Pub Date : 2025-08-29DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107603
Diego Sacchero, Julia Maurino, Ezequiel Bernardo Gonzalez
Mohair fiber production faces various challenges, such as those related to production environments, sustainability, the supply chain and consumer demands. In Argentina, mohair is produced in Patagonia, in mixed and extensive livestock fiber-meat systems, and exported in combed, washed or raw state. This study analyzed data on mohair fiber quality within the Mohair Program, a national public policy, aiming to provide insights to monitor and address current and future challenges in the mohair fiber industry. The data analyzed included annual records of 612 commercial samples from 24 collection centers from 2014 to 2023. The variables analyzed were mean fiber diameter (MFD), percentages of non-objectionable medullated fibers (NOB) and Kemp-type medullated fibers (KMP), yield (YLD) and vegetal matter (VEG). The MFD overall trend showed a positive slope, indicating an increase from 27.3 to 28.8 μm over time. In Argentina, MFD is finer than in South Africa, suggesting potential for increased production via nutrition and genetics. The general trend for NOB fibers indicated a slight decrease over time. Comparison of NOB fibers at the beginning and at the end of the time series showed a decrease from 2.45 % to 1.75 %. On the other hand, KMP fibers increased during the period analyzed, exceeding 1 % in 2018 and slightly 2.0 % in the last shearing season. Reducing KMP values represents the largest pending task within the Mohair Program. The YLD values were high (83.0–87.2 %) and VEG values very low (<1 %), contributing to the excellent quality parameters of Argentine mohair.
{"title":"Exploring the quality of mohair fiber produced and auctioned in Argentina by Angora goat farmer organizations","authors":"Diego Sacchero, Julia Maurino, Ezequiel Bernardo Gonzalez","doi":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107603","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107603","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Mohair fiber production faces various challenges, such as those related to production environments, sustainability, the supply chain and consumer demands. In Argentina, mohair is produced in Patagonia, in mixed and extensive livestock fiber-meat systems, and exported in combed, washed or raw state. This study analyzed data on mohair fiber quality within the Mohair Program, a national public policy, aiming to provide insights to monitor and address current and future challenges in the mohair fiber industry. The data analyzed included annual records of 612 commercial samples from 24 collection centers from 2014 to 2023. The variables analyzed were mean fiber diameter (MFD), percentages of non-objectionable medullated fibers (NOB) and Kemp-type medullated fibers (KMP), yield (YLD) and vegetal matter (VEG). The MFD overall trend showed a positive slope, indicating an increase from 27.3 to 28.8 μm over time. In Argentina, MFD is finer than in South Africa, suggesting potential for increased production via nutrition and genetics. The general trend for NOB fibers indicated a slight decrease over time. Comparison of NOB fibers at the beginning and at the end of the time series showed a decrease from 2.45 % to 1.75 %. On the other hand, KMP fibers increased during the period analyzed, exceeding 1 % in 2018 and slightly 2.0 % in the last shearing season. Reducing KMP values represents the largest pending task within the Mohair Program. The YLD values were high (83.0–87.2 %) and VEG values very low (<1 %), contributing to the excellent quality parameters of Argentine mohair.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":21758,"journal":{"name":"Small Ruminant Research","volume":"252 ","pages":"Article 107603"},"PeriodicalIF":1.4,"publicationDate":"2025-08-29","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144925711","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 : 2025-08-21DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107598
Qi Xu , Haijiao Xi , Dongmei Shen , Tao Zhang , Jinquan Li , Rui Su , Qi Lv , Yanjun Zhang , Ruijun Wang , Na Wang , Baichuan Liu , Dong He , Zhiying Wang
The aim of this study was to design and develop a 10 K low-density liquid chip for cashmere goats using targeted capture sequencing technology. The functional sites of this chip combine SNPs significantly related to early growth traits, cashmere traits, and horn traits of Inner Mongolia cashmere goats, as well as some sites from the 70 K chip. The background sites were determined based on the principles of uniformity of sites on chromosomes and maximizing minor allele frequency. Finally, a low-density liquid chip containing 10,000 SNP sites was synthesized, comprising 997 functional sites and 9003 background sites, all of which are evenly distributed across each chromosome.The chip was validated using 37 DNA samples from Inner Mongolia cashmere goats. The results showed that the average detection rate of sites in the test samples was 99.63 %. All SNP sites were annotated, with 64 % located in intergenic regions. The development and validation of the 10 K liquid chip for cashmere goats demonstrate its potential for application in molecular breeding of cashmere goats, which is expected to further promote the industrial development of this species.
