Sheep and goat coccidiosis has a worldwide distribution and is an important disease on lambing farms.Infection with multiple Eimeria species can lead to severe intestinal damage in sheep/goats and economic losses on f...Sheep and goat coccidiosis has a worldwide distribution and is an important disease on lambing farms.Infection with multiple Eimeria species can lead to severe intestinal damage in sheep/goats and economic losses on farms.Disease is a serious constraint to the healthy development of small ruminant farming.Studies published on PubMed,CNKI,VIP,Wanfang and the resulting references of selected studies were included.Risk factors affecting prevalence were analyzed and stratified by geographic location and climatic variables,age,sex,feeding model,season,sample year,breeds and environment.The total prevalence of coccidia in sheep and goats reached more than 60%in most regions,in which the dominant species in sheep were mainly E.parva,E.ovinoidalis,and E.parva and E.ahsata.East China had the lowest prevalence of coccidia infection in sheep(43.24%),and the dominant species were different from those in the other regions,mainly E.bakuensis and E.gonzalezi.Southwestern China and Central China had slightly less than 40.0%goat coccidia infection,and the dominant species in goats were mainly E.arloingi,E.aligevi,E.hirci and E.ninakohlyakimovae.Sheep/goats of different ages can be infected with coccidiosis,but lambs between 1 and 3 months of age are more susceptible to the disease.When lambs become infected,the pathogen spreads rapidly throughout the herd.Spring,summer and autumn are the seasons with a high incidence of this disease.Environmental pollution may be a significant factor in the development of coccidiosis in sheep raised in large-scale housing.This study provides a comprehensive overview of the species,morphology and geographic distribution of Eimeria species in sheep and goats,summary prevalence in different regions of China,risk factors affecting prevalence,and prevention and control strategies.展开更多
Neospora caninum (N. caninum), an intracellular protozoan parasite, causes abortion and neonatal mortality in many herbivores including sheep and goats. The aim of this study was to estimate the Seroprevalence of N. c...Neospora caninum (N. caninum), an intracellular protozoan parasite, causes abortion and neonatal mortality in many herbivores including sheep and goats. The aim of this study was to estimate the Seroprevalence of N. caninum in sheep and goats in Grenada, West Indies. Sera were collected from 138 sheep and 138 goats from all six parishes of Grenada and Carriacou, a small island within Grenada. Animals were identified by gender. Sera were tested for antibodies for N. caninum using an indirect Enzyme Linked Immunosorbant Assay (ELISA) multispecies Kit from Pourquire Laboratorie (IDvet, France). Antibodies to N. caninum were detected in 18 of 138 sheep (13%, 95% confidence interval (CI): 7.39% to 18.61%) and 8 of 138 goats (5.8%, 95% CI: 1.9% to 9.7%). Although seropositivity was high in female sheep and in male goats, there was no statistical difference in seropositivity of males and females in both species of animals (p > 0.05, χ2). The results of this study revealed that sheep and goats in Grenada were exposed to N. caninum and dogs might be considered as a source of infection. There was a need to educate the farmers, possessing small ruminants, about the transmission cycle of N. caninum and methods of prevention, to minimize the exposure of their flocks. This is the first report on seroprevalence of N. caninum in Grenada, West Indies.展开更多
Sixteen crossbred buck goats （Kiko x Spanish; BW = 32.8 kg） and wether sheep （Dorset x Suffolk; BW = 39.9 kg） were used to determine the effect of preslaughter diet and feed deprivation time （FDT） on physiologic...Sixteen crossbred buck goats （Kiko x Spanish; BW = 32.8 kg） and wether sheep （Dorset x Suffolk; BW = 39.9 kg） were used to determine the effect of preslaughter diet and feed deprivation time （FDT） on physiological responses and microbial loads on skin and carcasses. Experimental animals were fed either a concentrate （CD） or a hay diet （HD） for 4 d and then deprived of feed for either 12-h or 24-h before slaughter. Blood samples were collected for plasma cortisol and blood metabolite analyses. Longisimus muscle （LM） pH was measured. Skin and carcass swabs were obtained to assess microbial loads. Plasma creatine kinase activity （863.9 and 571.7 ± 95.21 IU） and non-esterified fatty acid concentrations （1,056.1 and 589.8 _＋ 105.01 mEq/L） were different （P 〈 0.05） between sheep and goats. Species and diet treatments had significant effects on the ultimate pH of LM. Pre-holding total coliform （TCC） and aerobic plate counts （APC） of skin were significantly different between species. Goats had lower （P 〈 0.05） TCC （2.1 vs. 3.0 IogTo CFU/cm2） and APC （8.2 vs. 8.5 Iog10 CFU/cm2） counts in the skin compared to sheep. Preslaughter skin E. coil counts and TCC were different （P 〈 0.05） between species. Goats had lower （P 〈 0.05） counts of E. coil （2.2 vs. 2.9 log10 CFU/cm2） and TCC （2.3 vs. 3.0 log10 CFU/cm2） in the skin compared with those in sheep. Diet, species, and FDT had no effect （P 〉 0.05） on E. coli and TCC in carcass swab samples. The APC of carcass swab samples were only affected （P 〈 0.05） by the FDT. The results indicated that preslaughter dietary management had no significant changes on hormone and blood metabolite concentrations and sheep might be more prone for fecal contamination than goats in the holding pens at abattoir.展开更多
Objective:To carry out the distribution survey of hard ticks of livestock in Boeen Zahra and Takistan counties of Qazvin province from April 2010 to September 2010.Methods:Nearly about 2638 sheep, 461 goats and 318 ca...Objective:To carry out the distribution survey of hard ticks of livestock in Boeen Zahra and Takistan counties of Qazvin province from April 2010 to September 2010.Methods:Nearly about 2638 sheep, 461 goats and 318 cattle of 38 herds in different geographical areas were searched for tick infestation.Results:The species compositions collected from the livestock of Boeen Zahra and Takistan wereHaemaphysalis concinna(0.63%),Haemaphysalis sulcata(12.66%),Hyalomma anatolicum(3.80%),Hyalomma asiaticum(3.16%),Hyalomma detritum(5.70%),Hyalomma dromedarii(28.48%),Hyalomma marginatum(13.29%),Hyalomma schulzei(1.89%),Rhipicephalus bursa(3.16%) and Rhipicephalus sanguineus(3.16%), and for Takistan's livestock were Hyalomma dromedarii(9.86%),Hyalomma marginatum(13.29%),Hyalomma schulzei(1.89%) and Rhipicephalus sanguineus(3.16%), respectively. Hard ticks compositions in different topographic areas were different.Hyalommaspecies had the most prevalence in the areas.Conclusions:The veterinary and public health investigation of the above species should be taken.展开更多
Medical research on neurologic ailments requires representative animal models to validate treatments before they are translated to human clinical trials.Rodents are the predominant animal model used in neurological re...Medical research on neurologic ailments requires representative animal models to validate treatments before they are translated to human clinical trials.Rodents are the predominant animal model used in neurological research despite limited anatomic and physiologic similarities to humans.As a result,functional testing designed to assess locomotor recovery after neurologic impairment is well established in rodent models.Comparatively,large r,more clinically relevant models have not been as well studied.To achieve similar locomotor testing standardization in larger animals,the models must be accessible to a wide array of researchers.Non-human primates are the most relevant animal model fo r translational research,however ethical and financial barriers limit their accessibility.This review focuses on swine,sheep,and goats as large animal alternatives for transitional studies between rodents and non-human primates.The objective of this review is to compare motor testing and data collection methods used in swine,sheep,and goats to encourage testing standardization in these larger animal models.The PubMed database was analyzed by searching combinations of swine,sheep,and goats,neurologic injuries,and functional assessments.Findings were categorized by animal model,data collection method,and assessment design.Swine and sheep were used in the majority of the studies,while only two studies were found using goats.The functional assessments included open pen analysis,treadmill walking,and guided free walking.Data collection methods included subjective behavioral rating scales and objective tools such as pressure-sensitive mats and image-based analysis software.Overall,swine and sheep were well-suited for a variety of assessment designs,with treadmill walking and guided free walking offering the most consistency across multiple trials.Data collection methods varied,but image-based gait analysis software provided the most robust analysis.Future studies should be conducted to standardize functional testing methods after neurologic impairment in large animals.展开更多
