-yr-old engaged in physical altercations the least. The bulls shared space, and the use of vocalizations more than physical aggression deterred injury. These findings indicate that bachelor group management is feasible in a large enclosure with young bulls. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tissue Inhibitor of Metalloproteinase‐2 (TIMP‐2) is part of the tissue inhibitors of the metalloproteinases (TIMPs) family. Its primary function is to regulate the activity of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) across various tissues, including those of the reproductive system. This study aimed to quantify the natural levels of TIMP‐2 in seminal plasma (SP) and sperm membrane (SM) of bulls, explore potential associations between TIMP‐2 levels and semen quality parameters, and examine the relationship between TIMP‐2 levels and sperm cryoresistance in bulls. Thirty semen samples from Frieswal breeding bulls were categorized into two groups based on their initial progressive motility (IPM): Good (IPM ≥ 70%; n = 21) and Poor (IPM ≤ 40%; n = 9). The samples were evaluated for their quality parameters at the fresh stage, and TIMP‐2 levels were measured in SP and SM using a bovine‐specific ELISA kit. Following cryopreservation of Good samples (n = 21), post‐thaw motility (PTM) was used to further classify samples into Freezeable (PTM ≥ 50%; n = 14) and Non‐Freezable (PTM < 50%; n = 7) groups. In frozen–thawed samples, sperm attributes, kinetics, and functional parameters were assessed, and the results were correlated with retrospective TIMP‐2 levels of SP/SM. Our study revealed that the quantified levels of TIMP‐2 ranged from 100.27 to 535.95 ng/L in SP and from 0 to 115.78 ng/10 million spermatozoa in SM. TIMP‐2 levels in both SP and SM were significantly higher in Good ejaculates compared to Poor ejaculates (p < 0.01). Furthermore, total TIMP‐2 levels in the SP/SM of semen samples from bulls showed a positive correlation with fresh semen attributes. However, SP/SM TIMP‐2 levels in the Freezeable group did not show any significant differences compared to the Non‐Freezable group in post‐thaw semen quality attributes, kinetic parameters, and functional tests, except for a significant positive correlation (r = 0.530, p < 0.05) between sperm DNA integrity and SP‐TIMP‐2 levels. In conclusion, the findings suggested that TIMP‐2 can be a positive regulator of semen quality at the neat stage. However, when it comes to the resilience of sperm to cryopreservation, the levels of TIMP‐2 do not seem to exert any significant influence in breeding bulls. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this work was to evaluate the effect of using naturally shaded pastures on scrotal thermoregulatory capacity, testicular echotexture, and sperm morphology of Nelore (Bos indicus) and Canchim (5/8 Bos taurus x 3/8 Bos indicus) bulls in a tropical climate region. Sixty-four adult Nelore and Canchim bulls were used, equally allocated in Full Sun (FS, n = 32) or Crop-Livestock-Forestry (CLF, n = 32) pasture systems. During five consecutive climate seasons, the bulls underwent monthly breeding soundness evaluations and the biometeorological variables in the systems were continuously monitored. Microclimate was significantly different between systems. CLF system had lower BGHI than FS throughout the experimental period. No triple interaction (Season x Breed x Treatment, P > 0.05) was observed for any of the variables. Animals in CLF showed lower body temperature in Summer (FS:39.41 ± 0.05 vs. CLF:39.30 ± 0.05 °C; P = 0.005) and in Autumn (FS:39.54 ± 0.05 vs. CLF:39.35 ± 0.05 °C; P = 0.005). Access to shading did not determine differences in the evolution of scrotal biometry, temperatures, and scrotal thermal gradients (P > 0.05). Regardless of breed, animals in CLF showed greater right testicular volume (FS:247.5 ± 5.7 vs. CLF:259.0 ± 5.7 cm³; P < 0.05), more suitable parenchyma echotexture, and fewer microlithiasis spots in the Spring and Summer. Testosterone concentration was higher in FS (FS:2.6 ± 0.2 vs. CLF:2.1 ± 0.2 ng/mL; P = 0.035). Canchim bulls presented higher total sperm defects during the Autumn and Winter (P = 0.010), but the total defects levels for Canchim and Nelore bulls were in normal range for adult bulls. Thus, the natural shade in CLF system was effective in improving the microclimate of pastures and minimizing adverse environmental effects on some reproductive features of interest in beef cattle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Theobromine (TBR) is a methylxanthine known for its bronchodilatory and stimulatory effects. This research evaluated the vitality, capacitation patterns, oxidative characteristics, microbial profile and expression of capacitation-associated proteins (CatSper1/2, sodium bicarbonate cotransporter [NBC], protein kinases A [PKA] and C [PKC] and adenylate cyclase 10 [ADCY10]) in cryopreserved bovine spermatozoa (n = 30) in the absence (cryopreserved control [CtrlC]) or presence of different TBR concentrations (12.5, 25, and 50 µM) in egg yolk extender. Fresh ejaculate served as a negative control (CtrlN). Significant post-thaw maintenance of the sperm motility, membrane and DNA integrity and mitochondrial activity (p < 0.001) were recorded following the administration of 25 μM and 50 μM TBR, then compared to CtrlC. All groups supplemented with TBR exhibited a significantly lower percentage of prematurely capacitated spermatozoa (p < 0.001) than CtrlC. Significantly decreased levels of global reactive oxygen species (ROS), hydrogen peroxide and hydroxyl radicals were observed in the presence of 25 μM and 50 μM TBR (p < 0.01). Western blot analysis revealed that supplementation with 50 μM TBR significantly prevented the loss of NBC and ADCY10 (p < 0.01), while all TBR doses stabilized the levels of PKC (p < 0.05 at 50 μM TBR; p < 0.001 at 12.5 μM and 25 μM TBR). In summary, we suggest that TBR is effective in protecting the spermatozoa during the cryopreservation process through its potential to stimulate energy synthesis while preventing ROS overproduction and the loss of proteins involved in the sperm activation process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Germplasm banking is a fundamental tool for the preservation of autochthonous breeds. Semen cryopreservation is effective for this task, but protocols are adapted to commercial species, and post‐thawing sperm quality could be sensitive to environmental cues. We compared the post‐thawing sperm quality in doses from the CBA‐SERIDA bank in northern Spain for the Asturiana de la Montaña (AM) and Asturiana de los Valles (AV) autochthonous cattle breeds. Doses from 23 AM and 16 AV bulls (ejaculates from at least three different seasons) were assessed for motility (computer‐assisted sperm analysis), physiology and chromatin status (flow cytometry) after thawing and after 5 h at 38°C. Data were analysed using linear mixed‐effects and cosinor models for seasonal and breed effects and by correlations with the association of sperm quality with temperature‐humidity index (THI), considering the interval of spermatogenesis plus maturation. The breed affected sperm quality, with higher motility for AV and higher apoptotic ratio, mitochondrial activity, reactive oxygen species, DNA fragmentation and chromatin immaturity for AM. However, seasonality effects were minimal, and THI was not associated with sperm quality. In summary, the season seems to be a minor factor in the post‐thawing quality of the AM and AV autochthonous breeds, well‐adapted to their local environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glutathione, an organic antioxidant, is believed to suppress the damaging effects caused by reactive oxygen species on post-thaw quality of bull semen. This metaanalysis aimed to evaluate the role and optimal dosage of glutathione in reducing the adverse effects of cryopreservation on post-thaw semen quality of bulls. The analysis used data from 24 articles following various selection processes. The parameters observed were total and progressive sperm motility, acrosomal integrity, sperm viability, morphological abnormalities, plasma membrane integrity, DNA damage, curvilinear velocity, straight linear velocity and fertility. Data were analyzed using the mixed model methodology, with glutathione dosage as the fixed effect and different studies as the random effect. A significant effect of glutathione was found on post thaw total sperm motility (P<0.05), progressive motility (P<0.05) and plasma membrane integrity (P<0.05). The supplementation of glutathione to semen extenders significantly suppressed the increase in post-thaw sperm abnormalities (P<0.05). Glutathione supplementation in semen extenders had varying effects among different bull breeds (P<0.05). Supplementing glutathione is recommended to improve sperm quality in freezing bull semen. Glutathione supplementation can maintain post-thaw sperm quality with an optimal dosage of 4.49mM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hemoparasitic infections significantly threaten cattle health globally, leading to economic losses and welfare issues for farmers. Aim: This retrospective study aimed to investigate the prevalence and associated factors of hemoparasitic infections in fighting bulls in southern Thailand over an 8-year period. Methods: Laboratory records of 5,518 bulls from the Livestock Animal Hospital, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Rajamangala University of Technology Srivijaya, were reviewed for the period January 2016 to December 2023. Blood samples were analyzed using thin blood smear methods to identify hemoparasites, and packed cell volume was measured using the microhematocrit method. Detailed profiles and demographic data for each animal were recorded. Results: Among the fighting bulls, 323 (5.85%) tested positive for hemoparasitic infections, with five hemoparasites identified: Trypanosoma spp. (TP), Microfilariae, Anaplasma spp. (AP), Babesia spp. (BB), and Theileria spp. (TR). TP was the most prevalent at 2.90%. Bulls aged 1-5 years showed the highest infection rates at 7.04%, with a decline in infections as age increased. Annual trends peaked in 2018 at 8.80%, with significant yearly fluctuations for most parasites (p < 0.05) except AP and BB. Monthly analyses revealed the highest infection rates in March, particularly for TP, with significant monthly variations for TR (p < 0.05). Geographical differences in infection rates between the East and West coasts were minor and not statistically significant. However, seasonal variations were significant for BB and TR on the east coast during summer (p < 0.05). Bulls with PCV below 30% had a higher prevalence of hemoparasitic infections (8.06%) compared to those with PCV above 30% (5.87%), with significant differences in the prevalence of AP and TR infections (p < 0.05). Conclusion: This study adds to the understanding of hemoparasite infections in bulls, informing the development of educational materials for farmers and ultimately empowering them to make better herd health decisions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although bullfighting is not considered a sport, bullfighters require an optimal level of physical preparation to be able to face the difficult activity of fighting a brave bull. The usual approaches to the physical preparation of professional bullfighters are based on decontextualized training methods, or on the practice of sports modalities with positive transfer to bullfighting. However, the lack of analysis of the context of bullfighting, as well as the existence of few investigations that have analyzed the psychophysiological variables and the movement time of professional bullfighters during the fight, causes the urgent need to generate a line of research that can solve these deficiencies. Objective: The main objective of this narrative review is to present the current relevant scientific literature on the variables that determine the performance of bullfighters, and thereby, begin to lay the foundations for a more scientific analysis of bullfighting. Method: A bibliographic search was carried out in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines and the PICO framework. Result: The results of this narrative review show the determining variables in the performance of professional bullfighters studied by the scientific community. Conclusion: knowledge of these variables will allow a more effective application of the principles of training, particularly the principle of specificity, often neglected in the training of this art associated with physical activity.

Highly anabolic diets and excessive body fat accumulation have been shown to negatively impact sperm biology in humans and murine biomedical models. Current research indicates that obesity is associated with decreased semen quality and represents a major contributor to male subfertility in humans. Male overnutrition is commonly observed in the beef cattle industry and the use of high-energy diets during bull development has been shown to negatively impact semen quality. Most research efforts in bovine reproductive physiology have focused on understanding and optimizing female fertility. This emphasis is even more evident in research investigating the relationship between nutritional interventions and reproductive performance, which has limited the development of nutritional strategies that optimize fertility in bulls. Increasing our understanding of the genetic and environmental factors that influence bull fertility will contribute to future increases in cattle reproductive and productive efficiency. Moreover, exploring the impact of overnutrition in bulls may offer valuable insight and help address diet-induced male subfertility in humans. Herein, we summarize the currently available literature evaluating the impact of highly anabolic diets on male fertility, with an emphasis in the bovine species. The literature summarized in the present review evaluates the impact of overnutrition on sperm biology, early embryonic development and explores its potential to impact postnatal performance of the offspring.