{"title":"Development and validation of 10 K liquid chip for Inner Mongolia cashmere goat","authors":"Qi Xu , Haijiao Xi , Dongmei Shen , Tao Zhang , Jinquan Li , Rui Su , Qi Lv , Yanjun Zhang , Ruijun Wang , Na Wang , Baichuan Liu , Dong He , Zhiying Wang","doi":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107598","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107598","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The aim of this study was to design and develop a 10 K low-density liquid chip for cashmere goats using targeted capture sequencing technology. The functional sites of this chip combine SNPs significantly related to early growth traits, cashmere traits, and horn traits of Inner Mongolia cashmere goats, as well as some sites from the 70 K chip. The background sites were determined based on the principles of uniformity of sites on chromosomes and maximizing minor allele frequency. Finally, a low-density liquid chip containing 10,000 SNP sites was synthesized, comprising 997 functional sites and 9003 background sites, all of which are evenly distributed across each chromosome.The chip was validated using 37 DNA samples from Inner Mongolia cashmere goats. The results showed that the average detection rate of sites in the test samples was 99.63 %. All SNP sites were annotated, with 64 % located in intergenic regions. The development and validation of the 10 K liquid chip for cashmere goats demonstrate its potential for application in molecular breeding of cashmere goats, which is expected to further promote the industrial development of this species.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":21758,"journal":{"name":"Small Ruminant Research","volume":"252 ","pages":"Article 107598"},"PeriodicalIF":1.4,"publicationDate":"2025-08-21","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144921712","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 : 2025-08-21DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107602
Pedro Abel Hernández-García , Juan Eduardo Godina-Rodríguez , Lorenzo Danilo Granados-Rivera , José Felipe Orzuna-Orzuna , Gabriela Vázquez-Silva
The objective of the current study was to evaluate the effects of dietary curcumin supplementation on growth performance, serum antioxidant status, and serum metabolites in growing lambs through a meta-analytic approach. Electronic databases such as PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus, and Web of Science were systematically searched for available information following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses methodology. The meta-analytic database was constructed using data extracted from 10 peer-reviewed scientific articles published in English between January 2015 and April 2025. Data were analyzed using random-effects models, and results were expressed using weighted mean differences. Dietary supplementation with curcumin increased (P < 0.01) dry matter intake and average daily gain and, at the same time, decreased (P < 0.001) feed conversion ratio. Dietary supplementation with curcumin increased (P < 0.05) serum levels of superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and total antioxidant capacity while decreasing (P < 0.001) serum malondialdehyde concentration. Serum immunoglobulins A, G, and M concentrations increased (P < 0.001) in response to dietary curcumin supplementation. Dietary supplementation with curcumin decreased serum glucose, cholesterol, and aspartate aminotransferase concentrations (P < 0.05). However, dietary supplementation with curcumin did not affect (P > 0.05) serum urea, albumin, globulin, and total protein concentrations. In conclusion, dietary supplementation with curcumin could be used as a nutritional strategy to improve growth performance, serum antioxidant status, and immune response without negatively affecting serum metabolites in growing lambs.
{"title":"Growth performance, antioxidant status, and serum metabolites of growing lambs supplemented with dietary curcumin: a meta-analysis","authors":"Pedro Abel Hernández-García , Juan Eduardo Godina-Rodríguez , Lorenzo Danilo Granados-Rivera , José Felipe Orzuna-Orzuna , Gabriela Vázquez-Silva","doi":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107602","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107602","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The objective of the current study was to evaluate the effects of dietary curcumin supplementation on growth performance, serum antioxidant status, and serum metabolites in growing lambs through a meta-analytic approach. Electronic databases such as PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus, and Web of Science were systematically searched for available information following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses methodology. The meta-analytic database was constructed using data extracted from 10 peer-reviewed scientific articles published in English between January 2015 and April 2025. Data were analyzed using random-effects models, and results were expressed using weighted mean differences. Dietary supplementation with curcumin increased (P < 0.01) dry matter intake and average daily gain and, at the same time, decreased (P < 0.001) feed conversion ratio. Dietary supplementation with curcumin increased (P < 0.05) serum levels of superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and total antioxidant capacity while decreasing (P < 0.001) serum malondialdehyde concentration. Serum immunoglobulins A, G, and M concentrations increased (P < 0.001) in response to dietary curcumin supplementation. Dietary supplementation with curcumin decreased serum glucose, cholesterol, and aspartate aminotransferase concentrations (P < 0.05). However, dietary supplementation with curcumin did not affect (P > 0.05) serum urea, albumin, globulin, and total protein concentrations. In conclusion, dietary supplementation with curcumin could be used as a nutritional strategy to improve growth performance, serum antioxidant status, and immune response without negatively affecting serum metabolites in growing lambs.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":21758,"journal":{"name":"Small Ruminant Research","volume":"252 ","pages":"Article 107602"},"PeriodicalIF":1.4,"publicationDate":"2025-08-21","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144889878","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}
The Jamunapari goat, a prominent indigenous breed of the Indian subcontinent, is highly valued for its superior milk yield, growth performance, and adaptability, playing a crucial role in sustaining rural livelihoods. This study investigated the genomic underpinnings of these economically important traits through whole-genome re-sequencing of 15 unrelated Jamunapari goats from Mathura, Uttar Pradesh. Blood-derived DNA samples were sequenced, aligned to the ARS1 goat reference genome, and analyzed, resulting in the identification of 22,175,381 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). Selection signatures were detected using intra-population approaches, including nucleotide diversity (π), Composite Likelihood Ratio (CLR), and Runs of Homozygosity (ROH), leading to the identification of 892 candidate genes. Key genes such as VPS13C, COPS3, ABI2, STIM1, GPX1, EP300, CDK4, and RHOA were associated with lactation, growth, and thermotolerance. Functional enrichment analysis using DAVID and KEGG pathways revealed the involvement of critical biological pathways, including Thyroid Hormone, Hippo, and Rap1 signaling, linked to metabolism, tissue development, and environmental resilience. Protein-protein interaction network analysis conducted via STRING and Cytoscape identified 15 hub genes, notably POLR2A, EP300, and CDK4, suggesting their central roles in regulatory networks of adaptation. These findings provide valuable insights into the evolutionary selection and breeding history of the Jamunapari goat, offering a genomic foundation for targeted breeding programs aimed at enhancing productivity and resilience under challenging agro-climatic conditions.
