Could natural phytochemicals be used to reduce nitrogen excretion and excreta‑derived N_(2)O emissions from ruminants?

Ruminants play a critical role in our food system by converting plant biomass that humans cannot or choose not to consume into edible high-quality food.However,ruminant excreta is a significant source of nitrous oxide(N_(2)O),a potent greenhouse gas with a long-term global warming potential 298 times that of carbon dioxide.Natural phytochemicals or forages containing phytochemicals have shown the potential to improve the efficiency of nitrogen(N)utilization and decrease N_(2)O emissions from the excreta of ruminants.Dietary inclusion of tannins can shift more of the excreted N to the feces,alter the urinary N composition and consequently reduce N_(2)O emissions from excreta.Essential oils or saponins could inhibit rumen ammonia production and decrease urinary N excretion.In grazed pastures,large amounts of glucosinolates or aucubin can be introduced into pasture soils when animals consume plants rich in these compounds and then excrete them or their metabolites in the urine or feces.If inhibitory compounds are excreted in the urine,they would be directly applied to the urine patch to reduce nitrification and subsequent N_(2)O emissions.The phytochemicals’role in sustainable ruminant production is undeniable,but much uncertainty remains.Inconsistency,transient effects,and adverse effects limit the effectiveness of these phytochemicals for reducing N losses.In this review,we will identify some current phytochemicals found in feed that have the potential to manipulate ruminant N excretion or mitigate N_(2)O production and deliberate the challenges and opportunities associated with using phytochemicals or forages rich in phytochemicals as dietary strategies for reducing N excretion and excreta-derived N_(2)O emissions.

Sero-Prevalence and Risk Factors of Diffusion of Peste des Petits Ruminants in Cameroon

The present study was carried out between April 2015 and January 2016 to estimate the sero-prevalence and identify the risk factors of the peste des petits ruminants (PPR) in Cameroon. A total of 269 herds randomly sampled across the country have been studied and 1622 samples of serum have been levied on the sheep and goat. The c-ELISA has been studied in order to detect the presence of antibodies in small ruminants like an indicator of exposition to PPRV. The results revealed the circulation of PPRV in the country with a total sero-prevalence of 39% [95%CI;37 - 41] and a sero-prevalence of 63.2% [95%CI;57.2 - 69.2] at the herd level. Sero-prevalence was variable in the ten regions ranging from 7% [95% CI;6.2 - 8.4] to 73% [95% CI;62 - 84] with the northern zone (Adamawa, North and Far-North) having 52.3% [95% CI;37 - 60] and southern zone (including the remaining seven regions) recording 29% [95% CI;11 - 57]. Similarly, it was higher in animals found in urban/peri-urban areas than in rural areas with prevalence ratio of 2.9 [95% CI 2.54 - 3.4;p < 0.001] i.e. 3 times more, 1.6 [95% CI 1.36 - 1.90;p < 0.001] i.e. 1.6 times more, and 5.02 [95% CI 3.91 - 6.85;p < 0.001] i.e. 5 times more at national level, in the northern zone and in the southern area, respectively. Five risk factors have been identified: the breeding environment, introduction of new animals into the herds, gathering of animals for pasture and watering, wandering and transhumance. The breeding area appeared to be the most important risk factor associated with disease exposure. The control measures for the eradication of this disease must take into account the epidemiological situation, the breeding environment, animal transhumance and breeding system.

Computational Molecular Analysis of the Sequences of BMP15 Gene of Ruminants and Non-Ruminants

Bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15) is a member of the transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) super family that is expressed by oocytes and plays key roles in granulosa cell development and fertility in animal. This study investigated the molecular genetic variation of BMP15 gene of some selected mammalian species with a view to providing relevant genetic information for breeding and selection programmes in the studied species using computational methods. A total of thirty seven (37) BMP15 nucleotide sequences comprising goats (18), sheep (6), cattle (6), swine (4) and chicken (3) were retrieved from the GenBank. Sequence alignment, translation and comparison of the BMP15 gene of the various species were done with ClustalW. High degree of polymorphism of BMP15 gene was observed among the studied species. The significant value (P bovidae family (goat, sheep and cattle). The present information could guide future efforts involving selection of markers of fecundity to improve genetically livestock species in Nigeria.

