V. Barile - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by V. Barile

Italian Journal of Animal Science, 2010

ABSTRACT During an oestrus synchronization trial on heifer and mixed-parity Mediterranean Italian... more ABSTRACT During an oestrus synchronization trial on heifer and mixed-parity Mediterranean Italian buffaloes, some analyses on health parameters were performed to correlate them to reproductive performances (pregnancy rate and birth rate). Serum sampling were performed every year for two years to be used in serological techniques for the diagnosis of Chlamydia spp. (ELISA), Neospora (ELISA), BHV1 (ELISA gE glycoprotein) and BVDV (ELISA). On the total number of 465 observed buffaloes, the seroprevalence obtained for each disease has respectively been: 24 %, 25 %, 25 % and 22 %. Specific antibodies were not spread over the 13 farms in an homogeneous manner, farm prevalence differences are evidenced by high standard deviations in the mean farm seroprevalence: 42 ± 27.8, 26 ± 26.9, 20 ± 13.8, 9.8 ± 21.1. Among the buffaloes which resulted seropositive to Chlamydia, 33 % were pregnant, 32 % were those with Neospora, 32 % those with BHV1 and finally 29 % of the animals positive to BVDV resulted pregnant. Taking into account the animals that delivered normally, 41 % were positive to Chlamydia, 18 % to Neospora, 18 % to BHV1 and 19 % to BVDV.

Italian Journal of Animal Science, 2010

RIASSUNTO -Picco di LH ed ovulazione in bufale trattate per la sincronizzazione dell'estro con du... more RIASSUNTO -Picco di LH ed ovulazione in bufale trattate per la sincronizzazione dell'estro con due diversi protocolli ormonali. Scopo del lavoro è stato quello di valutare il picco di LH e l'ovulazione in bufale sottoposte a due diversi protocolli ormonali di sincronizzazione dei calori al fine della applicazione della inseminazione artificiale (IA). Gli animali sono stati assegnati a due gruppi: gruppo A (n=12), trattato con una spirale intravaginale contenente progesterone (PRID), associata alla somministrazione di PMSG e di un analogo della PGF2α; gruppo B (n=12) trattato con GnRH + PGF2µ + GnRH (Ovsynch). La determinazione dell'LH è stata fatta mediante ELISA. Il picco di LH e l'ovulazione sono avvenuti rispettivamente a 51,30±13,94 e a 85,14±13,63 ore dalla fine del trattamento, mentre l'intervallo medio tra picco LH e ovulazione è stato di 33,71±4,30 ore. Non si sono registrate differenze significative né tra i gruppi né tra i mesi in cui è stato effettuato il trattamento. Una migliore efficienza nella sincronizzazione del picco di LH e dell'ovulazione è stato ottenuto col trattamento Ovsych (gruppo B).

Italian Journal of Animal Science, 2010

ABSTRACT Twenty-six buffalo heifers, reared in Roman area (42 latitude North) were randomly assig... more ABSTRACT Twenty-six buffalo heifers, reared in Roman area (42 latitude North) were randomly assigned to two groups: intensive feeding (IF, n=13) or to pasture system (PS, n=13) and followed until the onset of puberty. The average age at the beginning of the experiment was 223 days and the average weight was 133 kg, without significant differences between groups. At the end of the trial, when heifers reached puberty (IF=599 days, 462 kg and BCS=7.65; PS= 610 days, 375 kg and BCS=6.15), live weight and 19 body linear measurements were recorded on all animals; afterwards 6 relative indices were calculated. Significant differences were found between IF and PS animals: in width chest (46.3 vs 37.7 cm), thoracic circumference (195.3 vs 176,5 cm ); width fore pelvis (50.8 vs 47.4 cm); withers height (126.4 vs 122.7 cm), sacrum (132.3 vs 127.4 cm ), ileum (126.1 vs 121.7 cm) and ischium height (118.6 vs 113.6 cm) and in rump length (46.8 vs 44.2 cm ). Rearing systems significantly affected also some relative zoometric indices. No significant differences were found in any of feet parameters. In conclusion, rearing systems significantly affected body linear measurements and relative indices which could play a significant role in evaluating the buffaloes performances.

