There are 56 ethnic(民族的)groups in China.Different ethnic groups have their own special cultures.Let’s enjoy some of them.The Bai people use a very old way,tie-dye(扎染),to dye clothes.Tie-dye has a history of near...There are 56 ethnic(民族的)groups in China.Different ethnic groups have their own special cultures.Let’s enjoy some of them.The Bai people use a very old way,tie-dye(扎染),to dye clothes.Tie-dye has a history of nearly 1,500 years.During the Tang and Song dynasties,people chose tie-dyed clothes as gifts.The Mongolian people live in the Mongolian yurts(蒙古包).These yurts are large round tents and their tops look like umbrellas.They are the traditional homes of the Mongolian people.The yurts are usually white because they’re made of sheep’s wool.And white is a symbol of happiness.展开更多
Highlights●CRISPR/Cas9 RNP complex-based strategy demonstrates robustness and accuracy in generating gene-edited sheep.●Sheep horn development remains unaffected by partial RXFP2 knockout.●Partial RXFP2 knockout re...Highlights●CRISPR/Cas9 RNP complex-based strategy demonstrates robustness and accuracy in generating gene-edited sheep.●Sheep horn development remains unaffected by partial RXFP2 knockout.●Partial RXFP2 knockout results in unilateral cryptorchidism in sheep.展开更多
Background Birth weight is a critical economic trait in livestock production.However,its genetic architecture remains poorly understood due to historical limitations in sample size and reliance on low-density SNP arra...Background Birth weight is a critical economic trait in livestock production.However,its genetic architecture remains poorly understood due to historical limitations in sample size and reliance on low-density SNP arrays.In this study,we utilized low-coverage whole-genome sequencing(lcWGS)to genotype 3,007 Hu sheep,bypassing the cost and resolution constraints of conventional genotyping arrays while achieving scalable genome-wide variant detection.Results LcWGS with high imputation accuracy(97.8%allelic concordance)enabled genome-wide association studies(GWAS)identifying two novel quantitative trait loci(QTLs)on chromosomes 6 and 9.The chromosome 9 QTL encompassed a regulatory region functionally linked to PLAG1 expression through expression quantitative trait locus(eQTL)mapping.Compared with wild-type homozygotes,heterozygous carriers of the lead SNP(chr9:g.35920172A>G)presented a 9.85%increase in birth weight(3.35 kg vs.3.68 kg;Δ=0.33 kg).Notably,the derived allele of this SNP exhibited low frequencies of<0.1 across most global sheep breeds except Dorper,highlighting its potential for selective breeding applications.Leveraging lcWGS data,haplotype-based fine-mapping prioritized three candidate causal variants.A secondary QTL on chromosome 6 colocalized with the FecB mutation,a well-established locus associated with increased litter size.Intriguingly,individuals carrying one FecB allele showed a 6.18%reduction(0.22 kg)in birth weight,which tentatively indicates potential pleiotropic influences on both growth and reproductive traits.Conclusion This study demonstrates the utility of lcWGS as a cost-effective,high-resolution tool for dissecting complex traits in livestock.Our findings not only advance the understanding of birth weight genetics in sheep but also offer a blueprint for accelerating genetic improvement programs in global livestock production through costeffective,genome-wide approaches.展开更多
Feed efficiency(FE)is a crucial economic trait that significantly impacts profitability in intensive sheep production,and can be evaluated by the residual feed intake(RFI)and feed conversion ratio(FCR).However,the und...Feed efficiency(FE)is a crucial economic trait that significantly impacts profitability in intensive sheep production,and can be evaluated by the residual feed intake(RFI)and feed conversion ratio(FCR).However,the underlying genetic mechanisms that underlie FE-related traits in sheep are not fully understood.Herein,we measured the FE-related traits of 1,280 Hu sheep and conducted the phenotype statistics and correlation analysis,the result showcase that there was a large variation for FE-related traits,and RFI was significant positive correlation with average daily feed intake(ADFI)and FCR.Moreover,a genome-wide association study(GWAS)was conducted using whole-genome resequencing data to investigate the genetic associations of ADFI,FCR and RFI.For ADFI and FCR traits,2 and one single nucleotide polymorphisms(SNPs)exceeded the genome-wide significance threshold,whereas ten and 5 SNPs exceeded the suggestive significance threshold.For RFI traits,only 4 SNPs exceeded the suggestive significance threshold.Finally,a total of 8 genes(LOC101121953,LOC101110202,CTNNA3,IZUMO3,PPM1E,YIPF7,ZSCAN12and LOC105603808)were identified as potential candidate genes for FE-related traits.Simultaneously,we further analyzed the effects of 2 candidate SNPs associated with RFI on growth and FE traits in enlarged experimental population,the results demonstrated that these 2 SNPs was not significantly associated with growth traits(P>0.05),but significantly related to RFI traits(P<0.05).These findings will provide valuable reference data and key genetic variants that can be used to effectively select feed-efficient individual in sheep breeding programs.展开更多
Over 550000 people in the U.S.require hemodialysis for management of end stage renal disease(ESRD).When anatomy restricts fistula creation,arteriovenous grafts(AVG)are implanted.AVGs have poor primary patency and high...Over 550000 people in the U.S.require hemodialysis for management of end stage renal disease(ESRD).When anatomy restricts fistula creation,arteriovenous grafts(AVG)are implanted.AVGs have poor primary patency and high risk of infection,highlighting a need for better alternatives.Previous AVG large animal models were limited by high complication rates and short-term follow-up.This study investigates the safety and durability of an ovine bilateral carotid-jugular AVG model.Eight female sheep underwent bilateral carotid-jugular AVG implantation via a single longitudinal incision overlying the trachea.Ringed PTFE grafts were anastomosed in a“lazy-S”configuration to provide the laxity needed to prevent avulsion and minimize kinking with neck movement.Post-operatively,sheep were evaluated daily to monitor for complications.Duplex ultrasonography of the grafts was performed at regular intervals out to 6 months to evaluate patency.At 6 months,angiography and duplex was performed followed by explant for gross and histologic analysis.Technical success was achieved in 16 of 16(100%)graft implants.No major complications,including stroke,anastomotic disruption,infection,wound breakdown,or death occurred.Primary patency of control PTFE grafts was 75%at 6 months,paralleling reported rates in humans.Bilateral carotid-jugular AVG implantation in sheep is a safe and durable model for self-controlled long-term evaluation of AVG conduit technology.展开更多
