Pub Date : 2025-11-05DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107648
Hasan Alptuğ Akgün , Tuğba Kök Taş
This study presents the first metagenomic analysis of lamb abomasum and investigates the effects of different drying methods (sun-drying and oven-drying) as well as kefir microorganisms on the microbial and technological properties of traditional liquid rennet. Fresh and dried abomasum samples were prepared utilizing the microbial diversity of kefir, and changes in pH, salt content, milk-clotting activity, and microbial populations were monitored throughout a 45-day preparation period. Metagenomic analyses were performed to assess the microbial diversity associated with abomasum and kefir supplementation. Metagenomic profiling revealed, for the first time, the rich microbial diversity of lamb abomasum. Kefir application enhanced microbial diversity, with Lactobacillus parakefiri becoming dominant while Clostridium species decreased. Drying methods influenced enzymatic activity, with sun-dried samples exhibiting higher milk-clotting activity. This study provides the first metagenomic profile of lamb abomasum, highlights the production potential of kefir-enriched rennet, and demonstrates the impact of different drying techniques on rennet quality. The findings contribute to the development of sustainable and innovative approaches in traditional cheesemaking.
{"title":"Metagenomic analysis of dried lamb abomasa processed by different drying techniques and the production of traditional liquid rennet","authors":"Hasan Alptuğ Akgün , Tuğba Kök Taş","doi":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107648","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107648","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This study presents the first metagenomic analysis of lamb abomasum and investigates the effects of different drying methods (sun-drying and oven-drying) as well as kefir microorganisms on the microbial and technological properties of traditional liquid rennet. Fresh and dried abomasum samples were prepared utilizing the microbial diversity of kefir, and changes in pH, salt content, milk-clotting activity, and microbial populations were monitored throughout a 45-day preparation period. Metagenomic analyses were performed to assess the microbial diversity associated with abomasum and kefir supplementation. Metagenomic profiling revealed, for the first time, the rich microbial diversity of lamb abomasum. Kefir application enhanced microbial diversity, with <em>Lactobacillus parakefiri</em> becoming dominant while <em>Clostridium</em> species decreased. Drying methods influenced enzymatic activity, with sun-dried samples exhibiting higher milk-clotting activity. This study provides the first metagenomic profile of lamb abomasum, highlights the production potential of kefir-enriched rennet, and demonstrates the impact of different drying techniques on rennet quality. The findings contribute to the development of sustainable and innovative approaches in traditional cheesemaking.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":21758,"journal":{"name":"Small Ruminant Research","volume":"253 ","pages":"Article 107648"},"PeriodicalIF":1.4,"publicationDate":"2025-11-05","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145516831","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}
Pub Date : 2025-11-04DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107647
Nolutsha Pahlane , Obert C. Chikwanha , Chenaimoyo L.F. Katiyatiya , Leo N. Mahachi , Annelin H. Molotsi , Jeannine Marais , Cletos Mapiye
The study compared the meat quality of four-month-old ram lambs from four sheep breeds: Damara, Pedi, Meatmaster and Dohne Merino subjected to water restriction (WR) levels of 0 (control, normal water intake), 10 % (90 % water intake) or 20 % (80 % water intake) [n = 8 per treatment] for 42 days. After slaughter, the longissimus thoracis et lumborum (LTL) muscles were removed for the evaluation of meat quality attributes. The interaction of breed and WR did not influence (P > 0.05) most of the investigated parameters. However, WR treatments resulted in lower (P ≤ 0.05) carcass temperature at 45 min and reduced contents of C15:0, C17:0, C19:1cis(c)7, C18:1trans (t)10/t11, total t-MUFA and total n6 PUFA relative to the control. Meatmaster and Dohne Merino meat exhibited higher (P ≤ 0.05) intramuscular fat content of C22:5n3, C22:6n3 and total n3 PUFA, scores for metallic aroma and sustained juiciness than Damara meat. Dohne Merino had higher (P ≤ 0.05) C18:1t10/t11and t-MUFA contents than Meatmaster and Damara. Meatmaster achieved higher (P ≤ 0.05) ratings for meat and fat flavor than the Pedi breed. Nonetheless, Meatmaster meat had higher (P ≤ 0.05) drip loss, and along with Damara had slightly darker (P ≤ 0.05) and less tender (P ≤ 0.05) meat than Dohne Merino and Pedi. In conclusion, 20 % WR and the use of productive water-efficient sheep breeds such as Meatmaster offer sustainable strategies for conserving water while maintaining meat quality in feedlots experiencing water scarcity.