{"title":"Genomic insights into milk production, growth, and adaptation traits in Jamunapari goats through whole-genome re-sequencing","authors":"Ram Parsad , Sonika Ahlawat , Pooja Chhabra , Upasna Sharma , Reena Arora , Rekha Sharma , Ritika Gera , Meena Bagiyal","doi":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107600","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107600","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The Jamunapari goat, a prominent indigenous breed of the Indian subcontinent, is highly valued for its superior milk yield, growth performance, and adaptability, playing a crucial role in sustaining rural livelihoods. This study investigated the genomic underpinnings of these economically important traits through whole-genome re-sequencing of 15 unrelated Jamunapari goats from Mathura, Uttar Pradesh. Blood-derived DNA samples were sequenced, aligned to the ARS1 goat reference genome, and analyzed, resulting in the identification of 22,175,381 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). Selection signatures were detected using intra-population approaches, including nucleotide diversity (π), Composite Likelihood Ratio (CLR), and Runs of Homozygosity (ROH), leading to the identification of 892 candidate genes. Key genes such as <em>VPS13C</em>, <em>COPS3</em>, <em>ABI2</em>, <em>STIM1</em>, <em>GPX1</em>, <em>EP300</em>, <em>CDK4</em>, and <em>RHOA</em> were associated with lactation, growth, and thermotolerance. Functional enrichment analysis using DAVID and KEGG pathways revealed the involvement of critical biological pathways, including Thyroid Hormone, Hippo, and Rap1 signaling, linked to metabolism, tissue development, and environmental resilience. Protein-protein interaction network analysis conducted via STRING and Cytoscape identified 15 hub genes, notably <em>POLR2A</em>, <em>EP300</em>, and <em>CDK4</em>, suggesting their central roles in regulatory networks of adaptation. These findings provide valuable insights into the evolutionary selection and breeding history of the Jamunapari goat, offering a genomic foundation for targeted breeding programs aimed at enhancing productivity and resilience under challenging agro-climatic conditions.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":21758,"journal":{"name":"Small Ruminant Research","volume":"252 ","pages":"Article 107600"},"PeriodicalIF":1.4,"publicationDate":"2025-08-20","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144886763","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 : 2025-08-20DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107601
Ziyue Xiao , Deyin Zhang , YuKun Zhang , Dan Xu , Zongwu Ma , Kunchao Han , Lijuan He , Chengqi Yan , Qi Zhang , Lianjun Feng , Mengru Pu , Lei Gao , Peiliang Cao , Guoxing Jia , Dewen Kong , Linting Li , Jian Zhang , Hongjian Li , Jianlin Wang , Fadi Li , Huibin Tian
Feed efficiency is a critical determinant of feeding costs in sheep production, and its improvement can significantly enhance economic returns, and fat deposition is an important factor affecting feed efficiency. The Apolipoprotein D (APOD) gene influences fat formation and regulates lipid metabolism. The Fatty Acid Binding Proteins 7 (FABP7) gene is associated with fatty acid synthesis and transport. This study aimed to investigate the expression patterns and polymorphisms of the APOD and FABP7 genes in Hu sheep and their associations with feed efficiency traits, thereby identifying novel candidate molecular markers for selective breeding. A population of 1010 Hu sheep was used to determine the expression levels of APOD and FABP7 genes in 10 tissues using real-time quantitative PCR (qRT-PCR). SNP loci were identified via Sanger sequencing, followed by genotyping through an Allele-Specific Quantitative PCR based genotyping assay (AQP). The associations between these genotypes and feed efficiency traits were subsequently analyzed. The results indicated that the APOD gene had the highest expression level in tail fat, while the lowest expression level in spleen; The FABP7 gene was highly expressed in rumen, and the lowest expression level in muscle. Synonymous mutation was found in exons at APOD SNP (Chr1:192889132 T > C) and intron mutation was found at FABP7 SNP (Chr8:15690488 A>G). The association analysis indicated that both APOD SNP (Chr1:192889132 T > C) and FABP7 SNP (Chr8:15690488 A>G) were significantly associated with average daily weight gain (ADG) and feed conversion ratio (FCR) (P < 0.05) of the Hu sheep in the 120–180 d growth phase. Furthermore, in the combined genotype association analysis, these loci also showed a significant association with the FCR (P < 0.05). These findings suggest that polymorphisms in the APOD and FABP7 loci may be useful as molecular markers to enhance feed efficiency in Hu sheep.
