Research

13 pages, 441 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Determination of 20 Endocrine-Disrupting Compounds in the Buffalo Milk Production Chain and Commercial Bovine Milk by UHPLC–MS/MS and HPLC–FLD

by Ilaria Di Marco Pisciottano, Grazia Guadagnuolo, Fabio Busico, Luca Alessandroni, Bruno Neri, Domenico Vecchio, Gabriele Di Vuolo, Giovanna Cappelli, Alessandra Martucciello and Pasquale Gallo

Animals 2022, 12(4), 410; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12040410 - 09 Feb 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 1920

Abstract

Bisphenol A (BPA) and some of its analogues are well known as endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), i.e., compounds that can affect the physiological hormonal pathways in both animals and humans, causing adverse health effects. The intake of these substances through diet represents a public [...] Read more.

Bisphenol A (BPA) and some of its analogues are well known as endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), i.e., compounds that can affect the physiological hormonal pathways in both animals and humans, causing adverse health effects. The intake of these substances through diet represents a public concern, compounded by the scarce data in the literature about contamination levels in food. In the framework of a research project, funded by the Italian Ministry of Health, we determined the contamination levels of BPA and 19 EDCs in the production chain of buffalo milk, analysing feed, drinking water, buffalo milk, and blood sera. Overall, 201 feed, 9 feed additive, 62 drinking water, 46 milk, and 190 blood serum samples were collected from 10 buffalo farms in the Campania region, Southern Italy, between 2019 and 2020, and analysed. Moreover, 15 retail bovine milk samples packaged both in Tetra Pak and in PET were analysed to further evaluate consumers’ exposure to EDCs. The results of our work showed no contamination by EDCs in drinking water samples, whereas in 43% of all of the other samples from the farms at least one bisphenol was detected. The most abundant bisphenol detected was BPA (32% of the samples from the farms and 80% of the retail milk samples), thus proving that this compound is still widely used for plastic production. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Water Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis))

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11 pages, 291 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Packaging Type and Aging on the Meat Quality Characteristics of Water Buffalo Bulls

by Muhammad Hayat Jaspal, Iftikhar Hussain Badar, Muhammad Usman Ghani, Muawuz Ijaz, Muhammad Kashif Yar, Adeel Manzoor, Jamal Nasir, Kashif Nauman, Muhammad Junaid Akhtar, Abdur Rahman, Faisal Hussnain and Arfan Ahmad

Animals 2022, 12(2), 130; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12020130 - 06 Jan 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1698

Abstract

The present study determined the effect of the packaging type and aging time on the meat quality of water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) bulls. A total of n = 36 longissimus lumborum (LL) muscles from n = 18 buffalo bulls were obtained. [...] Read more.

The present study determined the effect of the packaging type and aging time on the meat quality of water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) bulls. A total of n = 36 longissimus lumborum (LL) muscles from n = 18 buffalo bulls were obtained. Half LL muscles were packed in modified atmosphere packaging (Hi-O₂ MAP), vacuum packaging (VP), and oxygen-permeable packaging (OP) on day 1, while the other half were aged for 7 days. Meat instrumental color, cooking loss, Warner–Bratzler shear force (WBSF), thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), and total volatile basic nitrogen (TVB-N) of the LL steaks were analyzed, both on unaged and aged buffalo meat. Color CIE L* and C* values on all display days and a* on the first 4 days of the simulated retail display under Hi-O₂ MAP packaging were significantly higher than those of the VP and OP. WBSF and TBARS values were also higher under Hi-O₂ MAP as compared to the other packaging. Steaks under OP exhibited lower cooking loss but higher TVB-N values than the MAP and VP. The 7-day-aged buffalo meat indicated higher instrumental color (L*, a* and C*), cooking loss, and lower WBSF values than fresh meat. This study concluded that Hi-O₂ MAP improved the color; however, it negatively influenced the buffalo meat’s WBSF and TBAR values. Furthermore, VP and aging were the most effective in decreasing the WBSF values of buffalo meat. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Water Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis))

15 pages, 1423 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Freezing on the Microbiological Quality and Physical Characteristics of Buffalo Mozzarella Cheese

by Loredana Biondi, Andrea Fulgione, Federico Capuano, Morena Nappa, Angelo Citro and Donatella Nava

Animals 2021, 11(12), 3502; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11123502 - 08 Dec 2021

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2313

Abstract

Buffalo Mozzarella cheese from Campania is one of the most worldwide appreciated Italian dairy products. The increased demand for buffalo dairy products and the limited availability of the finest buffalo milk has prompted the diffusion of illicit practices, such as the use of [...] Read more.

