Biology and Life Sciences Forum

3 pages, 176 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Preface: 9th International Seminar (MGIBR) Management and Genetic Improvement of Biological Ressources

by Semir Bechir Suheil Gaouar, Rachid Azzi, Tarik Mohammed Chaouch, Mohammed Sidhoum, Ikram Mkedder, Mohammed Rida Mediouni, Sarra Selka, Djalel Eddine Gherissi, Amel Djaout, Hind Houssou and Hakim Tefiel

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2024, 36(1), 14; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2024036014 - 29 Nov 2024

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Abstract

Welcome to this volume dedicated to the conference “BIODIVERSITY: Food Security & Health”, the 9th International Seminar MGIBR, which was held on April 20, 21, and 22 in the conference room of the University of Tlemcen [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 9th International Seminar (MGIBR) Management and Genetic Improvement of Biological Ressources)

2 pages, 171 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Statement of Peer Review

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2024, 36(1), 15; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2024036015 - 29 Nov 2024

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Abstract

In submitting conference proceedings to Biology and Life Sciences Forum, the volume editors of the proceedings certify to the publisher that all papers published in this volume have been subjected to peer review administered by the volume editors [...] Full article

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4 pages, 840 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Evaluation of the Anti-Free Radical and Antibacterial Properties of Methanolic and Aqueous Extracts of an Algerian Propolis

by Hibat Allah Brahimi, Hakima Oulebsir-Mohandkaci and Abdel Hamid Guelil

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2024, 36(1), 1; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2024036001 - 26 Jul 2024

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Abstract

Propolis is a beekeeping product that has been widely known since Antiquity for its beneficial effects on human health; it has significant therapeutic potential and many biological properties. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antibacterial and antioxidant activity, using the DPPH test, of a sample of propolis from the Maadid region (in the wilaya of M’sila in eastern Algeria). The antibacterial activity of methanolic and aqueous propolis extracts was assessed in Mueller–Hinton (MH) agar medium using the disc diffusion technique on the Gram-positive microorganism Staphylococcus aureus. Our results showed that all the concentrations of the extracts tested had significant activity, with the zones of inhibition ranging from (44 ± 3.46 mm) to (10.16 ± 1.25 mm). In addition, propolis has an antioxidant power, expressed in IC50, of EAqP 0.301 ± 0.007 mg/mL and EMeth P 0.194 ± 0.016 mg/mL at a concentration of 1 mg/mL compared to the BHT control (0.087 ± 0.03 mg/mL). This study shows that the methanolic and aqueous extracts have a high level of interesting activity. We also confirm that propolis is an important natural product of the hive that can be used in a number of fields: pharmaceutical and food. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 9th International Seminar (MGIBR) Management and Genetic Improvement of Biological Ressources)

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7 pages, 258 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Bioactive Potential of Milk Thistle (Sylibum marianum) Seeds and Applicability of Its Edible Oil in Food Processing

by Anis Chikhoune, Aicha Ghazi and Fahima Adjadj

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2024, 36(1), 2; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2024036002 - 26 Jul 2024

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Abstract

This study aims to explore the potential of Algerian milk thistle (Silybum marianum) seeds for food application. Solid–liquid extraction and Soxhlet extraction methods were employed to obtain both aqueous and fatty fractions using different solvents. Spectrophotometry was used to assess the content of bioactive compounds and pigments, while gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analyzed the fatty acid composition. Additionally, the oxidative stability of the plant oil was evaluated using the Rancimat test. The results indicated a moisture content of 0.779% and a plant oil extraction yield of 0.278%. The polyphenol content in the oil was measured at 142.66 mg/100 g. The choice of solvent significantly impacted the content of bioactive compounds, with the highest values observed in the 80% methanol extract for total polyphenols, the aqueous extract for total flavonoids, and the ethanol extract for reducing power. Furthermore, the present study quantified pigments including chlorophyll, carotenoids, anthocyanins, and carotenoids. GC-MS analysis revealed a diverse range of fatty acids typical of edible oils, including essential fatty acids from the ω3, ω6, and ω9 series. The Rancimat test indicated an oxidation resistance of 14.65 h. Overall, the findings suggest that Silybum marianum holds promise as an edible oil source rich in antioxidants, micronutrients, and essential fatty acids. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 9th International Seminar (MGIBR) Management and Genetic Improvement of Biological Ressources)