Background: Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and its receptor, neurotrophic tyrosine receptor kinase-2 (NTRK2), are well known for their roles in the central nervous and animal reproductive systems. Several studies have observed the extensive expression of BDNF and NTRK2 in non-neuronal tissues, especially reproductive organs. However, most of these studies focused on ovarian development and regulation; thus, scientific research on BDNF and NTRK2 in males is required to determine their roles in the male reproductive system. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate BDNF and NTRK2 expression in bovine testes. Methods: Testes were collected from six Hanwoo bulls (6-8 months old). Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analysis was performed to investigate the mRNA expression of BDNF and NTRK2 in the testes. Western blot analysis was performed to verify the cross-reactivity of BDNF and NTRK2 antibodies with bovine testicular tissues. Immunohistochemistry was conducted to determine BDNF and NTRK2 protein expression in the testes. Results: RT-PCR analysis revealed BDNF and NTRK2 mRNA expression in bovine testes. In Western blotting, BDNF and NTRK2 protein bands were observed at 32 and 45 kDa, respectively. Immunofluorescence demonstrated BDNF expression in the nuclei of spermatogonia and Sertoli cells as well as in the cytoplasm of Leydig cells. NTRK2 was exclusively expressed in Sertoli cells. These results suggest that BDNF plays a potential role in spermatogenesis via BDNF and NTRK2 signaling in bovine testes, a finding supported by previous results in different animal species. Conclusions: The expression patterns of BDNF and NTRK2 indicate their functional importance in the bovine reproductive system.

Purpose – Stirred by scant regard for market phases in portfolio performance assessments, the current paper investigates the active versus passive investment strategies under the bull and bear market conditions in emerging markets focusing on South Africa as a case study. Design/methodology/approach – Methodologically, the measures of Jensen's alpha and Treynor index are applied to the monthly returns of 20 funds from January 2010 to June 2022. Findings – The results are enlightening; though they contradict developed market evidence, they are consistent with emerging market trends. The findings show that actively managed funds outperform the market benchmark and passive investing style under bear and normal market conditions. Passive investment strategy outperforms both market benchmark and actively investing style under bull market conditions. Practical implications – In the face of improved market efficiency, increased liquidity and recent technological impact, the findings of this study have practical application. The study outcomes should inform and update global investors, especially asset managers interested in emerging markets; however, the limitations of the study should also be considered. Originality/value – While limited studies consider market conditions when comparing and contrasting the performance of passive versus active investing, such consideration is lacking in emerging markets. The current study corrects this literature imbalance.

Breeding soundness evaluation (BSE) is the best methodology to estimate the fertility potential of future bulls and performing indirect selection for their fertility. However, the outcome of the BSE is influenced by several factors, including genetics, environment, and BSE guidelines. Herein, in this retrospective study, our first aim was to characterize the reasons for failure in 46,566 BSE from 2-year-old beef Bos indicus bulls (Nellore) born from 1997 to 2018. Our second aim was to determine whether or not BSE was associated with reproductive potential improvement of the bulls over the years. Due to changes in the BSE criteria, we used the same dataset, but only bulls born from 2002 to 2018 were included resulting in 35,856 BSE. For the second aim, the effect of the year and farm were included in the model of the multivariate logistic regression. We also determined if the main reasons for BSE failure decreased over time. Bulls were classified as approved (satisfactory potential breeders and qualified for natural breeding service) and not approved (deferred and unsatisfactory potential breeders). The reasons for BSE failure in Nellore bulls were poor semen quality (53.1 %) and physical defects (46.9 %), with the main physical defect being testis abnormalities (19.7 %). The overall percentage of bulls approved each year was 87.1 %, with no improvement over the years of study. However, the percentage of approved bulls at the first BSE increased over the years (P < 0.05). This increase was evident by a reduction in the difference between the overall percentage of the bulls approved vs the percentage of bulls approved at the first BSE. Furthermore, there was an increase in the percentage of bulls classified as satisfactory potential breeders in the BSE and an evident decrease in the percentage of bulls qualified only for natural breeding service (P < 0.05). In addition, an increase of the scrotal circumference (SC) of the herd was found (P < 0.05). These results indicate the overall quality of the bulls improved over the years. To associate and identify the main sperm abnormalities, 3461 not approved bulls were clustered. The most frequent defects were strongly coiled tail spermatozoa, proximal droplets, and acrosomal defects. Overall, there was no change in the frequency of bulls not approved by the sperm morphology nor the frequency of the main sperm abnormalities over the years. Nevertheless, the frequency of the defects remained very low, implying they were controlled. Additionally, abnormalities in the testis decreased over the years and was associated with the increase in the SC of the herd and a decrease of culled bulls due to low SC. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that there is an association between implementation and use of BSE with improvements in the reproductive quality of future generation bulls. • Records of 20 years and 46,566 BSE from a seedstock herd in Brazil were investigated. • About 14 % of the bulls fail to be approved in the BSE at two years of age. • Semen quality (53 %) & physical defects (47 %) were the most common causes of failure. • Testicular abnormalities decreased, & scrotal circumference increased over the years. • BSE was associated with increased percentage of bulls approved at first BSE over years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to compare the plasma (PL) and seminal plasma (SP) pharmacokinetic profile of ceftiofur (CEFT) and desuroylceftiofur acetamide (DFCA) after administration of CEFT crystalline-free acid (CCFA) by SC route in two sites of the ear in beef bulls. Four clinically healthy Hereford bulls received a comprehensive physical exam and subsequently a breeding-soundness examination, CBC, and chemistry profile panel. All bulls were diagnosed healthy and satisfactory potential breeders. In one group (n = 2), a single dose of CCFA was administered SC route at the base of the ear (BOE) at