{"title":"Meat physicochemical, shelf life, fatty acids and sensory attributes of South African feedlot lamb breeds subjected to varying water restriction levels","authors":"Nolutsha Pahlane , Obert C. Chikwanha , Chenaimoyo L.F. Katiyatiya , Leo N. Mahachi , Annelin H. Molotsi , Jeannine Marais , Cletos Mapiye","doi":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107647","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107647","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The study compared the meat quality of four-month-old ram lambs from four sheep breeds: Damara, Pedi, Meatmaster and Dohne Merino subjected to water restriction (W<em>R</em>) levels of 0 (control, normal water intake), 10 % (90 % water intake) or 20 % (80 % water intake) [n = 8 per treatment] for 42 days. After slaughter, the <em>longissimus thoracis et lumborum</em> (LTL) muscles were removed for the evaluation of meat quality attributes. The interaction of breed and W<em>R</em> did not influence (<em>P</em> > 0.05) most of the investigated parameters. However, W<em>R</em> treatments resulted in lower (<em>P</em> ≤ 0.05) carcass temperature at 45 min and reduced contents of C15:0, C17:0, C19:1<em>cis(c)</em>7, C18:1<em>trans (t)</em>10/<em>t</em>11, total <em>t</em>-MUFA and <em>t</em>otal <em>n</em>6 PUFA relative to the control. Meatmaster and Dohne Merino meat exhibited higher (<em>P</em> ≤ 0.05) intramuscular fat content of C22:5<em>n</em>3, C22:6<em>n</em>3 and total <em>n</em>3 PUFA, scores for metallic aroma and sustained juiciness than Damara meat. Dohne Merino had higher (<em>P</em> ≤ 0.05) C18:1<em>t</em>10/<em>t</em>11and <em>t</em>-MUFA con<em>t</em>ents than Meatmaster and Damara. Meatmaster achieved higher (<em>P</em> ≤ 0.05) ratings for meat and fat flavor than the Pedi breed. Nonetheless, Meatmaster meat had higher (<em>P</em> ≤ 0.05) drip loss, and along with Damara had slightly darker (<em>P</em> ≤ 0.05) and less tender (<em>P</em> ≤ 0.05) meat than Dohne Merino and Pedi. In conclusion, 20 % W<em>R</em> and the use of productive water-efficient sheep breeds such as Meatmaster offer sustainable strategies for conserving water while maintaining meat quality in feedlots experiencing water scarcity.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":21758,"journal":{"name":"Small Ruminant Research","volume":"253 ","pages":"Article 107647"},"PeriodicalIF":1.4,"publicationDate":"2025-11-04","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145466144","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}
Pub Date : 2025-11-01DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107645
Muhammad Syafiq Roslan , Mohd Shahmi Hakimi Mazlishah , Noorhidayah Mamat , Nor Azlina Abd Aziz , Noor Hashida Hashim , Nuradilla Mohamad-Fauzi
The influence of heat stress on reproductive performance in tropical-adapted sheep breeds is less described in literature, despite climate projections indicating worsening heat and humidity in tropical regions. Barbados Blackbelly (BB) sheep are highly regarded for their tropical adaptability and prolificacy, yet little empirical evidence proves their thermal tolerance and potential to improve sheep production in tropical countries. In this study, the effects of heat stress induced by elevated temperature-humidity index (THI) on BB ram reproductive performance were examined. Six BB rams were subjected to heat stress treatment (THI = 89–94) in a climatic chamber. After 14 days of heat treatment, rectal temperature, scrotal temperature, and respiration rate significantly increased in the rams. Significant reduction in their scrotal and testicular measurements was observed, as well as changes in their sexual behavioural patterns. BB ram testosterone level also significantly reduced at Day 14 of heat treatment. Cortisol level peaked at Day 7 and declined significantly by Day 14, likely indicating that physiological adaptation towards heat stress had begun to be employed by BB rams by the end of the treatment. Furthermore, despite an overall decline in spermatozoal quality, significant reduction was only observed in some motility and abnormality parameters. Elevated levels of malondialdehyde and hydrogen peroxide were also observed in ram seminal plasma indicating increased oxidative stress status, although the differences were not statistically significant. The present study provides key experimental evidence on the thermal resilience of Barbados Blackbelly rams, which merits the tropical adaptability of this prolific sheep breed.