In mid-June,the vast,rolling meadow steppe grasslands of Bayanwenduer Sumu in Ar Horqin Banner,Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region,once again stretched into the horizon like green waves with herds of cattle and sheep sca...In mid-June,the vast,rolling meadow steppe grasslands of Bayanwenduer Sumu in Ar Horqin Banner,Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region,once again stretched into the horizon like green waves with herds of cattle and sheep scattered across them like pearls in a green ocean.This flock was driven by herders on horseback,motorcycles,and agricultural vehicles,leading the animals to summer pastures in one of the most important migrations of the year.展开更多
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
This applied research seeks to explore feasible plant design for manufacturing insulation materials for construction projects using waste sheep fleece to address environmental issues related to wasted sheep wool and e...This applied research seeks to explore feasible plant design for manufacturing insulation materials for construction projects using waste sheep fleece to address environmental issues related to wasted sheep wool and enhance the gross national product. The process starts by collecting low-cost sheep fleece from farms and processed via a production line, including scouring, plucking, carding, thermal bonding, and packing. The design process involves determining an optimal location, infrastructure, staffing, machinery, environmental impact, and utilities. A final economic analysis is undertaken to estimate the product’s cost, selling price, and break-even point based on the anticipated capital and operational costs. The plant is intended to process 6778 tons of sheep wool annually. The study suggests that Mafraq Industrial City is a perfect location for the plant, and purchasing land and structures is the optimal option. The projected capital cost is 1,416,679 USD, while the anticipated operational costs amount to 3,206,275 USD. Insulation material production is estimated to be 114,756 m3 annually. The material may be manufactured into 1 m wide, 0.05 m thick sheets for 2.02 USD per square meter. Thus, for a 10-year plant, a 2.47 USD/m2 selling price breaks even in one year.展开更多
This paper systematically analyzed the development status of sheep industry in Lubei region,and comprehensively expounded the scale and distribution of key industries,breed resources and genetic characteristics,feedin...This paper systematically analyzed the development status of sheep industry in Lubei region,and comprehensively expounded the scale and distribution of key industries,breed resources and genetic characteristics,feeding management status,disease prevention and control and veterinary services,and sheep product processing and sales.The research shows that the sheep industry in Lubei region has formed a certain scale,but there are some problems such as intensified resource and environmental constraints,unreasonable industrial structure,insufficient scientific and technological innovation capacity and market competitiveness to be improved.In view of these problems,this paper put forward some countermeasures and suggestions to promote the high-quality development of the industry,including establishing forage and feed system,promoting the adjustment and optimization of industrial structure,strengthening scientific and technological innovation and talent cultivation and introduction,and enhancing brand influence and market competitiveness,providing useful reference for the sustainable development of sheep industry in Lubei region.展开更多
In the coldest time every year,when Puma Yumco Lake freezes into a giant blue mirror,villagers nearby at Dowa Village in Nakartse County would herd thousands of sheep across the iced lake surface to find better forage...In the coldest time every year,when Puma Yumco Lake freezes into a giant blue mirror,villagers nearby at Dowa Village in Nakartse County would herd thousands of sheep across the iced lake surface to find better forage on the mid-lake islands.Such herding practices have lasted for a thousand years.Sapphire blue,pure white of both sheep fur and snow on the mountaintops,all colors blend together in a perfect harmony.展开更多
Introduction Tibetan sheep,economically important animals on the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau,have diversified into numerous local breeds with unique characteristics through prolonged environmental adaptation and selective ...Introduction Tibetan sheep,economically important animals on the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau,have diversified into numerous local breeds with unique characteristics through prolonged environmental adaptation and selective breeding.However,most current research focuses on one or two breeds,and lacks a comprehensive representa-tion of the genetic diversity across multiple Tibetan sheep breeds.This study aims to fill this gap by investigating the genetic structure,diversity and high-altitude adaptation of 6 Tibetan sheep breeds using whole-genome rese-quencing data.Results Six Tibetan sheep breeds were investigated in this study,and whole-genome resequencing data were used to investigate their genetic structure and population diversity.The results showed that the 6 Tibetan sheep breeds exhibited distinct separation in the phylogenetic tree;however,the levels of differentiation among the breeds were minimal,with extensive gene flow observed.Population structure analysis broadly categorized the 6 breeds into 3 distinct ecological types:plateau-type,valley-type and Euler-type.Analysis of unique single-nucleotide polymor-phisms(SNPs)and selective sweeps between Argali and Tibetan sheep revealed that Tibetan sheep domestication was associated primarily with sensory and signal transduction,nutrient absorption and metabolism,and growth and reproductive characteristics.Finally,comprehensive analysis of selective sweep and transcriptome data sug-gested that Tibetan sheep breeds inhabiting different altitudes on the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau adapt by enhancing cardiopulmonary function,regulating body fluid balance through renal reabsorption,and modifying nutrient diges-tion and absorption pathways.Conclusion In this study,we investigated the genetic diversity and population structure of 6 Tibetan sheep breeds in Qinghai Province,China.Additionally,we analyzed the domestication traits and investigated the unique adapta-tion mechanisms residing varying altitudes in the plateau region of Tibetan sheep.This study provides valuable insights into the evolutionary processes of Tibetan sheep in extreme environments.These findings will also contribute to the preservation of genetic diversity and offer a foundation for Tibetan sheep diversity preservation and plateau animal environmental adaptation mechanisms.展开更多
