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Breeding companies and farmers rely on selection indices to identify sires they expect to improve production system profitability. Such indices combine estimates of genetic merit for individual traits with corresponding economic values that are fixed based on circumstances at a particular time. Perfect market competition has also been proposed as an economic basis to value alternative sires. The objective of this study was to propose an economic model and develop it for the evaluation of dairy sires. The pure competition model (PUC) was used to evaluate the relationship between a profitability index based on the PUC approach versus the traditional selection index approach for 330 dairy sires comprising Holstein-Friesians, Jerseys, and Ayrshires. The correlation between these 2 selection indices was only 0.56, indicating that the conventional selection index did not correlate well with an index based on the PUC model. In particular, the higher ranking bulls were overvalued using the conventional selection index. Our study concluded that the use of fixed economic values is problematic for the delivery of consistent rankings in selection indices. In contrast, sire rankings based on PUC are more reliable because the sires are evaluated on the basis of efficiency gains rather than production while accounting for market prices and marginal values of dairy outputs over time., (Copyright © 2020 American Dairy Science Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

This study seeks a comprehensive exploration of genome-wide selective processes impacting morphometric traits across diverse cattle breeds, utilizing an array of statistical methods. Morphometric traits, encompassing both qualitative and quantitative variables, play a pivotal role in characterizing and selecting livestock breeds based on their external appearance, size, and physical attributes. While qualitative traits, such as color, horn structure, and coat type, contribute to adaptive features and breed identification, quantitative traits like body weight and conformation measurements bear a closer correlation with production characteristics. This study employs advanced genotyping technologies, including the Illumina BovineSNP50 Bead Chip and next-generation sequencing methods like Reduced Representation sequencing, to identify genomic signatures associated with these traits. We applied four intra-population methods to find evidence of selection, such as Tajima's D, CLR, iHS, and ROH. We found a total of 40 genes under the selection signature, that were associated with morphometric traits in five cattle breeds (Kankrej, Tharparkar, Nelore, Sahiwal, and Gir). Crucial genes such as ADIPDQ, DPP6, INSIG1, SLC35D2 in Kankrej, LPL, ATP6V1B2, CDC14B in Tharparkar, HPSE2, PLAG1 in Nelore, PCSK1, PRKD1 in Sahiwal, and GNAQ, HPCAL1 in Gir were identified in our study. This approach provides valuable insights into the genetic basis of variations in body weight and conformation traits, facilitating informed selection processes and offering a deeper understanding of the evolutionary and domestication processes in diverse cattle breeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Assisted reproductive technology including in vitro maturation (IVM) of oocytes, in vitro fertilization (IVF), and in vitro culture (IVC) of embryos is widely used both for humans and animals. In animal science and veterinary medicine, it is particularly important for livestock breeding. Although numerous efforts have been made, the development rates obtained with these techniques are still limited, especially in cattle. Vitamin C is a key nutrient that has multiple functions. To procure high-quality bovine oocytes, the effects of vitamin C on the IVM of bovine oocytes and embryo development at an early stage were investigated. We found that vitamin C supplementation at a tuned concentration improved bovine oocyte maturation and its combination in the media of IVM and IVC can potentially change the quality of bovine embryos. To obtain high-quality bovine oocytes, the effects of vitamin C (VC) on the IVM of bovine oocytes and early embryo development were investigated. The results showed the following. (1) The IVM medium containing 50 µg/mL VC improved the oocyte maturation rate but did not affect the parthenogenetic embryo development. (2) The IVC medium containing 20 µg/mL VC improved the cleavage rate of the IVF embryos and enhanced the mRNA transcriptions of pluripotency gene Oct4, Sox2, Cdx2, and Nanog in the blastocysts but had no effects on the blastocyst rate. (3) Combining supplementation of 50 µg/mL VC in IVM medium + 20 µg/mL VC in IVC medium (named as VC 50/20, similar hereinafter) elevated the cleavage rate of IVF embryos and enhanced the mRNA expressions of Oct4, Sox2, Cdx2, and Nanog in the blastocysts. (4) Combination of VC 0/20 and VC 50/20 enhanced the transcription of anti-apoptotic gene Bcl-2 and VC 50/0 weakened the transcription of pro-apoptotic gene Bax, while VC 0/40 and VC 0/60 increased Bax expression and diminished the Bcl-2/Bax ratio in blastocysts. Together, employing 50 µg/mL VC improves the IVM of bovine oocytes and combination of VC 50/20 potentially changes bovine embryo quality by enhancing the expressions of the pluripotency genes and regulating the expressions of apoptosis-related genes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