Buffalo Mozzarella cheese from Campania is one of the most worldwide appreciated Italian dairy products. The increased demand for buffalo dairy products and the limited availability of the finest buffalo milk has prompted the diffusion of illicit practices, such as the use of milk, curd, or other products that are frozen or bought at low cost. The aim of this research was to provide preliminary results about the trend of the microbial communities of buffalo milk, curd and Buffalo Mozzarella cheese, during freezing storage of eleven months. At the same time, the alterations of physical properties and the presence of the molecular marker “γ4-casein”, have been investigated. The results showed that freezing reduced the concentrations of the total bacterial count, Enterobacteriaceae, coliforms, Escherichia coli and yeasts in fresh milk and, the concentrations of the total bacterial count, coliforms, lactic acid bacteria and yeasts in mature curd. In the finished product, no notable decreases were observed, except for lactic acid bacteria. About the γ4-casein, no increase was observed in all matrices. These preliminary results allow us to conclude that the freezing process if properly carried out, does not compromise the microbiological quality and the physical properties of the Buffalo Mozzarella cheese. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Water Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis))

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17 pages, 2494 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Clinical Effect of Xylazine Premedication in Water Buffalo Calves (Bubalus bubalis) Undergoing Castration under General Anaesthesia

by Giulia Guerri, Ilaria Cerasoli, Paola Straticò, Ippolito De Amicis, Brunella Giangaspero, Vincenzo Varasano, Andrea Paolini, Augusto Carluccio and Lucio Petrizzi

Animals 2021, 11(12), 3433; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11123433 - 01 Dec 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1876

Abstract

Castration is one of the most frequently performed surgical procedures in livestock. All methods of castration are associated with a significant degree of pain, affecting the patients’ welfare. Limited information on species-specific protocols in buffaloes is available. Considering the importance of this species [...] Read more.

Castration is one of the most frequently performed surgical procedures in livestock. All methods of castration are associated with a significant degree of pain, affecting the patients’ welfare. Limited information on species-specific protocols in buffaloes is available. Considering the importance of this species and the scarcity of reports available, the objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of two different intramuscular doses of xylazine for premedication in water buffalo calves undergoing isoflurane maintenance anaesthesia for routine castration surgery. Twenty clinically healthy male water buffaloes undergoing bilateral orchiectomy were randomly assigned to two groups of 10 animals each: Group 1 was premedicated with xylazine 0.1 mg/kg bw i.m. and Group 2 was premedicated with xylazine 0.15 mg/kg bw i.m. Anaesthesia was induced by ketamine (2 mg/kg bw i.v.) and maintained with isoflurane-oxygen-air in both groups. The HR, RR, presence/absence of ataxia, sedation, depth of anaesthesia, muscle relaxation status, response to acoustic and tactile stimuli, eyelid reflex, extent of salivation and stimulus were evaluated every 5 min. Both protocols provided consistent sedation and were safe. Faster and more satisfactory sedation was recorded when xylazine was administered at 0.15 mg/kg bw i.m., leading us to recommend this dose for buffalo orchiectomy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Water Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis))

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15 pages, 1178 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of Brix Refractometry to Estimate Immunoglobulin G Content in Buffalo Colostrum and Neonatal Calf Serum

by Melania Giammarco, Matteo Chincarini, Isa Fusaro, Anna Chiara Manetta, Alberto Contri, Alessia Gloria, Lydia Lanzoni, Ludovica Maria Eugenia Mammi, Nicola Ferri and Giorgio Vignola

Animals 2021, 11(9), 2616; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11092616 - 06 Sep 2021

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3649

Abstract

Brix refractometry has been widely demonstrated to be a useful tool for monitoring colostrum management program and passive immunity transfer (PIT) in Bovines, but its suitability has never been verified in Buffalo. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the utility [...] Read more.

