Small Ruminant Research最新文献_第10页

Copper nanoparticles as a strategic nutritional intervention to enhance periparturient health, immunity and productivity in heat-stressed goats 铜纳米颗粒作为一种战略性营养干预，以提高热应激山羊的围产期健康、免疫力和生产力

IF 1.4 3区农林科学 Q2 AGRICULTURE, DAIRY & ANIMAL SCIENCE

Small Ruminant Research

Pub Date : 2025-08-08 DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107588

Ali Afzal , Naima Mahreen

Climate-induced heat stress critically impairs the productive performance of small ruminants, especially during the periparturient period. This study evaluated the effects of copper nanoparticle (CuNPs) supplementation on physiological, biochemical, immunological, and productive responses in Beetal goats and their offspring under summer heat stress. Thirty pregnant goats were randomly allocated to three groups: control (no CuNPs), S1 (10 mg CuNPs/kg DM), and S2 (20 mg CuNPs/kg DM), monitored from 15 days prepartum to 45 days postpartum. CuNPs supplementation significantly improved thermoregulation and physiological stability. The S2 group exhibited pronounced reductions in rectal temperature, pulse rate, respiration rate, and plasma cortisol levels, alongside enhanced rumen motility, compared to the control group (P < 0.05), indicating better heat stress adaptation. Biochemically, CuNPs elevated total plasma protein, globulin, and immunoglobulin levels (IgA, IgG, IgM) in both goats and their neonatal kids, while reducing plasma cholesterol concentrations (P < 0.05). Hepatic and renal function markers—including AST, ALT, ALP, creatinine, and uric acid—were significantly lower in the S2 group compared to S1 and control group (P < 0.05), reflecting improved organ health under thermal stress. Antioxidant status was markedly enhanced in CuNPs-treated animals, with increased activities of SOD, POD, CAT, and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) in both generations (P < 0.05). Milk quality and yield were also improved; the S2 group produced colostrum and milk with higher protein, fat, total solids, copper content, and antioxidant capacity (P < 0.05). Importantly, kids born to CuNPs-supplemented dams exhibited significantly higher birth weights and postnatal growth rates compared to controls (P < 0.05), with the S2 group showing the most pronounced improvements, followed by S1. These findings suggest that dietary CuNPs, particularly at 20 mg/kg DM, effectively mitigate heat stress, improving health, immunity, antioxidant capacity, and productive performance in periparturient goats and their offspring.

气候引起的热应激严重损害了小反刍动物的生产性能，特别是在围产期。本研究评估了在夏季热应激条件下，纳米铜颗粒（cups）对北山山羊及其后代生理、生化、免疫和生产反应的影响。将30只怀孕山羊随机分为对照组（无CuNPs）、S1组（10 mg CuNPs/kg DM）和S2组（20 mg CuNPs/kg DM），从孕前15天至产后45天进行监测。补充CuNPs可显著改善体温调节和生理稳定性。与对照组相比，S2组直肠温度、脉搏率、呼吸率和血浆皮质醇水平明显降低，瘤胃运动增强（P <； 0.05），表明热应激适应能力更好。从生化角度来看，CuNPs提高了山羊及其新生儿的血浆总蛋白、球蛋白和免疫球蛋白（IgA、IgG、IgM）水平，同时降低了血浆胆固醇浓度（P <； 0.05）。与S1组和对照组相比，S2组的肝肾功能指标（包括AST、ALT、ALP、肌酐和尿酸）显著降低（P <； 0.05），反映了热应激下器官健康状况的改善。经cunps处理的动物抗氧化能力显著增强，两代动物的SOD、POD、CAT活性和总抗氧化能力（TAC）均增加（P <； 0.05）。提高了乳质和产奶量；S2组初乳和乳的蛋白质、脂肪、总固结物、铜含量和抗氧化能力均较高（P <； 0.05）。重要的是，与对照组相比，添加了cunps的母鼠所生的孩子的出生体重和出生后生长率显著提高（P <； 0.05），其中S2组的改善最为显著，S1组次之。综上所述，饲粮中添加CuNPs，特别是20 mg/kg DM，可有效缓解围产山羊及其后代的热应激，改善其健康状况、免疫力、抗氧化能力和生产性能。

{"title":"Copper nanoparticles as a strategic nutritional intervention to enhance periparturient health, immunity and productivity in heat-stressed goats","authors":"Ali Afzal , Naima Mahreen","doi":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107588","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107588","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Climate-induced heat stress critically impairs the productive performance of small ruminants, especially during the periparturient period. This study evaluated the effects of copper nanoparticle (CuNPs) supplementation on physiological, biochemical, immunological, and productive responses in Beetal goats and their offspring under summer heat stress. Thirty pregnant goats were randomly allocated to three groups: control (no CuNPs), S1 (10 mg CuNPs/kg DM), and S2 (20 mg CuNPs/kg DM), monitored from 15 days prepartum to 45 days postpartum. CuNPs supplementation significantly improved thermoregulation and physiological stability. The S2 group exhibited pronounced reductions in rectal temperature, pulse rate, respiration rate, and plasma cortisol levels, alongside enhanced rumen motility, compared to the control group (P < 0.05), indicating better heat stress adaptation. Biochemically, CuNPs elevated total plasma protein, globulin, and immunoglobulin levels (IgA, IgG, IgM) in both goats and their neonatal kids, while reducing plasma cholesterol concentrations (P < 0.05). Hepatic and renal function markers—including AST, ALT, ALP, creatinine, and uric acid—were significantly lower in the S2 group compared to S1 and control group (P < 0.05), reflecting improved organ health under thermal stress. Antioxidant status was markedly enhanced in CuNPs-treated animals, with increased activities of SOD, POD, CAT, and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) in both generations (P < 0.05). Milk quality and yield were also improved; the S2 group produced colostrum and milk with higher protein, fat, total solids, copper content, and antioxidant capacity (P < 0.05). Importantly, kids born to CuNPs-supplemented dams exhibited significantly higher birth weights and postnatal growth rates compared to controls (P < 0.05), with the S2 group showing the most pronounced improvements, followed by S1. These findings suggest that dietary CuNPs, particularly at 20 mg/kg DM, effectively mitigate heat stress, improving health, immunity, antioxidant capacity, and productive performance in periparturient goats and their offspring.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":21758,"journal":{"name":"Small Ruminant Research","volume":"252 ","pages":"Article 107588"},"PeriodicalIF":1.4,"publicationDate":"2025-08-08","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144827810","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