Livestock Production Science, 2001

Effect of PRID treatment on conception rate in mediterranean buffalo heifers a , a a b b a

Italian Journal of Animal Science, 2010

Italian Journal of Animal Science, 2010

ABSTRACT The aim of this work was to determine the effect of intensive feeding (IF group) or past... more ABSTRACT The aim of this work was to determine the effect of intensive feeding (IF group) or pasture system (PS group) on the onset of puberty and on the ovarian size in buffaloes. The trial was carried out on 26 prepubertal 8-months old buffalo heifers weighing a mean of 134 kg (n =13 per group). The heifers were weighed monthly and, starting from the 13th month of age, blood samples were collected every 10 days to determine the concentration of plasma progesterone by RIA. Heifers were considered to have achieved puberty and cyclic ovarian activity when plasma progesterone levels exceeded 1 ng/ml for two samples with a lower intermediate value. After two cycles, the heifers were naturally mated. Transrectal ultrasonography was performed every twenty days to follow changes in size of ovaries and in follicles number. Significantly higher (P<0.001) gains were obtained by IF system (870 g/d) than PS one (620 g/d) but the mean age at puberty was the same in both groups ( 599d vs 610d, respectively). Within 21 months 8 (IF group) and 10 heifers (PS group) showed cyclic ovarian activity. Ovarian size increased with age in both groups; however, the length of the right ovary and the number of follicles tended to be higher in IF vs PS group.

Italian Journal of Animal Science, 2010

ABSTRACT During an oestrus synchronization trial on heifer and mixed-parity Mediterranean Italian... more ABSTRACT During an oestrus synchronization trial on heifer and mixed-parity Mediterranean Italian buffaloes, some analyses on health parameters were performed to correlate them to reproductive performances (pregnancy rate and birth rate). Serum sampling were performed every year for two years to be used in serological techniques for the diagnosis of Chlamydia spp. (ELISA), Neospora (ELISA), BHV1 (ELISA gE glycoprotein) and BVDV (ELISA). On the total number of 465 observed buffaloes, the seroprevalence obtained for each disease has respectively been: 24 %, 25 %, 25 % and 22 %. Specific antibodies were not spread over the 13 farms in an homogeneous manner, farm prevalence differences are evidenced by high standard deviations in the mean farm seroprevalence: 42 ± 27.8, 26 ± 26.9, 20 ± 13.8, 9.8 ± 21.1. Among the buffaloes which resulted seropositive to Chlamydia, 33 % were pregnant, 32 % were those with Neospora, 32 % those with BHV1 and finally 29 % of the animals positive to BVDV resulted pregnant. Taking into account the animals that delivered normally, 41 % were positive to Chlamydia, 18 % to Neospora, 18 % to BHV1 and 19 % to BVDV.

Italian Journal of Animal Science, 2010

Sixteen pluriparous lactating buffaloes were divided in two groups homogeneous for parity, lactat... more Sixteen pluriparous lactating buffaloes were divided in two groups homogeneous for parity, lactation stage, milk yield and weight. The diets assigned to two groups, based on maize silage (M group) and sorghum silage (S group), had the same energy-protein level (0.90 Milk FU/kg DM and 155 g/kg DM of crude protein). Five records of milk yield and quality during lactation were carried out. The physical-chemical characteristics (pH, fat, protein, lactose and urea), somatic cell count, coagulation properties and nutritional parameters (cholesterol, alfa tocopherol, 13 cis and trans retinol and 13 cis/trans retinol ratio) were analysed. Statistical analysis was performed using a factorial model. The average daily milk yield during experimental period was similar: 9.29 and 9.55 kg respectively in M and S groups. Fat and protein content were not different, while the urea content was significantly different varying from 39.13 mg/dl in M group to 45.55 mg/dl in S group. The coagulation properties, the estimated Mozzarella yield, somatic cell count and the nutritional parameters analysed were not different between the two groups. These results indicate that the sorghum silage diet utilised did not affect the milk yield and quality, then it could be adopted in lactating buffaloes.

BMC Veterinary Research, 2013

Background: Pregnancy-associated glycoproteins (PAGs) were first described as placental antigens ... more Background: Pregnancy-associated glycoproteins (PAGs) were first described as placental antigens present in the blood serum of the mother soon after implantation. Here, we describe the purification of several pregnancyassociated glycoproteins from water buffalo placenta (wbPAGs). A specific radioimmunoassay (RIA) was developed for early pregnancy diagnosis in buffalo species. Results: Amino-terminal microsequencing of immunoreactive placental proteins allowed the identification of eleven wbPAGs sequences [Swiss-Prot accession numbers: P86369 to P86379]. Three polyclonal antisera (AS#858, AS#859 and AS#860) were raised in rabbits against distinct wbPAG fractions. A new RIA (RIA-860) was developed and used to distinguish between pregnant (n = 33) and non-pregnant (n = 26) water buffalo females.