Brix refractometry has been widely demonstrated to be a useful tool for monitoring colostrum management program and passive immunity transfer (PIT) in Bovines, but its suitability has never been verified in Buffalo. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the utility of a simple and rapid tool such as a digital Brix refractometer to estimate colostrum quality and for evaluating the success of passive transfer of immunoglobulin G (IgG) in Buffalo calves. The optimal cut points levels for Brix Refractometry for distinguishing good- and poor-quality colostrum and for assessing the adequacy of passive immunity transfer in calves were determined. For this aim, 26 first-milking maternal colostrum (MC) were collected from first-calf heifers. Blood samples were obtained from their calves at birth (T0) and 72 hours after (T3). Colostrum and Serum IgG content were determined by indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), whereas total protein (TP, g/dL) and percentage Brix (%Brix) by means of a digital Brix refractometer. The mean colostrum IgG was 64.9 ± 29.3 mg/mL. The mean serum %Brix at T3 was 9.6 ± 0.9 %. The mean serum IgG content at T3 was 11.1 ± 2.0 mg/mL. Pearson’s correlation coefficient (r_p) was determined between Brix and ELISA measurements: colostrum %Brix showed a significant correlation with serum %Brix (r_p = 0.82, p < 0.001); serum %Brix was highly correlated with serum TP (STP, g/dL) (r_p = 0.98, p < 0.001) and serum IgG (mg/mL) (r_p = 0.85, p < 0.001). A cut point of 18% Brix to estimate samples of MC ≥ 50 mg/mL from first-calf heifers was more appropriate for the buffalo. A cut point of 8.4% Brix resulted in the greatest percentage of calf serum samples being correctly classified. Based on our findings, a digital Brix refractometer could be a useful tool to monitor colostrum quality and to estimate PIT in Buffalo calves. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Water Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis))

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12 pages, 1087 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Wet Aging on Color Stability, Tenderness, and Sensory Attributes of Longissimus lumborum and Gluteus medius Muscles from Water Buffalo Bulls

by Muhammad Hayat Jaspal, Iftikhar Hussain Badar, Osama Bin Amjad, Muhammad Kashif Yar, Muawuz Ijaz, Adeel Manzoor, Jamal Nasir, Bilal Asghar, Sher Ali, Kashif Nauman, Abdur Rahman and Um Ul Wara

Animals 2021, 11(8), 2248; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11082248 - 30 Jul 2021

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3354

Abstract

The present study aimed to investigate the effect of wet aging on meat quality characteristics of Longissimus lumborum (LL) and Gluteus medius (GM) muscles of buffalo bulls. Meat samples from six aging periods, i.e., 0 day (d) = control, 7 d, 14 d, [...] Read more.

The present study aimed to investigate the effect of wet aging on meat quality characteristics of Longissimus lumborum (LL) and Gluteus medius (GM) muscles of buffalo bulls. Meat samples from six aging periods, i.e., 0 day (d) = control, 7 d, 14 d, 21 d, 28 d, and 35 d, were evaluated for pH, color, metmyoglobin content (MetMb%), cooking loss, water holding capacity (WHC), myofibrillar fragmentation index (MFI), Warner–Bratzler shear force (WBSF), and sensory evaluation. The pH, instrumental color redness (a *), yellowness (b *), chroma (C *), and MetMb% values were increased, while the lightness (L *) and hue angle (h *) values showed non-significant (p > 0.05) differences in both LL and GM muscles in all aging periods. The cooking loss increased while WHC decreased till 35 days of aging. MFI values significantly (p < 0.05) increased, while WBSF values decreased; in addition, sensory characteristics were improved with the increase in the aging period. Overall, the color, tenderness, and sensory characteristics were improved in LL and GM muscles until 28 and 21 days of aging, respectively. Based on the evaluated meat characteristics, 28 days of aging is required to improve the meat quality characteristics of LL, whereas 21 days of aging is suitable for GM muscle. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Water Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis))

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12 pages, 296 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Association of the Potential Risk Factors and Nutrition Elements with Abortion and Calving Rates of Egyptian Buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis)

by Walaa M. Essawi, Ali Ali El-Raghi, Fatma Ali, Mohamed A. Nassan, Ahmed N. F. Neamat-Allah and Mahmoud A. E. Hassan

Animals 2021, 11(7), 2043; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11072043 - 08 Jul 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2756

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to investigate risk factors, serum minerals, and metabolites associated with non-infectious abortion and calving rates of Egyptian buffaloes. Data were obtained from 364 pregnant buffaloes of different ages and parities over 7 years from 2014 to [...] Read more.