PCR-SSCP was used to detect mutations of bone morphogenetic protein 15(BMP15) gene in both high prolificacy(Small Tail Han sheep,Hu sheep,Jining Grey goat and Boer goat) and low prolificacy breeds(Dorset sheep,Texel s...PCR-SSCP was used to detect mutations of bone morphogenetic protein 15(BMP15) gene in both high prolificacy(Small Tail Han sheep,Hu sheep,Jining Grey goat and Boer goat) and low prolificacy breeds(Dorset sheep,Texel sheep,Inner Mongolia Cashmere goat and Angora goat).Both the nucleotide sequences and the amino acid sequences were compared in amplification fragments of both Small Tail Han sheep and Jining Grey goat.The results indicated that none of the four sheep and the four goat breeds carried the same FecX<sup>R</sup> mutation of the BMP15 gene as do Rasa Aragonesa sheep.The nucleotide sequence of Small Tail Han sheep was completely identical with that of the sheep BMP15 sequence(GenBank AF236079,NM<sub>0</sub>01114767).Three base substitutions(T529G,C530G and T576C) and two amino acid changes(V155G and S171P) were found in Jining Grey goat compared with Small Tail Han sheep.The FecX<sup>R</sup> mutation of the BMP15 gene had no significant effect on high prolificacy of Small Tail Han sheep, Hu sheep,Jining Grey goat and Boer goat.展开更多
If there’s one meat dish Ugandan people really enjoy,that’s goat meat.Across the country in restaurants,bars and clubs,the aroma of roasted goat meat wafts enticingly,attracting people at all hours of the day and ni...If there’s one meat dish Ugandan people really enjoy,that’s goat meat.Across the country in restaurants,bars and clubs,the aroma of roasted goat meat wafts enticingly,attracting people at all hours of the day and night.展开更多
A large 7-year vaccination trial was conducted in 15 flocks of goats and 7 flocks of sheep, known to be infected with Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (MAP), in Northern Greece. A total of 3665 kids and 168...A large 7-year vaccination trial was conducted in 15 flocks of goats and 7 flocks of sheep, known to be infected with Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (MAP), in Northern Greece. A total of 3665 kids and 1685 lambs, 7 - 30 days old, were vaccinated during 1995-1999. Seven hundred and seventy-five kids and 413 lambs were kept as unvaccinated controls. For each trial, the Incidence Rate Ratio (IRR), with respective exact 95% confidence intervals, was calculated. All IRR point estimates for young animals were very large (from 5.68 to 11.78 for kids and from 4.28 to 10.08 for lambs), while none of the 95% confidence intervals included 1. The protective effect of vaccination was large and the difference in mortality among vaccinated and unvaccinated animals was more pronounced in young animals. The effect in adult animals was smaller than in young animals;it was, however, still considerable. Upon visual inspection of the K-M curves, it seems that for the young animal trials the vaccinated and control-group curves were diverging increasingly over time, which indicates that the gain from the vaccination (or the loss from non-vaccination) might increase over time during the trial.展开更多
Background Lactational performance depends heavily on age,health,and nutrition.L-Citrulline(Cit)is an effective precursor of L-arginine(Arg),an amino acid that has important roles in synthesis of nitric oxide(NO)and p...Background Lactational performance depends heavily on age,health,and nutrition.L-Citrulline(Cit)is an effective precursor of L-arginine(Arg),an amino acid that has important roles in synthesis of nitric oxide(NO)and polyamines.Ruminal microbes degrade extracellular Arg;however,extracellular L-citrulline(Cit)is not degraded by ruminal microbes due to lack of uptake and can be fed unencapsulated as a precursor for Arg.As NO is a vasodilator,an increase in blood flow and transport of molecules to mammary tissue may enhance lactational performance and milk composition.Increases in polyamine production may increase milk protein synthesis within mammary tissue,thus increasing milk protein content.This study determined,for the first time,effects of dietary Cit supplementation on milk production and milk composition of Alpine dairy goats.Methods Does were synchronized to estrus and bred to Alpine bucks.Parturition was induced on d 149 of gestation and does were suckled overnight allowing kid(s)to obtain colostrum before being milked 24 h later(d 1 of lactation).Does were assigned to either control(CON,n=24)or Cit(CIT,n=23)diets.The isonitrogenous control diet consisted of 97.63%basal diet and 2.37%supplement(1.37%L-alanine and 1.00%soybean hydrogenated oil).The CIT supplemented diet consisted of 97.63%basal diet and 2.37%supplement(0.5%Cit,0.5%L-glutamine,1%soybean hydrogenated oil,0.37%cornstarch).Diets were group fed ad-libitum by treatment group.Blood samples were collected on d 0 and 30 of lactation,milk volumes measured twice daily,and on d 10,20,and 40 of lactation,milk samples were collected.Results CIT-treated does had greater daily milk production(P<0.05)and there was an effect of day of lactation on daily milk production(P<0.0001).Sire had significant effect on daily milk production as well(P<0.05).Milk compositional analyses revealed Cit supplementation increased solid-non-fat(SNF;P<0.05)and protein(P<0.05)content in milk.Conclusions Our novel results indicate that dietary supplementation of Cit fed ad-libitum in Alpine does increased daily milk yield,milk SNF content,and protein content.Supplemental Cit may be a proxy for Arg in goats to enhance lactational performance.展开更多
Background Meat goat production is a worldwide industry with products such as meat,milk,soap,and fiber being produced.There are approximately 2.6 million meat goats in the United States.For breeding female ruminants,e...Background Meat goat production is a worldwide industry with products such as meat,milk,soap,and fiber being produced.There are approximately 2.6 million meat goats in the United States.For breeding female ruminants,early pregnancy loss is estimated to be 30%within the first month of gestation.Extracellular L-citrulline(a precursor to L-arginine)is not degraded by ruminal microbes due to the lack of uptake.L-Arginine and thus L-citrulline,have beneficial impacts on placentation and,subsequently,fetal-placental development and survival.This study aimed to determine the impact of feeding L-citrulline to meat goats during gestation to improve reproductive success.Meat goats were fed either a control(CON)or L-citrulline(CIT)supplemented diet from d 12 to 82 of gestation.Blood samples were collected and sera were subjected to high-performance liquid chromatography analyses to quantify the abundance of amino acids.Pregnancy rates were determined on d 30,61,and 90 of gestation,and litter weight,individual birth weights,and 90 d adjusted weaning weights were collected.Results The concentrations of citrulline,ornithine,and arginine were greater in CIT does compared to CON does,but there was no difference in pregnancy rates between CON and CIT does.Birth weight was greater for male kids born as singles when compared to females,but this phenotype was not observed for kids born as twins or triplets.Further,males born to CON does had greater 90 d adjusted weaning weights than females,but this was not observed in the CIT group.Female kids born to CON and CIT Boer goats had heavier 90 d adjusted weaning weights than those born to Spanish or F1 Boer-Spanish does.Conclusion This study provides proof of concept that feeding dietary L-citrulline increases concentrations of citrul-line and arginine in blood of gestating meat goats.However,further studies are needed to understand the cellular mechanisms impacted by feeding this supplement.Regardless,this study demonstrated that feeding L-citrulline has the potential to increase reproductive performance in gestating ruminants.展开更多