Animal Science, 1998

ABSTRACT Thirty-two post-partum Mediterranean river buffalo cows were continuously observed for s... more ABSTRACT Thirty-two post-partum Mediterranean river buffalo cows were continuously observed for signs of oestrus from September to December with the aid of two vasectomized bulls. Symptoms of oestrus among female Mediterranean buffaloes are weak, therefore oestrus was assessed based on bull behaviour (following and licking a cow and trying to mount her). Oestrus was divided into three phases based on the bull behaviour assessment. Status of the uterus and ovarian follicles were checked rectally every day for each cow which was detected by a teaser bull to be in oestrus. All cows in oestrus were bred twice by artificial insemination (AI), the first at ovulation and the second (using a different bull) 22 h later.The average duration of interest shown by the bull towards a cow (from the very first to the last sign of interest) was 68 h and the average length of the three phases was: phase 1 = 21 (s.d. 29) h, phase II = 32 (s.d. 24) h and phase III = 15 (s.d. 15) h. Fifteen buffaloes were bled during oestrus, and LH profiles were determined. No differences were evident among oestruses followed by pregnancy (no. = 18) and the others (no. = 26) for the variables describing behavioural events. Neither intensity of the bull courtship, presence or clarity of mucous discharge, or housing system affected the success of AI. The only differences between pregnant and non-pregnant cows were in the timing between the LH peak and the end of phase II (2·4 v. 14·7 h, P < 0·001), end of phase III (22 v. 40 h, P > 0·05) and ovulation (25 v. 46 h, P < 0·05). Successful pregnancies occurred 34 (s.d. 14) h after the end of phase II. The endocrinology and behavioural patterns of buffalo reproduction need further research to clarify the reasons for non-optimal pregnancy rates after AI.

The present study describes the isolation and characterization of new pregnancy-associated glycop... more The present study describes the isolation and characterization of new pregnancy-associated glycoprotein molecules (PAG) from midpregnancy and late-pregnancy placentas in the water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis). After extraction, the homogenates are subjected to acid and ammonium sulfate precipitations followed by DEAE chromatography. Subsequently, the water buffalo PAG (wbPAG) from these solutions are enriched by Vicia villosa agarose (VVA) affinity chromatography. As determined by western blotting with anti-PAG sera, the apparent molecular masses of the immunoreactive bands from the VVA peaks range from 59.5 to 75.8 kDa and from 57.8 to 73.3 kDa in the midpregnancy and late-pregnancy placentas, respectively. Amino-terminal microsequencing of the immunoreactive proteins has allowed the identification of three distinct wbPAG sequences, which have been deposited in the SwissProt database: RGSXLTIHPLRNIRDFFYVG (acc. no. P85048), RGSXLTILPLRNIID (acc. no. P85049), and RGSXLTHLPLRNI (acc. no. P85050). Their comparison to previously identified proteins has shown that two of them are new because they have not been described before. Our results confirm the suitability of VVA chromatography for the enrichment of the multiple PAG molecules expressed in buffalo placenta.

Italian Journal of Animal Science, 2010

Thirty adult buffaloes were used for this study. The animals were synchronized by PRID+PMSG+PGF 2... more Thirty adult buffaloes were used for this study. The animals were synchronized by PRID+PMSG+PGF 2α and artificially inseminated. The ovaries were ultrasonografically examined to study the preovulatory follicle (PF) and the successive corpus luteum (CL). At the same time, blood sample were collected for P4 determination carried out by RIA. On the basis of echogenic appearance, the corpora lutea (CLs) were classified as belonging to grade 1, 2 or 3. Significant difference was found in the diameter of PF and in that of CL in relation to the CL echogenic appearance. Well defined granular CL, distinguishable from the ovarian stroma and dark grey in colour (grade 3) resulted to have a bigger diameter compared with CLs belonging to a grade 1 or 2, and resulted to derive from a larger PF. Positive correlation was found between plasma P4 concentration and CL diameter. The PF diameter was larger in buffaloes become pregnant after AI respect to the non-pregnant. The CL diameter, also, was significantly larger in the pregnant buffalo compared to the non-pregnant since the first observation at day 7, while significant difference in P4 value was found starting from day 21 after AI.