{"title":"Adaptability of Barbados Blackbelly rams towards elevated temperature-humidity index assessed through reproductive physiology and behaviour","authors":"Muhammad Syafiq Roslan , Mohd Shahmi Hakimi Mazlishah , Noorhidayah Mamat , Nor Azlina Abd Aziz , Noor Hashida Hashim , Nuradilla Mohamad-Fauzi","doi":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107645","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107645","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The influence of heat stress on reproductive performance in tropical-adapted sheep breeds is less described in literature, despite climate projections indicating worsening heat and humidity in tropical regions. Barbados Blackbelly (BB) sheep are highly regarded for their tropical adaptability and prolificacy, yet little empirical evidence proves their thermal tolerance and potential to improve sheep production in tropical countries. In this study, the effects of heat stress induced by elevated temperature-humidity index (THI) on BB ram reproductive performance were examined. Six BB rams were subjected to heat stress treatment (THI = 89–94) in a climatic chamber. After 14 days of heat treatment, rectal temperature, scrotal temperature, and respiration rate significantly increased in the rams. Significant reduction in their scrotal and testicular measurements was observed, as well as changes in their sexual behavioural patterns. BB ram testosterone level also significantly reduced at Day 14 of heat treatment. Cortisol level peaked at Day 7 and declined significantly by Day 14, likely indicating that physiological adaptation towards heat stress had begun to be employed by BB rams by the end of the treatment. Furthermore, despite an overall decline in spermatozoal quality, significant reduction was only observed in some motility and abnormality parameters. Elevated levels of malondialdehyde and hydrogen peroxide were also observed in ram seminal plasma indicating increased oxidative stress status, although the differences were not statistically significant. The present study provides key experimental evidence on the thermal resilience of Barbados Blackbelly rams, which merits the tropical adaptability of this prolific sheep breed.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":21758,"journal":{"name":"Small Ruminant Research","volume":"253 ","pages":"Article 107645"},"PeriodicalIF":1.4,"publicationDate":"2025-11-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145466143","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}
Pub Date : 2025-10-31DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107644
Xia Cao , Jinbao Lv , Yuan Ma , Meijie Shan , Limin Shi
Theileriosis, caused by Theileria spp., is an important tick-borne disease of small ruminants with serious impacts on animal health and livestock productivity. Although many studies have been conducted, comprehensive data on its prevalence and distribution in China remain limited. Following the PRISMA guidelines, this study systematically reviewed and analyzed 101 eligible studies published up to May 15, 2025. Literature searches were performed across six major databases: Web of Science, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Wanfang, CNKI, and VIP. Data extraction and quality assessment followed the GRADE framework, and meta-analysis was conducted in RStudio using a random-effects model. A total of 2157 records were screened, and 101 studies covering 27 provinces were included. The overall pooled prevalence of Theileria infection in small ruminants was 42.0 % (95 % CI: 33.78–54.58), with high heterogeneity among regions and climates. The highest prevalence occurred in Northwestern China (41.1 %), especially in cold semi-arid (BSk) zones (47.2 %). Among species, T. luwenshuni was most common (32.3 %), followed by T. ovis (19.8 %) and T. uilenbergi (12.5 %). Higher infection rates were recorded in goats (51.9 %) than in sheep (42.7 %), in young animals (51.1 %) than in adults, and in free-ranging systems (47.7 %) compared with more intensive management systems. A slight decline after 2015 suggested improved control efforts. This meta-analysis reveals a widespread and persistent burden of Theileria infection among small ruminants in China. T. luwenshuni and T. ovis are the dominant species, with the highest risk in Northwestern and BSk climatic regions. Strengthened region-specific surveillance, combined diagnostic approaches, and improved tick control are essential to reduce transmission and support sustainable livestock development.
{"title":"Prevalence and risk factors of Theileria in small ruminants in China: A systematic review and meta-analysis","authors":"Xia Cao , Jinbao Lv , Yuan Ma , Meijie Shan , Limin Shi","doi":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107644","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107644","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Theileriosis, caused by <em>Theileria</em> spp., is an important tick-borne disease of small ruminants with serious impacts on animal health and livestock productivity. Although many studies have been conducted, comprehensive data on its prevalence and distribution in China remain limited. Following the PRISMA guidelines, this study systematically reviewed and analyzed 101 eligible studies published up to May 15, 2025. Literature searches were performed across six major databases: Web of Science, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Wanfang, CNKI, and VIP. Data extraction and quality assessment followed the GRADE framework, and meta-analysis was conducted in RStudio using a random-effects model. A total of 2157 records were screened, and 101 studies covering 27 provinces were included. The overall pooled