At present, the global concern about food safety and environmental pollution is increasing day by day. Reducing the use of toxic and harmful additives such as antibiotics, hormones, and chemicals in livestock and poultry feed, developing green, safe, efficient, and low-residue additives, ensuring consumers' health, and improving the ecological environment are the focus of animal husbandry at present. Flavonoids are secondary metabolites of plants, which widely exist in bark, root, stem, leaf, fruit, and seeds of plants. They have many biological activities such as anti-inflammation, anti-oxidation, reducing oxidative stress, protecting intestinal mucosa, improving intestinal flora structure, promoting growth, and regulating immunity, etc. They can improve animal production performance and product quality, and have potential development value to enhance the economic benefits of farms. In this paper, the role of flavonoids and their application in livestock and poultry breeding were reviewed, and the application research progress of flavonoids in calves and adult cattle was emphasized, to provide a reference for its rational application in cattle production at different growth stages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are derived from regions that are transcribed but do not code for proteins. Instead, they form covalent closed-loop structures and play a crucial role in many biological processes. This literature review focuses on the function of circRNAs in cattle, goats, and sheep, with a particular emphasis on their impact on economically significant traits such as milk production, meat quality, muscle development, wool production, etc. Additionally, the review explores the potential of circRNAs as biomarkers for the assessment of animal health and welfare. An enhanced understanding of circRNAs' roles can significantly improve the management of farm animals and the quality of products derived from them. This is increasingly relevant in a context where consumer concerns about animal welfare and sustainable farming practices are growing. The insights provided here pave the way for future studies, highlighting the importance of circRNAs in advancing livestock practices. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are unique noncoding RNA molecules, notable for their covalent closed-loop structures, which play a crucial role in regulating gene expression across a variety of biological processes. This review comprehensively synthesizes the existing knowledge of circRNAs in three key livestock species: Bos taurus (cattle), Ovis aries (sheep), and Capra hircus (goats). It focuses on their functional importance and emerging potential as biomarkers for disease detection, stress response, and overall physiological health. Specifically, it delves into the expression and functionality of circRNAs in these species, paying special attention to traits critical to livestock productivity such as milk production, meat quality, muscle development, wool production, immune responses, etc. We also address the current challenges faced in circRNA research, including the need for standardized methodologies and broader studies. By providing insights into the molecular mechanisms regulated by circRNAs, this review underscores their scientific and economic relevance in the livestock industry. The potential of circRNAs to improve animal health management and the quality of animal-derived products aligns with growing consumer concerns for animal welfare and sustainability. Thus, this paper aims to guide future research directions while supporting the development of innovative strategies in livestock management and breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bali cattle have a distinct coloration that indicates the sexual dimorphism of adult cattle. However, coat color deviations are found in bulls due to either genetic impurity or inbreeding. Furthermore, information is needed to determine whether there is a relationship between coat color and cattle performance. This study aimed to evaluate the potential association between coat color deviation and the growth traits of male Bali cattle. A total of 99 adult male Bali cattle from Livestock Breeding and Forage Centre (BPTU) Denpasar, Bali, were used in this study to assess the possible association between coat color and growth capacity. Animals were grouped according to color patterns into full black (FBL), faded black (FDB), black sorel (BSR), and sorel (SRL). Periodically, growth traits of body weight (BW), wither height (WH), body length (BL), and chest circumference (CC) were measured at birth, weaning, and 365 and 730 days of age. The repeated measurement Anova analysis was used to evaluate the relation between coat color and growth traits over time. This study showed no correlation for both traits in calves due to the absence of color deviation in age. However, it turned out to be a significantly positive correlation (p<0.05) when Bali cattle reached puberty at 365 and 730 days. The black adult bulls (FBL & FDB) were significantly larger in growth traits (p<0.05) than their brown (BSR and SRL) counterparts. The coat color of male adult Bali cattle was associated with their growth traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since cattle are biologically capable of giving birth to only one calf per year, they are considered a single-fruited animal species. One of the cardinal methods of solving the problem of accelerated reproduction of livestock is biotechnological regulation of reproductive function in cows and synchronisation of their sexual activity. The aim of the study is to investigate the peculiarities of the reproductive function of Red Steppe cows under the influence