5 pages, 452 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Study of the Physiological Responses of Two Strains of Laying Hens under Thermal Challenge

by Dalila Hammouche, Abdelhak Karim Mouss, Rahla Meziane and Hacene Ikhlef

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2024, 36(1), 3; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2024036003 - 31 Jul 2024

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Abstract

The breeding of laying hens has been profoundly transformed by various factors from genetic selection to the development of infrastructure, including nutritional and health management, making this activity a pillar of the food chain. However, temperature fluctuations, which are increasingly frequent due to climatic upheavals, pose significant challenges to production systems. Thermal challenges could have harmful consequences for physiological responses, thus impacting the ability to produce eggs optimally. In this general context, the work presented aims to study specific aspects of the physiological responses in two strains of laying hens, Novogen Brown and Isa Brown. The birds were maintained under thermal challenge, and measurements of the blood lipid profile and laying performance were carried out from the 26th to the 36th week of age at the rate of a sample every 15 days. The results revealed that the Novogen Brown strain presents significantly lower cholesterol levels than the Isa Brown strain when considering all samples (2.02 ± 0.09 vs. 2.45 ± 0.04 g/L; p = 0.0098). This general trend in the results was also observed for triglyceride levels, with respective means of 1.99 ± 0.02 vs. 2.12 ± 0.08 g/L; p = 0.034. The production indicators were in favor of the Novogen Brown strain, where significant increases in the laying rate were recorded (82.33 ± 3.32 vs. 79.82 ± 4.21%; p = 0.0041), of egg weight (59.98 ± 1.33 vs. 57.23 ± 2.32; p = 0.00097), as well as a reduction in the breakage rate (4.99 ± 0.23 vs. 6.02 ± 0.58%; p = 0.021) and mortality rate (6.41 ± 1.11 vs. 8.23 ± 2.22; p = 0.016). All the results also highlighted physiological responses that materialized due toa disturbance in the lipid balance, which impacted the entire production process. Full article

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5 pages, 584 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Do Genetic Variations in Broilers Modify Metabolic Responses to the New Climatic Situation?

by Abdelhak Karim Mouss, Dalila Hammouche, Rahla Meziane and Hacène Ikhlef

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2024, 36(1), 4; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2024036004 - 1 Aug 2024

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Abstract

Algeria faces food and nutritional challenges, and breeding meat chickens could represent a tangible solution to the growing demand for animal protein. This activity plays a vital role in the national economy by creating jobs, stimulating growth, and contributing significantly to food security. However, the activity faces many limiting factors, including the thermal stress generated by the new climate. Meat chickens, known for their sensitivity to heat, enhanced by the presence of feathers and the absence of sweat glands, are exposed to life-threatening situations involving the activity’s production and sustainability. Given all these considerations, the presented work looked at the metabolic responses of two strains of meat chickens, Cobb 500 and Arbor Acres, expressed by the evolution of serum levels of thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) and production indicators. The experiment was conducted under thermal stress conditions widely encountered in northern Algeria during the summer. The results revealed that the Cobb 500 strain has better physiological responses than the Arbor Acres strain. This resulted in significant increases in T3 levels (2.21 ± 0.15 vs. 1.75 ± 0.23 ng/mL; p = 0.00026) and T4 levels (17.81 ± 1.62 vs. 13.28 ± 0.99 pg/mL) observed at the age of 50. The same applied in terms of production indicators with significant improvements in living weight (3421.29 ± 126.33 vs. 2944.56 ± 156.76 g/s; p = 0.0097), average daily gain (72.33 ± 6.66 vs. 61.26 ± 5.44 g/s/j; p = 0.0013), consumption index (1.88 ± 0.22 vs. 2.11 ± 0.34; p = 0.017) and mortality rate (6.98 ± 1.01 vs. 9.21 ± 2.97%; p = 2.0050). The results also highlighted the usefulness of using thyroid hormones as stress indicators and being able to take appropriate measures if necessary. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 9th International Seminar (MGIBR) Management and Genetic Improvement of Biological Ressources)

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8 pages, 1951 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Physiological Analysis (Monitoring of Germinal and Biometric Parameters) of Abelmoschus esculentus L. Seeds under the Effect of 100 mM and 150 mM NaCl

by Khedidja Dahli and Houria Medjdoub

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2024, 36(1), 5; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2024036005 - 8 Aug 2024