Livestock transportation is a key factor that contributes to the spatial spread of brucellosis.To analyze the impact of sheep transportation on brucellosis transmission,we develop a human–sheep coupled brucellosis mo...Livestock transportation is a key factor that contributes to the spatial spread of brucellosis.To analyze the impact of sheep transportation on brucellosis transmission,we develop a human–sheep coupled brucellosis model within a metapopulation network framework.Theoretically,we examine the positively invariant set,the basic reproduction number,the existence,uniqueness,and stability of disease-free equilibrium and the existence of the endemic equilibrium of the model.For practical application,using Heilongjiang province as a case study,we simulate brucellosis transmission across 12 cities based on data using three network types:the BA network,the ER network,and homogeneous mixing network.The simulation results indicate that the network's average degree plays a role in the spread of brucellosis.For BA and ER networks,the basic reproduction number and cumulative incidence of brucellosis stabilize when the network's average degree reaches 4 or 5.In contrast,sheep transport in a homogeneous mixing network accelerates the cross-regional spread of brucellosis,whereas transportation in a BA network helps to control it effectively.Furthermore,the findings suggest that the movement of sheep is not always detrimental to controlling the spread of brucellosis.For cities with smaller sheep populations,such as Shuangyashan and Qitaihe,increasing the transport of sheep outward amplifies the spatial spread of the disease.In contrast,in cities with larger sheep populations,such as Qiqihar,Daqing,and Suihua,moderate sheep outflow can help reduce the spread.In addition,cities with large livestock populations play a dominant role in the overall transmission dynamics,underscoring the need for stricter supervision in these areas.展开更多
In this paper,a standardized analysis method is established for identifying meat quality-related genes in Ordos finewool sheep using transcriptome sequencing data.A meticulously standardized approach is utilized to in...In this paper,a standardized analysis method is established for identifying meat quality-related genes in Ordos finewool sheep using transcriptome sequencing data.A meticulously standardized approach is utilized to investigate the genetic determinants of meat quality in Ordos fine-wool sheep through transcriptome sequencing analysis.Muscle samples from the longissimus dorsi of one-year-old sheep are collected under controlled conditions,and key texture properties—hardness,elasticity,and chewiness—are measured to categorize samples into high-and low-textural-value groups.Genes significantly associated with meat quality traits are identified through standardized RNA extraction,high-throughput sequencing,and differential gene expression analysis.Functional enrichment analysis reveals their involvement in biological processes such as extracellular matrix organization and metabolic pathways.The findings underscore the pivotal role of standardization in meat quality research,laying a solid scientific foundation for future research on meat quality improvement and molecular breeding.展开更多
Hu sheep is an indigenous breed from the Taihu Lake Plain in China,known for its high fertility.Although Hu sheep belong to the Mongolian group,their demographic history and genetic architecture remain inconclusive.He...Hu sheep is an indigenous breed from the Taihu Lake Plain in China,known for its high fertility.Although Hu sheep belong to the Mongolian group,their demographic history and genetic architecture remain inconclusive.Here,we analyze 697 sheep genomes from representatives of Mongolian sheep breeds.Our study suggests that the ancestral Hu sheep first separated from the Mongolian group approximately 3000 years ago.As Hu sheep migrated from the north and flourished in the Taihu Lake Plain around 1000 years ago,they developed a unique genetic foundation and phenotypic characteristics,which are evident in the genomic footprints of selective sweeps and structural variation landscape.Genes associated with reproductive traits(BMPR1B and TDRD10)and horn phenotype(RXFP2)exhibit notable selective sweeps in the genome of Hu sheep.A genome-wide association analysis reveals that structural variations at LOC101110773,MAST2,and ZNF385B may significantly impact polledness,teat number,and early growth in Hu sheep,respectively.Our study offers insights into the evolutionary history of Hu sheep and may serve as a valuable genetic resource to enhance the understanding of complex traits in Hu sheep.展开更多
Traveling through the vast snow-covered land of Xizang,the sacred plateau,one cannot help but be captivated by the natural grandeur:the azure skies with white clouds,snowy mountains,pure lakes,forests and grasslands w...Traveling through the vast snow-covered land of Xizang,the sacred plateau,one cannot help but be captivated by the natural grandeur:the azure skies with white clouds,snowy mountains,pure lakes,forests and grasslands where herds of sheep and yaks forage and stroll leisurely.展开更多