Survey of tick species parasiting domestic ruminants in Ghaemshahr county,Mazandaran province,Iran

Objective:To determine the tick species parasitizing domestic ruminants in Ghaemshahr county in Mazandaran,a Caspian province in the north of Iran.Methods:About 361 sheep, 54 goats and 10 cattle of 18 herds in several villages in Ghaemshahr were inspected for tick infestation.Separated ticks were preserved in 70% alcohol and identified.Results:About 323 ticks(207 female,116 male) were collected,the occurrence of ticks on sheep,goats and cattle were 28.3% .22.2% and 20.0% respectively.The mean number of ticks on each animal was low (3-5 ticks per animal).Rhipicephalus sanguineus,Rhipicephalus bursa.Ixodes ricinus,Boophilus annulalus,Haemaphysalis punctata and Haemaphysalis numidiana were the tick species we found.Rhipicephalus sanguineus were the most abundant species in the study area.The largest number of ticks were generally present from April to July,mostly in animal ears and tails. Ixodes,Boophilus and Haemaphysalis occurred in mountainous areas of Ghaemshahr.whereas Rhipicephalus were present in both mountains and plains of the study area.Conclusions:The result of this study is a survey of tick species from domestic animals in Iran and implication of possible prevention measures for diseases transmitted by ticks.

Direct-fed microbes: A tool for improving the utilization of low quality roughages in ruminants

For many years, ruminant nutritionists and microbiologists have been interested in manipulating the microbial ecosystem of the rumen to improve production efficiency of different ruminant species. Removal and restriction of antibiotics subtherapeutic uses from ruminant diets has amplified interest in improving nutrient utilization and animal performance and search for more safe alternatives. Some bacterial and fungal microorganisms as a direct-fed microbial（DFM） can be the most suitable solutions. Microorganisms that are commonly used in DFM for ruminants may be classified mainly as lactic acid producing bacteria（LAB）, lactic acid utilizing bacteria（LUB）, or other microorganism＇s species like Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Enterococcus, Streptococcus, Bacillus, Propionibacterium, Megasphaera elsdenii and Prevotellabryantii, in addition to some fungal species of yeast such as Saccharomyces and Aspergillus. A definitive mode of action for bacterial or fungal DFM has not been established; although a variety of mechanisms have been suggested. Bacterial DFM potentially moderate rumen conditions, and improve weight gain and feed efficiency. Fungal DFM may reduce harmful oxygen from the rumen, prevent excess lactate production, increase feed digestibility, and alter rumen fermentation patterns. DFM may also compete with and inhibit the growth of pathogens, immune system modulation, and modulate microbial balance in the gastrointestinal tract. Improved dry matter intake, milk yield, fat corrected milk yield and milk fat content were obtained with DFM administration. However, the response to DFM is not constant; depending on dosages, feeding times and frequencies, and strains of DFM. Nonetheless, recent studies have supported the positive effects of DFM on ruminant performance.

Correlation of Physiological Metabolism and Rumen Microbes in Ruminants

In complex digestion and metabolism of rumen, rumen microbes play a decisive role. Currently, the relationship between rumen microbial system and rumen metabolism has not been understood comprehensively, which will be reviewed in the paper, with particular focus on digestion and metabolism of bacteria, fungi and protozoa in the rumen of ruminants.

Monitoring and Tracking on Immune Antibody of Sheep Peste des Petits Ruminants

Peste ties petits ruminants is a kind of acute eontagious disease infecting goats anti sheep. In this study, antibtly monitoring and tracking of healthy goat and sheep immunized by peste des petits ruminants vaccine in Changping District of Beijing City were conducted, aiming at providing a reference for the devel- opment of effective immunization procedures.

The Challenges of Diagnosis and Control of Enterotoxaemia Caused by <i>Clostridium perfringens</i>in Small Ruminants