引用次数: 0

Genome-wide selective sweep analysis of plateau-type Tibetan and Zhashijia Sheep: Insights into adaptation, growth, and meat production traits 高原型藏羊和扎什家羊全基因组选择性扫描分析：对适应、生长和肉类生产性状的见解

IF 1.4 3区农林科学 Q2 AGRICULTURE, DAIRY & ANIMAL SCIENCE

Small Ruminant Research

Pub Date : 2025-08-05 DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107581

Dehui Liu , Xue Li , Jincai Zhao , Lei Wang , Quanbang Pei , De Sun , Qianben Ren , Guoxiang Bao , Buying Han , Wenkui Zhang , Song Wang , Fei Tian , Sijia Liu , Kai Zhao , Dehong Tian

Qinghai is renowned as “China’s capital of Tibetan sheep,” with plateau-type Tibetan sheep and Zhashijia sheep being exceptional breeds in the province. However, limited knowledge exists regarding the genetic characteristics or variations underlying their economically essential traits. Therefore, the present study was carried out on plateau-type Tibetan and Zhashijia sheep and aimed to identify the candidate genes regulating the differences in production performance between them by genome-wide selective sweep analysis and, ultimately, by combined analyses of two methods (Fst and Pi, Pi and Tajima’s D). This study identified genes associated with plateau acclimatization, growth and development, body size, and meat quality through Fst, Pi, and Tajima’s D. These genes include HBB, HBE1, GPX1, the HOX gene family, SIRT3, MRAP2, MMAB, BMP4, NCAM2, PCCA, MRPS6, P4HTM, and PLAAT3. Enrichment analyses indicated significant enrichment in key pathways, including amino sugar and nucleotide sugar metabolism, arachidonic acid metabolism, Carbon metabolism, and ribosome function. The findings provided valuable insights for breeding programs to improve growth performance in Tibetan sheep.

青海被誉为“中国藏羊之都”，高原型藏羊和扎什家羊是该省的特殊品种。然而，关于其经济基本性状的遗传特征或变异的知识有限。因此，本研究以高原型藏羊和扎什家羊为研究对象，旨在通过全基因组选择性扫描分析，最终通过Fst和Pi、Pi和Tajima’s D两种方法的联合分析，确定调节它们之间生产性能差异的候选基因。本研究通过Fst、Pi和Tajima’s d鉴定了与高原适应、生长发育、体型和肉质相关的基因，这些基因包括HBB、HBE1、GPX1、HOX基因家族、SIRT3、MRAP2、MMAB、BMP4、NCAM2、PCCA、MRPS6、P4HTM和PLAAT3。富集分析表明，氨基酸和核苷酸糖代谢、花生四烯酸代谢、碳代谢和核糖体功能等关键通路显著富集。研究结果为提高藏羊生长性能的育种计划提供了有价值的见解。

{"title":"Genome-wide selective sweep analysis of plateau-type Tibetan and Zhashijia Sheep: Insights into adaptation, growth, and meat production traits","authors":"Dehui Liu , Xue Li , Jincai Zhao , Lei Wang , Quanbang Pei , De Sun , Qianben Ren , Guoxiang Bao , Buying Han , Wenkui Zhang , Song Wang , Fei Tian , Sijia Liu , Kai Zhao , Dehong Tian","doi":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107581","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107581","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Qinghai is renowned as “China’s capital of Tibetan sheep,” with plateau-type Tibetan sheep and Zhashijia sheep being exceptional breeds in the province. However, limited knowledge exists regarding the genetic characteristics or variations underlying their economically essential traits. Therefore, the present study was carried out on plateau-type Tibetan and Zhashijia sheep and aimed to identify the candidate genes regulating the differences in production performance between them by genome-wide selective sweep analysis and, ultimately, by combined analyses of two methods (Fst and Pi, Pi and Tajima’s D). This study identified genes associated with plateau acclimatization, growth and development, body size, and meat quality through Fst, Pi, and Tajima’s D. These genes include <em>HBB</em>, <em>HBE1</em>, <em>GPX1</em>, the <em>HOX</em> gene family, <em>SIRT3</em>, <em>MRAP2</em>, <em>MMAB</em>, <em>BMP4</em>, <em>NCAM2</em>, <em>PCCA</em>, <em>MRPS6</em>, <em>P4HTM</em>, and <em>PLAAT3.</em> Enrichment analyses indicated significant enrichment in key pathways, including amino sugar and nucleotide sugar metabolism, arachidonic acid metabolism, Carbon metabolism, and ribosome function. The findings provided valuable insights for breeding programs to improve growth performance in Tibetan sheep.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":21758,"journal":{"name":"Small Ruminant Research","volume":"252 ","pages":"Article 107581"},"PeriodicalIF":1.4,"publicationDate":"2025-08-05","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144781235","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

引用次数: 0

Effect of treating Searsia lancea with polyethylene glycol on performance of Boer goats fed Cenchrus ciliaris based diet 聚乙二醇处理刺槐对波尔山羊饲粮中毛蚶生产性能的影响

IF 1.4 3区农林科学 Q2 AGRICULTURE, DAIRY & ANIMAL SCIENCE

Small Ruminant Research

Pub Date : 2025-08-04 DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107582

Onke Hawu, Khuliso E. Ravhuhali, Hilda K. Mokoboki, Cornelia K. Lebopa

This study examined the effect of treating Searsia lancea with incremental levels of polyethylene glycol (PEG) on growth performance, blood parameters, and apparent nutrient digestibility of Boer goats fed grass hay. Twenty-five (25) male Boer goats with an average weight (27 ± 2 kg) were allocated to dietary treatments offered in a complete randomized design (CRD). Dietary treatments were Cenchrus ciliaris at 60 % grass mixed with 40 % PEG-treated S. lancea at 0, 5, 10, 15, and 20 g/kg DM leaves. The dry matter (DM) intake exhibited positive linear and quadratic effects (P = 0.002 and P = 0.021). There was a positive quadratic effect (P < 0.05) on the intake of ash, CP, NDF, and ADF. The average daily gain (ADG) exhibited positive linear responses (P = 0.039) in response to incremental levels of PEG. The mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) showed negative linear and quadratic effects (P = 0.008 and P = 0.003). Creatinine (P = 0.005) and calcium (P = 0.005) showed linearly positive effects. Nutrient digestibility showed positive linear and quadratic responses (P < 0.05). Treating S. lancea with incremental levels of PEG improved growth performance and digestibility while not compromising the overall health status of Boer goats. The optimal level of PEG was determined to be 15.4 g/kg for the final weight, the weight gain, the average daily gain, and the feed conversion ratio based on quadratic responses.