Objective:Sheep are commonly used as large animal pre-clinical models for inves-tigating cardiovascular therapies,interventions,anatomy and physiology.Further,novel small diameter vascular grafts are frequently tested...Objective:Sheep are commonly used as large animal pre-clinical models for inves-tigating cardiovascular therapies,interventions,anatomy and physiology.Further,novel small diameter vascular grafts are frequently tested via implantation into sheep carotid arteries(CAs).This is because,unlike humans,acute occlusion of one or both sheep CAs is not associated with morbidity or mortality and thus provides safer experimental testing,with reduced ethical constraints,animal numbers and costs.However,to date there has been no evidence regarding sheep tolerance of femoral artery(FA)occlusion.Methods:In this study,seven sheep underwent CA graft surgery,with digital subtrac-tion angiography(DSA)of the CAs performed every 2 months via femoral access,for a total of 8 months.Four months into the study,the left FA of two sheep became inac-cessible due to a suspected FA occlusion.Thus,femoral angiography was performed,followed by FA dissection,FA histology and retrospective analysis of both veterinar-ian animal monitoring and pain scores.Results:FA angiography and histology confirmed complete left FA occlusion in two sheep.Retrospective animal monitoring demonstrated sheep with occluded FAs did not display increased pain scores or deleterious effects on their gait or wellbeing.Conclusion:Our data shows that sheep tolerate FA occlusion with no symptoms,similar to their cerebral circulation,making them an appropriate model for assessing small diameter femoral graft interposition studies and testing other cardiovascular interventions.展开更多
The increasing global demand for energy,coupled with concerns about environmental sustainability,has underscored the need for a transition toward renewable energy sources.A well-structured teaching program under the f...The increasing global demand for energy,coupled with concerns about environmental sustainability,has underscored the need for a transition toward renewable energy sources.A well-structured teaching program under the framework of sustainable development in renewable energy seeks to give students the information,abilities,and critical thinking needed to solve energy-related problems sustainably.This research proposes AI-powered personalized learning,innovative real-time integration of diverse data,and adaptive teaching strategies to enhance student understanding regarding renewable energy concepts.The sheep flock-optimized innovative recurrent neural network(SFO-IRNN)will recommend relevant topics and resources based on students’performance.Renewable energy teaching data from assessmethments are combined with real-time IoT-based renewable energy data.This dataset contains renewable energy education using AI-driven teaching methods and internet-based learning.The data was preprocessed by handling missing values and min-max scaling.The data features were extracted using Fourier Transform(FT).Further application of 10-fold cross-validation will increase the reliability of the model as it can evaluate its performance metrics like accuracy,F1-score,recall,and precision on different subsets of student data,which improves its robustness and prevents overfitting.The findings showed that the proposed method is significantly better,which ensures that the students have a deeper theoretical and practical understanding of renewable energy technologies.In addition,integrating real-time IoT data from renewable energy sources gives students a chance to do live simulations and problems that would enhance analytical thinking and hands-on learning.The research shows that AI provides context-aware guidance on sustainable energy infrastructure,enhancing interactive and personalized learning.展开更多
This study investigated hypoxia-inducible factor(HIF)-1α-mediated proteomic changes in post-slaughter Tan sheep skeletal muscle and identified energy metabolism biomarkers using the competitive adaptive reweighted sa...This study investigated hypoxia-inducible factor(HIF)-1α-mediated proteomic changes in post-slaughter Tan sheep skeletal muscle and identified energy metabolism biomarkers using the competitive adaptive reweighted sampling(CARS)algorithm.HIF-1αinhibition during early storage attenuated pH decline and significantly increased total colour change(ΔE)(P<0.05)while reducing myofibril fragmentation compared with controls.Proteomic profiling identified 257 differentially expressed proteins enriched in adenosine 5’-monophosphate(AMP)-activated protein kinase(AMPK),glycolysis,and HIF-1 signalling pathways.CARS analysis highlighted lactate dehydrogenase A(LDHA),phosphoglycerate kinase 1(PGK1;glycolytic enzyme),heat shock protein beta-6(HSPB6),and heat shock protein 90 kDa beta 1(HSP90B1)as key energy metabolism biomarkers.The results suggested that HIF-1 stabilised ATP production under hypoxia conditions by suppressing glycogen synthesis,enhancing glycolysis,modulating HSP activity to preserve cellular homeostasis,and influencing cytoskeletal proteins,thereby affecting meat quality.These results provide novel insights into post-mortem muscle energy metabolism regulation and potential targets for meat quality optimisation.展开更多
The phenotypic diversity resulting from artificial or natural selection of sheep has made a significant contribution to human civilization.Hu sheep are a local sheep breed unique to China with high reproductive rates ...The phenotypic diversity resulting from artificial or natural selection of sheep has made a significant contribution to human civilization.Hu sheep are a local sheep breed unique to China with high reproductive rates and rapid growth.Genomic selection signatures have been widely used to investigate the genetic mechanisms underlying phenotypic variation in livestock.Here,we conduct whole-genome sequencing of 207 Hu sheep and compare them with the wild ancestors of domestic sheep(Asiatic mouflon)to investigate the genetic characteristics and selection signatures of Hu sheep.Based on six signatures of selection approaches,we detect genomic regions containing genes related to reproduction(BMPR1B,BMP2,PGFS,CYP19,CAMK4,GGT5,and GNAQ),vision(ALDH1A2,SAG,and PDE6B),nervous system(NAV1),and immune response(GPR35,SH2B2,PIK3R3,and HRAS).Association analysis with a population of 1299 Hu sheep reveals that those missense mutations in the GPR35(GPR35 g.952651 A>G;GPR35 g.952496 C>T)and NAV1(NAV1 g.84216190 C>T;NAV1 g.84227412 G>A)genes are significantly associated(P<0.05)with immune and growth traits in Hu sheep,respectively.This research offers unique insights into the selection characteristics of Hu sheep and facilitates further genetic improvement and molecular investigations.展开更多
文摘There are 56 ethnic(民族的)groups in China.Different ethnic groups have their own special cultures.Let’s enjoy some of them.The Bai people use a very old way,tie-dye(扎染),to dye clothes.Tie-dye has a history of nearly 1,500 years.During the Tang and Song dynasties,people chose tie-dyed clothes as gifts.The Mongolian people live in the Mongolian yurts(蒙古包).These yurts are large round tents and their tops look like umbrellas.They are the traditional homes of the Mongolian people.The yurts are usually white because they’re made of sheep’s wool.And white is a symbol of happiness.