Enterotoxaemia is one of the important pathologies caused by Clostridium perfringens, which produces intestinal and systemic disease in goats, sheep and other animals. These Gram-positive anaerobic bacteria are normally resident in the intestinal tract of ruminants but during favourable conditions, proliferate uncontrollably and release toxins which produce disease in the host. Different strains of C. perfringens are responsible for several clinical syndromes, including lamb dysentery, pulpy kidney disease and struck. However, the pathology and pathogenesis of caprine enterotoxaemia is not well understood, with limited studies available in goats. Caprine enterotoxaemia can be controlled with the better understanding of its risk factors and pathogenesis. The diagnosis of enterotoxaemia in animals is complex and often requires group of tests than one single test for better specificity and sensitivity. Tentative diagnosis of enterotoxaemia in sheep and goats is based on the history, clinical signs and gross lesions during post-mortem examination of animals;however, confirmatory diagnosis of enterotoxaemia requires different laboratory diagnostic tools. Toxin detection of C. perfringens in case of enterotoxaemia is furthermost accepted benchmark in establishing a definitive diagnosis of enterotoxaemia in intestinal contents. Measuring urine glucose or observing Gram-stained smears of intestinal mucosa can be used as supplementary tests. However, it is also imperative that enterotoxaemia cannot be ruled out in the event of negativity of aforementioned diagnostic tests. Hence, definitive diagnosis of enterotoxaemia in goats can be achieved with the use of molecular techniques (PCR, ELISA and immune-fluorescence) coupled with toxin detection in intestine or biological assays including mouse inoculation test (MIT). In case of goats, vaccine efficacy is poor which may be due to need of high to moderate level of serum antibodies to protect against both systemic and enteric effects because intestinal form of disease is partially independent of the circulating anti-toxin antibodies. Thus, for the prevention and control of enterotoxaemia in goats and sheep, these aspects must be considered to develop more holistic control measures.

Seroprevalence of Bovine Parainfluenza Virus Type 3 (bPI-3V) in Ruminants from Grenada

Respiratory viral infections are known for serious economic losses in ruminants. Bovine parain-fluenza 3 virus (bPI-3V) a member of Respirovirus genus in association with other respiratory viruses causes respiratory disease complex in ruminants. The aim of this study was to estimate the seroprevalence of bPI-3V in non vaccinated cattle, sheep and goats from Grenada. Sera were collected randomly from 60 sheep, 60 goats and 60 cattle from all six parishes of Grenada. Sera were tested for antibodies to bPI-3V using an indirect Enzyme Linked Immunosorbant Assay (ELISA) kit. Antibodies to bPI-3V were detected in 13.4% (Confidence Level (CL): 95%;Confidence Interval (CI): 4.76% to 22.02%) in cattle;16.7% (CL: 95%;CI: 7.26% to 26.14%) in sheep and 11.7% (CL: 95%;CI: 3.57% to 19.83%) in goats. There was statistically no significant difference in prevalence (p > 0.05) of antibodies to bPI-3V in cattle, sheep and goats in Grenada. This is the first report on seroprevalence of bPI-3V in ruminants in Grenada, West Indies.

Reducing Carbon Emissions Resulting from Livestock Production Using Ruminants: A Review

Greenhouse gas emissions are increas- ing every year and their effect on the environment is becoming increasingly serious. In 2009, the concen- tration of carbon dioxide in the earth＇s atmosphere reached 387 μL/L, the highest level in recorded histo- ry. This paper summarizes the global carbon emission situation, sources of greenhouse gases, and the con-tribution of agriculture to the accumutauon ot green- house gases. Several scientific measures are proposed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions resulting from ru- minant production such as improving animal perform- ance, regulating the rumen environment, and reduc- ing the amount of greenhouse gases emitted from live- stock manure.

The Role of Ruminants on Environmental Pollution and Possible Solution to Reduce Global Warming