本试验研究了添加聚乙二醇（PEG）对饲喂牧草的波尔山羊生长性能、血液指标和营养物质表观消化率的影响。试验选用25只平均体重（27 ± 2 kg）的雄性波尔山羊，采用完全随机设计（CRD）进行饲粮处理。饲粮处理分别为：60% %的毛缕草与40% % peg处理的梭子鱼分别饲喂0、5、10、15和20 g/kg DM叶片。干物质采食量呈线性和二次型正相关（P = 0.002和P = 0.021）。饲粮对粗灰分、粗蛋白质、NDF和ADF的采食量呈正二次效应（P <； 0.05）。平均日增重（ADG）随PEG水平的增加呈线性正相关（P = 0.039）。平均红细胞血红蛋白浓度（MCHC）呈负线性和二次效应（P = 0.008和P = 0.003）。肌酐（P = 0.005）和钙（P = 0.005）呈线性正相关。营养物质消化率呈线性和二次曲线正相关（P <； 0.05）。在不影响波尔山羊整体健康状况的情况下，增加PEG水平可以改善波尔山羊的生长性能和消化率。根据二次响应，确定了最终体重、增重、平均日增重和饲料系数的最佳PEG水平为15.4 g/kg。

{"title":"Effect of treating Searsia lancea with polyethylene glycol on performance of Boer goats fed Cenchrus ciliaris based diet","authors":"Onke Hawu, Khuliso E. Ravhuhali, Hilda K. Mokoboki, Cornelia K. Lebopa","doi":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107582","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107582","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This study examined the effect of treating <em>Searsia lancea</em> with incremental levels of polyethylene glycol (PEG) on growth performance, blood parameters, and apparent nutrient digestibility of Boer goats fed grass hay. Twenty-five (25) male Boer goats with an average weight (27 ± 2 kg) were allocated to dietary treatments offered in a complete randomized design (CRD). Dietary treatments were <em>Cenchrus ciliaris</em> at 60 % grass mixed with 40 % PEG-treated <em>S. lancea</em> at 0, 5, 10, 15, and 20 g/kg DM leaves. The dry matter (DM) intake exhibited positive linear and quadratic effects (P = 0.002 and P = 0.021). There was a positive quadratic effect (P < 0.05) on the intake of ash, CP, NDF, and ADF. The average daily gain (ADG) exhibited positive linear responses (P = 0.039) in response to incremental levels of PEG. The mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) showed negative linear and quadratic effects (P = 0.008 and P = 0.003). Creatinine (P = 0.005) and calcium (P = 0.005) showed linearly positive effects. Nutrient digestibility showed positive linear and quadratic responses (P < 0.05). Treating <em>S. lancea</em> with incremental levels of PEG improved growth performance and digestibility while not compromising the overall health status of Boer goats. The optimal level of PEG was determined to be 15.4 g/kg for the final weight, the weight gain, the average daily gain, and the feed conversion ratio based on quadratic responses.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":21758,"journal":{"name":"Small Ruminant Research","volume":"252 ","pages":"Article 107582"},"PeriodicalIF":1.4,"publicationDate":"2025-08-04","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144770798","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

引用次数: 0

Comparative study of the outcome of yogurt-type fermentation of lactose-containing and lactose-free cow and sheep milk 含乳糖与不含乳糖牛羊奶酸奶式发酵效果的比较研究

IF 1.4 3区农林科学 Q2 AGRICULTURE, DAIRY & ANIMAL SCIENCE

Small Ruminant Research

Pub Date : 2025-07-31 DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107583

Yusuf Bi̇çer , Gamze Turkal , A. Ezgi Telli̇ , Tuba Bayır , Durmuş Sert

The growing demand for lactose-free dairy products has prompted the development of high-quality alternatives suited for lactose-intolerant individuals. This study aimed to develop lactose-free yogurt using cow and sheep milk and evaluate the physicochemical, microbiological, textural, and rheological properties during fermentation. Lactose hydrolysis was achieved using a lactase enzyme, and fermentation kinetics were assessed by monitoring pH, acidity, and microbial growth. Water-holding capacity (WHC) and syneresis were analyzed to determine gel structure and moisture retention, while HPLC was used to quantify residual lactose. Texture and rheological measurements, including firmness, consistency, and viscoelastic parameters (G′, G′′, and loss tangent), were also performed. The findings revealed that lactose-free sheep milk yogurt exhibited the highest WHC and the lowest syneresis, indicating superior gel integrity. In addition, L− sheep yogurts showed the greatest firmness and lowest loss tangent values, suggesting strong elastic behavior. HPLC analysis confirmed the absence of detectable lactose in lactose-free samples. Compared to cow milk, sheep milk offered superior structural and functional characteristics, even after lactose removal. These results suggest that sheep milk is a promising raw material for lactose-free yogurt production, contributing to product diversification and improved quality for lactose-intolerant consumers. This study presents the first comprehensive comparison of lactose-free yogurt made from cow and sheep milk with respect to fermentation kinetics and gelation properties.

对无乳糖乳制品日益增长的需求促使了适合乳糖不耐症患者的高质量替代品的发展。本研究旨在以牛羊奶为原料制备无乳糖酸奶，并对其发酵过程中的理化、微生物学、质构和流变学特性进行评价。使用乳糖酶实现乳糖水解，并通过监测pH值，酸度和微生物生长来评估发酵动力学。通过分析保水能力（WHC）和协同作用来确定凝胶结构和保湿性，同时使用高效液相色谱（HPLC）来定量乳糖残留量。纹理和流变学测量，包括硬度、稠度和粘弹性参数（G′、G′和损失切线），也被执行。结果表明，无乳糖羊乳酸奶的WHC最高，synesis最低，凝胶完整性较好。此外，L−羊酸奶的硬度最大，损失切线值最低，显示出较强的弹性行为。HPLC分析证实无乳糖样品中没有可检测的乳糖。与牛奶相比，羊奶具有优越的结构和功能特征，即使在乳糖去除后也是如此。这些结果表明，羊奶是一种很有前途的无乳糖酸奶生产原料，有助于产品多样化和提高乳糖不耐症消费者的质量。本研究首次全面比较了由牛和羊奶制成的无乳糖酸奶的发酵动力学和凝胶特性。