Italian Journal of Animal Science, 2010

RIASSUNTO -Picco di LH ed ovulazione in bufale trattate per la sincronizzazione dell'estro con du... more RIASSUNTO -Picco di LH ed ovulazione in bufale trattate per la sincronizzazione dell'estro con due diversi protocolli ormonali. Scopo del lavoro è stato quello di valutare il picco di LH e l'ovulazione in bufale sottoposte a due diversi protocolli ormonali di sincronizzazione dei calori al fine della applicazione della inseminazione artificiale (IA). Gli animali sono stati assegnati a due gruppi: gruppo A (n=12), trattato con una spirale intravaginale contenente progesterone (PRID), associata alla somministrazione di PMSG e di un analogo della PGF2α; gruppo B (n=12) trattato con GnRH + PGF2µ + GnRH (Ovsynch). La determinazione dell'LH è stata fatta mediante ELISA. Il picco di LH e l'ovulazione sono avvenuti rispettivamente a 51,30±13,94 e a 85,14±13,63 ore dalla fine del trattamento, mentre l'intervallo medio tra picco LH e ovulazione è stato di 33,71±4,30 ore. Non si sono registrate differenze significative né tra i gruppi né tra i mesi in cui è stato effettuato il trattamento. Una migliore efficienza nella sincronizzazione del picco di LH e dell'ovulazione è stato ottenuto col trattamento Ovsych (gruppo B).

Italian Journal of Animal Science, 2010

The present study describes the isolation and characterisation of new PAG molecules extracted fro... more The present study describes the isolation and characterisation of new PAG molecules extracted from mid-and late-pregnancy placentas in the water buffalo (Bubalis bubalis). After extraction, acid and ammonium sulphate precipitation and DEAE chromatography water buffalo PAG (wbPAG) were enriched by Vicia villosa agarose (VVA) affininity chromatography. As determined by Western blotting with anti-PAG-sera, apparent molecular masses of immunoreactive bands from VVA peaks ranged from 59.5 to 75.8 kDa and from 57.8 to 80.9 kDa in the mid-and late-pregnancy placenta respectively. Aminoterminal microsequencing of proteins allowed the identification of three distinct wbPAG sequences wich have ben deposed in the SwissProt database: RGSXLTIHPLRNIRDFFYUG (Acc. n. P85048), RGSXLTILPLRNIID (P85049) and RGSXLTHLPLRNI (P85050). Their comparison to those previously identified revealed that two of them were new since they have not been described yet. Our results confirm the suitability of VVA chromatography in enrichment of multiple PAG molecules expressed in buffalo placenta. Productions of specific antisera can be very useful in immonoistochemical and immunocyitochemical studies of PAG expression in fetomaternal interfaces. Purified native PAG are also required for development on specific immoassays (RIA/ELISA) currently used for pregnancy diagnosis and physiological investigation in farm animal.

animal, 2014

In order to evaluate the influence of rearing system (free-ranging (FR) v. confinement (C)) on bu... more In order to evaluate the influence of rearing system (free-ranging (FR) v. confinement (C)) on buffalo heifer efficiency to reach age of puberty and on behavioural and immune functions, two experiments were conducted from September 2010 to October 2011. In Experiment I, 32 subjects aged 8 to 9 months at the start of experiment were used. A total of 16 animals (group C) were group housed in an indoor slatted floor pen (4 m2/animal) with an outdoor paddock (4 m2/animal); 16 others grazed on a Mediterranean natural pasture of 40 ha (group FR). Behavioural data were collected and organic matter digestibility, blood metabolites and progesterone were determined. At the end of the experiment, a novel object test and a skin test were conducted, and the avoidance distance (AD) at the manger was measured. Free-ranging animals were able to express natural behaviours such as wallowing and grazing. C animals devoted more time to the novel object than FR animals, whereas AD at manger was lower in group FR than in group C (P<0.01). Cellular immune response was higher in FR heifers than in C animals (P<0.01). FR animals also showed a higher digestibility of organic matter (P<0.01). Heifers from group FR had higher plasma concentrations of non-esterified fatty acids (P<0.001) and lower concentrations of glucose than heifers from group C (P<0.001). C animals showed higher daily weight gains (P<0.01) and weight at the puberty (P<0.05), but there were no differences in terms of age of puberty between the two groups. The intakes of dry matter (DM), CP and energy to reach the age of puberty were similar in both groups. In order to verify whether the results obtained in Experiment I could be replicated in different rearing conditions (reduced pasture availability, different location and altitude), a second experiment was conducted on 26 animals, where only onset of age of puberty and metabolic profile were monitored. In Experiment II, 13 heifers grazed on a natural pasture of 5 ha, other 13 received the same space as indicated for Experiment I. Results from Experiment II generally confirmed those of Experiment I. Only the intakes of DM and energy to reach the age of puberty were higher in group C than in FR (P<0.001). A lower competition with human nutrition, reproductive performances similar to those shown by confined animals and the indications given by immune and behavioural variables, suggest that a free-range-based system may be conveniently used for buffalo heifer farming purposes.