基金supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of China(2022YFD1300200)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32161143010,32202646,and 32272848)+2 种基金the China Agriculture Research System(CARS-39)the Key Special Project of Ningxia Science and Technology Department,China(2021BEF02024)the local grants,China(NXTS2021-001,2022GD-TSLD-46,NK2022010207,and NXTS2022-001)。
文摘Highlights●CRISPR/Cas9 RNP complex-based strategy demonstrates robustness and accuracy in generating gene-edited sheep.●Sheep horn development remains unaffected by partial RXFP2 knockout.●Partial RXFP2 knockout results in unilateral cryptorchidism in sheep.
基金supported by the Biological Breeding-National Science and Technology Major Project(2022ZD0401403)Shaanxi Provincial Key Research and Development Program(2024NC2-GJHX-15)Shaanxi Livestock and Poultry Breeding Double-chain Fusion Key Project(2022GD-TSLD-46-0401).
文摘Background Birth weight is a critical economic trait in livestock production.However,its genetic architecture remains poorly understood due to historical limitations in sample size and reliance on low-density SNP arrays.In this study,we utilized low-coverage whole-genome sequencing(lcWGS)to genotype 3,007 Hu sheep,bypassing the cost and resolution constraints of conventional genotyping arrays while achieving scalable genome-wide variant detection.Results LcWGS with high imputation accuracy(97.8%allelic concordance)enabled genome-wide association studies(GWAS)identifying two novel quantitative trait loci(QTLs)on chromosomes 6 and 9.The chromosome 9 QTL encompassed a regulatory region functionally linked to PLAG1 expression through expression quantitative trait locus(eQTL)mapping.Compared with wild-type homozygotes,heterozygous carriers of the lead SNP(chr9:g.35920172A>G)presented a 9.85%increase in birth weight(3.35 kg vs.3.68 kg;Δ=0.33 kg).Notably,the derived allele of this SNP exhibited low frequencies of<0.1 across most global sheep breeds except Dorper,highlighting its potential for selective breeding applications.Leveraging lcWGS data,haplotype-based fine-mapping prioritized three candidate causal variants.A secondary QTL on chromosome 6 colocalized with the FecB mutation,a well-established locus associated with increased litter size.Intriguingly,individuals carrying one FecB allele showed a 6.18%reduction(0.22 kg)in birth weight,which tentatively indicates potential pleiotropic influences on both growth and reproductive traits.Conclusion This study demonstrates the utility of lcWGS as a cost-effective,high-resolution tool for dissecting complex traits in livestock.Our findings not only advance the understanding of birth weight genetics in sheep but also offer a blueprint for accelerating genetic improvement programs in global livestock production through costeffective,genome-wide approaches.
基金supported by the National Key R&D Program of China(2021YFD1300901)the National Key R&D Young Scientists Project of China(2022YFD1302000)+1 种基金the Education Department of Gansu Province:Outstanding Postgraduate“Innovation Star”,China(2022CXZX-086)the Major Science and Technology Project of Gansu Province,China(22ZD6NC069)。
文摘Feed efficiency(FE)is a crucial economic trait that significantly impacts profitability in intensive sheep production,and can be evaluated by the residual feed intake(RFI)and feed conversion ratio(FCR).However,the underlying genetic mechanisms that underlie FE-related traits in sheep are not fully understood.Herein,we measured the FE-related traits of 1,280 Hu sheep and conducted the phenotype statistics and correlation analysis,the result showcase that there was a large variation for FE-related traits,and RFI was significant positive correlation with average daily feed intake(ADFI)and FCR.Moreover,a genome-wide association study(GWAS)was conducted using whole-genome resequencing data to investigate the genetic associations of ADFI,FCR and RFI.For ADFI and FCR traits,2 and one single nucleotide polymorphisms(SNPs)exceeded the genome-wide significance threshold,whereas ten and 5 SNPs exceeded the suggestive significance threshold.For RFI traits,only 4 SNPs exceeded the suggestive significance threshold.Finally,a total of 8 genes(LOC101121953,LOC101110202,CTNNA3,IZUMO3,PPM1E,YIPF7,ZSCAN12and LOC105603808)were identified as potential candidate genes for FE-related traits.Simultaneously,we further analyzed the effects of 2 candidate SNPs associated with RFI on growth and FE traits in enlarged experimental population,the results demonstrated that these 2 SNPs was not significantly associated with growth traits(P>0.05),but significantly related to RFI traits(P<0.05).These findings will provide valuable reference data and key genetic variants that can be used to effectively select feed-efficient individual in sheep breeding programs.