{"title":"Comparative study of the outcome of yogurt-type fermentation of lactose-containing and lactose-free cow and sheep milk","authors":"Yusuf Bi̇çer , Gamze Turkal , A. Ezgi Telli̇ , Tuba Bayır , Durmuş Sert","doi":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107583","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107583","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The growing demand for lactose-free dairy products has prompted the development of high-quality alternatives suited for lactose-intolerant individuals. This study aimed to develop lactose-free yogurt using cow and sheep milk and evaluate the physicochemical, microbiological, textural, and rheological properties during fermentation. Lactose hydrolysis was achieved using a lactase enzyme, and fermentation kinetics were assessed by monitoring pH, acidity, and microbial growth. Water-holding capacity (WHC) and syneresis were analyzed to determine gel structure and moisture retention, while HPLC was used to quantify residual lactose. Texture and rheological measurements, including firmness, consistency, and viscoelastic parameters (G′, G′′, and loss tangent), were also performed. The findings revealed that lactose-free sheep milk yogurt exhibited the highest WHC and the lowest syneresis, indicating superior gel integrity. In addition, L− sheep yogurts showed the greatest firmness and lowest loss tangent values, suggesting strong elastic behavior. HPLC analysis confirmed the absence of detectable lactose in lactose-free samples. Compared to cow milk, sheep milk offered superior structural and functional characteristics, even after lactose removal. These results suggest that sheep milk is a promising raw material for lactose-free yogurt production, contributing to product diversification and improved quality for lactose-intolerant consumers. This study presents the first comprehensive comparison of lactose-free yogurt made from cow and sheep milk with respect to fermentation kinetics and gelation properties.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":21758,"journal":{"name":"Small Ruminant Research","volume":"252 ","pages":"Article 107583"},"PeriodicalIF":1.4,"publicationDate":"2025-07-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144763923","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

引用次数: 0

Effect of air temperature, milk production and shearing on drinking water intake of Angora goats in pen during summer 夏季气温、产奶量和剪毛对安哥拉羊圈饮水量的影响

IF 1.4 3区农林科学 Q2 AGRICULTURE, DAIRY & ANIMAL SCIENCE

Small Ruminant Research

Pub Date : 2025-07-31 DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107584

Martin Calianno , Daniel A. Castillo , Santiago I. Hurtado , Saúl Deluchi , Brenda Garcia , Laura Villar , E. Sebastian Villagra , Marcos H. Easdale

This study determines daily drinking water intake of Angora goats in pen during summer in North Patagonia (Argentina) and proposes a parametric equation predicting water intake in these conditions. Environmental and physiological parameters are also measured: dry matter intake, water in feed, animal weight, air temperature, shearing and milk production. Water intake varied from 1.8 to 5.5 L/goat/day. During lactation, the average was 3.9 L/goat/day. After weaning it was 3.3 L/goat/day. Then, after shearing, the average decreased to 2.5 L/goat/day. Equations from the literature taking into account body weight and milk production are the ones that best fits observed water intake values for our case study. We propose an equation that takes into account the effect of shearing, maximum daily air temperature (Tmax) and daily milk production. It shows the best fit with observed water intake time series. The study showed the sensitivity of goats’ water requirements during the summer as measured by a positive response to air temperature and downward requirement after both weaning and shearing management decisions. These results highlight the relevance of considering both environmental parameters and herd management decisions in the evaluation of water requirements of animals in pens, when body weight and feed intake remains nearly constant.

本研究确定了北巴塔哥尼亚（阿根廷）夏季安哥拉山羊在围栏内的每日饮水量，并提出了一个参数方程来预测这些条件下的饮水量。还测量了环境和生理参数：干物质采食量、饲料中水分、动物体重、空气温度、剪羊毛和产奶量。水的摄入量从1.8到5.5 L/山羊/天不等。哺乳期平均为3.9 L/只/天。断奶后为3.3 L/只/天。剪羊毛后，平均值降至2.5 L/羊/天。文献中考虑体重和产奶量的公式最适合我们案例研究中观察到的水摄入量值。我们提出了一个考虑剪切、最高日气温（Tmax）和日产奶量影响的方程。它与观察到的饮水时间序列最吻合。研究表明，山羊对夏季需水量的敏感性可以通过对气温的积极反应和断奶和剪羊毛管理决策后的需水量下降来衡量。这些结果强调了在围栏动物体重和采食量几乎保持不变的情况下，在评估动物需水量时考虑环境参数和畜群管理决策的相关性。

{"title":"Effect of air temperature, milk production and shearing on drinking water intake of Angora goats in pen during summer","authors":"Martin Calianno , Daniel A. Castillo , Santiago I. Hurtado , Saúl Deluchi , Brenda Garcia , Laura Villar , E. Sebastian Villagra , Marcos H. Easdale","doi":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107584","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107584","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This study determines daily drinking water intake of Angora goats in pen during summer in North Patagonia (Argentina) and proposes a parametric equation predicting water intake in these conditions. Environmental and physiological parameters are also measured: dry matter intake, water in feed, animal weight, air temperature, shearing and milk production. Water intake varied from 1.8 to 5.5 L/goat/day. During lactation, the average was 3.9 L/goat/day. After weaning it was 3.3 L/goat/day. Then, after shearing, the average decreased to 2.5 L/goat/day. Equations from the literature taking into account body weight and milk production are the ones that best fits observed water intake values for our case study. We propose an equation that takes into account the effect of shearing, maximum daily air temperature (Tmax) and daily milk production. It shows the best fit with observed water intake time series. The study showed the sensitivity of goats’ water requirements during the summer as measured by a positive response to air temperature and downward requirement after both weaning and shearing management decisions. These results highlight the relevance of considering both environmental parameters and herd management decisions in the evaluation of water requirements of animals in pens, when body weight and feed intake remains nearly constant.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":21758,"journal":{"name":"Small Ruminant Research","volume":"252 ","pages":"Article 107584"},"PeriodicalIF":1.4,"publicationDate":"2025-07-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144781244","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

引用次数: 0

Development of a genetic reference flock: Benchmarking of industry and U.S. Sheep Experiment Station Rambouillet sires 遗传参考群的开发：工业和美国朗布伊埃羊实验站的基准

IF 1.4 3区农林科学 Q2 AGRICULTURE, DAIRY & ANIMAL SCIENCE

Small Ruminant Research

Pub Date : 2025-07-27 DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107580

Carrie S. Wilson , J. Bret Taylor , Thomas W. Murphy , Ronald M. Lewis , Whitney C. Stewart , David R. Notter