The aim of the present study was to investigate risk factors, serum minerals, and metabolites associated with non-infectious abortion and calving rates of Egyptian buffaloes. Data were obtained from 364 pregnant buffaloes of different ages and parities over 7 years from 2014 to 2020. Body condition score (BCS) was a risk factor regarding abortion and calving; the thinnest buffaloes were more likely to abort and less likely to calving than those with body energy reserves. In comparison with the spring season, aborting probability decreased 49.7% the odds ratio (OR = 0.503), while the chance of calving increased 72.1% (OR = 1.721) during winter. The parity was another significant factor related to abortion and calving rates; multiparous buffaloes were less likely to abort and more likely to calving than primiparous. Dry buffaloes had 88.2% (OR = 0.118) lesser odds of abortion and six times (OR = 6.012) more likely to give birth than those lactating. The sex of the fetus was not a risk factor regarding abortion or calving. Other variables significantly associated with abortion rate were glucose and copper in the sera of aborted buffaloes were significantly higher (p < 0.05), and those of urea, uric acid, total protein, total cholesterol, phosphorus, magnesium and iron were significantly (p < 0.05) lower than a normal pregnancy. In conclusion, the present results emphasize that the identification of the risk factors, serum minerals and metabolites associated with fetus abortion of Egyptian buffalo may provide useful information, which assists to construct suitable preventive measures to raise reproductive performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Water Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis))

10 pages, 1644 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Italian Tracing System for Water Buffalo Milk and Processed Milk Products

by Giovanna Cappelli, Gabriele Di Vuolo, Oreste Gerini, Rosario Noschese, Francesca Bufano, Roberta Capacchione, Stefano Rosini, Antonio Limone and Esterina De Carlo

Animals 2021, 11(6), 1737; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11061737 - 11 Jun 2021

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 4486

Abstract

This document describes the development of a tracing system for the buffalo supply chain, namely an online computer system in which farmers, dairies, and brokers must maintain records of the production of milk through to the production of derivatives. The system is jointly [...] Read more.

This document describes the development of a tracing system for the buffalo supply chain, namely an online computer system in which farmers, dairies, and brokers must maintain records of the production of milk through to the production of derivatives. The system is jointly used throughout the Italian national territory by the Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno (IZSM) and the Sistema Informativo Agricolo Nazionale Italiano (SIAN), after being made mandatory and regulated with the publication of the Ministerial Decree of 9 September 2014. Farmers are obligated to communicate their daily production of bulk milk, the number of animals milked, the number of the delivery note of the sale, and the name of the purchaser; within the first week of the month, they must communicate the milk production of each animal milked. Dairies are required to communicate the milk and the processed product (mozzarella, yogurt, etc.) purchased on a daily basis. The intermediaries are required to communicate the daily milk purchased, both fresh and frozen, the semi-finished product, and the sale of the same. The tracing system linked to the project authorized by the Ministry of Health, called “Development, validation and verification of the applicability of an IT system to be used for the management of traceability in the buffalo industry”, provides operators with the monitoring of production and sales in real time through alerts and access logs. Currently, there are 1531 registered farmers, 601 non-PDO dairies, 102 PDO dairies, 68 non-PDO intermediaries, and 17 PDO intermediaries in Italy. The system provides support for the recovery of the buffalo sector; from the analysis of the data extrapolated from the tracing system of the buffalo supply chain for the years 2016 to 2019, this paper highlights that the application of the Ministerial Decree No. 9406 of 9 September 2014 and the tracing of the supply chain have increased the price of buffalo milk at barns from EUR 1.37/kg to EUR 1.55/kg from 2016 to 2019. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Water Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis))

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11 pages, 2346 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Characterization of Foot and Mouth Disease Virus Serotype SAT-2 in Swamp Water Buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) under the Egyptian Smallholder Production System

by Hend M. El Damaty, Elshaima M. Fawzi, Ahmed N. F. Neamat-Allah, Ibrahim Elsohaby, Abdelmonem Abdallah, Gamelat K. Farag, Yousry A. El-Shazly and Yasser S. Mahmmod

Animals 2021, 11(6), 1697; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11061697 - 07 Jun 2021

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 5455

Abstract

Spontaneous mutations are a common characteristic of the foot and mouth disease virus (FMDV), leading to wide antigenic variations resulting in the emergence of new topotypes and lineages of FMDV, which contributes to occasional vaccination failures. The objectives of the present study were [...] Read more.