Background The diverse types and processing methods of grains intricately influence the sites and digestibility of starch digestion,thereby impacting energy utilization.This study aimed to explore the impact of grain ...Background The diverse types and processing methods of grains intricately influence the sites and digestibility of starch digestion,thereby impacting energy utilization.This study aimed to explore the impact of grain variety and processing methods on the net energy(NE)in dairy goats,analyzing these effects at the level of nutrient digestion and metabolism.Methods Eighteen castrated Guanzhong dairy goats(44.25±3.59 kg BW)were randomly divided into 3 groups,each consisting of 6 replicates.The substitution method was employed to determine the NE values of the dry-rolled corn(DRC),dry-rolled wheat(DRW)or steam-flaked corn(SFC,360 g/L).Briefly,two phases were performed.Throughout the basal phase,all goats were fed the same basal diet.In the substitution phase,30%of the basal diet was replaced with DRC,DRW and SFC,respectively.Results In this study,the NE values of the DRC,DRW and SFC were 7.65,7.54 and 7.44 MJ/kg DM,respectively.Compared to the DRC group,the DRW group showed increased digestibility of starch and crude protein(CP).Similarly,the SFC group exhibited increased organic matter(OM)and starch digestibility and a trend towards higher dry matter(DM)digestibility,reduced fecal OM and starch content.Additionally,fecal volatile fatty acid(VFA)concentrations decreased in goats fed SFC.Correspondingly,digestible energy(DE)in the DRW and SFC groups tended to be higher than in the DRC group.DRW increased total VFA concentration compared to DRC,while SFC increased the proportion of propionate and decreased the acetate-to-propionate ratio in the rumen.Both the DRW and SFC diets elevated serum glucose levels.Furthermore,heat increment(HI)and gaseous energy(Gas E)related to fermentation were significantly higher in the DRW and SFC groups compared to the DRC group.Conclusion Our findings indicated that DRW and SFC increased rumen starch fermentation in goats,thereby improving total tract starch digestion and DE.However,DRW and SFC failed to improve NE value due to increased heat and gas energy production from fermentation.Therefore,excessively refined grains processing in the diet of dairy goats does not effectively improve energy efficiency.展开更多
The genetic regulation of hair density in animals remains poorly understood.The Dazu black goat,characterized by its black coarse hair and white skin,provides a unique model for dissecting coarse hair density(CHD).Usi...The genetic regulation of hair density in animals remains poorly understood.The Dazu black goat,characterized by its black coarse hair and white skin,provides a unique model for dissecting coarse hair density(CHD).Using high-resolution micro-camera imaging,this study analyzed 905 skin images,33 skin transcriptomes,272 whole-genome sequences,and 182 downloaded transcriptomes.Morphological assessment from juvenile to adult stages revealed the thickening of hair shafts accompanied by a progressive decline in density,largely attributable to rapid surface expansion of the trunk skin.Transcriptomic comparison between high-and low-CHD individuals identified 572 differentially expressed genes(DEGs).A genome-wide association study detected 25 significant single nucleotide polymorphisms(P<9.07e-8)and mapped 48 annotated genes,with the most prominent association signal located near GJA1 on chr9.15931585-18621011.Literature review and Venn analysis highlighted six genes(GJA1,GPRC5D,CD1D,CD207,TFAM,and CXCL12)with documented roles in skin and hair biology,and three genes(GJA1,GPRC5D,and ATP6V1B1)overlapped with DEGs.Multiple-tissue transcriptomic profiling,western blotting,immunohistochemical staining,and skin single-cell RNA sequencing confirmed that GJA1 and GPRC5D were highly and specifically expressed in skin,particularly within hair follicles.Expression was localized predominantly to follicular stem cells and dermal papilla cells,suggesting a significant role in folliculogenesis and structural maintenance.Cross-validation using four public datasets further demonstrated positive correlations between GJA1 and GPRC5D expression and hair follicle density.The innovative micro-camera application allowed the elucidation of spatiotemporal patterns and genes associated with CHD,thereby addressing a significant knowledge gap in animal hair density.展开更多
Background Subacute rumen acidosis(SARA)is a common metabolic disorder in ruminants that disrupts the rumen microbiome and animal health,but diagnosis is challenging due to subtle symptoms and invasive testing require...Background Subacute rumen acidosis(SARA)is a common metabolic disorder in ruminants that disrupts the rumen microbiome and animal health,but diagnosis is challenging due to subtle symptoms and invasive testing require-ments.This study explores the potential of the buccal(oral)microbiome as a diagnostic indicator for SARA,hypoth-esizing an interaction with the rumen microbiome.Results The study involved 47 dairy goats,including 11 on a control diet and 36 on high-concentrate diets with increasing rumen-degradable starch.Animals were grouped based on dietary exposure and ruminal pH:Control,Low-RDS Tolerance/SARA(LRDST/LRDSS),and High-RDS Tolerance/SARA(HRDST/HRDSS).Transcriptomics of rumen epithelium showed heightened inflammatory pathway gene expression in SARA-susceptible goats compared to controls and tolerant groups.Alpha diversity of ruminal bacteria showed lower Shannon diversity in HRDSS goats compared to HRDST whereas buccal bacteria displayed significantly lower Chao1 diversity in LRDSS goats compared to HRDST.Beta diversity analyses revealed distinct patterns between SARA-affected goats and healthy controls in both ruminal and buccal microbiomes.Prevotellaceae_UCG-003 emerged as a candidate biomarker,with reduced abundance in SARA-susceptible goats in both rumen and buccal samples.Machine learning classifiers achieved high accuracy in distinguishing SARA-susceptible goats using this genus(rumen AUC=0.807;buccal AUC=0.779).Source tracking analysis illustrated diminished cross-population of bacteria from the buccal to rumen(2.86%to 0.25%)and vice versa(8.59%to 1.17%),signifying compromised microbial interchange in SARA-affected goats.A microbiota transplant experiment verified SARA microbiota’s ability to induce pH decline,escalate inflammation-related gene expression(MAPK10,IL17B,FOSB,SPP1),disrupt microbial transfer,and reduce Prevotellaceae_UCG-003 in recipients.Conclusion Our findings highlight SARA’s dual impact on ruminal and buccal microbiota,exacerbating epithelial inflammation gene expression.Shifts in the buccal microbiome,specifically reductions in Prevotellaceae_UCG-003,mirror ruminal changes and can be influenced by inter-compartmental bacterial transmission,thereby offering a non-invasive diagnostic approach for SARA.展开更多
Brucellosis is a zoonosis found throughout the world with major implications both in the field of public health and farming economy. It is most often caused by Brucella abortus and Brucella melitensis. This study aime...Brucellosis is a zoonosis found throughout the world with major implications both in the field of public health and farming economy. It is most often caused by Brucella abortus and Brucella melitensis. This study aimed for evaluation of the sensitivity and specificity of immunochromatographic assay (ICA) and comparing the results with those obtained from Rose Bengal Plate Test (RBPT) and in direct Enzyme Linked Immunsorbent Assay (ELISA) for serodiagnosis of sheep and goat brucellosis. Out of 41 sera samples (21 ram and 20 male goats) which were examined, antibodies against Brucella were detected in ram 8 (38.09%), 6 (28.57%) and 16 (76.19%) in ram samples, whereas they were detected in 3 (15%), 1 (5%) and 12 (60%) serum sample of goats males by RBPT, (ICA) and iELISA respectively. The kappa value between iELISA and ICA was -0.08 and that between RBPT and ELISA was -0.01 in ram and the kappa value between iELISA and ICA was -0.06 and that between RBPT and ELISA was -0.14 in male goats. The sensitivity for RBPT and ICA were 37.5% and 25% while specificity was 60% and 60% in ram;whereas, in male goats, sensitivity for RBPT was 8.33% and ICA was 8.33% while specificity was 75% and 100% respectively. It can be concluded that the developed ICA is immunodiagnostic assay, and it is rapid, non-expensive, economical and suitable for large-scale screening in developing countries and rural areas.展开更多