The Rambouillet breed is important throughout the U.S. because of its value in both lamb and fine wool production. The objective of this research was to benchmark performance of industry and U.S. Sheep Experiment Station (USSES) sires in an extensive rangeland production system in the development of a national genetic reference flock. Between 2015 and 2018, 13 Rambouillet (“industry Rambouillet”) and nine Merino-influenced Rambouillet (“industry Merino cross”) rams were incorporated into the USSES breeding program. The performance of their progeny was compared to 27 USSES Rambouillet rams. The final dataset included 1240 progeny records, with 313 from industry Merino cross, 294 from industry Rambouillet, and 633 from USSES Rambouillet sires. Significant differences among the three sire groups (P < 0.05) were found for 13 of the 18 production traits. Generally, wool quality traits favored the industry Merino cross progeny over the USSES Rambouillet progeny. Growth and survival traits were similar among the three groups. When estimated breeding values from national genetic evaluation were compared for the sire groups, five of the nine measures and an economic index (U.S. Western Range Index) differed (P < 0.05). Wool traits generally favored the industry Merino cross sires, the economic index favored the USSES Rambouillet sires, and the growth traits were similar and did not differ among the groups. Incorporating industry sires into the USSES flock allowed benchmarking of their progeny, broadening of the genetic base, and permitting development of a national genetic reference flock for use in future research.

朗布依埃品种在整个美国都很重要，因为它在羔羊和细羊毛生产中都有价值。本研究的目的是在发展国家遗传参考群的过程中，在广泛的牧场生产系统中对工业和美国绵羊实验站（USSES）母猪的性能进行基准测试。在2015年至2018年期间，13只朗布依埃（“工业朗布依埃”）和9只受美利奴影响的朗布依埃（“工业美利奴杂交”）公羊被纳入USSES育种计划。将其后代的性能与27只USSES朗布依埃公羊进行比较。最终数据集包括1240条后代记录，其中313条来自美利奴产种，294条来自朗布依埃产种，633条来自USSES朗布依埃产种。在18个生产性状中，3个父系组间有13个性状差异显著（P <； 0.05）。一般来说，羊毛品质性状对工业美利奴杂交后代的影响大于USSES朗布依埃后代。三组之间的生长和生存特征相似。当比较来自国家遗传评估的育种估计值时，9个测量值中的5个和经济指数（美国西部牧场指数）存在差异（P <； 0.05）。羊毛性状总体上偏向工业美利奴杂交系，经济指标偏向USSES朗布依埃杂交系，各组间生长性状基本一致，无差异。将工业品种纳入USSES种群，可以对其后代进行基准测试，扩大遗传基础，并允许开发一个国家遗传参考种群，以供未来研究使用。

{"title":"Development of a genetic reference flock: Benchmarking of industry and U.S. Sheep Experiment Station Rambouillet sires","authors":"Carrie S. Wilson , J. Bret Taylor , Thomas W. Murphy , Ronald M. Lewis , Whitney C. Stewart , David R. Notter","doi":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107580","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107580","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The Rambouillet breed is important throughout the U.S. because of its value in both lamb and fine wool production. The objective of this research was to benchmark performance of industry and U.S. Sheep Experiment Station (USSES) sires in an extensive rangeland production system in the development of a national genetic reference flock. Between 2015 and 2018, 13 Rambouillet (“industry Rambouillet”) and nine Merino-influenced Rambouillet (“industry Merino cross”) rams were incorporated into the USSES breeding program. The performance of their progeny was compared to 27 USSES Rambouillet rams. The final dataset included 1240 progeny records, with 313 from industry Merino cross, 294 from industry Rambouillet, and 633 from USSES Rambouillet sires. Significant differences among the three sire groups (<em>P</em> < 0.05) were found for 13 of the 18 production traits. Generally, wool quality traits favored the industry Merino cross progeny over the USSES Rambouillet progeny. Growth and survival traits were similar among the three groups. When estimated breeding values from national genetic evaluation were compared for the sire groups, five of the nine measures and an economic index (U.S. Western Range Index) differed (<em>P</em> < 0.05). Wool traits generally favored the industry Merino cross sires, the economic index favored the USSES Rambouillet sires, and the growth traits were similar and did not differ among the groups. Incorporating industry sires into the USSES flock allowed benchmarking of their progeny, broadening of the genetic base, and permitting development of a national genetic reference flock for use in future research.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":21758,"journal":{"name":"Small Ruminant Research","volume":"252 ","pages":"Article 107580"},"PeriodicalIF":1.4,"publicationDate":"2025-07-27","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144749487","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

引用次数: 0

What strategies would sheep farmers implement to respond to climate change? A cross-national comparison of sheep farming systems in the Mediterranean 牧羊人会采取什么策略来应对气候变化？地中海地区绵羊养殖系统的跨国比较

IF 1.4 3区农林科学 Q2 AGRICULTURE, DAIRY & ANIMAL SCIENCE

Small Ruminant Research

Pub Date : 2025-07-26 DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107576

D. Martin-Collado , A. Tenza-Peral , I. Casasús , M. Joy , F. Stark , A. Lurette , A. Mohamed-Brahmi , M. Ameur , A. Aboulnaga , M. Elshafie , S. Lobón

How livestock systems respond to climate change (CC) will shape global food security and rural livelihoods. The Mediterranean region, a climate risk hotspot, hosts diverse livestock systems, including extensive meat sheep farming, where adaptation is critical to prevent economic and social decline. However, response measures are often identified through top-down approaches that overlook local conditions and farmers' perspectives. This study conducted 216 face-to-face surveys with farmers across 11 meat sheep systems in Egypt, France, Spain, and Tunisia to examine their beliefs about CC, perceived farm impacts, and preferred strategies to cope CC. Cluster analysis identified five strategies: i) infrastructure improvement, ii) feed intensification, iii) feed optimization, iv) diversified adjustments, and v) flock management with feed intensification. These strategies were present across all countries and systems. Farmers widely recognize CC and its effects but most attribute its causes a combination of natural and human factors or to natural processes, rather than exclusively to human activity. Their primary concern is feed security, addressed through grazing, indoor feeding, or both, with increased feed purchases playing a central role. Conversely, breed substitution and reproductive management changes are rarely considered. The emphasis on farm infrastructure improvement and feed intensification suggests farmers prioritize reducing exposure to CC impacts by decoupling their farms from local environmental conditions. This aligns with a ‘sustainable intensification’ approach, which presents socio-economic and environmental challenges, requiring greater technical support for farmers to implement effective responses to CC.