Spontaneous mutations are a common characteristic of the foot and mouth disease virus (FMDV), leading to wide antigenic variations resulting in the emergence of new topotypes and lineages of FMDV, which contributes to occasional vaccination failures. The objectives of the present study were to genetically characterize FMDV isolated from water buffaloes and study the biochemical and histopathological indicators of infected animals. Fifty-four water buffaloes of both sexes and different ages suffered from acute symptoms of FMD were clinically examined and randomly selected for inclusion in this study. Oral desquamated epithelial and oropharyngeal fluid samples have been tested for FMDV by reverse transcriptase PCR (RT-PCR). Tissue and serum samples were also collected from the diseased buffaloes and subjected to histopathological and biochemical analysis. Our findings showed that all examined samples were confirmed to be positive to FMDV serotype SAT-2 and were adjusted to be responsible for the recent disease outbreak in this study. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the circulating viruses were of the SAT-2 serotype, closely related to the lineage of lib12, topotype VII, with 98.9% identity. The new lineage of SAT-2 showed a high virulence resulting in the deaths of water buffaloes due to heart failure, confirmed by high serum levels of inflammatory and cardiac markers, including haptoglobin, ceruloplasmin, cardiac troponin I and creatine phosphokinase-MB, indicating an unfavorable FMD-infection prognosis. In conclusion, we document the presence of new incursions circulating in water buffalo populations in Egypt in early 2019, explaining the high morbidity rate of FMD outbreak in early 2019. Furthermore, the newly identified serotype SAT-2 lib12 lineage, topotype VII, showed an aggressive pattern in water buffaloes of the smallholder production system. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Water Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis))

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14 pages, 1033 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Maternal and Neonatal Behaviour in Italian Mediterranean Buffaloes

by Lydia Lanzoni, Matteo Chincarini, Melania Giammarco, Isa Fusaro, Alessia Gloria, Alberto Contri, Nicola Ferri and Giorgio Vignola

Animals 2021, 11(6), 1584; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11061584 - 28 May 2021

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 5439

Abstract

The aim of this study was to describe the neonatal and maternal behaviour of Italian Mediterranean buffaloes. Thirty primiparous buffaloes were moved into individual pens 12.5 (±2.5) days before calving. Maternal and neonatal behaviours were recorded for 48 h after calving and the [...] Read more.

The aim of this study was to describe the neonatal and maternal behaviour of Italian Mediterranean buffaloes. Thirty primiparous buffaloes were moved into individual pens 12.5 (±2.5) days before calving. Maternal and neonatal behaviours were recorded for 48 h after calving and the analysis was performed in continuous sampling with the software BORIS. Calves’ clinical evaluations (temperature, weight, and heart and respiratory rates) were performed at different time intervals and correlated with behavioural data from the dam. Data were analysed with parametric and non-parametric methods after controlling their distribution. The maternal behavioural pattern found highlighted buffaloes’ priorities during the post-partum period: firstly, they stand and start grooming to ensure proper care for the calf; it is only after this that they dedicate time to maintenance behaviours (feeding and lying). The dams mainly groomed the calf during the first six hours after calving (average time in the 1–6-h interval: 7.7 ± 2.5 min., F = (2.5, 60.2) = 75.0; p < 0.001) to ensure the formation of the mother–infant bond; thereafter, the behaviour decreased over time. As reported in the literature, inexperienced mothers could sometimes delay the calf’s first suckling with aggressive or rejection behaviours. In this regard, 16 buffalo dams showed at least one maternal rejection behaviour, which was found to negatively correlate with calves’ daily weight gain (DWG) at 14 (r_s = −0.5, p = 0.02) and 21 days (r_s = −0.7, p < 0.001). The calves took on average 212.0 ± 110.0 min to suckle, and this behaviour was mainly shown during the first six hours. Overall, suckling behaviour was correlated with standing: (r_s = 0.6, p < 0.001) and walking (r_s = 0.9, p < 0.001). The calves’ live weight and DWG were consistently higher than the values reported in the literature. Our results present a detailed description of maternal and neonatal behaviour in the early post-partum period in Italian Mediterranean buffaloes. We also found that maternal rejection behaviours can negatively influence the calves’ growth. Finally, we think that such results can improve the management of buffaloes during the period around parturition. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Water Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis))