饲料效率是绵羊生产中决定饲养成本的关键因素，提高饲料效率可显著提高经济效益，而脂肪沉积是影响饲料效率的重要因素。载脂蛋白D （APOD）基因影响脂肪形成并调节脂质代谢。脂肪酸结合蛋白7 （FABP7）基因与脂肪酸的合成和运输有关。本研究旨在研究湖羊APOD和FABP7基因的表达模式、多态性及其与饲料效率性状的关系，为选择育种寻找新的候选分子标记。采用实时荧光定量PCR （real-time quantitative PCR, qRT-PCR）技术，测定了1010只湖羊10个组织中APOD和FABP7基因的表达水平。通过Sanger测序确定SNP位点，然后通过基于等位基因特异性定量PCR的基因分型试验（AQP）进行基因分型。随后分析了这些基因型与饲料效率性状之间的关系。结果表明，APOD基因在尾脂肪中表达量最高，在脾脏中表达量最低；FABP7基因在瘤胃中表达量最高，在肌肉中表达量最低。在APOD SNP （Chr1:192889132 T >； C）和FABP7 SNP （Chr8:15690488 A>；G）外显子中发现同源突变。关联分析表明，APOD SNP （Chr1:192889132 T >； C）和FABP7 SNP （Chr8:15690488 A>；G）与120 ~ 180 d生长期湖羊的平均日增重（ADG）和饲料系数（FCR） （P <； 0.05）显著相关。此外，在联合基因型关联分析中，这些位点也显示出与FCR显著相关（P <； 0.05）。上述结果提示，APOD和FABP7基因座的多态性可作为提高湖羊饲料效率的分子标记。
{"title":"Analysis of APOD and FABP7 genes polymorphisms and their association with feed efficiency in Hu sheep","authors":"Ziyue Xiao , Deyin Zhang , YuKun Zhang , Dan Xu , Zongwu Ma , Kunchao Han , Lijuan He , Chengqi Yan , Qi Zhang , Lianjun Feng , Mengru Pu , Lei Gao , Peiliang Cao , Guoxing Jia , Dewen Kong , Linting Li , Jian Zhang , Hongjian Li , Jianlin Wang , Fadi Li , Huibin Tian","doi":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107601","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107601","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Feed efficiency is a critical determinant of feeding costs in sheep production, and its improvement can significantly enhance economic returns, and fat deposition is an important factor affecting feed efficiency. The Apolipoprotein D (<em>APOD</em>) gene influences fat formation and regulates lipid metabolism. The Fatty Acid Binding Proteins 7 (<em>FABP7</em>) gene is associated with fatty acid synthesis and transport. This study aimed to investigate the expression patterns and polymorphisms of the <em>APOD</em> and <em>FABP7</em> genes in Hu sheep and their associations with feed efficiency traits, thereby identifying novel candidate molecular markers for selective breeding. A population of 1010 Hu sheep was used to determine the expression levels of <em>APOD</em> and <em>FABP7</em> genes in 10 tissues using real-time quantitative PCR (qRT-PCR). SNP loci were identified via Sanger sequencing, followed by genotyping through an Allele-Specific Quantitative PCR based genotyping assay (AQP). The associations between these genotypes and feed efficiency traits were subsequently analyzed. The results indicated that the <em>APOD</em> gene had the highest expression level in tail fat, while the lowest expression level in spleen; The <em>FABP7</em> gene was highly expressed in rumen, and the lowest expression level in muscle. Synonymous mutation was found in exons at <em>APOD</em> SNP (Chr1:192889132 T > C) and intron mutation was found at <em>FABP7</em> SNP (Chr8:15690488 A>G). The association analysis indicated that both <em>APOD</em> SNP (Chr1:192889132 T > C) and <em>FABP7</em> SNP (Chr8:15690488 A>G) were significantly associated with average daily weight gain (ADG) and feed conversion ratio (FCR) (<em>P</em> < 0.05) of the Hu sheep in the 120–180 d growth phase. Furthermore, in the combined genotype association analysis, these loci also showed a significant association with the FCR (<em>P</em> < 0.05). These findings suggest that polymorphisms in the <em>APOD</em> and <em>FABP7</em> loci may be useful as molecular markers to enhance feed efficiency in Hu sheep.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":21758,"journal":{"name":"Small Ruminant Research","volume":"252 ","pages":"Article 107601"},"PeriodicalIF":1.4,"publicationDate":"2025-08-20","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144886764","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 : 2025-08-15DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107599
Gabriel da Silva Correia , Giancarlo Bomfim Ribeiro , Gleice Cerqueira Estrela de Sousa , Ially de Almeida Moura , Jackson Victor Araújo , Fábio Ribeiro Braga , Lorendane Millena de Carvalho , Wendell Marcelo de Souza Perinotto
This work aimed to evaluate the efficacy of Duddingtonia flagrans against anthelmintic resistant gastrointestinal nematodes strains in goats. For this, 128 mixed meat breed animals from four different farms within the municipalities of Cruz das Almas, Cachoeira, Iaçu and Santa Bárbara, Bahia, Brazil, were used. Four groups were formed (G1 — ivermectin, G2 — levamisole, G3 — albendazole and G4 - control) to assess the susceptibility to anthelmintics, using the fecal egg count reduction test. Furthermore, coproculture was performed to identify the genera of nematodes. Quantitative coproculture was performed, in two groups: treated (D. flagrans’ chlamydospores added) and control (without chlamydospores). All populations showed low sensitivity to the treatment with the anthelmintics. The genera Haemonchus showed a higher prevalence, followed by Trichostrongylus and Oesophagostomum. D. flagrans treatment resulted in high reduction values for helminth larvae: 95.5 %, 96.1 %, 93.2 %, 92.8 % for the populations from Cruz das Almas, Cachoeira, Iaçu and Santa Bárbara, respectively. Resistant nematode strains tested were sensitive to D. flagrans fungi when administered to in vitro fecal cultivations, suggesting that this feed additive may be of importance fighting against anthelmintic resistant nematode strains.