Cysticercus tenuicollis is a metacestode stage of Taenia hydatigena residing in the visceral organs of small ruminants and its effects cause economic losses due to condemnation of visceral organs in slaughterhouses. T...Cysticercus tenuicollis is a metacestode stage of Taenia hydatigena residing in the visceral organs of small ruminants and its effects cause economic losses due to condemnation of visceral organs in slaughterhouses. This study reports on the prevalence of Cysticercus tenuicollis in small ruminants slaughtered in Lira Municipal Abattoir. A total of 70 sheep and 70 goats were sampled and examined after slaughter for the presence of Cysticercus tenuicollis in the visceral organs using standard meat inspection procedures. An abattoir data collection sheet was used to record data, which was then analysed in SPSS version 20. The study revealed 51.4% of goats and 68.6% of sheep to be infested with Cysticercus tenuicollis. Following the district of origin for the small ruminants, Otuke district had the highest prevalence of the parasite (82.6%), followed by Kole (72.4%), Alebtong (66.7%), Apac (59.4%) and Lira (31.4%). Cysticercus tenuicollis was more frequently seen in the intestines (57.8%) of sheep and goats than in any other visceral organs. The liver had a prevalence of 20.7%, the lungs 17.8%, the kidneys 3.5% and the fetal sac;(15.7%) in goats and (12.9%) in sheep. Cysticercus tenuicollis was detected in 68.8% of females and 58.8% of male small ruminants. It is recommended to routinely deworm goats and sheep by farmers most especially in districts with the highest prevalence of Cysticercus tenuicollis infestation. The sale of the condemned parts of sheep and goats and the feeding of dogs on these contaminated materials should be stopped forthwith. It is also being suggested that a national study be carried out to determine the prevalence and economic impact of Cysticercus tenuicollis in small ruminants.展开更多
The Bakerwal breed of goat in Kashmir valley is a good meat purpose breed of goat. That attains an appreciable body weight under a low input production system. As these goats are mainly reared by Gujjar and Bakarwal t...The Bakerwal breed of goat in Kashmir valley is a good meat purpose breed of goat. That attains an appreciable body weight under a low input production system. As these goats are mainly reared by Gujjar and Bakarwal tribes of the J & K state, so they usually are fed with the weeds, herbs, shrubs and grasses of pastures that will otherwise go waste. These goats constitute the main livestock wealth. With the good productive and reproductive potential, it makes these animals an important animal protein source for developing countries like India. The myostatin gene (GDF8) is important in the physiology of stock animals because its product produces a direct effect on muscle development and consequently also on meat production. The myostatin sequence is known in several mammalian species and shows a high degree of amino acid sequence conservation, although several alterations in the intron and exon regions have been identified. The objective of our work is to characterize the myostatin coding regions using gene sequencing and polymerase chain reaction methods of Capra hircus (Bakerwal breed) and to compare them with the Ovis aries and other livestock species of animal, looking for variations in nucleotide and protein sequences. As mutations in the myostatin gene can inactivate its expression and result in a non-functional protein, which leads to increase in muscle growth in many species. In this way, we are able to identify 3 alterations on the presumed myostatin protein sequence as compared to non double-muscled ovine sequences.展开更多
What is special about the sky bridge near Qingjing Farm?Qingjing Farm in Nantou is a popular place to visit.Every year,it has a Sheep Run Festival!Thousands of visitors go each year to cheer on their favorite sheep an...What is special about the sky bridge near Qingjing Farm?Qingjing Farm in Nantou is a popular place to visit.Every year,it has a Sheep Run Festival!Thousands of visitors go each year to cheer on their favorite sheep and take pictures as they run down the mountain roads.People can enjoy many performances,games and activities during the festival,too.展开更多
The total output value of mutton in Northwestern China has accounted for more than 60%of the total output value of animal husbandry over the years.It can be seen that the mutton industry in Northwest China not only pl...The total output value of mutton in Northwestern China has accounted for more than 60%of the total output value of animal husbandry over the years.It can be seen that the mutton industry in Northwest China not only plays a pivotal role in animal husbandry,but also plays an important role in Chinese agriculture.In this study,based on cost accounting theory,income-related theories and total factor productivity theory,using basic knowledge of statistics and economics,drawing on existing research results at home and abroad,and adopting a combination of qualitative analysis and quantitative analysis of SAS multiple stepwise regression,the changing trends of cost-benefit of mutton sheep breeding in Northwest agricultural and pastoral areas and influencing factors of production costs and production efficiency were investigated,aiming to provide reference for saving mutton sheep feeding material resources,reducing mutton sheep breeding costs,and improving mutton sheep breeding benefits.展开更多
Daytime activity budgets of feral goats （ Capra hircus ） were studied in 1981, 1982 and 2000 on the Isle of Rum, northwest Scotland. This paper analyzes the influence of key weather variables （temperature and rainf...Daytime activity budgets of feral goats （ Capra hircus ） were studied in 1981, 1982 and 2000 on the Isle of Rum, northwest Scotland. This paper analyzes the influence of key weather variables （temperature and rainfall） and seasonal variations in daylength on daytime activity budgets. This study showed that the percentage of daytime spent in feeding by feral goats on Rum Island decreased with average monthly temperature, while the percentage of daytime spent in lying increased and rainfall had no significant effects on the percentage daytime spent in feeding or lying. The daylength varied greatly from January to December with the longest daylength being in June and July, and the shortest one in December and January. The amount of daytime spent feeding decreased from summer to winter, although the percentage of daytime spent feeding increased greatly from summer to winter. The seasonal variations in daylength seem to be an important factor in constraining feral goats＇ activity, especially in the cold and wet winters when forage biomass and quality are both at their lowest level. We discuss the influence of such constraining effects on the forage intake of these goats and their winter survival rate, as well as its implication for population regulation of these goats.展开更多
[Objective] The aim was to study the effect of the muscle histological characteristics of Haimen goats on meat quality.[Method] Twelve-month-old Haimen goats and Bore × Haimen F1（♂）were used as the materials t...[Objective] The aim was to study the effect of the muscle histological characteristics of Haimen goats on meat quality.[Method] Twelve-month-old Haimen goats and Bore × Haimen F1（♂）were used as the materials to systematically research the muscle histological properties of different sexes and muscles.[Result] The results revealed that the muscle fiber area and myofibril diameter,sarcomere length,light band length,dark band length,hall band length of quadriceps femoris of Haimen female goats were extremely significantly higher than male goats（P〈0.01）;However,that of longissimus dorsi muscle was extremely significantly lower than male goats（P〈0.01）.There was significant difference（P〈0.05）or extremely significant difference（P〈0.01）between muscle microstructure and ultrastructure among the same sex and different muscles.There were a large number of mitochondria,glycogen granules and fat droplet within muscle fiber from Haimen male goats,which indicated that oxidative metabolism rate was high,water retention was good and the meat was tender,succulent and distinct.[Conclusion] The study provided theoretical basis for breeding,development and utilization of Haimen goats and variety evaluation of local goats in China.展开更多
基金supported,in part,by Key Research and Development Projects of Henan,China(231111111600)the National Key R&D Program(2023YFD1801200)the China Agriculture(sheep and goats)Research System(CARS-38).