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10 pages, 1302 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR) Analysis for the Detection and Quantification of Cow DNA in Buffalo Mozzarella Cheese

by Anna Cutarelli, Andrea Fulgione, Pasquale Fraulo, Francesco Paolo Serpe, Pasquale Gallo, Loredana Biondi, Federica Corrado, Angelo Citro and Federico Capuano

Animals 2021, 11(5), 1270; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11051270 - 28 Apr 2021

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2360

Abstract

Buffalo mozzarella cheese is one of the most appreciated traditional Italian products and it is certified as a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) product under the European Commission Regulation No. 1151/2012. It is obtained exclusively from buffalo milk. If made from cow milk, [...] Read more.

Buffalo mozzarella cheese is one of the most appreciated traditional Italian products and it is certified as a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) product under the European Commission Regulation No. 1151/2012. It is obtained exclusively from buffalo milk. If made from cow milk, or a mixture of buffalo and cow milk, buffalo mozzarella cheese does not qualify as a PDO product. In order to maximize their profits, some producers market buffalo mozzarella that also contains cow milk as a PDO product, thus defrauding consumers. New methods for revealing this fraud are therefore needed. One such method is the droplet digital Polymerase Chain Reaction (ddPCR). Thanks to its high precision and sensitivity, the ddPCR could prove an efficacious means for detecting the presence of cow milk in buffalo mozzarella cheese that is marketed as a PDO product. ddPCR has proved able to detect the DNA of cow and/or buffalo milk in 33 buffalo mozzarella cheeses labelled as PDO products, and experimental evidence could support its application in routine analyses. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Water Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis))

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17 pages, 1365 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of Genetic Diversity and Structure of Turkish Water Buffalo Population by Using 20 Microsatellite Markers

by Emel Özkan Ünal, Raziye Işık, Ayşe Şen, Elif Geyik Kuş and Mehmet İhsan Soysal

Animals 2021, 11(4), 1067; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11041067 - 09 Apr 2021

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2716

Abstract

The present study was aimed to investigate the genetic diversity among 17 Turkish water buffalo populations. A total of 837 individuals from 17 provincial populations were genotyped, using 20 microsatellites markers. The microsatellite markers analyzed were highly polymorphic with a mean number of [...] Read more.

The present study was aimed to investigate the genetic diversity among 17 Turkish water buffalo populations. A total of 837 individuals from 17 provincial populations were genotyped, using 20 microsatellites markers. The microsatellite markers analyzed were highly polymorphic with a mean number of alleles of (7.28) ranging from 6 (ILSTS005) to 17 (ETH003). The mean observed and expected heterozygosity values across all polymorphic loci in all studied buffalo populations were 0.61 and 0.70, respectively. Observed heterozygosity varied from 0.55 (Bursa (BUR)) to 0.70 (Muş (MUS)). It was lower than expected heterozygosity in most of the populations indicating a deviation from Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium. The overall value for the polymorphic information content of noted microsatellite loci was 0.655, indicating their suitability for genetic diversity analysis in buffalo. The mean F_IS value was 0.091 and all loci were observed significantly deviated from Hardy–Weinberg Equilibrium (HWE), most likely based on non-random breeding. The 17 buffalo populations were genetically less diverse as indicated by a small mean F_ST value (0.032 ± 0.018). The analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) analysis indicated that about 2% of the total genetic diversity was clarified by population distinctions and 88 percent corresponded to differences among individuals. The information produced by this study can be used to establish a base of national conservation and breeding strategy of water buffalo population in Turkey. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Water Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis))