{"title":"Duddingtonia flagrans against anthelmintic resistant gastrointestinal nematodes in goats","authors":"Gabriel da Silva Correia , Giancarlo Bomfim Ribeiro , Gleice Cerqueira Estrela de Sousa , Ially de Almeida Moura , Jackson Victor Araújo , Fábio Ribeiro Braga , Lorendane Millena de Carvalho , Wendell Marcelo de Souza Perinotto","doi":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107599","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107599","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This work aimed to evaluate the efficacy of <em>Duddingtonia flagrans</em> against anthelmintic resistant gastrointestinal nematodes strains in goats. For this, 128 mixed meat breed animals from four different farms within the municipalities of Cruz das Almas, Cachoeira, Iaçu and Santa Bárbara, Bahia, Brazil, were used. Four groups were formed (G1 — ivermectin, G2 — levamisole, G3 — albendazole and G4 - control) to assess the susceptibility to anthelmintics, using the fecal egg count reduction test. Furthermore, coproculture was performed to identify the genera of nematodes. Quantitative coproculture was performed, in two groups: treated (<em>D. flagrans’</em> chlamydospores added) and control (without chlamydospores). All populations showed low sensitivity to the treatment with the anthelmintics. The genera <em>Haemonchus</em> showed a higher prevalence, followed by <em>Trichostrongylus</em> and <em>Oesophagostomum</em>. <em>D. flagrans</em> treatment resulted in high reduction values for helminth larvae: 95.5 %, 96.1 %, 93.2 %, 92.8 % for the populations from Cruz das Almas, Cachoeira, Iaçu and Santa Bárbara, respectively. Resistant nematode strains tested were sensitive to <em>D. flagrans</em> fungi when administered to in vitro fecal cultivations, suggesting that this feed additive may be of importance fighting against anthelmintic resistant nematode strains.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":21758,"journal":{"name":"Small Ruminant Research","volume":"252 ","pages":"Article 107599"},"PeriodicalIF":1.4,"publicationDate":"2025-08-15","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144864344","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 : 2025-08-14DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107590
Giuseppe Martone , Antonio Bosco , Fabrizio Maturo , Mirella Santaniello , Lavinia Ciuca , Giuseppe Cringoli , Laura Rinaldi , Alice Mannocci
Gastrointestinal nematodes (GINs) are ubiquitous in grazing ruminant production systems and are responsible for significant production losses, especially on sheep farms. Control programmes of these parasites in ruminants are based on using anthelmintic drugs. The emergence of anthelmintic resistance, together with global warming, is responsible for the changing epidemiology of these helminths in many geographical areas. Long-time helminth surveillance of GIN infections is paramount to defining control strategies. This study aimed to investigate GIN infections in sheep farms by integrating parasitological data with data collected by questionnaire. The analysis focused on the variability of GIN burden (eggs per gram of faeces - EPG), in order to evaluate the role of surveillance in supporting sustainable helminth control strategies. A structured questionnaire was developed and validated to collect detailed information on farms. The study also explored farmers’ perceptions of helminth infections and their perceived impact on milk and meat production. Parasitological data were obtained from a ten-year helminth surveillance (2013–2023) of the Regional Center for Monitoring Parasitic Infections (CREMOPAR, Campania region, Italy) on 138 sheep farms sampled in southern Italy. A retrospective observational study according to the STROBE statement was performed. The variables and covariates were analysed using a machine learning model for advanced data analysis, in particular, classification tree and random forest. The results of this retrospective study spanning ten years indicated that as the averages and medians of the number of Faecal Egg Count Analysis (FEC Analysis) increased, a decline in the average helminth burden was observed for each FEC Analysis. The validated questionnaire showed good internal consistency and was effective in capturing data on farm management and farmer perceptions. Machine learning models identified treatment frequency, administration method, and farmer awareness of anthelmintic resistance as key predictors of improved production outcomes. Differences in productivity were also observed between dairy and meat systems, with breed and pasture size playing significant roles. Notably, younger farmers demonstrated more effective management strategies. Environmental factors, such as proximity to water sources, influenced meat production levels. The study highlights the importance of regular parasitological monitoring and evidence-based management in improving helminth control and farm productivity. The findings support the integration of diagnostic tools, farmer education, and predictive models to optimize treatment strategies and promote sustainable parasite control in sheep farming systems. Therefore, monitoring is the basis for setting up a correct control strategy for GINs.