prevalence of <em>Theileria</em> infection in small ruminants was 42.0 % (95 % CI: 33.78–54.58), with high heterogeneity among regions and climates. The highest prevalence occurred in Northwestern China (41.1 %), especially in cold semi-arid (BSk) zones (47.2 %). Among species, <em>T. luwenshuni</em> was most common (32.3 %), followed by <em>T. ovis</em> (19.8 %) and <em>T. uilenbergi</em> (12.5 %). Higher infection rates were recorded in goats (51.9 %) than in sheep (42.7 %), in young animals (51.1 %) than in adults, and in free-ranging systems (47.7 %) compared with more intensive management systems. A slight decline after 2015 suggested improved control efforts. This meta-analysis reveals a widespread and persistent burden of <em>Theileria</em> infection among small ruminants in China. <em>T. luwenshuni</em> and <em>T. ovis</em> are the dominant species, with the highest risk in Northwestern and BSk climatic regions. Strengthened region-specific surveillance, combined diagnostic approaches, and improved tick control are essential to reduce transmission and support sustainable livestock development.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":21758,"journal":{"name":"Small Ruminant Research","volume":"253 ","pages":"Article 107644"},"PeriodicalIF":1.4,"publicationDate":"2025-10-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145516830","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}
Pub Date : 2025-10-30DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107643
Awistaros Angger Sakti , Kustantinah , Bambang Suwignyo , Ahmad Sofyan , Cuk Tri Noviandi , Hendra Herdian , Zein Ahmad Baihaqi , Harwi Kusnadi , Rusli Fidriyanto , I Nyoman Guna Darma , Prasetyo
Gastrointestinal nematodes (GIN) cause substantial losses in ruminants, including nutrient depletion, anemia, reduced productivity, and mortality. Nematodes' resistance to synthetic drugs has led to interest in alternative control strategies. This study aimed to evaluate the potential of Chaetomorpha vieillardii extract, a green macroalga, as a natural anthelmintic agent and to assess its effects on productivity, feed intake, and digestibility in thin-tailed sheep. Sixteen naturally infected thin-tailed sheep were randomly allocated into four groups: P0 (basal diet), P1 (P0 + C. vieillardii extract 10 mg/kg BW), P2 (P0 + C. vieillardii extract 20 mg/kg BW), and Palb (P0 + albendazole 5 mg/kg BW). Diets were composed of king grass (80 % dry matter, DM) and wheat bran (20 % DM), targeting 0–50 g/day weight gain. Treatments were conducted over 8 weeks, with a 2-week adaptation period. Counting fecal eggs per gram (EPG) for GIN was monitored weekly. The ethanol extract of C. vieillardii yielded 2.45 % with bioactive contents: total flavonoids 117.9 mg EQ/g, phenolics 5.2 mg GAE/g, phloroglucinol-reactive phenolics 2.1 mg PGE/g, and saponins 218.8 mg SE/g. At 20 mg/kg BW, the extract significantly reduced GIN prevalence by 98.1 % (P < 0.05). Hematological parameters remained stable, with a positive trend in red blood cell indices, and a significant increase in eosinophils in controls due to infection. Administration at 20 mg/kg body weight enhanced feed intake, nutrient digestibility, feed efficiency, and improved growth performance in sheep. This suggests that C. vieillardii has the potential to be further developed as a natural anthelmintic for sheep, while also enhancing their nutritional status.
{"title":"In vivo assessment of Chaetomorpha vieillardii ethanolic extract as a natural anthelmintic in sheep","authors":"Awistaros Angger Sakti , Kustantinah , Bambang Suwignyo , Ahmad Sofyan , Cuk Tri Noviandi , Hendra Herdian , Zein Ahmad Baihaqi , Harwi Kusnadi , Rusli Fidriyanto , I Nyoman Guna Darma , Prasetyo","doi":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107643","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107643","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Gastrointestinal nematodes (GIN) cause substantial losses in ruminants, including nutrient depletion, anemia, reduced productivity, and mortality. Nematodes' resistance to synthetic drugs has led to interest in alternative control strategies. This study aimed to evaluate the potential of <em>Chaetomorpha vieillardii</em> extract, a green macroalga, as a natural anthelmintic agent and to assess its effects on productivity, feed intake, and digestibility in thin-tailed sheep. Sixteen naturally infected thin-tailed sheep were randomly allocated into four groups: P0 (basal diet), P1 (P0 + <em>C. vieillardii</em> extract 10 mg/kg BW), P2 (P0 + <em>C. vieillardii</em> extract 20 mg/kg BW), and Palb (P0 + albendazole 5 mg/kg BW). Diets were composed of king grass (80 % dry matter, DM) and wheat bran (20 % DM), targeting 0–50 g/day weight gain. Treatments were conducted over 8 weeks, with a 2-week adaptation period. Counting fecal eggs per gram (EPG) for GIN was monitored weekly. The ethanol extract of <em>C. vieillardii</em> yielded 2.45 % with bioactive contents: total flavonoids 117.9 mg EQ/g, phenolics 5.2 mg GAE/g, phloroglucinol-reactive phenolics 2.1 mg PGE/g, and saponins 218.8 mg SE/g. At 20 mg/kg BW, the extract significantly reduced GIN prevalence by 98.1 % (P < 0.05). Hematological parameters remained stable, with a positive trend in red blood cell indices, and a significant increase in eosinophils in controls due to infection. Administration at 20 mg/kg body weight enhanced feed intake, nutrient digestibility, feed efficiency, and improved growth performance in sheep. This suggests that <em>C. vieillardii</em> has the potential to be further developed as a natural anthelmintic for sheep, while also enhancing their nutritional status.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":21758,"journal":{"name":"Small Ruminant Research","volume":"253 ","pages":"Article 107643"},"PeriodicalIF":1.4,"publicationDate":"2025-10-30","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145466145","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}