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Review

Jump to: Research, Other

29 pages, 6584 KiB

Open AccessReview

Handling and Physiological Aspects of the Dual-Purpose Water Buffalo Production System in the Mexican Humid Tropics

by Daniela Rodríguez-González, Antonio Humberto Hamad Minervino, Agustín Orihuela, Aldo Bertoni, Diego Armando Morales-Canela, Adolfo Álvarez-Macías, Nancy José-Pérez, Adriana Domínguez-Oliva and Daniel Mota-Rojas

Animals 2022, 12(5), 608; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12050608 - 28 Feb 2022

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 8443

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to describe the characteristics of the dual-purpose water buffalo production based on the Mexican production system as a model in tropical wetlands. It includes a broad literature review emphasizing the most recent and specialized publications examining key [...] Read more.

The purpose of this paper is to describe the characteristics of the dual-purpose water buffalo production based on the Mexican production system as a model in tropical wetlands. It includes a broad literature review emphasizing the most recent and specialized publications examining key findings to improve our understanding in the performance of the buffalo species (Bubalus bubalis). The complementary topics addressed include reproductive management, parturition, the dam–calf bond, milking routines, and models of confinement and management, in addition to aspects related to milk commercialization. This article summarizes the advances made to date in this production system and its current margins for improvement. The development of dual-purpose water buffalo production systems in Mexico’s tropical wetlands is a relatively recent phenomenon that has progressed and improved due to herd management. Buffaloes are an interesting alternative for dual purpose systems that offer several advantages. The lower milk production of this species compared to cattle is its main limitation. However, the properties of their milk allow one to obtain an added value and make this type of farms competitive. In synthesis, consolidating buffalo production in Mexico’s tropical wetlands will require broadening our knowledge of this species, and perfecting the most appropriate handling procedures. The activities of government agencies and processing enterprises will play vital roles in achieving the integral modernization of this potentially important economic activity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Water Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis))

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21 pages, 1307 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Cytogenetics of the Water Buffalo: A Review

by Alessandra Iannuzzi, Pietro Parma and Leopoldo Iannuzzi

Animals 2021, 11(11), 3109; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11113109 - 30 Oct 2021

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2767

Abstract

The water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis), also known as the Asian buffalo, is an essential domestic bovid. Indeed, although its world population (~209 million heads) is approximately one-ninth that of cattle, the management of this species involves a larger human population than [...] Read more.

The water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis), also known as the Asian buffalo, is an essential domestic bovid. Indeed, although its world population (~209 million heads) is approximately one-ninth that of cattle, the management of this species involves a larger human population than that involved with raising cattle. Compared with cattle, water buffalo have been understudied for many years, but interest in this species has been increasing, especially considering that the world population of these bovids grows every year—particularly that of the river buffalo. There are two genera of buffalo worldwide: the Syncerus (from the African continent), and the Bubalus (from the southwest Asian continent, Mediterranean area, southern America, and Australia). All species belonging to these two genera have specific chromosome numbers and shapes. Because of such features, the study of chromosomes is a fascinating biological basis for differentiating various species (and hybrids) of buffaloes and characterizing their karyotypes in evolutionary, clinical, and molecular studies. In this review, we report an update on essential cytogenetic studies in which various buffalo species were described from evolutionary, clinical, and molecular perspectives—particularly considering the river buffalo (Bubalus bubalis 2n = 50). In addition, we show new data on swamp buffalo chromosomes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Water Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis))

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15 pages, 1534 KiB

Open AccessReview

Dual-Purpose Water Buffalo Production Systems in Tropical Latin America: Bases for a Sustainable Model

by Aldo Bertoni, Adolfo Álvarez-Macías, Daniel Mota-Rojas, José Luis Dávalos and Antonio Humberto Hamad Minervino

Animals 2021, 11(10), 2910; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11102910 - 08 Oct 2021

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3035

Abstract

Tropical regions of Latin America have been incorporated into development in recent decades, with extensive cattle ranching as one of the main economic activities but without adequate planning, drastically degrading the ecosystem. In recent years, buffalo production has been incorporated into the region, [...] Read more.