The aim of the work was to shed light on the responsibility of ruminants to inject methane(CH4)into the atmosphere and to highlight how about 70%of livestock and almost all small ruminants live in areas of the planet,usually the poorest,where it is not possible to produce food for the man.According to many authors,ruminant breeding is one of the main causes of deforestation and global warming observed in recent years and 11%-12% of world population’s malnutrition depends mainly on the increase in ruminant rearing that is also responsible for the poor efficiency in producing nutrients.A further objective is to highlight those factors that,for various reasons,are ignored.Ruminants have contributed both to the work,still used in many areas(just think of the hilly fields of rice in Asia),both with the supply of noble proteins to be one of the main factors that allowed the evolution of human species.Just think that where(Europe,Asia minor,Indian sub-continent)milk was used for feeding children,the numerical increase in human population was faster than the areas where its use was unknown(Americas and Australia).The most fertile soils,like the Great Plains of the United States,are those that in the past were populated by ruminants like the bison.Some scientists argue that humans are a species that is supposed to eat fruit physiologically.They ignore that Homo habilis has evolved since he became omnivorous.Many primates complement their diet with small mammals,crabs,crustaceans,molluscs,amphibians,worms and even fish trapped in some ponds during the low tide period.They ignore or want to ignore that primitive man chose the flesh driven by instinct because they needed vitamin B12.Regarding deforestation,many of the areas currently used as pastures have been obtained by burning forests,but it is not sufficiently stressed that all areas used today by man come from forest areas and that every year millions of hectares of forests are destroyed due to accidental fires or are caused by pyromaniacs.As for the production of CH4,although the ruminants produce physiologically CH4,it is also true that the increase in CH4 in the atmosphere is preceded by the increase in heat,the main cause of which is the increase in carbon dioxide(CO2).The presence of this gas in the atmosphere is due to the use of fossil fuels,namely oil,coal and natural gas,whose emissions are due to the multinational companies that manage the production of energy.It is likely that the demonization of ruminants serves to focus attention on a problem that is solvable by improving cattle rearing techniques and the rational use of manure.The purpose of this demonization is also to allocate the breeding areas to the seed multinationals.It is likely that the objective is to minimize the real problem of global warming,which derives from the misuse of the energy resources of the subsoil that derive from the accumulation over the millennia of different sources of carbon that are released daily in the atmosphere.

Seroprevalence and Associated Risk Factors of Peste des Petits Ruminants among Sheep and Goats in Kassala State, Sudan

Peste des petits ruminant (PPR) is a contagious disease of small ruminants caused by a virus that belongs to the genus Morbillivirus of the family Paramyxoviridae. This study aimed to determine the seroprevalence of PPR disease in sheep and goats and its associated risk factors in Kassala State, Eastern Sudan. Across sectional study was conducted during the period from 30th August to 25th November 2015. The study was carried out using a structured questionnaire survey and a total of 918 blood samples were collected from apparently healthy unvaccinated sheep and goats in different localities in State of Kassala. A total of 546 sheep and 372 goats were tested for specific antibodies to nucleoprotein (NP) by competitive enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (cELISA). The apparent overall prevalence of PPR antibodies in Kassala was 58.2% while the true prevalence was calculated to be 61.3%. The apparent prevalence in sheep and goats was 68.1% and 43.5% respectively. Univariate analysis showed that the risk factors had significant associations with a cELISA positive status: locality, species, age, breed, husbandry system, housing mode, animals movement (p = 0.000) and animals sharing pasture and water (p = 0.003), while sex and newly introduced animals were not significant risk factors (p = 0.771) (p = 0.050) respectively. Factors found that significantly associated (p < 0.05) with increased odds of being cELISA positive in multivariate analysis were localities, species, age and newly introduced animals. The prevalence differed between localities and was the highest in the River Atbara (84.0%) locality, whereas it was lowest in Delta North (29.0%). No significant difference was observed among the sexes. However, the prevalence differed in different age groups and was 52.25% in animals of less than six months old;49.3% were between seven months and two years old and 65.5% were above two years old. In different husbandry systems, the prevalence was 47.9%, 73.0% and 49.2% in intensive, open grazing and pastoral systems respectively. Housing type effects were also observed;the highest prevalence was in animals housed in metal fence (83.3%). The movement pattern showed significant effect, where the prevalence was the highest (81.3%) in animals that move inter-states/inter-localities. It is concluded that the disease is endemic in Kassala State, high prevalent in sheep and goats, posing a threat to animal exportation, and may have a serious economic influence. Owners and herders should compulsorily vaccinate their animals yearly and animals should be investigated periodically for implementation of crucial eradication program.

Efficient and Soluble Expression of N Protein of Peste Des Petits Ruminants Virus and Development of Indirect ELISA

[ Objective] The paper was to get effective soluble N protein to establish indirect ELISA method for Peste des petits ruminants （PPR）. [ Method] Soluble N protein with high expression was obtained from Escherichia coli expression system through codon optimization and optimization of expression conditions, and indirect ELISA detection method based on N protein was further established. [ Result] The assay had no cross reaction with other sheep pathogens. The intra- and inter-batch variation coefficients were less than 9%, indicating the method had good repeatability. Furthermore, totally 480 clinical serum samples were detec- ted by the assay, and the agreement rate with commercial ELISA kit （IDVET） was 98.33%. [ Conclusion] The study laid a foundation for further development of mature PPRV antibody detection kits.