文摘Sheep and goat coccidiosis has a worldwide distribution and is an important disease on lambing farms.Infection with multiple Eimeria species can lead to severe intestinal damage in sheep/goats and economic losses on farms.Disease is a serious constraint to the healthy development of small ruminant farming.Studies published on PubMed,CNKI,VIP,Wanfang and the resulting references of selected studies were included.Risk factors affecting prevalence were analyzed and stratified by geographic location and climatic variables,age,sex,feeding model,season,sample year,breeds and environment.The total prevalence of coccidia in sheep and goats reached more than 60%in most regions,in which the dominant species in sheep were mainly E.parva,E.ovinoidalis,and E.parva and E.ahsata.East China had the lowest prevalence of coccidia infection in sheep(43.24%),and the dominant species were different from those in the other regions,mainly E.bakuensis and E.gonzalezi.Southwestern China and Central China had slightly less than 40.0%goat coccidia infection,and the dominant species in goats were mainly E.arloingi,E.aligevi,E.hirci and E.ninakohlyakimovae.Sheep/goats of different ages can be infected with coccidiosis,but lambs between 1 and 3 months of age are more susceptible to the disease.When lambs become infected,the pathogen spreads rapidly throughout the herd.Spring,summer and autumn are the seasons with a high incidence of this disease.Environmental pollution may be a significant factor in the development of coccidiosis in sheep raised in large-scale housing.This study provides a comprehensive overview of the species,morphology and geographic distribution of Eimeria species in sheep and goats,summary prevalence in different regions of China,risk factors affecting prevalence,and prevention and control strategies.
文摘Neospora caninum (N. caninum), an intracellular protozoan parasite, causes abortion and neonatal mortality in many herbivores including sheep and goats. The aim of this study was to estimate the Seroprevalence of N. caninum in sheep and goats in Grenada, West Indies. Sera were collected from 138 sheep and 138 goats from all six parishes of Grenada and Carriacou, a small island within Grenada. Animals were identified by gender. Sera were tested for antibodies for N. caninum using an indirect Enzyme Linked Immunosorbant Assay (ELISA) multispecies Kit from Pourquire Laboratorie (IDvet, France). Antibodies to N. caninum were detected in 18 of 138 sheep (13%, 95% confidence interval (CI): 7.39% to 18.61%) and 8 of 138 goats (5.8%, 95% CI: 1.9% to 9.7%). Although seropositivity was high in female sheep and in male goats, there was no statistical difference in seropositivity of males and females in both species of animals (p > 0.05, χ2). The results of this study revealed that sheep and goats in Grenada were exposed to N. caninum and dogs might be considered as a source of infection. There was a need to educate the farmers, possessing small ruminants, about the transmission cycle of N. caninum and methods of prevention, to minimize the exposure of their flocks. This is the first report on seroprevalence of N. caninum in Grenada, West Indies.
文摘Sixteen crossbred buck goats （Kiko x Spanish; BW = 32.8 kg） and wether sheep （Dorset x Suffolk; BW = 39.9 kg） were used to determine the effect of preslaughter diet and feed deprivation time （FDT） on physiological responses and microbial loads on skin and carcasses. Experimental animals were fed either a concentrate （CD） or a hay diet （HD） for 4 d and then deprived of feed for either 12-h or 24-h before slaughter. Blood samples were collected for plasma cortisol and blood metabolite analyses. Longisimus muscle （LM） pH was measured. Skin and carcass swabs were obtained to assess microbial loads. Plasma creatine kinase activity （863.9 and 571.7 ± 95.21 IU） and non-esterified fatty acid concentrations （1,056.1 and 589.8 _＋ 105.01 mEq/L） were different （P 〈 0.05） between sheep and goats. Species and diet treatments had significant effects on the ultimate pH of LM. Pre-holding total coliform （TCC） and aerobic plate counts （APC） of skin were significantly different between species. Goats had lower （P 〈 0.05） TCC （2.1 vs. 3.0 IogTo CFU/cm2） and APC （8.2 vs. 8.5 Iog10 CFU/cm2） counts in the skin compared to sheep. Preslaughter skin E. coil counts and TCC were different （P 〈 0.05） between species. Goats had lower （P 〈 0.05） counts of E. coil （2.2 vs. 2.9 log10 CFU/cm2） and TCC （2.3 vs. 3.0 log10 CFU/cm2） in the skin compared with those in sheep. Diet, species, and FDT had no effect （P 〉 0.05） on E. coli and TCC in carcass swab samples. The APC of carcass swab samples were only affected （P 〈 0.05） by the FDT. The results indicated that preslaughter dietary management had no significant changes on hormone and blood metabolite concentrations and sheep might be more prone for fecal contamination than goats in the holding pens at abattoir.
基金financially supported by Research Council of Tehran University of Medical Sciences(grant No.89-04-27-11690)
文摘Objective:To carry out the distribution survey of hard ticks of livestock in Boeen Zahra and Takistan counties of Qazvin province from April 2010 to September 2010.Methods:Nearly about 2638 sheep, 461 goats and 318 cattle of 38 herds in different geographical areas were searched for tick infestation.Results:The species compositions collected from the livestock of Boeen Zahra and Takistan wereHaemaphysalis concinna(0.63%),Haemaphysalis sulcata(12.66%),Hyalomma anatolicum(3.80%),Hyalomma asiaticum(3.16%),Hyalomma detritum(5.70%),Hyalomma dromedarii(28.48%),Hyalomma marginatum(13.29%),Hyalomma schulzei(1.89%),Rhipicephalus bursa(3.16%) and Rhipicephalus sanguineus(3.16%), and for Takistan's livestock were Hyalomma dromedarii(9.86%),Hyalomma marginatum(13.29%),Hyalomma schulzei(1.89%) and Rhipicephalus sanguineus(3.16%), respectively. Hard ticks compositions in different topographic areas were different.Hyalommaspecies had the most prevalence in the areas.Conclusions:The veterinary and public health investigation of the above species should be taken.