基金California Institute for Regenerative Medicine(CIRM),Grant/Award Number:TRAN3-13332。
文摘Over 550000 people in the U.S.require hemodialysis for management of end stage renal disease(ESRD).When anatomy restricts fistula creation,arteriovenous grafts(AVG)are implanted.AVGs have poor primary patency and high risk of infection,highlighting a need for better alternatives.Previous AVG large animal models were limited by high complication rates and short-term follow-up.This study investigates the safety and durability of an ovine bilateral carotid-jugular AVG model.Eight female sheep underwent bilateral carotid-jugular AVG implantation via a single longitudinal incision overlying the trachea.Ringed PTFE grafts were anastomosed in a“lazy-S”configuration to provide the laxity needed to prevent avulsion and minimize kinking with neck movement.Post-operatively,sheep were evaluated daily to monitor for complications.Duplex ultrasonography of the grafts was performed at regular intervals out to 6 months to evaluate patency.At 6 months,angiography and duplex was performed followed by explant for gross and histologic analysis.Technical success was achieved in 16 of 16(100%)graft implants.No major complications,including stroke,anastomotic disruption,infection,wound breakdown,or death occurred.Primary patency of control PTFE grafts was 75%at 6 months,paralleling reported rates in humans.Bilateral carotid-jugular AVG implantation in sheep is a safe and durable model for self-controlled long-term evaluation of AVG conduit technology.
文摘In mid-June,the vast,rolling meadow steppe grasslands of Bayanwenduer Sumu in Ar Horqin Banner,Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region,once again stretched into the horizon like green waves with herds of cattle and sheep scattered across them like pearls in a green ocean.This flock was driven by herders on horseback,motorcycles,and agricultural vehicles,leading the animals to summer pastures in one of the most important migrations of the year.
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This applied research seeks to explore feasible plant design for manufacturing insulation materials for construction projects using waste sheep fleece to address environmental issues related to wasted sheep wool and enhance the gross national product. The process starts by collecting low-cost sheep fleece from farms and processed via a production line, including scouring, plucking, carding, thermal bonding, and packing. The design process involves determining an optimal location, infrastructure, staffing, machinery, environmental impact, and utilities. A final economic analysis is undertaken to estimate the product’s cost, selling price, and break-even point based on the anticipated capital and operational costs. The plant is intended to process 6778 tons of sheep wool annually. The study suggests that Mafraq Industrial City is a perfect location for the plant, and purchasing land and structures is the optimal option. The projected capital cost is 1,416,679 USD, while the anticipated operational costs amount to 3,206,275 USD. Insulation material production is estimated to be 114,756 m3 annually. The material may be manufactured into 1 m wide, 0.05 m thick sheets for 2.02 USD per square meter. Thus, for a 10-year plant, a 2.47 USD/m2 selling price breaks even in one year.
基金Supported by Binzhou Social Science Planning Project(25-SKGH-063)Shandong Agricultural Innovation Team Project(SDAIT-10-06,SDAIT-23-10).
文摘This paper systematically analyzed the development status of sheep industry in Lubei region,and comprehensively expounded the scale and distribution of key industries,breed resources and genetic characteristics,feeding management status,disease prevention and control and veterinary services,and sheep product processing and sales.The research shows that the sheep industry in Lubei region has formed a certain scale,but there are some problems such as intensified resource and environmental constraints,unreasonable industrial structure,insufficient scientific and technological innovation capacity and market competitiveness to be improved.In view of these problems,this paper put forward some countermeasures and suggestions to promote the high-quality development of the industry,including establishing forage and feed system,promoting the adjustment and optimization of industrial structure,strengthening scientific and technological innovation and talent cultivation and introduction,and enhancing brand influence and market competitiveness,providing useful reference for the sustainable development of sheep industry in Lubei region.
文摘In the coldest time every year,when Puma Yumco Lake freezes into a giant blue mirror,villagers nearby at Dowa Village in Nakartse County would herd thousands of sheep across the iced lake surface to find better forage on the mid-lake islands.Such herding practices have lasted for a thousand years.Sapphire blue,pure white of both sheep fur and snow on the mountaintops,all colors blend together in a perfect harmony.
基金supported by the Natural Science Foundation of Qinghai Province(No.2022-ZJ-901)the National Breeding Joint Research Project。
文摘Introduction Tibetan sheep,economically important animals on the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau,have diversified into numerous local breeds with unique characteristics through prolonged environmental adaptation and selective breeding.However,most current research focuses on one or two breeds,and lacks a comprehensive representa-tion of the genetic diversity across multiple Tibetan sheep breeds.This study aims to fill this gap by investigating the genetic structure,diversity and high-altitude adaptation of 6 Tibetan sheep breeds using whole-genome rese-quencing data.Results Six Tibetan sheep breeds were investigated in this study,and whole-genome resequencing data were used to investigate their genetic structure and population diversity.The results showed that the 6 Tibetan sheep breeds exhibited distinct separation in the phylogenetic tree;however,the levels of differentiation among the breeds were minimal,with extensive gene flow observed.Population structure analysis broadly categorized the 6 breeds into 3 distinct ecological types:plateau-type,valley-type and Euler-type.Analysis of unique single-nucleotide polymor-phisms(SNPs)and selective sweeps between Argali and Tibetan sheep revealed that Tibetan sheep domestication was associated primarily with sensory and signal transduction,nutrient absorption and metabolism,and growth and reproductive characteristics.Finally,comprehensive analysis of selective sweep and transcriptome data sug-gested that Tibetan sheep breeds inhabiting different altitudes on the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau adapt by enhancing cardiopulmonary function,regulating body fluid balance through renal reabsorption,and modifying nutrient diges-tion and absorption pathways.Conclusion In this study,we investigated the genetic diversity and population structure of 6 Tibetan sheep breeds in Qinghai Province,China.Additionally,we analyzed the domestication traits and investigated the unique adapta-tion mechanisms residing varying altitudes in the plateau region of Tibetan sheep.This study provides valuable insights into the evolutionary processes of Tibetan sheep in extreme environments.These findings will also contribute to the preservation of genetic diversity and offer a foundation for Tibetan sheep diversity preservation and plateau animal environmental adaptation mechanisms.