{"title":"Surveillance and farmer perception of gastrointestinal nematode infections in sheep farms: A 10-year retrospective study","authors":"Giuseppe Martone , Antonio Bosco , Fabrizio Maturo , Mirella Santaniello , Lavinia Ciuca , Giuseppe Cringoli , Laura Rinaldi , Alice Mannocci","doi":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107590","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107590","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Gastrointestinal nematodes (GINs) are ubiquitous in grazing ruminant production systems and are responsible for significant production losses, especially on sheep farms. Control programmes of these parasites in ruminants are based on using anthelmintic drugs. The emergence of anthelmintic resistance, together with global warming, is responsible for the changing epidemiology of these helminths in many geographical areas. Long-time helminth surveillance of GIN infections is paramount to defining control strategies. This study aimed to investigate GIN infections in sheep farms by integrating parasitological data with data collected by questionnaire. The analysis focused on the variability of GIN burden (eggs per gram of faeces - EPG), in order to evaluate the role of surveillance in supporting sustainable helminth control strategies. A structured questionnaire was developed and validated to collect detailed information on farms. The study also explored farmers’ perceptions of helminth infections and their perceived impact on milk and meat production. Parasitological data were obtained from a ten-year helminth surveillance (2013–2023) of the Regional Center for Monitoring Parasitic Infections (CREMOPAR, Campania region, Italy) on 138 sheep farms sampled in southern Italy. A retrospective observational study according to the STROBE statement was performed. The variables and covariates were analysed using a machine learning model for advanced data analysis, in particular, classification tree and random forest. The results of this retrospective study spanning ten years indicated that as the averages and medians of the number of Faecal Egg Count Analysis (FEC Analysis) increased, a decline in the average helminth burden was observed for each FEC Analysis. The validated questionnaire showed good internal consistency and was effective in capturing data on farm management and farmer perceptions. Machine learning models identified treatment frequency, administration method, and farmer awareness of anthelmintic resistance as key predictors of improved production outcomes. Differences in productivity were also observed between dairy and meat systems, with breed and pasture size playing significant roles. Notably, younger farmers demonstrated more effective management strategies. Environmental factors, such as proximity to water sources, influenced meat production levels. The study highlights the importance of regular parasitological monitoring and evidence-based management in improving helminth control and farm productivity. The findings support the integration of diagnostic tools, farmer education, and predictive models to optimize treatment strategies and promote sustainable parasite control in sheep farming systems. Therefore, monitoring is the basis for setting up a correct control strategy for GINs.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":21758,"journal":{"name":"Small Ruminant Research","volume":"252 ","pages":"Article 107590"},"PeriodicalIF":1.4,"publicationDate":"2025-08-14","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144864343","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 : 2025-08-09DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107589
Qiutong Mao, Jie Xu, Menghuan Bao, Yimeng Wang, Huining Wang, Miaomiao Li, Xiaomei Sun, Yongjun Li
Lamb is highly regarded worldwide for its unique flavor, rich nutritional value, and diverse cooking adaptability. This study aimed to characterize the dynamic changes in volatile metabolites during post-mortem maturation of Hu sheep meat. Volatile metabolites in the longissimus thoracis muscles of eight 8-month-old male Hu sheep were profiled at 6, 12, 24, 48, 72, and 96 h post-slaughter using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The results revealed that 198 volatile metabolites were identified in muscle samples of Hu sheep meat at different time points during post-mortem maturation. A total of 36 key volatile metabolites were screened based on the criteria of Variable Importance in the Projection (VIP) > 1, P < 0.05, and Fold Change (FC) > 2 or < 0.5. Orthogonal Partial Least Squares Discriminant Analysis (OPLS-DA) revealed significant alterations in volatile metabolites at 48 h post-slaughter during the post-mortem maturation of Hu sheep meat. Furthermore, key metabolic pathways were identified from The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) database, including arginine and proline metabolism, steroid biosynthesis, and nitrogen metabolism, which were found to play critical roles in shaping the flavor profile of lamb during post-slaughter maturation. These findings offer novel insights into the meat quality changes of Hu sheep meat throughout post-mortem maturation.
{"title":"Using GC-MS to investigate the effects of post-mortem aging on volatile metabolites in Hu sheep meat","authors":"Qiutong Mao, Jie Xu, Menghuan Bao, Yimeng Wang, Huining Wang, Miaomiao Li, Xiaomei Sun, Yongjun Li","doi":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107589","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107589","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Lamb is highly regarded worldwide for its unique flavor, rich nutritional value, and diverse cooking adaptability. This study aimed to characterize the dynamic changes in volatile metabolites during post-mortem maturation of Hu sheep meat. Volatile metabolites in the longissimus thoracis muscles of eight 8-month-old male Hu sheep were profiled at 6, 12, 24, 48, 72, and 96 h post-slaughter using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The results revealed that 198 volatile metabolites were identified in muscle samples of Hu sheep meat at different time points during post-mortem maturation. A total of 36 key volatile metabolites were screened based on the criteria of Variable Importance in the Projection (VIP) > 1, P < 0.05, and Fold Change (FC) > 2 or < 0.5. Orthogonal Partial Least Squares Discriminant Analysis (OPLS-DA) revealed significant alterations in volatile metabolites at 48 h post-slaughter during the post-mortem maturation of Hu sheep meat. Furthermore, key metabolic pathways were identified from The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) database, including arginine and proline metabolism, steroid biosynthesis, and nitrogen metabolism, which were found to play critical roles in shaping the flavor profile of lamb during post-slaughter maturation. These findings offer novel insights into the meat quality changes of Hu sheep meat throughout post-mortem maturation.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":21758,"journal":{"name":"Small Ruminant Research","volume":"252 ","pages":"Article 107589"},"PeriodicalIF":1.4,"publicationDate":"2025-08-09","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144826944","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 : 2025-08-09DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107587
Amir Mokhtarpour
The synergistic effects of biochar and tannin on intake, nutrient digestibility, rumen fermentation parameters, and nitrogen balance were investigated in sheep. Twenty eight adult Baluchi male sheep were randomly allocated to four dietary treatments in a completely randomized design with a 2 × 2 factorial experiment with two levels of biochar (0 and 2 %) and two levels of tannin (0 and 2 %) produced from pistachio by-products over a 28-day period. Additives were added to fresh alfalfa and ensiled for 60 days. The treatments did not significantly influence dry matter intake (DMI) or crude protein (CP) intake (P > 0.05). Significant improvements were observed in CP and NDF digestibility with biochar supplementation, while tannin showed a potential trend (P = 0.06) in decreasing NDF digestibility. Ammonia nitrogen (NH₃-N) concentration increased (P < 0.05) in biochar fed sheep, while tannins reduced (P < 0.05) ammonia-N levels and shifted nitrogen excretion patterns. There was a tendency for higher ruminal total volatile fatty acid (VFA) concentrations with biochar supplementation (P = 0.06), whereas tannin treatment numerically decreased total VFA (P = 0.09). Sheep receiving biochar-supplemented diets exhibited a tendency for elevated acetate levels (P = 0.08) and a significant increase in butyrate proportions (P < 0.05). Notably, significant interactions were found for propionate concentration and acetate to propionate ratio, indicating potential synergy. Biochar enhanced total cellulase activity predominantly in the particulate phase (p < 0.05), while tannin generally reduced cellulase activity across multiple phases (p < 0.05). It can be concluded that biochar and tannins exert independent effects on nutrient digestibility, rumen fermentation, and nitrogen metabolism, with biochar primarily enhancing fiber digestibility and microbial activity, while tannins reduce ammonia nitrogen concentrations and proteolysis.