Italian Journal of Animal Science, 2010

ABSTRACT During an oestrus synchronization trial on heifer and mixed-parity Mediterranean Italian... more ABSTRACT During an oestrus synchronization trial on heifer and mixed-parity Mediterranean Italian buffaloes, some analyses on health parameters were performed to correlate them to reproductive performances (pregnancy rate and birth rate). Serum sampling were performed every year for two years to be used in serological techniques for the diagnosis of Chlamydia spp. (ELISA), Neospora (ELISA), BHV1 (ELISA gE glycoprotein) and BVDV (ELISA). On the total number of 465 observed buffaloes, the seroprevalence obtained for each disease has respectively been: 24 %, 25 %, 25 % and 22 %. Specific antibodies were not spread over the 13 farms in an homogeneous manner, farm prevalence differences are evidenced by high standard deviations in the mean farm seroprevalence: 42 ± 27.8, 26 ± 26.9, 20 ± 13.8, 9.8 ± 21.1. Among the buffaloes which resulted seropositive to Chlamydia, 33 % were pregnant, 32 % were those with Neospora, 32 % those with BHV1 and finally 29 % of the animals positive to BVDV resulted pregnant. Taking into account the animals that delivered normally, 41 % were positive to Chlamydia, 18 % to Neospora, 18 % to BHV1 and 19 % to BVDV.

Italian Journal of Animal Science, 2010

RIASSUNTO -Picco di LH ed ovulazione in bufale trattate per la sincronizzazione dell'estro con du... more RIASSUNTO -Picco di LH ed ovulazione in bufale trattate per la sincronizzazione dell'estro con due diversi protocolli ormonali. Scopo del lavoro è stato quello di valutare il picco di LH e l'ovulazione in bufale sottoposte a due diversi protocolli ormonali di sincronizzazione dei calori al fine della applicazione della inseminazione artificiale (IA). Gli animali sono stati assegnati a due gruppi: gruppo A (n=12), trattato con una spirale intravaginale contenente progesterone (PRID), associata alla somministrazione di PMSG e di un analogo della PGF2α; gruppo B (n=12) trattato con GnRH + PGF2µ + GnRH (Ovsynch). La determinazione dell'LH è stata fatta mediante ELISA. Il picco di LH e l'ovulazione sono avvenuti rispettivamente a 51,30±13,94 e a 85,14±13,63 ore dalla fine del trattamento, mentre l'intervallo medio tra picco LH e ovulazione è stato di 33,71±4,30 ore. Non si sono registrate differenze significative né tra i gruppi né tra i mesi in cui è stato effettuato il trattamento. Una migliore efficienza nella sincronizzazione del picco di LH e dell'ovulazione è stato ottenuto col trattamento Ovsych (gruppo B).

Italian Journal of Animal Science, 2010

ABSTRACT Twenty-six buffalo heifers, reared in Roman area (42 latitude North) were randomly assig... more ABSTRACT Twenty-six buffalo heifers, reared in Roman area (42 latitude North) were randomly assigned to two groups: intensive feeding (IF, n=13) or to pasture system (PS, n=13) and followed until the onset of puberty. The average age at the beginning of the experiment was 223 days and the average weight was 133 kg, without significant differences between groups. At the end of the trial, when heifers reached puberty (IF=599 days, 462 kg and BCS=7.65; PS= 610 days, 375 kg and BCS=6.15), live weight and 19 body linear measurements were recorded on all animals; afterwards 6 relative indices were calculated. Significant differences were found between IF and PS animals: in width chest (46.3 vs 37.7 cm), thoracic circumference (195.3 vs 176,5 cm ); width fore pelvis (50.8 vs 47.4 cm); withers height (126.4 vs 122.7 cm), sacrum (132.3 vs 127.4 cm ), ileum (126.1 vs 121.7 cm) and ischium height (118.6 vs 113.6 cm) and in rump length (46.8 vs 44.2 cm ). Rearing systems significantly affected also some relative zoometric indices. No significant differences were found in any of feet parameters. In conclusion, rearing systems significantly affected body linear measurements and relative indices which could play a significant role in evaluating the buffaloes performances.