基金Project supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.12101443,12371493)the Natural Science Foundation of Shanxi Province(Grant Nos.20210302124260 and 202303021221024)。
文摘Livestock transportation is a key factor that contributes to the spatial spread of brucellosis.To analyze the impact of sheep transportation on brucellosis transmission,we develop a human–sheep coupled brucellosis model within a metapopulation network framework.Theoretically,we examine the positively invariant set,the basic reproduction number,the existence,uniqueness,and stability of disease-free equilibrium and the existence of the endemic equilibrium of the model.For practical application,using Heilongjiang province as a case study,we simulate brucellosis transmission across 12 cities based on data using three network types:the BA network,the ER network,and homogeneous mixing network.The simulation results indicate that the network's average degree plays a role in the spread of brucellosis.For BA and ER networks,the basic reproduction number and cumulative incidence of brucellosis stabilize when the network's average degree reaches 4 or 5.In contrast,sheep transport in a homogeneous mixing network accelerates the cross-regional spread of brucellosis,whereas transportation in a BA network helps to control it effectively.Furthermore,the findings suggest that the movement of sheep is not always detrimental to controlling the spread of brucellosis.For cities with smaller sheep populations,such as Shuangyashan and Qitaihe,increasing the transport of sheep outward amplifies the spatial spread of the disease.In contrast,in cities with larger sheep populations,such as Qiqihar,Daqing,and Suihua,moderate sheep outflow can help reduce the spread.In addition,cities with large livestock populations play a dominant role in the overall transmission dynamics,underscoring the need for stricter supervision in these areas.
基金funded by the 2023 Inner Mongolia Public Institution High-Level Talent Introduction Scientific Research Support Project,and the Ordos Municipal Science and Technology Major Special Project(Grant No.2022EEDSKJZDZX021).
文摘In this paper,a standardized analysis method is established for identifying meat quality-related genes in Ordos finewool sheep using transcriptome sequencing data.A meticulously standardized approach is utilized to investigate the genetic determinants of meat quality in Ordos fine-wool sheep through transcriptome sequencing analysis.Muscle samples from the longissimus dorsi of one-year-old sheep are collected under controlled conditions,and key texture properties—hardness,elasticity,and chewiness—are measured to categorize samples into high-and low-textural-value groups.Genes significantly associated with meat quality traits are identified through standardized RNA extraction,high-throughput sequencing,and differential gene expression analysis.Functional enrichment analysis reveals their involvement in biological processes such as extracellular matrix organization and metabolic pathways.The findings underscore the pivotal role of standardization in meat quality research,laying a solid scientific foundation for future research on meat quality improvement and molecular breeding.
基金supported by grants from the Zhejiang Science and Technology Department Project(2023C04004)Zhejiang Science and Technology Major Program on Agricultural New Variety Breeding(2021C02068-6)+2 种基金Department of Science Technology of Huzhou City(2023GZ33)Zhejiang Team Technology Ambassador Project(Tongxiang)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32172724).
文摘Hu sheep is an indigenous breed from the Taihu Lake Plain in China,known for its high fertility.Although Hu sheep belong to the Mongolian group,their demographic history and genetic architecture remain inconclusive.Here,we analyze 697 sheep genomes from representatives of Mongolian sheep breeds.Our study suggests that the ancestral Hu sheep first separated from the Mongolian group approximately 3000 years ago.As Hu sheep migrated from the north and flourished in the Taihu Lake Plain around 1000 years ago,they developed a unique genetic foundation and phenotypic characteristics,which are evident in the genomic footprints of selective sweeps and structural variation landscape.Genes associated with reproductive traits(BMPR1B and TDRD10)and horn phenotype(RXFP2)exhibit notable selective sweeps in the genome of Hu sheep.A genome-wide association analysis reveals that structural variations at LOC101110773,MAST2,and ZNF385B may significantly impact polledness,teat number,and early growth in Hu sheep,respectively.Our study offers insights into the evolutionary history of Hu sheep and may serve as a valuable genetic resource to enhance the understanding of complex traits in Hu sheep.
文摘Traveling through the vast snow-covered land of Xizang,the sacred plateau,one cannot help but be captivated by the natural grandeur:the azure skies with white clouds,snowy mountains,pure lakes,forests and grasslands where herds of sheep and yaks forage and stroll leisurely.
基金funded by R.D.H.,P.B.,A.S.W. and Z.W,Heart Foundation Vanguard Grant#107321funded by contributions from The Baird Institute for applied Heart and Lung Research.