Pub Date : 2025-10-29DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107636
Nasser A. Al-Araimi , Raed M. Al-Atiyat , Agusto Luzuriaga-Neira , João Pimenta , José Melo-Ferreira , Albano Beja-Pereira
The present study aimed to provide insight into the genetic diversity, phylogenetic history, and maternal origin of the native sheep populations from the Arabian Peninsula and test hypotheses regarding the possible introgression of mtDNA from Arabian Peninsula sheep into African and Asian populations. The mtDNA sequencing of 17 populations from Arabia and Africa was conducted, and mtDNA data on six populations from Asia and Africa were compared with our data. Measurements of genetic diversity indices (h and π) were higher for populations from the Arabian Peninsula than for those from Africa. Based on the estimated population structure, comparing pairwise FST and AMOVA values between Arabian and African populations indicated low genetic differentiation. According to phylogenetic relationship analysis (neighbour-joining (NJ) tree), the Arabian Peninsula sheep population sequences were grouped into four maternal haplogroups (HPGs): A, B, C, and E. Among these groups, HPG B was predominant, HPG A was the second most common HPG, and the remaining HPGs (C and E) exhibited lower frequencies in the studied Arabian sheep breeds. In addition, median-joining network analysis provided strong evidence of previous introgression between Arabian, African and Asian sheep, which might have arisen through seafaring trade or the migratory movements of ancient humans. Finally, Approximate Bayesian Computation support the colonization of Africa from the Arabian Peninsula via two colonization routes, an older one in the north and a more recent one in the south.
{"title":"Maternal genetic variation reveals the origin of Arabian sheep and their introgression with African and Asian sheep","authors":"Nasser A. Al-Araimi , Raed M. Al-Atiyat , Agusto Luzuriaga-Neira , João Pimenta , José Melo-Ferreira , Albano Beja-Pereira","doi":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107636","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107636","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The present study aimed to provide insight into the genetic diversity, phylogenetic history, and maternal origin of the native sheep populations from the Arabian Peninsula and test hypotheses regarding the possible introgression of mtDNA from Arabian Peninsula sheep into African and Asian populations. The mtDNA sequencing of 17 populations from Arabia and Africa was conducted, and mtDNA data on six populations from Asia and Africa were compared with our data. Measurements of genetic diversity indices (h and π) were higher for populations from the Arabian Peninsula than for those from Africa. Based on the estimated population structure, comparing pairwise <em>F</em><sub><em>ST</em></sub> and AMOVA values between Arabian and African populations indicated low genetic differentiation. According to phylogenetic relationship analysis (neighbour-joining (NJ) tree), the Arabian Peninsula sheep population sequences were grouped into four maternal haplogroups (HPGs): A, B, C, and E. Among these groups, HPG B was predominant, HPG A was the second most common HPG, and the remaining HPGs (C and E) exhibited lower frequencies in the studied Arabian sheep breeds. In addition, median-joining network analysis provided strong evidence of previous introgression between Arabian, African and Asian sheep, which might have arisen through seafaring trade or the migratory movements of ancient humans. Finally, Approximate Bayesian Computation support the colonization of Africa from the Arabian Peninsula via two colonization routes, an older one in the north and a more recent one in the south.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":21758,"journal":{"name":"Small Ruminant Research","volume":"253 ","pages":"Article 107636"},"PeriodicalIF":1.4,"publicationDate":"2025-10-29","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145417956","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}
This study evaluated the impact of the Attracting and Retaining Youth in Agriculture project on the knowledge and adoption of goat farming practices among tribal youth in Banswara district, Rajasthan, India. A total of 146 respondents were surveyed, including 73 trainees who completed a 21-day skill-oriented training program and 73 non-trainees as a control group. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, z-tests, and regression models. Training significantly improved youth knowledge across breeding, feeding, health care, and management, with an overall gain of 75.89 %. Adoption levels were lower (65.40 %), with the highest uptake in management (76.94 %) and breeding (69.52 %), while feeding showed the widest knowledge–adoption gap. Regression analysis identified mass media exposure as the strongest predictor of knowledge, whereas extension contacts and information access mainly influenced adoption. Results demonstrate that targeted training effectively bridges skill gaps, promotes scientific goat farming practices, and strengthens livelihood security among tribal youth. From a policy perspective, improving access to quality feed, veterinary services, and market linkages alongside strengthening extension outreach and digital advisory platforms will be essential to convert knowledge gains into sustained adoption and scale goat farming as a viable livelihood option.