{"title":"Biochar and tannin interactions in sheep nutrition: Digestion, ruminal fermentation and nitrogen utilization in alfalfa silage-based diets","authors":"Amir Mokhtarpour","doi":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107587","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107587","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The synergistic effects of biochar and tannin on intake, nutrient digestibility, rumen fermentation parameters, and nitrogen balance were investigated in sheep. Twenty eight adult Baluchi male sheep were randomly allocated to four dietary treatments in a completely randomized design with a 2 × 2 factorial experiment with two levels of biochar (0 and 2 %) and two levels of tannin (0 and 2 %) produced from pistachio by-products over a 28-day period. Additives were added to fresh alfalfa and ensiled for 60 days. The treatments did not significantly influence dry matter intake (DMI) or crude protein (CP) intake (P > 0.05). Significant improvements were observed in CP and NDF digestibility with biochar supplementation, while tannin showed a potential trend (P = 0.06) in decreasing NDF digestibility. Ammonia nitrogen (NH₃-N) concentration increased (P < 0.05) in biochar fed sheep, while tannins reduced (P < 0.05) ammonia-N levels and shifted nitrogen excretion patterns. There was a tendency for higher ruminal total volatile fatty acid (VFA) concentrations with biochar supplementation (P = 0.06), whereas tannin treatment numerically decreased total VFA (P = 0.09). Sheep receiving biochar-supplemented diets exhibited a tendency for elevated acetate levels (P = 0.08) and a significant increase in butyrate proportions (P < 0.05). Notably, significant interactions were found for propionate concentration and acetate to propionate ratio, indicating potential synergy. Biochar enhanced total cellulase activity predominantly in the particulate phase (p < 0.05), while tannin generally reduced cellulase activity across multiple phases (p < 0.05). It can be concluded that biochar and tannins exert independent effects on nutrient digestibility, rumen fermentation, and nitrogen metabolism, with biochar primarily enhancing fiber digestibility and microbial activity, while tannins reduce ammonia nitrogen concentrations and proteolysis.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":21758,"journal":{"name":"Small Ruminant Research","volume":"252 ","pages":"Article 107587"},"PeriodicalIF":1.4,"publicationDate":"2025-08-09","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144827809","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 : 2025-08-08DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107586
Hossam R. El-Sherbiny , Fady Sayed Youssef , Mohammed Hamed Eldawy , Ismail Abdelraouf Elnady , Emad Mohammed Elken , Mohammed Hamdy Farouk , Ahmed Ezzat Ahmed , Maha Abdullah Momenah , Ramya Ahmad Sindi , Seham Samir Soliman , Haney Samir
<div><div>Gestation faces oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation challenges that could negatively affect uteroplacental blood flow and fetal development. <em>Astragalus membranaceus</em> root extract (AMRE) primarily comprises flavonoids and phenolics that possess potent antioxidant efficacy. Preliminary investigations using the phytochemical screening tests showed that AMRE contained alkaloids, flavonoids, glycosides, Tannins, and saponins in the absence of resin. This study examined the consequences of AMRE dietary supplementation on uteroplacental blood flow and fetoplacental development in mid to late pregnancy in ewes. Twenty multiparous synchronized 80–83-day gestating Ossimi ewes (weighed 52.4 ± 3.2 kg and aged 3.55 ± 0.62 years of age) were enrolled in this study. They were randomly allocated into two equal cohorts to receive the basal diet plus either AMRE (n = 10; 1 % / dry matter; AMRE) or nothing (n = 10; CON) daily for eight consecutive weeks. Ewes were examined for umbilical (UmA) and uterine (UtA) arteries’ blood flow [resistance index (RI), pulsation index (PI), and systolic-diastolic ratio (S/D) using color-spectral Doppler ultrasonography. In addition, placentome diameter (PD), uteroplacental thickness (UPT), fetal biparietal (BPD), and chest diameter (CD) were measured by B-mode ultrasonography. Examination timings were measured just before AMRE supplementation (W0) and each week until the end of supplementation (W2, W4, W6, and W8). Pregnant ewes were monitored until the due time (lambing), and the body weight of lambs (kg) at birth and on days 15, 30, and 45 after lambing were recorded. Additionally, we tested the effect of AMRE supplementation on some biochemical parameters [albumin, globulin, total protein, immunoglobulin A (IGA), glutathione peroxidase (Gpx), and total antioxidant capacity] in the serum of ewes and lambs. Fetoplacental morphometry revealed higher (P < 0.05) means in PD (W2-W8), UPT (W2), and CD (W8) in AMRE versus