of various methods of its regulation using modern hormonal agents. To evaluate the reproductive function of cows, generally accepted zootechnical methods were used, methods of variation statistics were used to calculate data, and biotechnological methods were used to regulate sexual activity in cows. Based on the analysis of the state of reproduction of the cattle herd, it was established that 164-187 cows and 85-96 heifers are artificially inseminated annually, which ensures the yield of calves per 100 cows of 89-91 heads and the annual introduction of 36 to 40 first-born calves per 100 cows. The shortened service period contributes to both a higher calf yield and an increase in milk yield, which is a desirable production effect. However, calving to conception interval, necessary to prepare the cow's body for a new insemination, can be reduced to at least 30 days. Insemination of heifers with artificial insemination devices should be started when they reach a live weight of 314 ± 6.5 kg, which will allow to obtain fertility from the first insemination at the level of 73.7-77.8% and thereby prevent obesity of heifers, which mainly reduces the percentage of fertility from the first insemination. It is necessary to establish obstetric and gynaecological examinations and treatment of problematic replacement heifers and cows, and it is advisable to use prostaglandin F2α analogues in combination with vitamins or biologically active drugs to stimulate the sexual function of cows and heifers. The use of prophylactic drugs will help to synchronise the heifers' sexual desire and increase their fertility during insemination. And the organisation of cattle reproduction and the proposed biotechnological ways to improve artificial insemination of the red steppe breed breeding stock will significantly improve their reproductive status, which will increase the overall economic efficiency of the industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: An important element of livestock breeding is the selection that leads to the consolidation and improvement of the traits with utility value. The use of single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers offers the opportunity to select the appropriate genotype linked to the phenotype, which manifests itself in significant breeding benefits. Polymorphic sites within the genes coding the somatotropic axis are directly and indirectly associated with the phenotype, particularly concerning the production properties of growth and carcass as well as reproductive function. This study analyzed the effect of selected polymorphisms in the Janus Kinase 2 (JAK2) gene on performance characteristics of cattle and sheep. The impact of the mutations on the development of selected traits, which are important from the economic standpoint, was evaluated. Such studies can be utilized to enhance the growth characteristics of cattle and sheep, thereby facilitating the development of more profitable and sustainable breeding methods. The Janus Kinase 2 (JAK2) tyrosine kinase is an essential component of signal transduction of the class II cytokine receptors, including the growth hormone receptor. Therefore, it may play a crucial role in the signaling pathway of the somatotropic axis, which influences growth, development, and reproductive traits in ruminants. For this purpose, for three breeds of cattle (Hereford, Angus, and Limousin; a total of 781 individuals), two polymorphic sites located in exon 16 (rs210148032; p.Ile704Val, within pseudokinase (JH2)) and exon 23 (silent mutation rs211067160, within JH1 kinase domain) were analyzed. For two breeds of sheep (Pomeranian and Suffolk; 333 individuals in total), two polymorphic sites in exon 6 (rs160146162 and rs160146160; encoding the FERM domain) and one polymorphic site in exon 24 of the JAK2 gene (rs160146116; JH1 kinase domain) were genotyped. In our study, the associations examined for cattle were inconclusive. However, Hereford and Limousin cattle with genotypes AA (e16/RsaI) and AA (e23/HaeIII) tended to have the highest body weight and better daily gains (p ≤ 0.05). No clear tendency was observed in the selected reproductive traits. In the case of sheep, regardless of breed, individuals with the AA (e6/EarI), GG (e6/seq), and AA (e24/Hpy188III) genotypes had the highest body weights and daily gains in the study periods (p ≤ 0.01). The same individuals in the Pomeranian breed also had better fertility and lamb survival (p ≤ 0.01). To the best of our knowledge, these are the first association studies for all these polymorphic sites. Single-nucleotide polymorphisms in the JAK2 gene can serve as genetic markers for growth and selected reproductive traits in ruminants given that they are further investigated in subsequent populations and analyzed using haplotype and/or combined genotype systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article examines the economics of innovation in livestock rearing during the first globalisation in Uruguay, the country with the most cattle per person in the world, both then and now. Using a new historical dataset of Uruguayan agriculture, the first one at a sub‐provincial level, I exploit regional differences in the adoption of cattle crossbreeding – the genetic improvement of local herds through hybridisation with foreign breeds. Contrary to traditional historiographical claims, I find that this innovation was not primarily explained by the location of enlightened elites (European or local) or by the scale of productive units (i.e. latifundia); rather, rural producers invested