Peste des Petits Ruminants Vaccine (Nigerian Strain 75/1) Confers Protection for at Least 3 Years in Sheep and Goats

The present study reports the duration of immunity and protective efficacy of Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR) vaccine (Nigerian strain 75/1) in sheep and goats. A total of 105 sheep and goats were divided into three groups A, B and C. Group A received normal recommended dose (1.0 ml) of PPR vaccine, group B received half dose (0.5 ml) of PPR vaccine and group C was kept as unvaccinated control group in contact with vaccinated animals. The post vaccination dynamics of antibodies against PPR virus was studied. It was found that significant antibody titres persisted for 3 years post vaccination in sheep and goats vaccinated with either full dose or half dose of PPR vaccine. The challenge protection studies were carried out in experimental animals at 24 and 36 month post vaccination. The vaccinates withstood challenge and were found completely resistant clinically and virologically to virulent PPR virus for 24 and 36 months post vaccination. The unvaccinated control animals developed typical clinical signs of PPR and the challenged virus was detected in ocular, nasal and oral secretions of these animals. This study demonstrated that a single immunization with PPR vaccine conferred solid protection in sheep and goats for 3 years.

Immunohistochemical Aspects of Ito and Kupffer Cells in the Liver of Domesticated and Wild Ruminants

The mammalian liver is a morphologically and functionally complex organ, made up of not only of the largely predominant parenchymal cells (hepatocytes) but also non-parenchymal cells. Although there are less non-parenchymal cells than hepatocytes, they nevertheless play an important role in regulating many hepatocyte functions, as well as in the immunology of the liver. We investigated the structural aspects of the liver and the morpho-functional characteristics of Ito and Kupffer cells in two domesticated ruminant species (cattle and goat) in comparison with four wild ruminant species living in captivity in a zoo in northern Italy. The liver specimens were studied using histological, histochemical and immunohistochemical methods. The liver parenchyma was structurally normal. Immunohistochemistry was performed for desmin, glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), vimentin, α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), collagen I, lysozyme, CD 68 and tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α). In all the studied ruminants, Ito cells reacted with desmin and vimentin antibodies, Kupffer cells were evidenced only with lysozyme-immunopositivity, and both displayed a characteristic distribution in the hepatic lobular/acinar structure. The results obtained, not only contribute to the knowledge of ruminant wild species, but also help to define a normal structure reference for the diagnosis and treatment of liver diseases.

Distribution of Tick Species Infesting Domestic Ruminants in Borderline of Iran-Afghanistan

To determine the tick species parasitizing domestic ruminants in Zabol, Zahak and Qaen Counties which are located in east of Iran and are bordered with Afghanistan country, about 73 sheep, 44 goats and 27 cattle of 12 herds in several villages in Zabol, Zahak and Qaen Counties were inspected for tick infestation. Separated ticks were preserved in 70% alcohol and identified. About 464 ticks (252 male;194 female) were collected;the occurrences of ticks on goats, cattle and sheep were about 17%, 15% and 26% respectively in all three Counties. The mean number of ticks on each animal was about 2 - 7 ticks per animal. Totally we found 3 genera hard ticks including Hyalomma, Rhipicephalus and Dermacentor in these regions. Hyalomma anatolicum, Hy. marginatum, Hy. asiaticum, Hy. detrinium, Rhipicephalus bursa, R. sanguineus, Dermacentorniveus, and D. marginatus, were the tick species we found. Hyalomma anatolicum and Hy. asiaticum were the most abundant species in the study area. The result of this study is a survey of tick species from domestic animals in east part of Iran and implication of possible prevention measures for diseases transmitted by ticks.

Seroprevalence of Bluetongue Virus Antibody in Ruminants from Grenada

The aim of the present study was to estimate the seroprevalence of antibodies to bluetongue virus (BTV) among domestic ruminants of Grenada. Sera samples from cattle (133), goat (314) and sheep (481) were tested using competitive Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (c-ELISA). Of the total of 928 samples tested, the overall BTV seroprevalence was 78.4% (95% confidence interval (CI ± 2.65). The seropositivity of ovine, caprine and bovine was found to be 71.7% (95% CI, 67.67% to 75.73%), 80.2% (95% CI, 75.79% to 84.61%) and 98.5% (95% CI, 96.43% to 100.57%), respectively. There was statistical significance in the seroprevalence of BTV among bovine, caprine and ovine (p < 0.05). It is evident from this study that blue tongue virus is endemic in Grenada.