文摘Medical research on neurologic ailments requires representative animal models to validate treatments before they are translated to human clinical trials.Rodents are the predominant animal model used in neurological research despite limited anatomic and physiologic similarities to humans.As a result,functional testing designed to assess locomotor recovery after neurologic impairment is well established in rodent models.Comparatively,large r,more clinically relevant models have not been as well studied.To achieve similar locomotor testing standardization in larger animals,the models must be accessible to a wide array of researchers.Non-human primates are the most relevant animal model fo r translational research,however ethical and financial barriers limit their accessibility.This review focuses on swine,sheep,and goats as large animal alternatives for transitional studies between rodents and non-human primates.The objective of this review is to compare motor testing and data collection methods used in swine,sheep,and goats to encourage testing standardization in these larger animal models.The PubMed database was analyzed by searching combinations of swine,sheep,and goats,neurologic injuries,and functional assessments.Findings were categorized by animal model,data collection method,and assessment design.Swine and sheep were used in the majority of the studies,while only two studies were found using goats.The functional assessments included open pen analysis,treadmill walking,and guided free walking.Data collection methods included subjective behavioral rating scales and objective tools such as pressure-sensitive mats and image-based analysis software.Overall,swine and sheep were well-suited for a variety of assessment designs,with treadmill walking and guided free walking offering the most consistency across multiple trials.Data collection methods varied,but image-based gait analysis software provided the most robust analysis.Future studies should be conducted to standardize functional testing methods after neurologic impairment in large animals.
基金supported by National High Technology Research and Development Program of China(No. 2006AA 10Z 139)National Key Basic Research and Development Program of China(No.2006CB 102105)+3 种基金National Key Technology R&D Program of China(No. 2008BADB2B01,2006BAD01A 11,2006BAD 13B08)National Natural Science Foundation of China(No. 30540052)Beijing Natural Sciences Foundation of China(No.6062023)the special fund for basic scientific research of Institute of Animal Science,Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences(No.ywf-rc-1)
文摘PCR-SSCP was used to detect mutations of bone morphogenetic protein 15(BMP15) gene in both high prolificacy(Small Tail Han sheep,Hu sheep,Jining Grey goat and Boer goat) and low prolificacy breeds(Dorset sheep,Texel sheep,Inner Mongolia Cashmere goat and Angora goat).Both the nucleotide sequences and the amino acid sequences were compared in amplification fragments of both Small Tail Han sheep and Jining Grey goat.The results indicated that none of the four sheep and the four goat breeds carried the same FecX<sup>R</sup> mutation of the BMP15 gene as do Rasa Aragonesa sheep.The nucleotide sequence of Small Tail Han sheep was completely identical with that of the sheep BMP15 sequence(GenBank AF236079,NM<sub>0</sub>01114767).Three base substitutions(T529G,C530G and T576C) and two amino acid changes(V155G and S171P) were found in Jining Grey goat compared with Small Tail Han sheep.The FecX<sup>R</sup> mutation of the BMP15 gene had no significant effect on high prolificacy of Small Tail Han sheep, Hu sheep,Jining Grey goat and Boer goat.
文摘If there’s one meat dish Ugandan people really enjoy,that’s goat meat.Across the country in restaurants,bars and clubs,the aroma of roasted goat meat wafts enticingly,attracting people at all hours of the day and night.
文摘A large 7-year vaccination trial was conducted in 15 flocks of goats and 7 flocks of sheep, known to be infected with Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (MAP), in Northern Greece. A total of 3665 kids and 1685 lambs, 7 - 30 days old, were vaccinated during 1995-1999. Seven hundred and seventy-five kids and 413 lambs were kept as unvaccinated controls. For each trial, the Incidence Rate Ratio (IRR), with respective exact 95% confidence intervals, was calculated. All IRR point estimates for young animals were very large (from 5.68 to 11.78 for kids and from 4.28 to 10.08 for lambs), while none of the 95% confidence intervals included 1. The protective effect of vaccination was large and the difference in mortality among vaccinated and unvaccinated animals was more pronounced in young animals. The effect in adult animals was smaller than in young animals;it was, however, still considerable. Upon visual inspection of the K-M curves, it seems that for the young animal trials the vaccinated and control-group curves were diverging increasingly over time, which indicates that the gain from the vaccination (or the loss from non-vaccination) might increase over time during the trial.
基金supported by funding from Texas A&M AgriLife ResearchPrairie View A&M University International Center for Goat Research。
文摘Background Lactational performance depends heavily on age,health,and nutrition.L-Citrulline(Cit)is an effective precursor of L-arginine(Arg),an amino acid that has important roles in synthesis of nitric oxide(NO)and polyamines.Ruminal microbes degrade extracellular Arg;however,extracellular L-citrulline(Cit)is not degraded by ruminal microbes due to lack of uptake and can be fed unencapsulated as a precursor for Arg.As NO is a vasodilator,an increase in blood flow and transport of molecules to mammary tissue may enhance lactational performance and milk composition.Increases in polyamine production may increase milk protein synthesis within mammary tissue,thus increasing milk protein content.This study determined,for the first time,effects of dietary Cit supplementation on milk production and milk composition of Alpine dairy goats.Methods Does were synchronized to estrus and bred to Alpine bucks.Parturition was induced on d 149 of gestation and does were suckled overnight allowing kid(s)to obtain colostrum before being milked 24 h later(d 1 of lactation).Does were assigned to either control(CON,n=24)or Cit(CIT,n=23)diets.The isonitrogenous control diet consisted of 97.63%basal diet and 2.37%supplement(1.37%L-alanine and 1.00%soybean hydrogenated oil).The CIT supplemented diet consisted of 97.63%basal diet and 2.37%supplement(0.5%Cit,0.5%L-glutamine,1%soybean hydrogenated oil,0.37%cornstarch).Diets were group fed ad-libitum by treatment group.Blood samples were collected on d 0 and 30 of lactation,milk volumes measured twice daily,and on d 10,20,and 40 of lactation,milk samples were collected.Results CIT-treated does had greater daily milk production(P<0.05)and there was an effect of day of lactation on daily milk production(P<0.0001).Sire had significant effect on daily milk production as well(P<0.05).Milk compositional analyses revealed Cit supplementation increased solid-non-fat(SNF;P<0.05)and protein(P<0.05)content in milk.Conclusions Our novel results indicate that dietary supplementation of Cit fed ad-libitum in Alpine does increased daily milk yield,milk SNF content,and protein content.Supplemental Cit may be a proxy for Arg in goats to enhance lactational performance.
文摘Background Meat goat production is a worldwide industry with products such as meat,milk,soap,and fiber being produced.There are approximately 2.6 million meat goats in the United States.For breeding female ruminants,early pregnancy loss is estimated to be 30%within the first month of gestation.Extracellular L-citrulline(a precursor to L-arginine)is not degraded by ruminal microbes due to the lack of uptake.L-Arginine and thus L-citrulline,have beneficial impacts on placentation and,subsequently,fetal-placental development and survival.This study aimed to determine the impact of feeding L-citrulline to meat goats during gestation to improve reproductive success.Meat goats were fed either a control(CON)or L-citrulline(CIT)supplemented diet from d 12 to 82 of gestation.Blood samples were collected and sera were subjected to high-performance liquid chromatography analyses to quantify the abundance of amino acids.Pregnancy rates were determined on d 30,61,and 90 of gestation,and litter weight,individual birth weights,and 90 d adjusted weaning weights were collected.Results The concentrations of citrulline,ornithine,and arginine were greater in CIT does compared to CON does,but there was no difference in pregnancy rates between CON and CIT does.Birth weight was greater for male kids born as singles when compared to females,but this phenotype was not observed for kids born as twins or triplets.Further,males born to CON does had greater 90 d adjusted weaning weights than females,but this was not observed in the CIT group.Female kids born to CON and CIT Boer goats had heavier 90 d adjusted weaning weights than those born to Spanish or F1 Boer-Spanish does.Conclusion This study provides proof of concept that feeding dietary L-citrulline increases concentrations of citrul-line and arginine in blood of gestating meat goats.However,further studies are needed to understand the cellular mechanisms impacted by feeding this supplement.Regardless,this study demonstrated that feeding L-citrulline has the potential to increase reproductive performance in gestating ruminants.