a dose of 6.6 mg/kg of body weight. The second group (n = 2) was also administered by SC route in the middle third of the posterior aspect of the ear (MTE). The concentrations of CEFT and DFCA in PL and SP were determined by a high-performance liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS). Blood and semen samples were collected before the administration of CCFA and at 12, 24, 36, 48, 72, 96, 120, 144, and 168 h after injection. No levels of CEFT were detected in PL and only in 20 of the 40 SP samples (P = 0.0001). The mean level of CEFT in SP was 0.11 % in comparison with the DFCA level. DFCA was found in all PL and SP samples. Therefore, DFCA was chosen to be utilized in the study of the pharmacokinetics parameters both in PL and SP. There were no differences in the mean PL levels of DFCA for the two sites of SC administration between the BOE (102.9 ± 78.9 ng/mL; X ± SD) and to MTE (116.1 ± 70.2 ng/mL; P = 0.58). The mean SP levels of DFCA after administration in the BOE was 857 ± 747 ng/mL, and for the MTE was 549 ± 488 ng/mL without differences between both sites (P = 0.15). The mean level of DFCA in PL was 109.5 ± 74.0 ng/mL, which was lower than the mean SP levels of 695 ± 103 ng/mL (P = 0.001). Moreover, the PL peak DFCA concentration (C max) was 229 ± 46 ng/mL at 36.0 ± 29.4 h (T max) post-administration. The SP C max was 1851 ± 533 ng/mL at 30.0 ± 28.6 h (T max) post-administration. The C max between PL and SP were distinctive (P = 0.004) without any differences in T max between PL and SP (P = 0.60). The terminal half-life for PL DFCA (47.4 ± 29.3 h) was not different than in SP (53.1 ± 23.6 h; P = 0.77). The PL area under the curve concentration time from the first to the last sample (AUC 0–last) was 18,984 ± 4841 ng/mL/h, which was significatively smaller compared with 125,677 ± 59,445 ng/mL/h for SP AUC 0–last (P = 0.04). The PL mean residence time from the first to the last sample (MRT 0–last) was 69.7 ± 15.1 h, and it was similar than for SP of 66.5 ± 7.7 h (P = 0.69). From the present investigation, based in its pharmacokinetic features, it was concluded that CCFA should be an appropriate antibiotic that could be used for the treatment of bull genital infections when its indication is properly outlined. To study the pharmacokinetics of CCFA in SP, DFCA metabolite was appropriated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Weaving together Anglo-American folklore, the Indian captivity narrative genre, and science fiction and fantasy with Midwest settings, Attebery explores the lasting influence of the pastoral chronotope of the "middle landscape" and its entanglement with colonialism and empire. Scholar Guest of Honor Address, Mythcon 53. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Introduction: Semen cryopreservation is the most popular practice for semen production for artificial insemination and in vitro fertilization in cattle. The Seminal plasma contains extracellular vesicles (spEVs) which modulate sperm viability and function during oocyte fecundation. The study of spEVs in frozen-thawed semen doses may yield novel indicators for predicting bull fertility, but the presence of the semen extendermay hindermolecular profiling of spEVs. The aim of this study was to provide extensive characterization of EVs isolated from seminal plasma before and after the cryopreservation process and the addition of a commercial animal protein-free semen extender to understand the potential influence of EVs originating from the extender in hindering the use of spEVs derived biomarkers for assessment of bull fertility. Methods: EVs were isolated from the seminal plasma (with or without the extender), from the cryopreserved straw devoid of spermatozoa, and from the extender using two different methods, ultracentrifugation (UC) and size exclusion chromatography (SEC), and characterized for their structure and composition. Results: Physical characterization of EVs showed that size and particle numbers were related to the method of isolation. spEVs were larger but less abundant (UC: 168.9 nm, n = 2.68 × 109; SEC: 197.0 nm, n = 6.42 × 109) compared to extender EVs (UC: 129.0 nm, n = 2.68 × 1011; SEC: 161.8 nm, n = 6.47 × 1011). Western blotting analysis (WB) confirmed the presence of typical EV markers in spEVS: the membrane bound CD9 (25 kDa) and the luminal markers Alix (96 kDa) and TSG101 (48 KDa). Although Transmission Electron Microscopy confirmed the presence of a lipid bilayer structure in all preparations, no specific EV markers were detected in the vesicles isolated from extender when the Single Molecule Array (SiMoa) was used. A total of 724 Bos taurus miRNAs were identified in at least one preparation. The percentage of miRNAs identified in EVs from the extender (0.05%-0.49% of the total reads) was lower than in the preparation containing spEVs (10.56%-63.69% of the total reads). Edge-R identified a total of 111 DE-miRNAs between EVs isolated from the extender by two methods. Among them, 11 DE-miRNAs (bta-miR-11980, bta-miR-11987, bta-miR-12057, bta-miR-1246, bta-miR-125b, bta-miR-181b, bta-miR-2340, bta-miR-2358, bta-miR-2478, bta-miR-2898, and bta-miR-345-3p) were also abundant in EVs isolated from seminal plasma preparations with extender. Conclusion: This study clearly demonstrates that the presence of the extender does not prevent the characterization of spEVs in cryopreserved semen. However, the molecular profiling of spEVs can be influenced by the isolation method used and by the presence of somemiRNAs fromthe extender. Therefore, in such studies, it is advisable to characterize both spEVs and the vesicles isolated from the extender. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reproductive problems in cattle are frequent and have an important impact on production. In addition, inflammatory, traumatic and other diseases may be followed by the development of tumours, which are a cause of culling of breeding males. The main types of tumours diagnosed in the bull penis are fibropapilloma and squamous cell carcinoma. The aim of this study was to characterize a case of a tumour in the glans penis of a bull from a dairy farm in Santa Fe, Argentina. The neoplastic tissue was stained with haematoxylin and eosin and then analysed by immunohistochemistry to reveal its characteristic phenotype. Results showed positivity to vimentin, neuron specific enolase, proliferating cell nuclear antigen, S100 and glial fibrillary acidic protein. This suggested that the tumour was a neoplasm of neural origin, classified as neurofibrosarcoma, a peripheral nerve sheath tumour, here reported in the penis of a bull for the first time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Theileria orientalis Ikeda genotype is an emerging cattle disease in the US. Since 2017, when T. orientalis Ikeda was discovered in beef cattle in two counties in Virginia, cattle infections have risen to include ~67% of Virginia counties and 14 states. Consistent with New Zealand studies, many infected herds in Virginia were >90% positive upon initial testing without overt evidence of infection. Central bull tests present a unique opportunity to study the effects