in crossbreeding wherever their local landscapes and previous productive choices encouraged it. While it affected biological processes that spanned several agricultural calendars, and thereby developed more slowly than innovations in crop farming, technical change in Uruguayan ranching was also environmentally sensitive, largely scale‐neutral, congruent with previous agricultural patterns, and hinged on a widespread response from producers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A methodological approach to substantiating the control levels of 137Cs in cattle feeds is presented based on the probabilistic nature of the parameters of transfer of 137Cs to cattle feeds and cattle milk and meat. A comparative analysis of global and Russian data on the parameters of 137Cs transfer from feed to livestock products has been made. It is shown that milk with 137Cs remains safe when the concentration of this radionuclide in the feed is at the existing control levels; however, this does not guarantee compliance with the hygienic standards for the content of 137Cs in meat. Based on the methodological approach, control levels are proposed for monitoring 137Cs in the feeds of dairy and beef cattle in areas contaminated after the Chernobyl accident. The use of the proposed control levels makes it possible to optimize livestock breeding technologies in the Russian areas contaminated after the Chernobyl accident. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a global trend toward intensive livestock breeding, which tends to increase the microbial load in the environment as well as the presence of volatile compounds and dust that can cause health issues. Cattle is the major producer of Escherichiacoli (E. coli), a group of foodborne bacteria associated with severe human diseases, and Neuquén province in Argentina has one of the highest rates of uremic hemolytic syndrome incidence in the world. This paper presents the results of two sampling events of E. coli bacteria at 39 sites in La Paisana ranch (LPR), in Añelo (Neuquén), considering locations inside the pens, upwind, and downwind of the feedlot with different time steps, using a Microflow α equipment. The ranch has approximately 600 heads and clean and controlled installations. The field experiment included sampling airborne aerosol deposition and concentration using passive and active methods. Concentrations were also estimated using an atmospheric dispersion model. During the field experiment, counts of up to 2970 CFU/m3 were obtained in the cattle stockyards and up to 111 CFU/m3 at a distance of 100 m. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• "Inter-calving intervals reflect cattle reproductive capacity, influencing the sustainability of livestock production through impacts on lactation dynamics." • "Identification of numerous Quantitative Trait Loci (QTLs) associated with reproductive phenotypes in dairy cattle offers valuable insights for enhancing breeding strategies and genetic selection." • "Studying QTLs linked to reproductive traits not only informs livestock breeding practices but also contributes to advancements in biotechnology and broader fields like human health and conservation." From an economic standpoint, reproductive characteristics are fundamental for sustainable production, particularly for monotocous livestock like cattle. A longer inter-calving interval is indicative of low reproductive capacity. This issue changes the dynamics of current and future lactations since it necessitates more inseminations, veterinary care, and hormone interventions. Various reproductive phenotypes, including ovulation, mating, fertility, pregnancy, embryonic growth, and calving-related traits, are observed in dairy cattle, and these traits have been associated with several QTLs. Calving ease, age at puberty, scrotal circumference, and inseminations per conception have been associated with 4437, 10623, 10498, and 2476 Quantitative Trait Loci (QTLs), respectively. This data offers valuable insights into enhancing and comprehending reproductive traits in livestock breeding. Studying QTLs associated with reproductive traits has far-reaching implications across various fields, from agriculture and animal husbandry to human health, evolutionary biology, and conservation. It provides the foundation for informed breeding practices, advances in biotechnology, and a deeper understanding of the genetic underpinnings of reproduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Animals Raised in the Ukraine Colonization Community of Palmital, Paraná State, Brazil. Although Brazil is one of the world's major cattle producers and has rich social, ethnic, and biological diversity, ethnoveterinary studies are rare in Southern Brazil. Knowledge of plant use by farmers in the rural areas of the Ukrainian colony of Palmital, southern Brazil, can contribute to understanding the relationships among plants, smallholder farmers, and their livestock. Semi–structured interviews were conducted with non–random sampling following the "snowball" method. The information collected included local plant names, plant parts used, mode of preparation, route of administration, domestic animal species, and diseases requiring treatment. The informants were encouraged to show the plants, which were collected, identified, and stored. The informant consensus factor (ICF) and the use value (UV) were calculated. Thirty women and 20 men reported a total of 45 native and introduced plant species belonging to 29 families that are used for ethnoveterinary practices, mostly for