Livestock Production Science, 2001

Effect of PRID treatment on conception rate in mediterranean buffalo heifers a , a a b b a

Italian Journal of Animal Science, 2010

Italian Journal of Animal Science, 2010

ABSTRACT The aim of this work was to determine the effect of intensive feeding (IF group) or past... more ABSTRACT The aim of this work was to determine the effect of intensive feeding (IF group) or pasture system (PS group) on the onset of puberty and on the ovarian size in buffaloes. The trial was carried out on 26 prepubertal 8-months old buffalo heifers weighing a mean of 134 kg (n =13 per group). The heifers were weighed monthly and, starting from the 13th month of age, blood samples were collected every 10 days to determine the concentration of plasma progesterone by RIA. Heifers were considered to have achieved puberty and cyclic ovarian activity when plasma progesterone levels exceeded 1 ng/ml for two samples with a lower intermediate value. After two cycles, the heifers were naturally mated. Transrectal ultrasonography was performed every twenty days to follow changes in size of ovaries and in follicles number. Significantly higher (P<0.001) gains were obtained by IF system (870 g/d) than PS one (620 g/d) but the mean age at puberty was the same in both groups ( 599d vs 610d, respectively). Within 21 months 8 (IF group) and 10 heifers (PS group) showed cyclic ovarian activity. Ovarian size increased with age in both groups; however, the length of the right ovary and the number of follicles tended to be higher in IF vs PS group.

Italian Journal of Animal Science, 2010

ABSTRACT During an oestrus synchronization trial on heifer and mixed-parity Mediterranean Italian... more ABSTRACT During an oestrus synchronization trial on heifer and mixed-parity Mediterranean Italian buffaloes, some analyses on health parameters were performed to correlate them to reproductive performances (pregnancy rate and birth rate). Serum sampling were performed every year for two years to be used in serological techniques for the diagnosis of Chlamydia spp. (ELISA), Neospora (ELISA), BHV1 (ELISA gE glycoprotein) and BVDV (ELISA). On the total number of 465 observed buffaloes, the seroprevalence obtained for each disease has respectively been: 24 %, 25 %, 25 % and 22 %. Specific antibodies were not spread over the 13 farms in an homogeneous manner, farm prevalence differences are evidenced by high standard deviations in the mean farm seroprevalence: 42 ± 27.8, 26 ± 26.9, 20 ± 13.8, 9.8 ± 21.1. Among the buffaloes which resulted seropositive to Chlamydia, 33 % were pregnant, 32 % were those with Neospora, 32 % those with BHV1 and finally 29 % of the animals positive to BVDV resulted pregnant. Taking into account the animals that delivered normally, 41 % were positive to Chlamydia, 18 % to Neospora, 18 % to BHV1 and 19 % to BVDV.

Italian Journal of Animal Science, 2010

Sixteen pluriparous lactating buffaloes were divided in two groups homogeneous for parity, lactat... more Sixteen pluriparous lactating buffaloes were divided in two groups homogeneous for parity, lactation stage, milk yield and weight. The diets assigned to two groups, based on maize silage (M group) and sorghum silage (S group), had the same energy-protein level (0.90 Milk FU/kg DM and 155 g/kg DM of crude protein). Five records of milk yield and quality during lactation were carried out. The physical-chemical characteristics (pH, fat, protein, lactose and urea), somatic cell count, coagulation properties and nutritional parameters (cholesterol, alfa tocopherol, 13 cis and trans retinol and 13 cis/trans retinol ratio) were analysed. Statistical analysis was performed using a factorial model. The average daily milk yield during experimental period was similar: 9.29 and 9.55 kg respectively in M and S groups. Fat and protein content were not different, while the urea content was significantly different varying from 39.13 mg/dl in M group to 45.55 mg/dl in S group. The coagulation properties, the estimated Mozzarella yield, somatic cell count and the nutritional parameters analysed were not different between the two groups. These results indicate that the sorghum silage diet utilised did not affect the milk yield and quality, then it could be adopted in lactating buffaloes.

BMC Veterinary Research, 2013

Background: Pregnancy-associated glycoproteins (PAGs) were first described as placental antigens ... more Background: Pregnancy-associated glycoproteins (PAGs) were first described as placental antigens present in the blood serum of the mother soon after implantation. Here, we describe the purification of several pregnancyassociated glycoproteins from water buffalo placenta (wbPAGs). A specific radioimmunoassay (RIA) was developed for early pregnancy diagnosis in buffalo species. Results: Amino-terminal microsequencing of immunoreactive placental proteins allowed the identification of eleven wbPAGs sequences [Swiss-Prot accession numbers: P86369 to P86379]. Three polyclonal antisera (AS#858, AS#859 and AS#860) were raised in rabbits against distinct wbPAG fractions. A new RIA (RIA-860) was developed and used to distinguish between pregnant (n = 33) and non-pregnant (n = 26) water buffalo females.