基金supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of China(2023YFE0111800)Shaanxi Livestock and Poultry Breeding Double-chain Fusion Key Project(grant number 2022GD-TSLD-46-0501)。
文摘Background The diverse types and processing methods of grains intricately influence the sites and digestibility of starch digestion,thereby impacting energy utilization.This study aimed to explore the impact of grain variety and processing methods on the net energy(NE)in dairy goats,analyzing these effects at the level of nutrient digestion and metabolism.Methods Eighteen castrated Guanzhong dairy goats(44.25±3.59 kg BW)were randomly divided into 3 groups,each consisting of 6 replicates.The substitution method was employed to determine the NE values of the dry-rolled corn(DRC),dry-rolled wheat(DRW)or steam-flaked corn(SFC,360 g/L).Briefly,two phases were performed.Throughout the basal phase,all goats were fed the same basal diet.In the substitution phase,30%of the basal diet was replaced with DRC,DRW and SFC,respectively.Results In this study,the NE values of the DRC,DRW and SFC were 7.65,7.54 and 7.44 MJ/kg DM,respectively.Compared to the DRC group,the DRW group showed increased digestibility of starch and crude protein(CP).Similarly,the SFC group exhibited increased organic matter(OM)and starch digestibility and a trend towards higher dry matter(DM)digestibility,reduced fecal OM and starch content.Additionally,fecal volatile fatty acid(VFA)concentrations decreased in goats fed SFC.Correspondingly,digestible energy(DE)in the DRW and SFC groups tended to be higher than in the DRC group.DRW increased total VFA concentration compared to DRC,while SFC increased the proportion of propionate and decreased the acetate-to-propionate ratio in the rumen.Both the DRW and SFC diets elevated serum glucose levels.Furthermore,heat increment(HI)and gaseous energy(Gas E)related to fermentation were significantly higher in the DRW and SFC groups compared to the DRC group.Conclusion Our findings indicated that DRW and SFC increased rumen starch fermentation in goats,thereby improving total tract starch digestion and DE.However,DRW and SFC failed to improve NE value due to increased heat and gas energy production from fermentation.Therefore,excessively refined grains processing in the diet of dairy goats does not effectively improve energy efficiency.
基金supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of China(2022YFD1300202)Collection,Utilization,and Innovation of Animal Resources by Research Institutes and Enterprises of Chongqing(Cqnyncw-kqlhtxm),Chongqing Modern Agricultural Industry Technology System(CQMAITS202413)National Training Program of Innovation and Entrepreneurship for Undergraduates(S202310635040)。
文摘The genetic regulation of hair density in animals remains poorly understood.The Dazu black goat,characterized by its black coarse hair and white skin,provides a unique model for dissecting coarse hair density(CHD).Using high-resolution micro-camera imaging,this study analyzed 905 skin images,33 skin transcriptomes,272 whole-genome sequences,and 182 downloaded transcriptomes.Morphological assessment from juvenile to adult stages revealed the thickening of hair shafts accompanied by a progressive decline in density,largely attributable to rapid surface expansion of the trunk skin.Transcriptomic comparison between high-and low-CHD individuals identified 572 differentially expressed genes(DEGs).A genome-wide association study detected 25 significant single nucleotide polymorphisms(P<9.07e-8)and mapped 48 annotated genes,with the most prominent association signal located near GJA1 on chr9.15931585-18621011.Literature review and Venn analysis highlighted six genes(GJA1,GPRC5D,CD1D,CD207,TFAM,and CXCL12)with documented roles in skin and hair biology,and three genes(GJA1,GPRC5D,and ATP6V1B1)overlapped with DEGs.Multiple-tissue transcriptomic profiling,western blotting,immunohistochemical staining,and skin single-cell RNA sequencing confirmed that GJA1 and GPRC5D were highly and specifically expressed in skin,particularly within hair follicles.Expression was localized predominantly to follicular stem cells and dermal papilla cells,suggesting a significant role in folliculogenesis and structural maintenance.Cross-validation using four public datasets further demonstrated positive correlations between GJA1 and GPRC5D expression and hair follicle density.The innovative micro-camera application allowed the elucidation of spatiotemporal patterns and genes associated with CHD,thereby addressing a significant knowledge gap in animal hair density.
基金supported by the National Key Research and Development Program for International Science and Technology Innovation Cooperation between Governments(2023YFE0111800)the Shaanxi Province’s San Qin Talent Attraction Program for Regional Youth Talents.
文摘Background Subacute rumen acidosis(SARA)is a common metabolic disorder in ruminants that disrupts the rumen microbiome and animal health,but diagnosis is challenging due to subtle symptoms and invasive testing require-ments.This study explores the potential of the buccal(oral)microbiome as a diagnostic indicator for SARA,hypoth-esizing an interaction with the rumen microbiome.Results The study involved 47 dairy goats,including 11 on a control diet and 36 on high-concentrate diets with increasing rumen-degradable starch.Animals were grouped based on dietary exposure and ruminal pH:Control,Low-RDS Tolerance/SARA(LRDST/LRDSS),and High-RDS Tolerance/SARA(HRDST/HRDSS).Transcriptomics of rumen epithelium showed heightened inflammatory pathway gene expression in SARA-susceptible goats compared to controls and tolerant groups.Alpha diversity of ruminal bacteria showed lower Shannon diversity in HRDSS goats compared to HRDST whereas buccal bacteria displayed significantly lower Chao1 diversity in LRDSS goats compared to HRDST.Beta diversity analyses revealed distinct patterns between SARA-affected goats and healthy controls in both ruminal and buccal microbiomes.Prevotellaceae_UCG-003 emerged as a candidate biomarker,with reduced abundance in SARA-susceptible goats in both rumen and buccal samples.Machine learning classifiers achieved high accuracy in distinguishing SARA-susceptible goats using this genus(rumen AUC=0.807;buccal AUC=0.779).Source tracking analysis illustrated diminished cross-population of bacteria from the buccal to rumen(2.86%to 0.25%)and vice versa(8.59%to 1.17%),signifying compromised microbial interchange in SARA-affected goats.A microbiota transplant experiment verified SARA microbiota’s ability to induce pH decline,escalate inflammation-related gene expression(MAPK10,IL17B,FOSB,SPP1),disrupt microbial transfer,and reduce Prevotellaceae_UCG-003 in recipients.Conclusion Our findings highlight SARA’s dual impact on ruminal and buccal microbiota,exacerbating epithelial inflammation gene expression.Shifts in the buccal microbiome,specifically reductions in Prevotellaceae_UCG-003,mirror ruminal changes and can be influenced by inter-compartmental bacterial transmission,thereby offering a non-invasive diagnostic approach for SARA.