cattle and goats, with the highest ICF for mastitis and antiparasitic treatments. Cattle are the most important livestock species bred in the community; therefore, most plant treatments were for cattle health problems. Similar studies on European immigrant communities in Brazil are lacking and could be a valuable source of information about how immigrant culture translate into local knowledge of veterinary medicinal plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a new genetic engineering technology, gene editing can precisely modify the specific gene sequence of the organism's genome. In the last 10 years, with the rapid development of gene editing technology, zinc-finger nucleases (ZFNs), transcription activator-like endonucleases (TALENs), and CRISPR/Cas9 systems have been applied to modify endogenous genes in organisms accurately. Now, gene editing technology has been used in mice, zebrafish, pigs, cattle, goats, sheep, rabbits, monkeys, and other species. Breeding for disease-resistance in agricultural animals tends to be a difficult task for traditional breeding, but gene editing technology has made this easier. In this work, we overview the development and application of gene editing technology in the resistance breeding of livestock. Also, we further discuss the prospects and outlooks of gene editing technology in disease-resistance breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. Reproduction of a herd of cattle is one of the most time-consuming processes in cattle breeding, since the productivity of cows, the efficiency of selection and breeding work, the duration and intensity of use of genetically valuable high-performance animals, the quality of products obtained from them and the profitability of its production depend on this process. Methods. During the research, modern general scientific and special methods of economic research were used, in particular: systemic approach, comparative economic and statistical methods. The results. It was established that the priority directions for increasing the economic efficiency of the reproductive process of the herd are: reducing the duration of the reproductive cycle; optimization of herd structure; reducing the number of barren cows to increase the intensity of selection of heifers for repair and extended reproduction of productive livestock; intensification of breeding repair (breeding) heifers; minimization of costs for breeding dairy cows due to the rational use of production resources based on the implementation of achievements of scientific and technical progress; increasing the productivity of dairy cattle to improve the quality of the main means of the new generation and financial support for the reproductive process. Discussion. In the post-war period of the revival of the agrarian economy, in particular dairy farming, the task of increasing the number of cattle in the farms of the corporate sector of the agrarian economy will arise. In the conditions of limited financial resources of agricultural enterprises, the main direction of increasing the cattle population will be the system of contracting with households for the purchase of heifers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The degree of relationship among livestock breeds can be quantified by the Fst statistic, which measures the extent of genetic differentiation between them. An Fst value of 0.1 has often been taken as indicating that two breeds are indeed genetically distinct, but this concept has not been evaluated critically. Here, Fst values have been collated for the six major livestock species: cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, horses, and chickens. These values are remarkably variable both within and between species, demonstrating that Fst > 0.1 is not a reliable criterion for breed distinctiveness. However, the large body of Fst data accumulated in the last 20–30 years represents an untapped database that could contribute to the development of interdisciplinary research involving livestock breeds. (1) Background: The Fst statistic is widely used to characterize between-breed relationships. Fst = 0.1 has frequently been taken as indicating genetic distinctiveness between breeds. This study investigates whether this is justified. (2) Methods: A database was created of 35,080 breed pairs and their corresponding Fst values, deduced from microsatellite and SNP studies covering cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, horses, and chickens. Overall, 6560 (19%) of breed pairs were between breeds located in the same country, 7395 (21%) between breeds of different countries within the same region, 20,563 (59%) between breeds located far apart, and 562 (1%) between a breed and the supposed wild ancestor of the species. (3) Results: General values for between-breed Fst were as follows, cattle: microsatellite 0.06–0.12, SNP 0.08–0.15; sheep: microsatellite 0.06–0.10, SNP 0.06–0.17; horses: microsatellite 0.04–0.11, SNP 0.08–0.12; goats: microsatellite 0.04–0.14, SNP 0.08–0.16; pigs: microsatellite 0.06–0.27, SNP 0.15–0.22; chickens: microsatellite 0.05–0.28, SNP 0.08–0.26. (4) Conclusions: (1) Large amounts of Fst data are available for a substantial proportion of the world's livestock breeds, (2) the value for between-breed Fst of 0.1 is not appropriate owing to its considerable variability, and (3) accumulated Fst data may have value for interdisciplinary research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The intention of this paper is to describe how the cattle industry in Japan had changed with the