{"title":"Socio-economic drivers of knowledge and adoption in goat farming: Tribal youth’s perspective","authors":"M.S. Meena , J.P. Mishra , B.S. Bhati , Sunil Kumar Meena","doi":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107633","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107633","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This study evaluated the impact of the Attracting and Retaining Youth in Agriculture project on the knowledge and adoption of goat farming practices among tribal youth in Banswara district, Rajasthan, India. A total of 146 respondents were surveyed, including 73 trainees who completed a 21-day skill-oriented training program and 73 non-trainees as a control group. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, z-tests, and regression models. Training significantly improved youth knowledge across breeding, feeding, health care, and management, with an overall gain of 75.89 %. Adoption levels were lower (65.40 %), with the highest uptake in management (76.94 %) and breeding (69.52 %), while feeding showed the widest knowledge–adoption gap. Regression analysis identified mass media exposure as the strongest predictor of knowledge, whereas extension contacts and information access mainly influenced adoption. Results demonstrate that targeted training effectively bridges skill gaps, promotes scientific goat farming practices, and strengthens livelihood security among tribal youth. From a policy perspective, improving access to quality feed, veterinary services, and market linkages alongside strengthening extension outreach and digital advisory platforms will be essential to convert knowledge gains into sustained adoption and scale goat farming as a viable livelihood option.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":21758,"journal":{"name":"Small Ruminant Research","volume":"253 ","pages":"Article 107633"},"PeriodicalIF":1.4,"publicationDate":"2025-10-16","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145417994","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}
Pub Date : 2025-10-16DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107631
Michelle P. Buckley , Fazal Sattar , Ganwu Li , Orhan Sahin , Roselle C. Busch , Amanda J. Kreuder , Paul J. Plummer , Patrick J. Gorden
Subclinical mastitis, most commonly due to non-aureus staphylococci (NAS), results in significant production losses within the dairy goat industry while also shortening the productive life of the animal due to the resultant chronic changes within the udder. The prevalence of this group of pathogens may be up to 50 % in some dairies. Dry-off is a common production point to address these infections through the extra-label use of long-acting intramammary antimicrobial products which are approved for dairy cattle in the US. However, the impacts of this treatment on antimicrobial resistance development are unknown in goats. The objective of this project was to evaluate the impact of intramammary antimicrobial use at dry-off on antimicrobial susceptibility testing and antimicrobial resistance gene profiles of NAS isolates from commercial farms in the United States which were associated with persistent or new subclinical intramammary infection during the dry period in goats. The current study is a continuation of a previous study which evaluated the efficacy of intramammary antimicrobial treatment for curing subclinical mastitis caused by non-aureus staphylococci. That analysis included 260 does who provided the isolates for the current study. Antimicrobial sensitivity testing was performed using a commercially available broth microdilution plate designed for treatment of mastitis in dairy cattle on dry-off and post-kidding samples for isolates that failed to cure or developed new NAS infections after treatment with one of two β-lactam (cephaparin, CEPH; cloxacillin, CLOX) dry cow therapies or in non-treated control animals to evaluate the impact of targeted dry therapy on phenotypic and genotypic antimicrobial resistance development of NAS in dairy goats. The most prevalent NAS associated with non-cured infections for all three treatment groups was Staphylococcus epidermidis, while the most common NAS associated with new infections after kidding was S. equorum. There were small variations in MIC for multiple drugs when data was evaluated by treatment group and location, though these changes did not form a consistent pattern and are likely due to the small sample size and farm-level differences in pathogens. The minimum concentration of penicillin (surrogate test for β-lactamase producing strains) required to inhibit growth in 50 % of isolates (MIC50) and 90 % of isolates (MIC90) did not change for non-cured isolates after antimicrobial therapy across the entire study population. Whole genome sequencing was also used to identify antimicrobial resistance genes commonly associated with NAS species. Presence of the blaZ β-lactamase gene was highly correlated with increased penicillin MIC. Isolates with the highest MIC values (>4 μg/mL) were all positive for the gene, while 79 % of isolates with penicillin MIC ≤ 0.12 μg/mL did not contain the blaZ gene. Overall, this study did not identify any significant cha