Tropical regions of Latin America have been incorporated into development in recent decades, with extensive cattle ranching as one of the main economic activities but without adequate planning, drastically degrading the ecosystem. In recent years, buffalo production has been incorporated into the region, with possibilities for development in profitable and sustainable models. To study this option in depth, a broad bibliographic review was carried out focusing on the ecological characteristics of tropical zones and the physiological and productive characteristics of buffaloes. We also investigated the structure and functioning of dual-purpose systems that have worked in cattle and that can be optimized with this alternative animal species. The possibility of taking sustainable advantage of abundant forage resources in the region was detected through intensive grazing models, as well as agrosilvopastoral systems, due to the gregarious qualities of buffaloes and responding to their thermoregulation needs. In this way, the productive and regenerative capacities of the dual-purpose system could be increased, as well as the quality of meat and milk, which could be marketed as differentiated products, taking advantage of their outstanding nutritional qualities. Integral management of the dual-purpose system is proposed, retaking the bases of the original model of family characters, diversified and with low investments and risks, which with specific innovations can be an effective development option for producers in the region. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Water Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis))

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13 pages, 1049 KiB

Open AccessReview

Neurophysiological Mechanisms of Cow–Calf Bonding in Buffalo and Other Farm Animals

by Agustín Orihuela, Daniel Mota-Rojas, Ana Strappini, Francesco Serrapica, Ada Braghieri, Patricia Mora-Medina and Fabio Napolitano

Animals 2021, 11(7), 1968; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11071968 - 30 Jun 2021

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 7317

Abstract

In buffaloes and other mammalian farm species, the mother provides food and protection to the young, but she is also the main source of behavioral and social learning for the offspring. It is important that mother and young establish a bond based on [...] Read more.

In buffaloes and other mammalian farm species, the mother provides food and protection to the young, but she is also the main source of behavioral and social learning for the offspring. It is important that mother and young establish a bond based on a learning mechanism defined as “imprinting” early after parturition during the sensitive period, on which the welfare and survival of the offspring will depend. This review aims to summarize and discuss current knowledge regarding the imprinting process, the neurobiological pathways that are triggered during this sensitive period, and the development of the cow–calf bond. Touch, hearing, vision, and smell seem to be the predominant senses involved during imprinting in buffaloes and other mammalian farm species. In buffalo, bonding is very particular due to the expression of specific behaviors, such as allo-suckling and communal rearing. In general, imprinting and the subsequent bond may be affected by the lack of experience of the mothers or dystocic parturitions, which occur most frequently with male calves and in primiparous dams. The main problems in the development of this process include lack of seeking a protected and isolated place to give birth; moving from the birth-site after parturition; insufficient postpartum care; aversion or aggressiveness towards the newborn, or abandonment of the newborn. The process can develop differently according to the species. However, the correct development of the cow–calf relationship represents, regardless of the species, a key factor for their fitness. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Water Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis))

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6 pages, 520 KiB

Open AccessCase Report

Identification of a New Serovar of Salmonella enterica in Mediterranean Buffalo Calves (Bubalus bubalis)

by Luisa D’Angelo, Domenico Vecchio, Debora Cozza, Immacolata La Tela, Maria Rosaria Carullo, Ilaria Menozzi, Erika Scaltriti, Stefano Pongolini, Giorgio Galiero and Esterina De Carlo

Animals 2022, 12(2), 161; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12020161 - 11 Jan 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1352

Abstract

This case report describes for the first-time cases of severe gastroenteritis in water buffalo calves due to a new serovar of Salmonella enterica. The study was carried out on fecal matrix collected from live water buffalo calves that showed profuse diarrhea, severe [...] Read more.

This case report describes for the first-time cases of severe gastroenteritis in water buffalo calves due to a new serovar of Salmonella enterica. The study was carried out on fecal matrix collected from live water buffalo calves that showed profuse diarrhea, severe dehydration and fever, exhibiting a systemic course. Culture and molecular investigations identified the pathogens isolated from intestinal contents as two Salmonella serovars, Salmonella enterica enterica O:35 and a new serovar of Salmonella enterica. The isolates showed multi-drug resistance. Timely diagnosis associated with a targeted antimicrobial treatment were found to be sufficient for the survival and recovery of the infected animals. Herd vaccines prepared from isolated pathogens were used to prevent further deaths of the calves. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Water Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis))

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