Animal Science, 1998

ABSTRACT Thirty-two post-partum Mediterranean river buffalo cows were continuously observed for s... more ABSTRACT Thirty-two post-partum Mediterranean river buffalo cows were continuously observed for signs of oestrus from September to December with the aid of two vasectomized bulls. Symptoms of oestrus among female Mediterranean buffaloes are weak, therefore oestrus was assessed based on bull behaviour (following and licking a cow and trying to mount her). Oestrus was divided into three phases based on the bull behaviour assessment. Status of the uterus and ovarian follicles were checked rectally every day for each cow which was detected by a teaser bull to be in oestrus. All cows in oestrus were bred twice by artificial insemination (AI), the first at ovulation and the second (using a different bull) 22 h later.The average duration of interest shown by the bull towards a cow (from the very first to the last sign of interest) was 68 h and the average length of the three phases was: phase 1 = 21 (s.d. 29) h, phase II = 32 (s.d. 24) h and phase III = 15 (s.d. 15) h. Fifteen buffaloes were bled during oestrus, and LH profiles were determined. No differences were evident among oestruses followed by pregnancy (no. = 18) and the others (no. = 26) for the variables describing behavioural events. Neither intensity of the bull courtship, presence or clarity of mucous discharge, or housing system affected the success of AI. The only differences between pregnant and non-pregnant cows were in the timing between the LH peak and the end of phase II (2·4 v. 14·7 h, P < 0·001), end of phase III (22 v. 40 h, P > 0·05) and ovulation (25 v. 46 h, P < 0·05). Successful pregnancies occurred 34 (s.d. 14) h after the end of phase II. The endocrinology and behavioural patterns of buffalo reproduction need further research to clarify the reasons for non-optimal pregnancy rates after AI.

The present study describes the isolation and characterization of new pregnancy-associated glycop... more The present study describes the isolation and characterization of new pregnancy-associated glycoprotein molecules (PAG) from midpregnancy and late-pregnancy placentas in the water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis). After extraction, the homogenates are subjected to acid and ammonium sulfate precipitations followed by DEAE chromatography. Subsequently, the water buffalo PAG (wbPAG) from these solutions are enriched by Vicia villosa agarose (VVA) affinity chromatography. As determined by western blotting with anti-PAG sera, the apparent molecular masses of the immunoreactive bands from the VVA peaks range from 59.5 to 75.8 kDa and from 57.8 to 73.3 kDa in the midpregnancy and late-pregnancy placentas, respectively. Amino-terminal microsequencing of the immunoreactive proteins has allowed the identification of three distinct wbPAG sequences, which have been deposited in the SwissProt database: RGSXLTIHPLRNIRDFFYVG (acc. no. P85048), RGSXLTILPLRNIID (acc. no. P85049), and RGSXLTHLPLRNI (acc. no. P85050). Their comparison to previously identified proteins has shown that two of them are new because they have not been described before. Our results confirm the suitability of VVA chromatography for the enrichment of the multiple PAG molecules expressed in buffalo placenta.

Italian Journal of Animal Science, 2010

Thirty adult buffaloes were used for this study. The animals were synchronized by PRID+PMSG+PGF 2... more Thirty adult buffaloes were used for this study. The animals were synchronized by PRID+PMSG+PGF 2α and artificially inseminated. The ovaries were ultrasonografically examined to study the preovulatory follicle (PF) and the successive corpus luteum (CL). At the same time, blood sample were collected for P4 determination carried out by RIA. On the basis of echogenic appearance, the corpora lutea (CLs) were classified as belonging to grade 1, 2 or 3. Significant difference was found in the diameter of PF and in that of CL in relation to the CL echogenic appearance. Well defined granular CL, distinguishable from the ovarian stroma and dark grey in colour (grade 3) resulted to have a bigger diameter compared with CLs belonging to a grade 1 or 2, and resulted to derive from a larger PF. Positive correlation was found between plasma P4 concentration and CL diameter. The PF diameter was larger in buffaloes become pregnant after AI respect to the non-pregnant. The CL diameter, also, was significantly larger in the pregnant buffalo compared to the non-pregnant since the first observation at day 7, while significant difference in P4 value was found starting from day 21 after AI.