畜牧业系统如何应对气候变化将影响全球粮食安全和农村生计。地中海地区是气候风险热点地区，拥有多种牲畜系统，包括广泛的肉羊养殖，适应气候变化对防止经济和社会衰退至关重要。然而，应对措施往往是通过自上而下的方法确定的，忽视了当地的条件和农民的观点。本研究对埃及、法国、西班牙和突尼斯11个肉羊系统的养殖户进行了216次面对面调查，以了解他们对CC的看法、对农场的影响以及应对CC的首选策略。聚类分析确定了5种策略：i)改善基础设施，ii)饲料集约化，iii)饲料优化，iv)多样化调整，v)饲料集约化的羊群管理。这些战略适用于所有国家和系统。农民广泛认识到气候变化及其影响，但大多数人将其原因归因于自然和人为因素或自然过程，而不仅仅是人类活动。他们主要关心的是饲料安全，通过放牧、室内饲养或两者兼而有之来解决，其中增加饲料采购发挥着核心作用。相反，很少考虑品种替代和生殖管理的变化。对农场基础设施改善和饲料集约化的重视表明，农民优先考虑通过将农场与当地环境条件脱钩来减少对碳排放影响的暴露。这与“可持续集约化”方法相一致，该方法提出了社会经济和环境挑战，需要为农民提供更多技术支持，以实施有效的CC应对措施。

{"title":"What strategies would sheep farmers implement to respond to climate change? A cross-national comparison of sheep farming systems in the Mediterranean","authors":"D. Martin-Collado , A. Tenza-Peral , I. Casasús , M. Joy , F. Stark , A. Lurette , A. Mohamed-Brahmi , M. Ameur , A. Aboulnaga , M. Elshafie , S. Lobón","doi":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107576","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107576","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>How livestock systems respond to climate change (CC) will shape global food security and rural livelihoods. The Mediterranean region, a climate risk hotspot, hosts diverse livestock systems, including extensive meat sheep farming, where adaptation is critical to prevent economic and social decline. However, response measures are often identified through top-down approaches that overlook local conditions and farmers' perspectives. This study conducted 216 face-to-face surveys with farmers across 11 meat sheep systems in Egypt, France, Spain, and Tunisia to examine their beliefs about CC, perceived farm impacts, and preferred strategies to cope CC. Cluster analysis identified five strategies: i) infrastructure improvement, ii) feed intensification, iii) feed optimization, iv) diversified adjustments, and v) flock management with feed intensification. These strategies were present across all countries and systems. Farmers widely recognize CC and its effects but most attribute its causes a combination of natural and human factors or to natural processes, rather than exclusively to human activity. Their primary concern is feed security, addressed through grazing, indoor feeding, or both, with increased feed purchases playing a central role. Conversely, breed substitution and reproductive management changes are rarely considered. The emphasis on farm infrastructure improvement and feed intensification suggests farmers prioritize reducing exposure to CC impacts by decoupling their farms from local environmental conditions. This aligns with a ‘sustainable intensification’ approach, which presents socio-economic and environmental challenges, requiring greater technical support for farmers to implement effective responses to CC.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":21758,"journal":{"name":"Small Ruminant Research","volume":"252 ","pages":"Article 107576"},"PeriodicalIF":1.4,"publicationDate":"2025-07-26","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144749486","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

引用次数: 0

Energy and protein requirements for maintenance and growth in female hair sheep 母羊毛羊维持和生长所需能量和蛋白质

IF 1.4 3区农林科学 Q2 AGRICULTURE, DAIRY & ANIMAL SCIENCE

Small Ruminant Research

Pub Date : 2025-07-26 DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107578

Caio Julio Lima Herbster , Antonio de Sousa Brito Neto , Marcos Inácio Marcondes , Luciano Pinheiro da Silva , Evandra da Silva Justino , Izabelle Auxiliadora Molina de Almeida Teixeira , Stefanie Alvarenga Santos , Ronaldo Lopes Oliveira , Elzania Sales Pereira

This study aimed to estimate the energy and protein requirements for ½ Santa Ines × ½ Dorper females hair sheep. Twenty-eight females (19.50 ± 1.43 kg initial BW) were allocated in a completely randomized design with three feeding levels (ad libitum, 280 and 620 g/kg DM feed restriction) to a 60:40 ratio of roughage and concentrate, with a gain of 150 g/day for the ad libitum animals. At the beginning of the trial, four females were slaughtered as a baseline group to estimate the initial empty body weight and the initial body composition of the remaining animals. When the experiment reached day 135, all the animals were slaughtered. The net energy requirement for maintenance (NE_m) was estimated through regression analysis of heat production on metabolizable energy intake. The net energy requirement for gain (NE_g) was estimated by regressing retained energy on empty body weight gain (EBWG). NE_m was estimated at 0.323 MJ/kg^0.75 EBW/day, and the efficiency of metabolizable energy utilization for maintenance was 0.64. The NE_g increased as body weight increased. The metabolizable protein requirement for maintenance was 3.18 g/kg^0.75 EBW/day. The net protein requirements for gain decreased as body weight increased. This study highlights the importance of updating information on nutritional requirements recommendation Committees, including studies on female hair sheep, to improve the models for estimating nutritional requirements and the productive efficiency of the animals. Models generated allow for estimating body composition and energy and protein requirements for ½ Santa Ines × ½ Dorper females hair sheep.

本研究旨在估算1 / 2 Santa Ines × / 2 Dorper母羊的能量和蛋白质需要量。试验选用28头雌性（初始体重19.50 ± 1.43 kg），采用完全随机设计，分为3个饲喂水平（自由采食、280和620 g/kg DM限饲），粗精料比例为60:40，自由采食动物增重150 g/d。在试验开始时，屠宰4只雌性作为基线组，估计剩余动物的初始空体重和初始体组成。试验至第135天，全部屠宰。通过产热对代谢能摄入的回归分析，估算了维持净能量需要量。净增重能量需要量（NEg）是通过对空体增重（EBWG）的保留能量回归来估算的。NEm估计为0.323 MJ/kg0.75 EBW/day，维持代谢能利用效率为0.64。NEg随体重增加而增加。维持期代谢蛋白需要量为3.18 g/kg0.75 EBW/d。增重的净蛋白质需要量随着体重的增加而降低。本研究强调了更新营养需求建议委员会的信息的重要性，包括对雌性毛羊的研究，以改进估计动物营养需求和生产效率的模型。所建立的模型可以估算1 / 2 Santa Ines × 1 / 2 Dorper雌性毛羊的身体组成、能量和蛋白质需要量。