{"title":"Phenotypic and genotypic antimicrobial susceptibility of non-aureus staphylococci in dairy goats","authors":"Michelle P. Buckley , Fazal Sattar , Ganwu Li , Orhan Sahin , Roselle C. Busch , Amanda J. Kreuder , Paul J. Plummer , Patrick J. Gorden","doi":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107631","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107631","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Subclinical mastitis, most commonly due to non-aureus staphylococci (NAS), results in significant production losses within the dairy goat industry while also shortening the productive life of the animal due to the resultant chronic changes within the udder. The prevalence of this group of pathogens may be up to 50 % in some dairies. Dry-off is a common production point to address these infections through the extra-label use of long-acting intramammary antimicrobial products which are approved for dairy cattle in the US. However, the impacts of this treatment on antimicrobial resistance development are unknown in goats. The objective of this project was to evaluate the impact of intramammary antimicrobial use at dry-off on antimicrobial susceptibility testing and antimicrobial resistance gene profiles of NAS isolates from commercial farms in the United States which were associated with persistent or new subclinical intramammary infection during the dry period in goats. The current study is a continuation of a previous study which evaluated the efficacy of intramammary antimicrobial treatment for curing subclinical mastitis caused by non-aureus staphylococci. That analysis included 260 does who provided the isolates for the current study. Antimicrobial sensitivity testing was performed using a commercially available broth microdilution plate designed for treatment of mastitis in dairy cattle on dry-off and post-kidding samples for isolates that failed to cure or developed new NAS infections after treatment with one of two β-lactam (cephaparin, CEPH; cloxacillin, CLOX) dry cow therapies or in non-treated control animals to evaluate the impact of targeted dry therapy on phenotypic and genotypic antimicrobial resistance development of NAS in dairy goats. The most prevalent NAS associated with non-cured infections for all three treatment groups was <em>Staphylococcus epidermidis,</em> while the most common NAS associated with new infections after kidding was <em>S. equorum</em>. There were small variations in MIC for multiple drugs when data was evaluated by treatment group and location, though these changes did not form a consistent pattern and are likely due to the small sample size and farm-level differences in pathogens. The minimum concentration of penicillin (surrogate test for β-lactamase producing strains) required to inhibit growth in 50 % of isolates (MIC50) and 90 % of isolates (MIC90) did not change for non-cured isolates after antimicrobial therapy across the entire study population. Whole genome sequencing was also used to identify antimicrobial resistance genes commonly associated with NAS species. Presence of the <em>blaZ</em> β-lactamase gene was highly correlated with increased penicillin MIC. Isolates with the highest MIC values (>4 μg/mL) were all positive for the gene, while 79 % of isolates with penicillin MIC ≤ 0.12 μg/mL did not contain the <em>blaZ</em> gene. Overall, this study did not identify any significant cha","PeriodicalId":21758,"journal":{"name":"Small Ruminant Research","volume":"253 ","pages":"Article 107631"},"PeriodicalIF":1.4,"publicationDate":"2025-10-16","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145417955","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}
Pub Date : 2025-10-15DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107634
Sanaz Sanayei , Aprilia Fitriani
Yogurt is a popular fermented dairy product known for its nutritional and health benefits, particularly its positive effects on digestion. Researchers have investigated the production of yogurt from various milk types, including sheep, goat, and camel milk. Camel milk, recognised for its high nutritional and functional value, is typically consumed as raw milk or in fermented beverages. In recent years, studies have increasingly focused on developing new products from camel milk, such as yogurt. Camel milk forms weak gels, and achieving an acceptable texture in yogurt remains challenging. This review article explores the factors that influence the structure and quality of camel milk yogurt. Camel milk is characterised by smaller fat globules, low κ-casein content, larger casein micelles, a high proportion of β-casein, and the absence of β-lactoglobulin. Furthermore, Antimicrobial peptides such as lysozyme, lactoferrin, and immunoglobulin inhibit starter cultures, an important consideration during yogurt fermentation. The ratio of casein to whey protein is one of the main factors affecting the texture of the yogurt product. To address these challenges, several strategies have been investigated, including the use of hydrocolloids, which can modify texture, but may also influence flavour, and blending with other kinds of ruminant milk can reduce camel milk’s unique functional properties. Understanding these factors is essential for selecting suitable ingredients and processing methods to improve camel milk yogurt quality. Future advances in starter culture design, enzymatic modification, and formulation strategies will enable cost-effective industrial production of camel milk yogurt with improved quality and consumer acceptance.