文摘Objective:Sheep are commonly used as large animal pre-clinical models for inves-tigating cardiovascular therapies,interventions,anatomy and physiology.Further,novel small diameter vascular grafts are frequently tested via implantation into sheep carotid arteries(CAs).This is because,unlike humans,acute occlusion of one or both sheep CAs is not associated with morbidity or mortality and thus provides safer experimental testing,with reduced ethical constraints,animal numbers and costs.However,to date there has been no evidence regarding sheep tolerance of femoral artery(FA)occlusion.Methods:In this study,seven sheep underwent CA graft surgery,with digital subtrac-tion angiography(DSA)of the CAs performed every 2 months via femoral access,for a total of 8 months.Four months into the study,the left FA of two sheep became inac-cessible due to a suspected FA occlusion.Thus,femoral angiography was performed,followed by FA dissection,FA histology and retrospective analysis of both veterinar-ian animal monitoring and pain scores.Results:FA angiography and histology confirmed complete left FA occlusion in two sheep.Retrospective animal monitoring demonstrated sheep with occluded FAs did not display increased pain scores or deleterious effects on their gait or wellbeing.Conclusion:Our data shows that sheep tolerate FA occlusion with no symptoms,similar to their cerebral circulation,making them an appropriate model for assessing small diameter femoral graft interposition studies and testing other cardiovascular interventions.
文摘The increasing global demand for energy,coupled with concerns about environmental sustainability,has underscored the need for a transition toward renewable energy sources.A well-structured teaching program under the framework of sustainable development in renewable energy seeks to give students the information,abilities,and critical thinking needed to solve energy-related problems sustainably.This research proposes AI-powered personalized learning,innovative real-time integration of diverse data,and adaptive teaching strategies to enhance student understanding regarding renewable energy concepts.The sheep flock-optimized innovative recurrent neural network(SFO-IRNN)will recommend relevant topics and resources based on students’performance.Renewable energy teaching data from assessmethments are combined with real-time IoT-based renewable energy data.This dataset contains renewable energy education using AI-driven teaching methods and internet-based learning.The data was preprocessed by handling missing values and min-max scaling.The data features were extracted using Fourier Transform(FT).Further application of 10-fold cross-validation will increase the reliability of the model as it can evaluate its performance metrics like accuracy,F1-score,recall,and precision on different subsets of student data,which improves its robustness and prevents overfitting.The findings showed that the proposed method is significantly better,which ensures that the students have a deeper theoretical and practical understanding of renewable energy technologies.In addition,integrating real-time IoT data from renewable energy sources gives students a chance to do live simulations and problems that would enhance analytical thinking and hands-on learning.The research shows that AI provides context-aware guidance on sustainable energy infrastructure,enhancing interactive and personalized learning.
基金supported by the Innovation Research Group Project of the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.32260555).
文摘This study investigated hypoxia-inducible factor(HIF)-1α-mediated proteomic changes in post-slaughter Tan sheep skeletal muscle and identified energy metabolism biomarkers using the competitive adaptive reweighted sampling(CARS)algorithm.HIF-1αinhibition during early storage attenuated pH decline and significantly increased total colour change(ΔE)(P<0.05)while reducing myofibril fragmentation compared with controls.Proteomic profiling identified 257 differentially expressed proteins enriched in adenosine 5’-monophosphate(AMP)-activated protein kinase(AMPK),glycolysis,and HIF-1 signalling pathways.CARS analysis highlighted lactate dehydrogenase A(LDHA),phosphoglycerate kinase 1(PGK1;glycolytic enzyme),heat shock protein beta-6(HSPB6),and heat shock protein 90 kDa beta 1(HSP90B1)as key energy metabolism biomarkers.The results suggested that HIF-1 stabilised ATP production under hypoxia conditions by suppressing glycogen synthesis,enhancing glycolysis,modulating HSP activity to preserve cellular homeostasis,and influencing cytoskeletal proteins,thereby affecting meat quality.These results provide novel insights into post-mortem muscle energy metabolism regulation and potential targets for meat quality optimisation.
基金supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of China(2021YFD1300901,2022YFD1302000)National Natural Science Foundation of China(32260818,31960653)。
文摘The phenotypic diversity resulting from artificial or natural selection of sheep has made a significant contribution to human civilization.Hu sheep are a local sheep breed unique to China with high reproductive rates and rapid growth.Genomic selection signatures have been widely used to investigate the genetic mechanisms underlying phenotypic variation in livestock.Here,we conduct whole-genome sequencing of 207 Hu sheep and compare them with the wild ancestors of domestic sheep(Asiatic mouflon)to investigate the genetic characteristics and selection signatures of Hu sheep.Based on six signatures of selection approaches,we detect genomic regions containing genes related to reproduction(BMPR1B,BMP2,PGFS,CYP19,CAMK4,GGT5,and GNAQ),vision(ALDH1A2,SAG,and PDE6B),nervous system(NAV1),and immune response(GPR35,SH2B2,PIK3R3,and HRAS).Association analysis with a population of 1299 Hu sheep reveals that those missense mutations in the GPR35(GPR35 g.952651 A>G;GPR35 g.952496 C>T)and NAV1(NAV1 g.84216190 C>T;NAV1 g.84227412 G>A)genes are significantly associated(P<0.05)with immune and growth traits in Hu sheep,respectively.This research offers unique insights into the selection characteristics of Hu sheep and facilitates further genetic improvement and molecular investigations.