of T. orientalis Ikeda infections, as bulls from multiple source herds are consolidated. The objective of this study was to determine if infection with T. orientalis Ikeda affected the average daily gain (ADG), adjusted yearling weight (AYW) and breeding soundness of bulls at two test stations in Virginia over a period of years. Materials and methods: The bulls were fed and housed similarly to compare their growth performance and breeding soundness. For T. orientalis Ikeda testing, DNA was extracted from whole blood for quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Results: The number of bulls infected with T. orientalis Ikeda at initial delivery to the stations increased significantly over the years studied. Multivariable linear regression models, using Angus bulls from Virginia test stations, indicated no significant effect on ADG or AYW in bulls that became test positive during the test or were positive for the duration, compared to Angus bulls that were negative for the duration. At LOC A, the odds of passing a breeding soundness exam (BSE) were not significantly different for bulls that turned positive during the test or were positive for the duration, compared to bulls that were negative for the duration of the test. At LOC B, bulls that became positive during the test were 2.4 times more likely (95% CI: 1.165-4.995, p = 0.016) to pass their BSE compared to bulls that remained negative throughout the test. Discussion: We do not suppose that an obscured infection of T. orientalis Ikeda is protective for bulls to pass a BSE. However, this study demonstrates an obscured infection of T. orientalis Ikeda does not negatively affect weight gain or achievement of a satisfactory BSE rating at the central bull test stations in Virginia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A disintegrin and metalloproteinases (ADAMs) are a family of proteins expressed as transmembrane and secreted proteins in tissues. This study investigated the expression of glycoproteins and transcripts of ADAM9 and ADAM10 in different regions of the bovine male reproductive tract (MRT). Fresh bovine samples were collected from the testis, epididymis, and vas deferens of MRT for this study. Special stains were utilized for identifying glycoproteins depending on the type of mucopolysaccharides in the seminiferous tubules of the testis and epithelial cells of the epididymis and vas deferens. Quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) was used to assess the mRNA concentrations of ADAMs9 and 10. Additionally, structural and network analysis was performed to investigate the similarity between human and bovine ADAM9 and ADAM10. Variable glycoprotein (acidic and neutral mucopolysaccharides) expression was observed in the seminiferous tubules of the testis and epithelial cells of the epididymis and vas deferens. ADAM9 and 10 mRNA were detected in the testis epididymis and vas deferens, with ADAM9 expression being significantly higher than ADAM10 mRNA expression in the testis and tail of epididymis. Significant similarity between the protein sequence of human and bovine ADAM9 (85.75%) and ADAM10 (96.66%) was observed, while the similarity between protein sequence of ADAM 9 and ADAM10 in humans and bovine was <26%. Bovine ADAM9 showed 4 binding sites, while bovine ADAM10, human ADAM9, and human ADAM10 showed 7 binding pockets, each with considerable variations in the affinity of specific antibody sequences to these binding pockets. Network analysis confirmed that ADAM9 and ADAM10 have critical roles in physiological processes involving cell migration, protease activity, and secretase-related functions. In addition, they have large numbers of hydrogen bonds to most other members of the ADAM family. Our study reports similarities in the expression of glycoproteins and ADAM9 and ADAM10 mRNA in the MRT of Bos Taurus. Structural and network analysis of ADAM9 and ADAM10 suggested functional similarities in these proteins, which are likely to be in facilitating spermatogenesis, transcervical sperm migration, egg-sperm fusion, and fertilization. Further, the similarity between human and bovine ADAM9 and ADAM10 proteins suggests that bovine sperms can be considered as a model system for comparative medicine studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Retos: Nuevas Perspectivas de Educación Física, Deporte y Recreación is the property of Federacion Espanola de Asociaciones de Docentes de Educacion Fisica and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This study examined the effects of surgical castration and lidocaine-plus-meloxicam treatment on growth, physiology, behaviors, and leukocyte heat shock protein 90 (HSP 90) gene expression in Hanwoo (Korean cattle) bulls. Twenty Hanwoo bulls (body weight 248.8 ± 28.5 kg, age 9.4 ± 1.04 months) were assigned to three treatments: surgical castration with lidocaine injection (5 mL in the scrotum) and oral meloxicam administration (1 mg/kg body weight; LM; n = 7); surgical castration with placebo injection (5 mL of 0.9% NaCl) and oral placebo administration (lactose, 1 mg/kg body weight; CAS; n = 7); and shame castration (SHAM; n = 6). Meloxicam and lactose were administered 3 h before castration, and lidocaine and NaCl were injected immediately before castration. Surgical castration was performed with a Newberry knife and a Henderson castration tool. Wight was measured the day before and 14 d after castration, and behavior was observed from 0.5 h to 4.5 h post-castration. Blood was collected at −1 d, 0.5 h, 6 h, 1 d, 3 d, 7 d, and 14 d after castration to measure plasma cortisol, haptoglobin, and leukocyte HSP 90 mRNA. Castration tended to decrease average daily gain (p = 0.06), but the LM treatment did not affect weight gain. Bulls in CAS showed higher cortisol concentration (p

β-Defensins are peptides with antimicrobial roles, characterized by a conserved tertiary structure. Beyond antimicrobial functions, they exhibit diverse roles in both the immune response and fertility, including involvement in sperm maturation and function. Copy number variation (CNV) of β-defensin genes is extensive across mammals, including cattle, with possible implications for reproductive traits and disease resistance. In this study, we comprehensively catalogue 55 β-defensin genes in cattle. By constructing a phylogenetic tree to identify human orthologues and lineage-specific expansions, we identify 1 : 1 human orthologues for 35 bovine β-defensins. We also discover extensive β-defensin gene CNV across breeds, with DEFB103, in particular, showing extensive multi-allelic CNV. By comparing β-defensin expression levels in testis from calves and adult bulls, we find that 14 β-defensins, including DEFB103, increase in expression during sexual maturation. Analysis of β-defensin gene expression levels in the caput of adult bull epididymis, and β-defensin gene copy number, in 94 matched samples shows expression levels of four β-defensins are correlated with genomic copy numbers, including DEFB103. We therefore demonstrate extensive CNV in bovine β-defensin genes, in particular DEFB103, with potential functional consequences for fertility.