Conceptus elongation in ruminants: roles of progesterone, prostaglandin, interferon tau and cortisol

The majority of pregnancy loss in ruminants occurs during the first three weeks after conception, particularly during the period of conceptus elongation that occurs prior to pregnancy recognition and implantation. This review integrates established and new information on the biological role of ovarian progesterone （P4）, prostaglandins （PGs）, interferon tau （IFNT） and cortisol in endometrial function and conceptus elongation. Progesterone is secreted by the ovarian corpus luteum （CL） and is the unequivocal hormone of pregnancy. Prostaglandins （PGs） and cortisol are produced by both the epithelial cells of the endometrium and the trophectoderm of the elongating conceptus. In contrast, IFNT is produced solely by the conceptus trophectoderm and is the maternal recognition of pregnancy signa that inhibits production of luteolytic pulses of PGF2α by the endometrium to maintain the CL and thus production of P4. Available results in sheep support the idea that the individual, interactive, and coordinated actions of P4, PGs, IFNT and cortisol regulate conceptus elongation and implantation by controlling expression of genes in the endometrium and/or trophectoderm. An increased knowledge of conceptus-endometrial interactions during early pregnancy in ruminants is necessary to understand and elucidate the causes of infertility and recurrent early pregnancy loss and provide new strategies to improve fertility and thus reproductive efficiency.

Detection of Babesia bovis in blood samples and its effect on the hematological and serum biochemical profile in large ruminants from Southern Punjab

Objective:To determine the presence of Babesia bovis(B.bovis)in large ruminants in southern Punjab and its effect on hematological and serum biochemical profile of host animals.Methods:Blood samples were collected from 144 large ruminants,including 105 cattle and 39 buffaloes,from six flistricts in southern Punjab including Multan,Layyali,Muzaffar Garh,Bhakar.Bahawalnagar and Vehari.Data on the characteristics of animals and herds were collected through questionnaires.Different blood(hemoglobin,glucose)and serum(ALT.AST,I.DH,cholesterol)parameters of calves and cattle were measured and compared between parasite positive and negative samples to demonstrate the effect of B.bovis on the blood and serological profile of infected animals.Results:27 out of 144 animals,from 5 out of 6 sampling districts,produced the541-bp fragment specific for B.bovis.Age of animals(P=0.02),presence of ticks on animals(P=0.04)and presence of ticks on dogs associated with herds(P=0.5)were among the major risk factors involved in the spread of bovine babesiosis in the study area.ALT concentrations were the only serum biochemical values that significantly varied between parasite positive and negative cattle.Conclusions:This study has reported for the first time the presence of B.bavis in large ruminant and the results can lead to the prevention of babesiosis in the region to increase the livestock output.

Barley grain for ruminants: A global treasure or tragedy

Barley grain （Hordeum vulgate L.） is characterized by a thick fibrous coat, a high level of β-glucans and simply-arranged starch granules. World production of barley is about 30 % of that of corn. In comparison with corn, barley has more protein, methionine, lysine, cysteine and tryptophan. For ruminants, barley is the third most readily degradable cereal behind oats and wheat. Due to its more rapid starch fermentation rate compared with corn, barley also provides a more synchronous release of energy and nitrogen, thereby improving microbial nutrient assimilation. As a result, feeding barley can reduce the need for feeding protected protein sources. However, this benefit is only realized if rumen acidity is maintained within an optimal range （e.g., 〉 5.8 to 6.0）; below this range, microbial maintenance requirements and wastage increase. With a low pH, microbial endotoxines cause pro-inflammatory responses that can weaken immunity and shorten animal longevity. Thus, mismanagement in barley processing and feeding may make a tragedy from this treasure or pearl of cereal grains. Steam-rolling of barley may improve feed efficiency and post-rumen starch digestion. However, it is doubtful if such processing can improve milk production and feed intake. Due to the need to process barley less extensively than other cereals （as long as the pericarp is broken）, consistent and global standards for feeding and processing barley could be feasibly established. In high-starch diets, barley feeding reduces the need for capacious small intestinal starch assimilation, subsequently reducing hindgut starch use and fecal nutrient loss. With its nutritional exclusivities underlined, barley use will be a factual art that can either matchlessly profit or harm rumen microbes, cattle production, farm economics and the environment.