{"title":"Energy and protein requirements for maintenance and growth in female hair sheep","authors":"Caio Julio Lima Herbster , Antonio de Sousa Brito Neto , Marcos Inácio Marcondes , Luciano Pinheiro da Silva , Evandra da Silva Justino , Izabelle Auxiliadora Molina de Almeida Teixeira , Stefanie Alvarenga Santos , Ronaldo Lopes Oliveira , Elzania Sales Pereira","doi":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107578","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107578","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This study aimed to estimate the energy and protein requirements for ½ Santa Ines × ½ Dorper females hair sheep. Twenty-eight females (19.50 ± 1.43 kg initial BW) were allocated in a completely randomized design with three feeding levels (<em>ad libitum</em>, 280 and 620 g/kg DM feed restriction) to a 60:40 ratio of roughage and concentrate, with a gain of 150 g/day for the <em>ad libitum</em> animals. At the beginning of the trial, four females were slaughtered as a baseline group to estimate the initial empty body weight and the initial body composition of the remaining animals. When the experiment reached day 135, all the animals were slaughtered. The net energy requirement for maintenance (NE<sub>m</sub>) was estimated through regression analysis of heat production on metabolizable energy intake. The net energy requirement for gain (NE<sub>g</sub>) was estimated by regressing retained energy on empty body weight gain (EBWG). NE<sub>m</sub> was estimated at 0.323 MJ/kg<sup>0.75</sup> EBW/day, and the efficiency of metabolizable energy utilization for maintenance was 0.64. The NE<sub>g</sub> increased as body weight increased. The metabolizable protein requirement for maintenance was 3.18 g/kg<sup>0.75</sup> EBW/day. The net protein requirements for gain decreased as body weight increased. This study highlights the importance of updating information on nutritional requirements recommendation Committees, including studies on female hair sheep, to improve the models for estimating nutritional requirements and the productive efficiency of the animals. Models generated allow for estimating body composition and energy and protein requirements for ½ Santa Ines × ½ Dorper females hair sheep.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":21758,"journal":{"name":"Small Ruminant Research","volume":"252 ","pages":"Article 107578"},"PeriodicalIF":1.4,"publicationDate":"2025-07-26","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144749816","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

引用次数: 0

Upregulation of miR-125b and miR-23b in plasma might be related with the early pregnancy in Awassi Ewes 血浆中miR-125b和miR-23b的上调可能与阿瓦西母羊早期妊娠有关

IF 1.4 3区农林科学 Q2 AGRICULTURE, DAIRY & ANIMAL SCIENCE

Small Ruminant Research

Pub Date : 2025-07-26 DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107579

Ahmet Gözer , Gökhan Uyanık , Hasan Hüseyin Keçeli , Ufuk Kaya , Hüseyin Özkan

This study investigates the expression patterns of microRNA (miR)-125b and miR-23b during early pregnancy in Awassi ewes. Animal material included 33 ewes consisting of pregnant (PP) (n = 14), non-pregnant (PN) (n = 14), and control group (n = 5) where estrus synchronization was performed but mating was not allowed. Plasma samples were collected on days 7 and 14 post-mating in PP, PN, and control groups. The expression levels of miRNAs were analyzed using qPCR, and progesterone (P₄) levels were measured via electrochemiluminescence immunoassay. On day 7, the miR-23b expressions were similar in PN, PP, and control. However, compared to control and PN, miR-23b was found to be upregulated approximately 2-fold in the PP on day 14. miR-23b expressions were similar on day 7 and day 14 in PP. miR-125b expression was similar in PN, PP, and control on day 7. Compared to control, miR-125b was upregulated nearly 3-fold in the PP on day 14. Furthermore, miR-125b was recorded to be more than 3-fold upregulated on day 14 compared to day 7 in the PP. Moreover, mean P₄ levels were higher in the PP than in the PN. Bioinformatics findings revealed that miR-23b and miR-125b regulate 736 genes. miR-23b is notably involved in the HIF-1 signalling pathway, influencing the secretion of pregnancy-related hormones and supporting organ development and pregnancy progression (FDR value <0.05). miR-125b plays a role in placental and embryonic development, osteoblast differentiation, and angiogenesis regulation (FDR-value <0.05). In conclusion, the upregulation of miR-23b and miR-125b in plasma might be related to pregnancy, and both miRNAs might be used as pregnancy biomarkers in ewes.

本研究探讨了microRNA (miR)-125b和miR-23b在Awassi母羊妊娠早期的表达模式。动物材料包括33只母羊，包括怀孕母羊（PP）（n = 14）、未怀孕母羊（PN）（n = 14）和对照组（n = 5），对照组进行了发情同步，但不允许交配。PP组、PN组和对照组分别于交配后第7天和第14天采集血浆。采用qPCR分析mirna的表达水平，采用电化学发光免疫分析法检测孕酮（P4）水平。第7天，miR-23b在PN、PP和对照组中的表达相似。然而，与对照组和PN相比，在PP中，miR-23b在第14天上调了约2倍。第7天和第14天，PP中miR-23b表达相似。第7天，PN、PP和对照组中miR-125b表达相似。与对照组相比，miR-125b在第14天的PP中上调了近3倍。此外，在PP中，miR-125b在第14天比第7天上调了3倍以上。此外，PP中的平均P4水平高于PN。生物信息学发现miR-23b和miR-125b调控736个基因。miR-23b显著参与HIF-1信号通路，影响妊娠相关激素的分泌，支持器官发育和妊娠进展（FDR值<；0.05）。miR-125b在胎盘和胚胎发育、成骨细胞分化和血管生成调控中发挥作用（fdr值<；0.05）。综上所述，血浆中miR-23b和miR-125b的上调可能与妊娠有关，这两种mirna可能作为母羊妊娠的生物标志物。