One of the most crucial elements influencing the efficacy of artificial insemination applications is semen quality. It is known that post-thaw semen quality was affected by thawing method. Errors made during the thawing process can compromise the motility, viability, morphology and DNA integrity of spermatozoa after thawing. This study was conducted to investigate the effects of four distinct thawing procedures on post-thaw semen quality in bulls. The first group was designated as 24°C (n=8); the straws in this group were thawed in a water bath at 24°C for 60 seconds. Second group was designated as 32°C (n=8); the straws in this group were thawed in a water bath at 32°C for 60 seconds. Third group was designated as 38°C (n=8); the straws in this group were thawed in a water bath at 38°C for 30 seconds. And the fourth group was designated as 70°C (n=8); the straws in this group were thawed in a water bath at 70°C for 7 seconds. Following the thawing process, motility, sperm morphology, viability, and DNA damage rate in spermatozoa were evaluated. Results showed that in 32°C group and 24°C group sperm motility significantly decreased when compared to 70°C and 38°C groups. Additionally, the 24°C group exhibited a significantly elevated DNA damage rate compared to the 70°C group, while no differences were observed in the other groups. In conclusion, the most ideal thawing procedures are at 70°C for 7 seconds and at 38°C for 30 seconds are recommended to get optimum sperm quality from frozen bull semen after thawing.

Abstract Notch is a conserved cell-signaling pathway involved in spermatogenesis regulation. This study firstly evaluated the presence, localization patterns, acquisition origin and relation to acrosome reaction of Notch proteins in bull sperm. Western Blot analysis detected all Notch proteins in ejaculated bull sperm, and immunostaining described their specific sperm localization. Recovery of sperm from different segments showed that Notch proteins have testicular origin (NOTCH1, NOTCH2, DLL4), are sequentially acquired during sperm maturation along epididymal transit (NOTCH3, DLL3, JAGGED1-2), or post-ejaculation (DLL1, NOTCH4). Testis NOTCH2 is ubiquitously expressed in all germ-cell lines, whereas DLL4 is expressed in round and elongated spermatids during the Golgi, Cap, Acrosome and Maturation phases. In vitro spontaneous and induced sperm acrosome reaction induce consistent sperm regional relocation of NOTCH2, DLL4 and JAGGED1, and these relocation patterns are significantly associated to sperm acrosome status. NOTCH2 and JAGGED1 are relocated from the head apical to the post-equatorial regions, whereas DLL4 is lost along with the acrosome, evidencing that sperm spatial redistribution of NOTCH2 and JAGGED1 is linked to acrosome reaction onset, whereas DLL4 loss is linked to AR completion. Overall, results prompt for a relevant Notch role in bull sperm acrosome testicular development, epididymal maturation and acrosome reaction.

Abstract Background In the beef industry, bull calves are usually castrated to improve flavor and meat quality; however, this can reduce their growth and slaughter performance. The gut microbiota is known to exert a significant influence on growth and slaughter performance. However, there is a paucity of research investigating the impact of castration on gut microbiota composition and its subsequent effects on slaughter performance and meat flavor. Result The objective of this study was to examine the processes via which castration hinders slaughter productivity and enhances meat quality. Bull and castrated calves were maintained under the same management conditions, and at slaughter, meat quality was assessed, and ileum and epithelial tissue samples were obtained. The research employed metagenomic sequencing and non-targeted metabolomics techniques to investigate the makeup of the microbiota and identify differential metabolites. The findings of this study revealed the Carcass weight and eye muscle area /carcass weight in the bull group were significantly higher than those in the steer group. There were no significant differences in the length, width, and crypt depth of the ileum villi between the two groups. A total of 53 flavor compounds were identified in the two groups of beef, of which 16 were significantly higher in the steer group than in the bull group, and 5 were significantly higher in the bull group than in the steer group. In addition, bacteria, Eukaryota, and virus species were significantly separated between the two groups. The lipid metabolism pathways of α-linolenic acid, linoleic acid, and unsaturated fatty acids were significantly enriched in the Steers group. Compared with the steer group, the organic system pathway is significantly enriched in the bull group. The study also found that five metabolites (LPC (0:0/20:3), LPC (20:3/0:0), LPE (0:0/22:5), LPE (22:5/0:0), D-Mannosamine), and three species (s_Cloning_vector_Hsp70_LexA-HP1, s_Bacteroides_Coprophilus_CAG: 333, and s_Clostridium_nexile-CAG: 348) interfere with each other and collectively have a positive impact on the flavor compounds of beef. Conclusions These findings provide a basic understanding that under the same management conditions, castration does indeed reduce the slaughter performance of bulls and improve the flavor of beef. Microorganisms and metabolites contribute to these changes through interactions.

Abstract Background Penile fibropapilloma is a condition caused by bovine papilloma virus and is frequently encountered in young bulls. Penile fibropapillomatosis is thought to be spread through homosexual mounting behaviour. Fibropapillomas of the penis are painful, often bleed and can impede normal intromission. Treatment may range from allowing time for slow, spontaneous regression to surgical resection but recurrence following surgery is reported by some authors. Case Presentation Thirty one bulls that were presented to University College Dublin Veterinary Hospital from March 2017 to March 2023 for surgical resection of penile fibropapillomas were included in this retrospective case series. Twenty-seven of the 31 bulls (87%) were under two years of age. The majority (42%) of bulls presented were Hereford, but Angus, Charolais, Holstein-Friesian and Limousin breeds were also seen. Following examination and diagnosis of penile fibropapilloma, regional anaesthesia (xylazine-procaine epidural and internal pudendal nerve block) and standing surgical intervention (resection and cautery) was performed in each case. Phone call follow-up was performed by one author (EET) in all 31 cases and 2 cases out of the 28 that were contactable showed post-surgical recurrence of penile fibropapillomatosis (i.e., 7.1% recurrence rate). Conclusion This case series summarises the history and presenting findings of 31 bovine penile fibropapilloma cases and describes a regional anaesthetic and standing surgical approach for successful case management.