CON ewes. Recorded blood flow parameters (RI, PI, S/D) of UmA were lower (P < 0.05) in AMRE than CON ewes on W4-W8 post-supplementation. From W2 to W8 post-AMRE supplementation, UtA’s hemodynamic indices (RI, PI, S/D) were lower in AMRE ewes than their counterparts in CON ewes (P < 0.05). Most biochemical parameters showed significant (P ˂ 0.05) increases in the AMRE group compared to those in the control one. One-week-old lambs had high (P ˂ 0.05) levels of globulin (g/dl), total protein (g/dl), IGA (ng/ml), Gpx (U/ml), and total antioxidant capacity (mM/L) in the AMRE-supplemented ewes compared to those in the CON group. Except at birth, AMRE-supplemented ewes gave lambs with heavier body weights on days 15, 30, and 45 after parturition compared to those in the CON group. In conclusion, AMRE supplementation at a concentration of 1 %/dry matter enhanced uteroplacental blood flow and fetoplacental development in mid to late-gestating ewes. Additionally, it enhanced the growth rate of ne
{"title":"Dietary supplementation of ewes with Astragalus membranaceus root extract enhanced the feto-maternal hemodynamics, fetoplacental development, and lambs’ growth rate","authors":"Hossam R. El-Sherbiny , Fady Sayed Youssef , Mohammed Hamed Eldawy , Ismail Abdelraouf Elnady , Emad Mohammed Elken , Mohammed Hamdy Farouk , Ahmed Ezzat Ahmed , Maha Abdullah Momenah , Ramya Ahmad Sindi , Seham Samir Soliman , Haney Samir","doi":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107586","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107586","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Gestation faces oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation challenges that could negatively affect uteroplacental blood flow and fetal development. <em>Astragalus membranaceus</em> root extract (AMRE) primarily comprises flavonoids and phenolics that possess potent antioxidant efficacy. Preliminary investigations using the phytochemical screening tests showed that AMRE contained alkaloids, flavonoids, glycosides, Tannins, and saponins in the absence of resin. This study examined the consequences of AMRE dietary supplementation on uteroplacental blood flow and fetoplacental development in mid to late pregnancy in ewes. Twenty multiparous synchronized 80–83-day gestating Ossimi ewes (weighed 52.4 ± 3.2 kg and aged 3.55 ± 0.62 years of age) were enrolled in this study. They were randomly allocated into two equal cohorts to receive the basal diet plus either AMRE (n = 10; 1 % / dry matter; AMRE) or nothing (n = 10; CON) daily for eight consecutive weeks. Ewes were examined for umbilical (UmA) and uterine (UtA) arteries’ blood flow [resistance index (RI), pulsation index (PI), and systolic-diastolic ratio (S/D) using color-spectral Doppler ultrasonography. In addition, placentome diameter (PD), uteroplacental thickness (UPT), fetal biparietal (BPD), and chest diameter (CD) were measured by B-mode ultrasonography. Examination timings were measured just before AMRE supplementation (W0) and each week until the end of supplementation (W2, W4, W6, and W8). Pregnant ewes were monitored until the due time (lambing), and the body weight of lambs (kg) at birth and on days 15, 30, and 45 after lambing were recorded. Additionally, we tested the effect of AMRE supplementation on some biochemical parameters [albumin, globulin, total protein, immunoglobulin A (IGA), glutathione peroxidase (Gpx), and total antioxidant capacity] in the serum of ewes and lambs. Fetoplacental morphometry revealed higher (P < 0.05) means in PD (W2-W8), UPT (W2), and CD (W8) in AMRE versus CON ewes. Recorded blood flow parameters (RI, PI, S/D) of UmA were lower (P < 0.05) in AMRE than CON ewes on W4-W8 post-supplementation. From W2 to W8 post-AMRE supplementation, UtA’s hemodynamic indices (RI, PI, S/D) were lower in AMRE ewes than their counterparts in CON ewes (P < 0.05). Most biochemical parameters showed significant (P ˂ 0.05) increases in the AMRE group compared to those in the control one. One-week-old lambs had high (P ˂ 0.05) levels of globulin (g/dl), total protein (g/dl), IGA (ng/ml), Gpx (U/ml), and total antioxidant capacity (mM/L) in the AMRE-supplemented ewes compared to those in the CON group. Except at birth, AMRE-supplemented ewes gave lambs with heavier body weights on days 15, 30, and 45 after parturition compared to those in the CON group. In conclusion, AMRE supplementation at a concentration of 1 %/dry matter enhanced uteroplacental blood flow and fetoplacental development in mid to late-gestating ewes. Additionally, it enhanced the growth rate of ne","PeriodicalId":21758,"journal":{"name":"Small Ruminant Research","volume":"252 ","pages":"Article 107586"},"PeriodicalIF":1.4,"publicationDate":"2025-08-08","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144827811","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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