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Abstract

Abelmoschus esculentus L. is a plant of legume origin; it is used in several areas of nutrition, industry and medicine. This study was proposed in order to understand the adaptation mechanisms of the seeds of this species under the effect of NaCl. Germination was monitored by varying the concentrations of NaCl saline solution (100 mM and 150 mM).The physiological parameters were determined by monitoring the capacity and speed of seed germination at a temperature of 25 °C. The monitoring of biometric parameters was carried out as follows: Calculation of the water content of sprouted okra seeds after one week and-evaluation of the radical length carried out by up-to-date measurements of the radical length of germinated seeds for one week. From the results obtained, it was noted that the cumulative rate of germinated seeds is estimated to be from 17.27% to 14.55% under the effect of 100 mM and 150 mM, respectively, as compared to 47.27% for the control seeds. In addition, it was observed that the treatment with 100 mM NaCl causes a decrease in the germination speed (23.58%) and a slight prolongation in time as compared to the control. On the other hand, the treatment with 150 mM induces a remarkable decrease in germination speed (13.96% versus 24.39%) and average time as compared to the control (2.9 days versus 4.1 days). Furthermore, the monitoring of biometric parameters highlights two essential points: the NaCl treatment limits the growth of seed radicals and reduces the water content of okra seeds as compared to the control. In light of these results, it is possible to conclude that treatment with sodium chloride has a detrimental effect on the germination and growth of Abelmoschus esculentus L. seeds. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 9th International Seminar (MGIBR) Management and Genetic Improvement of Biological Ressources)

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7 pages, 1208 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Economic Analysis of Cattle Breeding around the Recently Created Dairy Basin in the Hodh Chargui Region, South-Eastern Mauritania

by Youssouf El Hadj, Sidi Hamady, Saad Bouh Sidaty, Ali Ould Mohamed Salem Boukhary, M’Naouer Djemali and Mohamed Ould Ahmed

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2024, 36(1), 6; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2024036006 - 8 Aug 2024

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Abstract

(1) Background: Milk is an important product in Mauritania both for livelihood and food and nutritional security. (2) Methods: In this study, we examine the economic performance of cattle farms in the Hodh Chargui region using data from a cross-sectional survey of 50 farms conducted in 2023. (3) Results: The results showed that the most significant cost item was animal feed (54%), followed by labor (40%) and charges induced by health and watering (3% each). In terms of income, the sale of young males accounted for the largest portion (48%), followed by the sales of dry cows (20%), lactating cows (17%), adult males (8%), and milk (7%). The average gross margin was MRU 131,697.82 ± 509,571.84 (equivalent to USD 3300.69 ± 12,771.22) per breeder per year. Out of the farms surveyed, 46% (23/50) reported a positive gross margin, while 54% reported a negative gross margin. (4) Conclusions: These results indicate a wide range of profitability, from lowest to highest, and suggest the need for improved management of cattle farms in Hodh Chargui in order to enhance their economic efficiency. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 9th International Seminar (MGIBR) Management and Genetic Improvement of Biological Ressources)

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5 pages, 189 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Exploring Biodiversity: From Macro to Micro and Beyond

by Semir Bechir Suheil Gaouar

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2024, 36(1), 7; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2024036007 - 13 Aug 2024

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Abstract

Early scholars such as Ibn Khaldoun laid the groundwork for understanding biodiversity, but it was 18th-century figures such as Carl Linnaeus who propelled its systematic study. Linnaeus’s classification system revolutionized biology, providing a framework for understanding life forms. Microbial biodiversity advanced with microscopy and microbiology in the 19th century, led by Antonie van Leeuwenhoek, Louis Pasteur, and Robert Koch. DNA sequencing and metagenomics further revealed biological diversity. Beyond visible light, transparent biodiversity calls into question our perception of life forms, and the limits of our senses when it comes to perceiving the totality of living forms should open discussions on a new approach in the treatment of psychiatric illnesses, suggesting perceptions beyond the visible spectrum and prompting the recognition of an invisible existence. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 9th International Seminar (MGIBR) Management and Genetic Improvement of Biological Ressources)

6 pages, 4329 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Study of the Amylolytic Activity of Thermophilic Bacteria Isolated from an Algerian Hot Spring (Azzaba, Skikda)

by Sarra Bouaita, Zahra Sayad, Douaa Ziani, Rayane Bouguerba and Mohamed Amine Gomri