{"title":"Innovative approaches to improve camel milk yogurt: A review of physicochemical and technological challenges","authors":"Sanaz Sanayei , Aprilia Fitriani","doi":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107634","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107634","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Yogurt is a popular fermented dairy product known for its nutritional and health benefits, particularly its positive effects on digestion. Researchers have investigated the production of yogurt from various milk types, including sheep, goat, and camel milk. Camel milk, recognised for its high nutritional and functional value, is typically consumed as raw milk or in fermented beverages. In recent years, studies have increasingly focused on developing new products from camel milk, such as yogurt<strong>.</strong> Camel milk forms weak gels, and achieving an acceptable texture in yogurt remains challenging. This review article explores the factors that influence the structure and quality of camel milk yogurt. Camel milk is characterised by smaller fat globules, low κ-casein content, larger casein micelles, a high proportion of β-casein, and the absence of β-lactoglobulin. Furthermore, Antimicrobial peptides such as lysozyme, lactoferrin, and immunoglobulin inhibit starter cultures, an important consideration during yogurt fermentation. The ratio of casein to whey protein is one of the main factors affecting the texture of the yogurt product. To address these challenges, several strategies have been investigated, including the use of hydrocolloids, which can modify texture, but may also influence flavour, and blending with other kinds of ruminant milk can reduce camel milk’s unique functional properties. Understanding these factors is essential for selecting suitable ingredients and processing methods to improve camel milk yogurt quality. Future advances in starter culture design, enzymatic modification, and formulation strategies will enable cost-effective industrial production of camel milk yogurt with improved quality and consumer acceptance<em>.</em></div></div>","PeriodicalId":21758,"journal":{"name":"Small Ruminant Research","volume":"253 ","pages":"Article 107634"},"PeriodicalIF":1.4,"publicationDate":"2025-10-15","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145364644","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}
Pub Date : 2025-10-11DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107632
S.G. Caspe , J. Palarea-Albaladejo , S.R. Wattegedera , E. Milne , M. Livingstone , K. Aitchison , C. Underwood , F. Chianini , N.D. Sargison , D. Longbottom
The placenta plays a vital role in nutrient exchange between the mother and fetus. In pregnant ewes, Chlamydia abortus infection causes suppurative necrotising placentitis, impairing this function. While gross placental lesions are observable, microscopic analysis is required for detailed characterisation. This study investigated the histopathological changes in placentas showing different severities of visible damage from C. abortus-infected ewes. This study investigated histopathological changes in placentas from ewes experimentally infected with C. abortus, grouped (n = 3 per group) by the extent of visible lesions: Low (0–25 %), Medium (40–60 %), and High (85–100 %). Formalin-fixed placentas were randomly sampled for histopathology and immunohistochemistry (IHC). In the Low group, the placentas showed mild to moderate focal suppurative placentitis. Medium group placentas exhibited severe multifocal suppurative necrotising placentitis with vascular thrombosis, while the High group exhibited severe, diffuse, suppurative necrotising placentitis with vascular necrosis and mineralisation. IHC for chlamydial lipopolysaccharide showed a higher presence in the trophoblast in the Medium group than in the Low or High groups. The histopathological parameters were standardised and statistically analysed to investigate each parameter's relative impact on the disease's pathogenesis. The findings suggest that ischemic necrosis, due to vascular lesions such as vasculitis, mural necrosis, and thrombosis driven by the host response to chlamydial antigens, has a greater impact on pregnancy outcome than cell lysis associated with the release of chlamydial elementary bodies. Reduced perfusion and inflammation-associated oedema increase the thickness of the maternofetal interface, compromising fetal nutrient exchange and fetal survival.
{"title":"Histopathological analysis in placentas of ewes infected with Chlamydia abortus showing different gross lesion severity","authors":"S.G. Caspe , J. Palarea-Albaladejo , S.R. Wattegedera , E. Milne , M. Livingstone , K. Aitchison , C. Underwood , F. Chianini , N.D. Sargison , D. Longbottom","doi":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107632","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107632","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The placenta plays a vital role in nutrient exchange between the mother and fetus. In pregnant ewes, <em>Chlamydia abortus</em> infection causes suppurative necrotising placentitis, impairing this function. While gross placental lesions are observable, microscopic analysis is required for detailed characterisation. This study investigated the histopathological changes in placentas showing different severities of visible damage from <em>C. abortus</em>-infected ewes. This study investigated histopathological changes in placentas from ewes experimentally infected with <em>C. abortus</em>, grouped (n = 3 per group) by the extent of visible lesions: Low (0–25 %), Medium (40–60 %), and High (85–100 %). Formalin-fixed placentas were randomly sampled for histopathology and immunohistochemistry (IHC). In the Low group, the placentas showed mild to moderate focal suppurative placentitis. Medium group placentas exhibited severe multifocal suppurative necrotising placentitis with vascular thrombosis, while the High group exhibited severe, diffuse, suppurative necrotising placentitis with vascular necrosis and mineralisation. IHC for chlamydial lipopolysaccharide showed a higher presence in the trophoblast in the Medium group than in the Low or High groups. The histopathological parameters were standardised and statistically analysed to investigate each parameter's relative impact on the disease's pathogenesis. The findings suggest that ischemic necrosis, due to vascular lesions such as vasculitis, mural necrosis, and thrombosis driven by the host response to chlamydial antigens, has a greater impact on pregnancy outcome than cell lysis associated with the release of chlamydial elementary bodies. Reduced perfusion and inflammation-associated oedema increase the thickness of the maternofetal interface, compromising fetal nutrient exchange and fetal survival.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":21758,"journal":{"name":"Small Ruminant Research","volume":"253 ","pages":"Article 107632"},"PeriodicalIF":1.4,"publicationDate":"2025-10-11","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145322018","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}
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