Çeşitli hayvanları tasvir etme geleneği Paleolitik Çağ’da başlayıp çağlar boyunca devam etmiştir. Kültürel sürekliliğe işaret eden bu durum çerçevesinde birçok toplumda ya hayvanlar kutsal kabul edilmiş ya da bazı yerlerde onlara tapınılmıştır. Tapınılan hayvanlar arasında özellikle leopar, aslan, boğa ve geyik tanrıçanın zoomorf tasvirleri olarak karşımıza çıkmaktadır. Tanrıçalarla ilişkili olarak betimlenen bu hayvanlar, dinsel ve mitolojik özellikleri ile dikkat çekmektedir. Neolitik Çağ’da genellikle benekli postu ile betimlenen leopar benekleri muhtemelen doğumla ilgili bir konuya işaret etmektedir. Nitekim Boğazköy’de bulunmuş metinlerden leoparın, Tanrıça Teteşhapi ve Güneş Tanrıçası ile yakın ilişki içinde olduğu anlaşılmaktadır. Anadolu’da genellikle koruyuculuğu simgeleyen ve sık sık tasvir edilen aslan ise Çatalhöyük’ten leopar benzeriyle başlayarak tanrıçayla özdeşleşen en güçlü hayvandır. Kedigillerin tanrıça ve kadın ile ilişkilendirilmesi süreklilik arz etmektedir. Öyle ki bu süreklilik siyah kedili cadı geleneğiyle günümüze kadar gelmiştir. Üreme, çoğalmayı sembolize eden boğa ve büyüsel bir amacı olduğu düşünülen geyik de Paleolitik Çağ’dan itibaren kutsal bir varlık olarak düşünülmektedir. Ayrıca Paleolitik Çağ mağaralarında ana tema olarak işlenen boynuzlu hayvan kompozisyonlarının sık sık resmedilmesi, bundan sonraki çağlarda -Neolitik, Kalkolitik, Tunç Çağı ve devamında- tarih sahnesine yerleşen bir köklü inanışın habercisidir. Dolayısıyla boğa/inek ve geyiğin mağara duvarlarında başlayan sanatsal serüveni yüzyıllar boyunca devam etmiştir.

The estimation of acrosomal integrity is crucial for predicting the fertility of spermatozoa. The semen quality analysis demands assessment techniques to be reliable, quick and easy to perform for routine application in semen station. A study was conducted to assess the acrosomal integrity of Kangayam cattle and Salem Black goat using Giemsa stain and modified Trypan Blue-Giemsa stain. For this procedure, 70 numbers of frozen semen straws of Kangayam bull and Salem Black bucks were stained. The staining quality and acrosomal integrity were assessed at the interval of 3, 5 and 24 hours interval up to 5 days, and evaluated as acrosomal intact and non-intact spermatozoa. In Kangayam bull semen, the quality of the staining was good and better in trypan blue – Giemsa stain than Giemsa alone but for Salem Black buck semen Giemsa showed better staining quality than trypan blue – Giemsa combination. However, the working solution of Giemsa once prepared can be used for 4 days but the trypan blue-Giemsa stain can be used for only 24 hours once prepared. Hence, stain is required to be prepared on daily basis for routine semen evaluation in semen stations. As a conclusion trypan blue – Giemsa staining method is recommended for better staining of acrosome in bull semen and Giemsa alone in Buck semen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Seasonal microclimatic fluctuations can cause changes in sperm quality even in dairy bulls bred under temperate climate. These changes can vary between sires of different age and affect sperm freezability. Aims: We aimed to evaluate the modulating effect of bull age and equilibration time before freezing on the seasonal pattern of sperm viability and DNA integrity post-thaw. Methods: In the frame of systematic sperm quality control, we assessed the integrity of sperm plasma membrane and acrosome (PMAI) in 15,496 cryopreserved bovine batches, and the percentage of sperm with high DNA fragmentation index (%DFI) after 0 h and 3 h incubation at 38°C post-thaw (3 h) in 3422 batches. Semen was equilibrated for 24 h before freezing if collected on Monday or Wednesday and 72 h if produced on Friday. We investigated the effect of season, bull age, equilibration, and temperature-humidity index (THI) on the day of semen collection on sperm traits using mixed-effects linear models. Key results: PMAI and %DFI (0 h and 3 h) deteriorated with increasing THI. The effect of THI on %DFI was detected with a 30-day time lag. Seasonal fluctuations of sperm quality were similar between young, mature, and older sires. Prolonged equilibration did not affect PMAI but was linked to elevated %DFI (3 h) in summer. Conclusions: Extending equilibration from 24 to 72 h is compatible with commercial standards of bovine sperm quality post-thaw; however, it could interfere with the seasonal pattern of the latter. Implications: Systematic monitoring of bovine sperm quality enables the prompt detection of stress factors related to microclimate and semen processing. Multiple correspondence analysis (MCA) plot for the categorical variables of season of semen collection and age class of 262 individual bulls. Points represent the score of each bull for the quantitative variables (percentage of sperm with intact plasma membrane and acrosome and percentage of sperm with high DNA fragmentation index (immediately after thawing and after 3 h of incubation at 38°C) in different seasons of the year. Photograph by Eleni Malama. This article belongs to the Collection Dedication to Jim Cummins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aimed to enhance the cryo-survivability and fertilization potential of poor freezable Sahiwal bull semen by devising a modified extender and freezing protocol. This protocol incorporated a combination of trehalose and glycerol as cryoprotectants and freezing with an aluminium block. The semen samples were split into three; the split 1 was extended in routine tris fructose egg yolk glycerol (TFEG) extender and underwent the conventional vapour freezing (Control group). The other split samples considered as treatment samples were extended with diluent having 75 % of TFEG and 25 % of trehalose (280 mOsm/l both) with glycerol percentage being 5, and frozen using a conventional vapour freezing (T1) and modified freezing protocol with an aluminium block (T2). After freezing-thawing, the progressive sperm motility, viability, HOS response and acrosome integrity were significantly (p ≤ 0.05) improved in treatment 2 compared to the control and treatment 1 groups. Along with this, the degree of oxidative stress (MDA production) was substantially lower in treatment groups (T1 and T2) compared to control group. The results highlight the promising effectiveness of the modified freezing method incorporating trehalose and glycerol as cryoprotectants and using an aluminium block. The significance of these findings lies in the potential application of this technique for freezing-thawing semen, particularly from bulls with poor freezability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pathologies affecting the bulls’genital tract are important reasons for seeking veterinary surgeon consultation. Abnormalities of testis and epididymis are accompanied with those of the penis and prepuce. Mechanical injuries are the most common causes, but other conditions, with more complex etiology, are also frequently identified. Among them are congenital alterations, and acquired infectious and non-infectious problems, namely: penile papillomatosis, penile hair ring, persistent penile frenulum, eversion of the prepuce, and others, that all prevent breeding soundness. This article presents some chosen pathologies of bull sexual organs including their incidence, the diagnostics and recommended treatment options. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In the beef industry, bull calves are usually castrated to improve flavor and meat quality; however, this can reduce their growth and slaughter performance. The gut microbiota is known to exert a significant influence on growth and slaughter performance. However, there is a paucity of research investigating the impact of castration on gut microbiota composition and its subsequent effects on slaughter performance and meat flavor. Result: The objective of this study was to examine the processes via which castration hinders slaughter productivity and enhances meat quality. Bull and castrated calves were maintained under the same management conditions, and at slaughter, meat quality was assessed, and ileum and epithelial tissue samples were obtained. The research employed metagenomic sequencing and non-targeted metabolomics techniques to investigate the makeup of the microbiota and identify differential metabolites. The findings of this study revealed the Carcass weight and eye muscle area /carcass weight in the bull group were significantly higher than those in the steer group. There were no significant differences in the length, width, and crypt depth of the ileum villi between the two groups. A total of 53 flavor compounds were identified in the two groups of beef, of which 16 were significantly higher in the steer group than in the bull group, and 5 were significantly higher in the bull group than in the steer group. In addition, bacteria, Eukaryota, and virus species were significantly separated between the two groups. The lipid metabolism pathways of α-linolenic acid, linoleic acid, and unsaturated fatty acids were significantly enriched in the Steers group. Compared with the steer group, the organic system pathway is significantly enriched in the bull group. The study also found that five metabolites (LPC (0:0/20:3), LPC (20:3/0:0), LPE (0:0/22:5), LPE (22:5/0:0), D-Mannosamine), and three species (s_Cloning_vector_Hsp70_LexA-HP1, s_Bacteroides_Coprophilus_CAG: 333, and s_Clostridium_nexile-CAG: 348) interfere with each other and collectively have a positive impact on the flavor compounds of beef. Conclusions: These findings provide a basic understanding that under the same management conditions, castration does indeed reduce the slaughter performance of bulls and improve the flavor of beef. Microorganisms and metabolites contribute to these changes through interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dede Korkut stories are symbolic texts reflecting the subconscious of society. These stories have been analyzed from various views centered on language and structure, but there are very few meaning-oriented analysis studies on these stories. For this reason, the story titled "Dirse Han Oğlu Boğaç Han", the first of the Dede Korkut Oghuznâmes consisting of twelve stories, will be analyzed with a religious-mythological and archetypal approach. The story is based on the transformation of state and society, ruler and ruled, astral symbols, zoological symbols, family relations and time connections. In the story, connections are established among the astral cycle consisting of the Sun, the Moon and the stars determining time in the form of day, month and year; their effects on life, animal and plant life, economic cycle, spiritual life cycle. We think that the epic was created by establishing similarities between the spiritual authority consisting of prophethood, sainthood and corruption periods, which are the cycle of the history of religions, and the material state structure and family structure. In the epic, which exhibits a mythological structure, it is intuited that there are common laws among many elements, especially cycle, renewal, time, space and quality relations. Among these laws based on similarities, there are transitions from the visible to the invisible, from the easily comprehensible to the difficult to understand through symbols. Within all these relationships, the similarities between the family-society relationship and the state-cosmos functioning come to the fore. The story moves from the prototype of the family to the parameters of global functioning while describing the relations between the life of a small beylik family and a larger beylik. Understanding Oghuznâmeler, which has the characteristics of a political treatise, has educational and consciousness-raising functions in terms of understanding the tradition of Turkish society and shedding light on the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Selcuk University Social Sciences Institute / Selçuk Üniversitesi Sosyal Bilimler Enstitüsü Dergisi is the property of Journal of Selcuk University Social Sciences Institute and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Increasing the age of bulls results in a decrease in reproductive function, including a reduction in sperm quality, which plays a vital role in determining the fertility of bulls. Through a proteomic approach, this research aims to analyze the influence of age factors on various proteomes contained in bull sperm. Frozen semen samples from Simmental Bulls were categorized into three age groups: two, four, and ≥10 years old. Subsequently, the post-thaw sperm cells obtained were separated based on molecular weight using 1D-SDS-PAGE. Peptides extracted from the bands produced in each age group were subjected to LC-MS/MS analysis. A total of 72 protein types were identified, with 45 being detected in the 4-year-old group and 41 expressed in both the 2 and ≥10-year-old groups. The results provided insights into proteins' role in sperm metabolism across all age groups. Specifically, the 2-year-old group exhibited the expression of proteins associated with acrosome assembly and spermatid development (SPACA1). In contrast, those in the 4-year-old group were linked to motility (PEBP4) and sperm decapacitation factor (PEBP1). Proteins expressed in the 2 and -year-old groups were discovered to be involved in fertilization processes (TEX101). In contrast, the ≥10-year-old age group was associated with hyperactive movement related to capacitation (Tubulin). In conclusion, age influenced the differences observed in the proteomic profile of post-thaw Simmental bull sperm using the 1D-SDS-PAGE tandem LC-MS/MS approach.