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2024, 36(1), 8; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2024036008 - 6 Sep 2024

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Abstract

Thermostable amylases are among the most widely used and desirable enzymes in the food industry. Indeed, they guarantee faster reactions at high temperatures, enhanced substrate solubility and reduced microbial contamination and cooling costs. The objective of this work is to study the amylase activity of three strains of aerobic thermophilic bacteria isolated from the hot spring of Hammam Salhine, located in the wilaya of Skikda, Algeria. The three extracellular amylase-producing strains were subjected to the quantification of amylase activity. They presented medium to high activity, with significantly the best production for the AS1 strain with an activity of 10.62 ± 1.289 U (p > 0.05). Monitoring the kinetics of AS1 amylase activity reveals that the maximum enzymatic activity was reached after 52 h with a value of 53.665 ± 2.534 U. The maximum growth was reached after 54 h of fermentation at an OD of 0.865 ± 0.081 at 600 nm. The study of the effect of the variation in physicochemical parameters on the activity of AS1 amylase extract shows that the enzymatic activity was maximal at a temperature of 100 °C, a pH of 8.0 and in the absence of NaCl. The amylase extract of this strain showed significant thermostability at 100 °C. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 9th International Seminar (MGIBR) Management and Genetic Improvement of Biological Ressources)

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5 pages, 4154 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Geometric Morphometric Characterization of Isolated Colonies of Honeybees (Apis mellifera intermissa) in Northern Algeria

by Radjaa Khedim, Rida Mohammed Mediouni and Semir Bechir Suheil Gaouar

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2024, 36(1), 9; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2024036009 - 20 Sep 2024

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Abstract

This study investigates morpho-geometric variations in wing conformations among honeybee (Apis mellifera L.) populations in Algeria, focusing on Apis mellifera intermissa in the northern zone. It addresses the threats posed by human beekeeping practices and hybridization. The analysis involves collecting and digitizing 445 honeybee specimens from nine localities in northern Algeria: Batna, Blida, Constantine, Cheffa, Jijel, Mila, Setif, Skikda, and Tipaza. Statistical assessments reveal significant wing anatomy variations across these zones. Principal Component Analysis identifies distinct shapes within populations, with notable differences in specific regions. Discriminant Analysis classifies samples into three groups, showcasing the model’s effectiveness. The Mahalanobis D distances provides insights into population similarities and differences, emphasizing the potential of morpho-geometric analysis in differentiating bee populations. The study concludes by highlighting the significance of size-independent data, offering recommendations for capturing honeybee diversity in different climatic zones of northern Algeria. This research advances our understanding of honeybee morphology in relation to environmental dynamics, providing valuable insights for preserving indigenous bee races and exploring biodiversity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 9th International Seminar (MGIBR) Management and Genetic Improvement of Biological Ressources)

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5 pages, 188 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Oral Hygiene Product for Tooth Whitening Based on the Natural Product Curcumin

by Allal Nawel, Guendouz Souhila, Baba Ahmed Nawel and Oudghiri Fouad

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2024, 36(1), 10; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2024036010 - 7 Nov 2024

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Abstract

Introduction: In everyday life, many people smoke, eat colored foods, and drink coffee, tea, and other beverages. The use of herbal products containing natural ingredients is better accepted by the public because of their safety. The aim of the present study was to develop two formulations of curcumin-based gels and investigate their anti-dyschromic qualities in teeth. Materials and Methods: This is an in vitro therapeutic clinical trial. A series of experiments was carried out on extracted teeth (n = 30). Samples were randomly divided into five subgroups. Readings were taken initially (T1), and then after immersion in a blackening process (T2). The brightening agent was applied for 5 min, three times a day. After 30 days of applications, new measurements were taken using a Vita Classical shade guide. Results: The curcumin and xanthan gum hydrogel that was used topically demonstrated superior efficacy in reducing dental dyschromia. These promising results suggest that this formulation could be an attractive option for the treatment of dental dyschromia. Conclusions: Curcumin-based gel presents itself as a promising candidate for the prevention and/or treatment of dental dyschromia. In addition, it has an excellent safety profile. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 9th International Seminar (MGIBR) Management and Genetic Improvement of Biological Ressources)