文摘Brucellosis is a zoonosis found throughout the world with major implications both in the field of public health and farming economy. It is most often caused by Brucella abortus and Brucella melitensis. This study aimed for evaluation of the sensitivity and specificity of immunochromatographic assay (ICA) and comparing the results with those obtained from Rose Bengal Plate Test (RBPT) and in direct Enzyme Linked Immunsorbent Assay (ELISA) for serodiagnosis of sheep and goat brucellosis. Out of 41 sera samples (21 ram and 20 male goats) which were examined, antibodies against Brucella were detected in ram 8 (38.09%), 6 (28.57%) and 16 (76.19%) in ram samples, whereas they were detected in 3 (15%), 1 (5%) and 12 (60%) serum sample of goats males by RBPT, (ICA) and iELISA respectively. The kappa value between iELISA and ICA was -0.08 and that between RBPT and ELISA was -0.01 in ram and the kappa value between iELISA and ICA was -0.06 and that between RBPT and ELISA was -0.14 in male goats. The sensitivity for RBPT and ICA were 37.5% and 25% while specificity was 60% and 60% in ram;whereas, in male goats, sensitivity for RBPT was 8.33% and ICA was 8.33% while specificity was 75% and 100% respectively. It can be concluded that the developed ICA is immunodiagnostic assay, and it is rapid, non-expensive, economical and suitable for large-scale screening in developing countries and rural areas.
文摘Cysticercus tenuicollis is a metacestode stage of Taenia hydatigena residing in the visceral organs of small ruminants and its effects cause economic losses due to condemnation of visceral organs in slaughterhouses. This study reports on the prevalence of Cysticercus tenuicollis in small ruminants slaughtered in Lira Municipal Abattoir. A total of 70 sheep and 70 goats were sampled and examined after slaughter for the presence of Cysticercus tenuicollis in the visceral organs using standard meat inspection procedures. An abattoir data collection sheet was used to record data, which was then analysed in SPSS version 20. The study revealed 51.4% of goats and 68.6% of sheep to be infested with Cysticercus tenuicollis. Following the district of origin for the small ruminants, Otuke district had the highest prevalence of the parasite (82.6%), followed by Kole (72.4%), Alebtong (66.7%), Apac (59.4%) and Lira (31.4%). Cysticercus tenuicollis was more frequently seen in the intestines (57.8%) of sheep and goats than in any other visceral organs. The liver had a prevalence of 20.7%, the lungs 17.8%, the kidneys 3.5% and the fetal sac;(15.7%) in goats and (12.9%) in sheep. Cysticercus tenuicollis was detected in 68.8% of females and 58.8% of male small ruminants. It is recommended to routinely deworm goats and sheep by farmers most especially in districts with the highest prevalence of Cysticercus tenuicollis infestation. The sale of the condemned parts of sheep and goats and the feeding of dogs on these contaminated materials should be stopped forthwith. It is also being suggested that a national study be carried out to determine the prevalence and economic impact of Cysticercus tenuicollis in small ruminants.
文摘The Bakerwal breed of goat in Kashmir valley is a good meat purpose breed of goat. That attains an appreciable body weight under a low input production system. As these goats are mainly reared by Gujjar and Bakarwal tribes of the J & K state, so they usually are fed with the weeds, herbs, shrubs and grasses of pastures that will otherwise go waste. These goats constitute the main livestock wealth. With the good productive and reproductive potential, it makes these animals an important animal protein source for developing countries like India. The myostatin gene (GDF8) is important in the physiology of stock animals because its product produces a direct effect on muscle development and consequently also on meat production. The myostatin sequence is known in several mammalian species and shows a high degree of amino acid sequence conservation, although several alterations in the intron and exon regions have been identified. The objective of our work is to characterize the myostatin coding regions using gene sequencing and polymerase chain reaction methods of Capra hircus (Bakerwal breed) and to compare them with the Ovis aries and other livestock species of animal, looking for variations in nucleotide and protein sequences. As mutations in the myostatin gene can inactivate its expression and result in a non-functional protein, which leads to increase in muscle growth in many species. In this way, we are able to identify 3 alterations on the presumed myostatin protein sequence as compared to non double-muscled ovine sequences.
文摘What is special about the sky bridge near Qingjing Farm?Qingjing Farm in Nantou is a popular place to visit.Every year,it has a Sheep Run Festival!Thousands of visitors go each year to cheer on their favorite sheep and take pictures as they run down the mountain roads.People can enjoy many performances,games and activities during the festival,too.
基金Supported by Guizhou Agricultural Research Project(QKH[2019]2279)Construction of Guizhou Breeding Livestock and Poultry Genetic Resources Testing Platform(QKZYD[2018]4015)Scientific and Technological Innovation Talent Team of Major Livestock and Poultry Genome Big Data Analysis and Application Research in Guizhou Province(QKHPTRC[2019]5615)。
文摘The total output value of mutton in Northwestern China has accounted for more than 60%of the total output value of animal husbandry over the years.It can be seen that the mutton industry in Northwest China not only plays a pivotal role in animal husbandry,but also plays an important role in Chinese agriculture.In this study,based on cost accounting theory,income-related theories and total factor productivity theory,using basic knowledge of statistics and economics,drawing on existing research results at home and abroad,and adopting a combination of qualitative analysis and quantitative analysis of SAS multiple stepwise regression,the changing trends of cost-benefit of mutton sheep breeding in Northwest agricultural and pastoral areas and influencing factors of production costs and production efficiency were investigated,aiming to provide reference for saving mutton sheep feeding material resources,reducing mutton sheep breeding costs,and improving mutton sheep breeding benefits.
文摘Daytime activity budgets of feral goats （ Capra hircus ） were studied in 1981, 1982 and 2000 on the Isle of Rum, northwest Scotland. This paper analyzes the influence of key weather variables （temperature and rainfall） and seasonal variations in daylength on daytime activity budgets. This study showed that the percentage of daytime spent in feeding by feral goats on Rum Island decreased with average monthly temperature, while the percentage of daytime spent in lying increased and rainfall had no significant effects on the percentage daytime spent in feeding or lying. The daylength varied greatly from January to December with the longest daylength being in June and July, and the shortest one in December and January. The amount of daytime spent feeding decreased from summer to winter, although the percentage of daytime spent feeding increased greatly from summer to winter. The seasonal variations in daylength seem to be an important factor in constraining feral goats＇ activity, especially in the cold and wet winters when forage biomass and quality are both at their lowest level. We discuss the influence of such constraining effects on the forage intake of these goats and their winter survival rate, as well as its implication for population regulation of these goats.
基金Supported by the Program of High Innovation Technology of Jiangsu Province(BG2006301)~~
文摘[Objective] The aim was to study the effect of the muscle histological characteristics of Haimen goats on meat quality.[Method] Twelve-month-old Haimen goats and Bore × Haimen F1（♂）were used as the materials to systematically research the muscle histological properties of different sexes and muscles.[Result] The results revealed that the muscle fiber area and myofibril diameter,sarcomere length,light band length,dark band length,hall band length of quadriceps femoris of Haimen female goats were extremely significantly higher than male goats（P〈0.01）;However,that of longissimus dorsi muscle was extremely significantly lower than male goats（P〈0.01）.There was significant difference（P〈0.05）or extremely significant difference（P〈0.01）between muscle microstructure and ultrastructure among the same sex and different muscles.There were a large number of mitochondria,glycogen granules and fat droplet within muscle fiber from Haimen male goats,which indicated that oxidative metabolism rate was high,water retention was good and the meat was tender,succulent and distinct.[Conclusion] The study provided theoretical basis for breeding,development and utilization of Haimen goats and variety evaluation of local goats in China.