{"title":"Upregulation of miR-125b and miR-23b in plasma might be related with the early pregnancy in Awassi Ewes","authors":"Ahmet Gözer , Gökhan Uyanık , Hasan Hüseyin Keçeli , Ufuk Kaya , Hüseyin Özkan","doi":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107579","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107579","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This study investigates the expression patterns of microRNA (miR)-125b and miR-23b during early pregnancy in Awassi ewes. Animal material included 33 ewes consisting of pregnant (PP) (n = 14), non-pregnant (PN) (n = 14), and control group (n = 5) where estrus synchronization was performed but mating was not allowed. Plasma samples were collected on days 7 and 14 post-mating in PP, PN, and control groups. The expression levels of miRNAs were analyzed using qPCR, and progesterone (P<sub>4</sub>) levels were measured via electrochemiluminescence immunoassay. On day 7, the miR-23b expressions were similar in PN, PP, and control. However, compared to control and PN, miR-23b was found to be upregulated approximately 2-fold in the PP on day 14. miR-23b expressions were similar on day 7 and day 14 in PP. miR-125b expression was similar in PN, PP, and control on day 7. Compared to control, miR-125b was upregulated nearly 3-fold in the PP on day 14. Furthermore, miR-125b was recorded to be more than 3-fold upregulated on day 14 compared to day 7 in the PP. Moreover, mean P<sub>4</sub> levels were higher in the PP than in the PN. Bioinformatics findings revealed that miR-23b and miR-125b regulate 736 genes. miR-23b is notably involved in the HIF-1 signalling pathway, influencing the secretion of pregnancy-related hormones and supporting organ development and pregnancy progression (FDR value <0.05). miR-125b plays a role in placental and embryonic development, osteoblast differentiation, and angiogenesis regulation (FDR-value <0.05). In conclusion, the upregulation of miR-23b and miR-125b in plasma might be related to pregnancy, and both miRNAs might be used as pregnancy biomarkers in ewes.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":21758,"journal":{"name":"Small Ruminant Research","volume":"252 ","pages":"Article 107579"},"PeriodicalIF":1.4,"publicationDate":"2025-07-26","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144739703","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

引用次数: 0

The effect of carprofen administration post-mating on conception rate in lactating Assaf ewes 交配后给予卡洛芬对哺乳期Assaf母羊受孕率的影响

IF 1.4 3区农林科学 Q2 AGRICULTURE, DAIRY & ANIMAL SCIENCE

Small Ruminant Research

Pub Date : 2025-07-25 DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107577

Omer Faruk Yesilkaya , Berrak Isık Soyturk , Yunus Emre Deniz , Bahar Eda Goren , Fatma Satilmis , Huseyin Erdem

The aim of this study was to reduce embryonic loss and improve conception rates in lactating ewes during transition to breeding season through post-mating administration of carprofen. An intravaginal sponge containing 60 mg medroxyprogesterone acetate (Esponjavet®, Hipra, Turkey), was administered in all Assaf ewes (n = 126) for a period of seven days. The vaginal sponge was then removed and 450 IU of eCG and 10 mg/ewe of PGF_2α were injected intramuscularly. The rams were introduced to the flock at a ratio of 1:6 (i.e. 1 ram per 6 ewes) for a 5-day mating period. After the withdrawal of the rams, the ewes were randomly divided into two groups: the carprofen group (n = 55) and the control group (n = 71). The ewes of carprofen group received a dose of carprofen (1.4 mg/Kg s.c.), whereas those of control group received saline (1 mL) on day 6 after the end of estrus synchronization. The diagnosis of pregnancy was performed on day 35 following the removal of the ram using real-time ultrasonography. The results indicated that the conception rate was significantly higher in the carprofen group (65 %, 36/55) than in the control group (47 %, 34/71) (P < 0.05). The rate of multiple pregnancies was 30 % (11/36) in the carprofen group and 12 % (4/34) in the control group, while the mean number of fetuses per pregnancy was recorded as 1.30 and 1.11, respectively (P > 0.05). In conclusion, the post-mating administration of carprofen, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug with a prolonged half-life, has been found to improve conception rates in ewes.

本研究的目的是通过在交配后给药卡洛芬来减少哺乳期母羊在繁殖季节过渡期间的胚胎损失和提高受孕率。在所有Assaf母羊（ = 126）中使用含有60 mg醋酸甲孕酮的阴道内海绵（Esponjavet®，Hipra，土耳其），为期7天。取下阴道海绵，肌注eCG 450 IU和PGF2α 10 mg/ewe。公羊按1:6的比例（即每6只母羊1只公羊）引入羊群，交配期为5天。公羊退出后，将母羊随机分为卡洛芬组（n = 55）和对照组（n = 71）。卡洛芬组母羊在发情同步结束后第6天给予卡洛芬（1.4 mg/Kg s.c），对照组给予生理盐水（1 mL）。妊娠诊断于取出公羊后第35天进行实时超声检查。结果显示，卡洛芬组受孕率（65 %,36/55）显著高于对照组（47 %,34/71）（P <； 0.05）。卡洛芬组多胎妊娠率为30 %(11/36)，对照组为12 %(4/34)，平均每胎数分别为1.30和1.11个（P >； 0.05）。总之，交配后服用卡洛芬（一种半衰期较长的非甾体抗炎药）可以提高母羊的受孕率。

{"title":"The effect of carprofen administration post-mating on conception rate in lactating Assaf ewes","authors":"Omer Faruk Yesilkaya , Berrak Isık Soyturk , Yunus Emre Deniz , Bahar Eda Goren , Fatma Satilmis , Huseyin Erdem","doi":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107577","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107577","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The aim of this study was to reduce embryonic loss and improve conception rates in lactating ewes during transition to breeding season through post-mating administration of carprofen. An intravaginal sponge containing 60 mg medroxyprogesterone acetate (Esponjavet®, Hipra, Turkey), was administered in all Assaf ewes (n = 126) for a period of seven days. The vaginal sponge was then removed and 450 IU of eCG and 10 mg/ewe of PGF<sub>2α</sub> were injected intramuscularly. The rams were introduced to the flock at a ratio of 1:6 (i.e. 1 ram per 6 ewes) for a 5-day mating period. After the withdrawal of the rams, the ewes were randomly divided into two groups: the carprofen group (n = 55) and the control group (n = 71). The ewes of carprofen group received a dose of carprofen (1.4 mg/Kg s.c.), whereas those of control group received saline (1 mL) on day 6 after the end of estrus synchronization. The diagnosis of pregnancy was performed on day 35 following the removal of the ram using real-time ultrasonography. The results indicated that the conception rate was significantly higher in the carprofen group (65 %, 36/55) than in the control group (47 %, 34/71) (P < 0.05). The rate of multiple pregnancies was 30 % (11/36) in the carprofen group and 12 % (4/34) in the control group, while the mean number of fetuses per pregnancy was recorded as 1.30 and 1.11, respectively (P > 0.05). In conclusion, the post-mating administration of carprofen, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug with a prolonged half-life, has been found to improve conception rates in ewes.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":21758,"journal":{"name":"Small Ruminant Research","volume":"252 ","pages":"Article 107577"},"PeriodicalIF":1.4,"publicationDate":"2025-07-25","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144738727","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

引用次数: 0