Italian Journal of Animal Science, 2010

RIASSUNTO -Picco di LH ed ovulazione in bufale trattate per la sincronizzazione dell'estro con du... more RIASSUNTO -Picco di LH ed ovulazione in bufale trattate per la sincronizzazione dell'estro con due diversi protocolli ormonali. Scopo del lavoro è stato quello di valutare il picco di LH e l'ovulazione in bufale sottoposte a due diversi protocolli ormonali di sincronizzazione dei calori al fine della applicazione della inseminazione artificiale (IA). Gli animali sono stati assegnati a due gruppi: gruppo A (n=12), trattato con una spirale intravaginale contenente progesterone (PRID), associata alla somministrazione di PMSG e di un analogo della PGF2α; gruppo B (n=12) trattato con GnRH + PGF2µ + GnRH (Ovsynch). La determinazione dell'LH è stata fatta mediante ELISA. Il picco di LH e l'ovulazione sono avvenuti rispettivamente a 51,30±13,94 e a 85,14±13,63 ore dalla fine del trattamento, mentre l'intervallo medio tra picco LH e ovulazione è stato di 33,71±4,30 ore. Non si sono registrate differenze significative né tra i gruppi né tra i mesi in cui è stato effettuato il trattamento. Una migliore efficienza nella sincronizzazione del picco di LH e dell'ovulazione è stato ottenuto col trattamento Ovsych (gruppo B).

Italian Journal of Animal Science, 2010

The present study describes the isolation and characterisation of new PAG molecules extracted fro... more The present study describes the isolation and characterisation of new PAG molecules extracted from mid-and late-pregnancy placentas in the water buffalo (Bubalis bubalis). After extraction, acid and ammonium sulphate precipitation and DEAE chromatography water buffalo PAG (wbPAG) were enriched by Vicia villosa agarose (VVA) affininity chromatography. As determined by Western blotting with anti-PAG-sera, apparent molecular masses of immunoreactive bands from VVA peaks ranged from 59.5 to 75.8 kDa and from 57.8 to 80.9 kDa in the mid-and late-pregnancy placenta respectively. Aminoterminal microsequencing of proteins allowed the identification of three distinct wbPAG sequences wich have ben deposed in the SwissProt database: RGSXLTIHPLRNIRDFFYUG (Acc. n. P85048), RGSXLTILPLRNIID (P85049) and RGSXLTHLPLRNI (P85050). Their comparison to those previously identified revealed that two of them were new since they have not been described yet. Our results confirm the suitability of VVA chromatography in enrichment of multiple PAG molecules expressed in buffalo placenta. Productions of specific antisera can be very useful in immonoistochemical and immunocyitochemical studies of PAG expression in fetomaternal interfaces. Purified native PAG are also required for development on specific immoassays (RIA/ELISA) currently used for pregnancy diagnosis and physiological investigation in farm animal.

animal, 2014

In order to evaluate the influence of rearing system (free-ranging (FR) v. confinement (C)) on bu... more In order to evaluate the influence of rearing system (free-ranging (FR) v. confinement (C)) on buffalo heifer efficiency to reach age of puberty and on behavioural and immune functions, two experiments were conducted from September 2010 to October 2011. In Experiment I, 32 subjects aged 8 to 9 months at the start of experiment were used. A total of 16 animals (group C) were group housed in an indoor slatted floor pen (4 m2/animal) with an outdoor paddock (4 m2/animal); 16 others grazed on a Mediterranean natural pasture of 40 ha (group FR). Behavioural data were collected and organic matter digestibility, blood metabolites and progesterone were determined. At the end of the experiment, a novel object test and a skin test were conducted, and the avoidance distance (AD) at the manger was measured. Free-ranging animals were able to express natural behaviours such as wallowing and grazing. C animals devoted more time to the novel object than FR animals, whereas AD at manger was lower in group FR than in group C (P<0.01). Cellular immune response was higher in FR heifers than in C animals (P<0.01). FR animals also showed a higher digestibility of organic matter (P<0.01). Heifers from group FR had higher plasma concentrations of non-esterified fatty acids (P<0.001) and lower concentrations of glucose than heifers from group C (P<0.001). C animals showed higher daily weight gains (P<0.01) and weight at the puberty (P<0.05), but there were no differences in terms of age of puberty between the two groups. The intakes of dry matter (DM), CP and energy to reach the age of puberty were similar in both groups. In order to verify whether the results obtained in Experiment I could be replicated in different rearing conditions (reduced pasture availability, different location and altitude), a second experiment was conducted on 26 animals, where only onset of age of puberty and metabolic profile were monitored. In Experiment II, 13 heifers grazed on a natural pasture of 5 ha, other 13 received the same space as indicated for Experiment I. Results from Experiment II generally confirmed those of Experiment I. Only the intakes of DM and energy to reach the age of puberty were higher in group C than in FR (P<0.001). A lower competition with human nutrition, reproductive performances similar to those shown by confined animals and the indications given by immune and behavioural variables, suggest that a free-range-based system may be conveniently used for buffalo heifer farming purposes.