6 pages, 216 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Impure Nephrotic Syndrome in a Young Weightlifter Induced by a Plant-Based Dietary Supplement: A Case Report

by Ibtihal Triqui, Walid Khitri, Yasser Si Afif, Zohra Bekkouche, Yasmine Soumia Bengrine and Nassima Lachgueur

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2024, 36(1), 11; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2024036011 - 12 Nov 2024

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Abstract

Numerous weight loss preparations emerge without medical or pharmaceutical supervision, thereby accentuating the risk to public health. Recent data shed light on the extent of the problem, with an increase in cases of nephrotoxicity associated with the use of plant-based dietary supplements (DSs). A 22-year-old patient, a smoker with no significant medical history, was admitted to the nephrology department of EHU Oran for the management of impure nephrotic syndrome complicated by acute renal failure, edema, and proteinuria. During interrogation, the patient admitted to incorporating the following products into his weight loss and muscle gain program: a plant-based DS named “Animal cuts^®”, composed of 38 plant extracts, supplementation with “Whey protein” at a dosage of 300 g/day, and creatine. Two samples, blood and urine, were sent to the toxicology department of EHU Oran. Since we did not receive the DS sample, a screening for various drugs was negative. An in-depth literature search on the toxic potential of the various components of “Animal cuts^®” allowed us to identify five components posing a risk to renal function, namely dandelion root extract (Taraxacum sp.), juniper berries (Juniperus sp.), green tea leaf extract (Camelia sinensis), and ginger (Zingiber officinale). Cases of renal dysfunction related to creatine supplementation have been reported in the literature. However, numerous studies indicate that “Whey protein” may not pose any nephrotoxic risk in individuals with normal renal function. This case adds to the growing number of reports of nephrotoxicity following the use of plant-based DSs and underscores the importance of strengthening regulations governing their production. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 9th International Seminar (MGIBR) Management and Genetic Improvement of Biological Ressources)

8 pages, 1580 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Morpho-Pomological Study of Plum Trees (Prunus domestica L.) in Western Algeria

by Sarra Selka, Ikram Mkedder, Faiza Ilias and Semir Bechir Suheil Gaouar

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2024, 36(1), 12; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2024036012 - 12 Nov 2024

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Abstract

The plum (P. domestica L.) is a hexaploid fruit tree species cultivated around the world. In Algeria, dried plums are used in traditional dishes, being popular in rural areas, and are also eaten fresh or processed as jam. Despite its socio-economic importance, its varietal diversity remains unknown, which led us to launch a phenotypic characterization of plum (P. domestica L.) accessions in western Algeria. Our first step was to conduct a field survey in western Algeria using a questionnaire and collect plant material from 16 regions of seven different wilayas. We utilized 35 morphological and pomological characteristics suggested by UPOV, and the data were used to describe the different varieties and were exploited in different analyses (ANOVA, Multiple Component Analysis (ACM), and Principal Component Analysis (PCA)), indicating a distinct difference between the accessions. An important phenotypic variance was recorded for the studied characteristics, such as the length, width of the leaves and flower petals, ripening period of the fruit, and size and weight of the fruit, which aids us in identifying three major groups independent of their geographical origin. Identifying the plum cultivars used in breeding programs has led to the valorization and preservation of this valuable genetic resource. Full article

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5 pages, 219 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Reproduction Efficiency of Native and Imported Algerian Cattle Under Challenging Climatic Conditions

by Aziza Ferag, Djalel Eddine Gherissi, Tarek Khenenou, Amel Boughanem, Hafidha Hadj Moussa and Amina Maamour

Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2024, 36(1), 13; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2024036013 - 14 Nov 2024

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Abstract

This study examined the impact of climate change, specifically the Temperature–Humidity Index (THI), on local “Brune de l’Atlas” cows and imported dairy breeds (Prim’Holstein and Montbéliarde) in Algeria. Data from 24,773 artificial insemination records of 12,726 cows between 2016 and 2019 were analyzed for fertility traits such as conception rate at the first AI (CR1stAI), services per conception, and reproductive period (RP). The results indicated no significant impact of THI on CR1stAI for the local breed, though THI > 72 lowered CR1stAI in imported breeds. THI significantly increased the number of services per conception but did not affect the RP. Local breeds showed superior reproductive efficiency under high THI, likely due to genetic differences. Full article

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