introduction of beef eating habits. Before the Japanese Meiji Restoration, meat-eating had been formally prohibited. In practice, some people had opportunities to eat game, although livestock had been severely tabooed. In the Civilization and Enlightenment period of Japan, beef eating spread rapidly. It was mainly eaten in an indigenous cooking method called a beef "hot pot." This cooking method influenced the development of beef fattening. In the pre-war period, farmers kept only a single cow for plowing, transporting, and collecting fertilizer, but the process of fattening was added later introduced to satisfy people's appetites for better-tasting beef. The goal of fattening had consistently been fatty meat. With the development of fattening technology, the ideal meat in the 1920s was fatty meat with intramuscular marbling. This beef-eating culture is inextricably linked with the fact that beef was first accepted as a hot pot dish in the modern era. Cattle fattening in developed areas took place within the conventional system of cattle rearing, which involved single cattle rearing system combined with arable agriculture. The fact that multiple cattle rearing based on the Western model did not take root is not seen as a delay in the modernization of Japanese livestock breeding, but rather as a technical and managerial rationale for combining single-head rearing practices with the utilization of that cattle for arable agriculture. Even though the indigenous cattle rearing system remained, the introduction of live cattle from colonial Korea brought complexities to the Japanese cattle industry. The importation of Korean cattle brought about a qualitative diversity as well as a quantitative expansion in terms of the supply of cheaper and leaner beef, and contributed to the change in consumption that has been termed the "popularization of meat eating.". [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aim: Bali Cattle (Bos j. javanicus) is a local breed originating in Indonesia, accounting for 32.3% of the total cattle population. To date, no studies of the genetic structure and demographic status of Bali cattle have been conducted, even though the breeding of Bali cattle has a long and unique history that is likely to have impacted its genetic diversity. Therefore, a study that used molecular breeding technologies to characterize the demography of Bali cattle would be timely. This study aimed to examine genome diversity in Bali cattle and estimate the linkage disequilibrium (LD) and effective population size (Ne) values in the cattle population. Materials and Methods: In this study, we explored the population structure and genetic diversity of Bali cattle using genomic-level analyses. Our study primarily studied cattle that had been bred in livestock breeding centers since these breeds had subsequently spread throughout Indonesia. We focused on characterizing the genetic structure, determining the level of LD present, and estimating the Ne of the Bali cattle population. The genomic data used for this study were obtained from DNA samples of 48 Bali cattle collected at the Breeding Center of Bali Cattle as well as 54 genomic samples from Bali cattle collected elsewhere in Indonesia that had been used in recent publications. This genomic dataset included exclusively 50K single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) array (Illumina Bovine 50SNP bead chip, Illumina, USA) data. Results: We found that the LD values of Bali cattle from the breeding center and those raised elsewhere were 0.48±0.43 and 0.39±0.40, respectively. Subsequently, the Ne value of Bali cattle from the breeding center and farmers was 151 and 96, respectively. Conclusion: Our results suggest that the selection program of the breeding center is beneficial for maintaining the genetic diversity of Bali cattle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main objective of modern livestock breeding is to find an efficient and a fast way to increase productivity and quality, and the application of technologies based on DNA markers have a great influence on the livestock and also contributes further to the mapping of the genomes of different species of economic importance. Past decade research carried out at the DNA level had a main goal: to identify the genes responsible for the expression of quantitative characters and the detection of places of interest, the latter becoming markers of DNA or SNP type that can be used in the selection process and improvement programs of dairy farms. In Romania, several studies were performed in order to identify the associations of the genetic markers with the main traits of milk production by Vlaic et al, (2001; 2003; 2005); Creangă et al., (1996, 2002, 2003; 2007, 2008, 2010); Bâlteanu et al., (2007a; 2007b, 2008; 2010a; 2010b, 2013); Bugeac et al., (2013a, 2013b, 2013c, 2015, 2019), respectively for the quality of meat by Carşai et al, (2009, 2010, 2013). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This paper reviews the localization of published potential causative variants in contemporary pig and cattle reference genomes, and the evidence for their causality. In spite of the difficulties inherent to the identification of causative variants from genetic mapping and genome-wide association studies, researchers in animal genetics have proposed putative causative variants for several traits relevant to livestock breeding. Results: For this review, we read the literature that supports potential causative variants in 13 genes (ABCG2, DGAT1, GHR, IGF2, MC4R, MSTN, NR6A1, PHGK1, PRKAG3, PLRL, RYR1, SYNGR2 and VRTN) in cattle and pigs, and localized them in contemporary reference genomes. We review the evidence for their causality, by aiming to separate the evidence for the locus, the proposed causative gene and the proposed causative variant, and report the bioinformatic searches and tactics needed to localize the sequence variants in the cattle or pig genome. Conclusions: Taken together, there is usually good evidence for the association at the locus level, some evidence for a specific causative gene at eight of the loci, and some experimental evidence for a specific causative variant at six of the loci. We recommend that researchers who report new potential causative variants use referenced coordinate systems, show local sequence context, and submit variants to repositories. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a new genetic engineering technology, gene editing can precisely modify the specific gene sequence of the organism’s genome. In the last 10 years, with the rapid development of gene editing technology, zinc-finger nucleases (ZFNs), transcription activator-like endonucleases (TALENs), and CRISPR/Cas9 systems have been applied to modify endogenous genes in organisms accurately. Now, gene editing technology has been used in mice, zebrafish, pigs, cattle, goats, sheep, rabbits, monkeys, and other species. Breeding for disease-resistance in agricultural animals tends to be a difficult task for traditional breeding, but gene editing technology has made this easier. In this work, we overview the development and application of gene editing technology in the resistance breeding of livestock. Also, we further discuss the prospects and outlooks of gene editing technology in disease-resistance breeding.

High‐throughput genomic markers provide an opportunity to assess important indicators of genetic diversity for populations managed in livestock breeding programs. While well‐structured breeding programs are common in developed countries, in developing country situations, especially in West Africa, on‐farm performance and pedigree recordings are rare, and thus, genomic markers provide insights to the levels of genetic diversity, inbreeding and introgression by other breeds. In this study, we analysed key population parameters such as population structure, admixture and levels of inbreeding in three neighbouring populations of African taurine and taurine × Zebu crosses managed by community‐based breeding programs in the South‐West of Burkina Faso. The three populations were pure Baoulé (called Lobi locally) in sedentary production systems, Baoulé x Zebu crossbreds in sedentary systems and Zebu × Baoulé crossbreds in transhumant production systems, respectively. The total sample analysed included 631 animals and 38,207 single nucleotide polymorphisms after quality control. Results of principal component and admixture analyses confirmed the genetic background of two distinct ancestral populations (taurine and zebuine) and levels of admixture in all three breeding populations, including the presumably pure Baoulé group of animals. Inbreeding levels were moderate, compared to European dairy and beef cattle populations and higher than those of Brazilian Nellore cattle. Very few animals with inbreeding levels indicating parent–offspring or full sib mating were observed, and inbreeding levels indicating half sib mating were also rare. For the management of breeding populations, farmers were advised to exchange best young bulls. The crossbreeding levels of presumably pure Baoulé animals are of concern to the breeding program due to the high level of endangerment of pure African taurine cattle populations across West Africa. Future rounds of bull selection in the community‐based breeding program will make use of genomic information about admixture levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV) is one of the most widespread zoonotic arthropod-borne viruses in many parts of Africa, Europe and Asia. It belongs to the family of Nairoviridae in the genus of Orthonairovirus. The main reservoir and vector are ticks of the genus Hyalomma. Livestock animals (such as cattle, small ruminants and camels) develop a viremias lasting up to two weeks with absence of clinical symptoms, followed by seroconversion. This study was carried out to assess risk factors that affect seroprevalence rates in different species. In total, 928 livestock animal samples (cattle = 201; sheep = 247; goats = 233; camels = 247) from 11 out of 13 regions in Mauritania were assayed for CCHFV-specific immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) (including a novel indirect camel-IgG-specific CCHFV ELISA). Inconclusive results were resolved by an immunofluorescence assay (IFA). A generalized linear mixed-effects model (GLMM) was used to draw conclusions about the impact of certain factors (age, species, sex and region) which might have influenced the CCHFV antibody status of surveyed animals. In goats and sheep, about 15% of the animals were seropositive, whereas in cattle (69%) and camels (81%), the prevalence rate was significantly higher. On average, cattle and camels were up to twice to four times older than small ruminants. Interestingly, the seroprevalence in all species was directly linked to the age of the animals, i.e. older animals had significantly higher seroprevalence rates than younger animals. The highest CCHFV seroprevalence in Mauritania was found in camels and cattle, followed by small ruminants. The large proportion of positive animals in cattle and camels might be explained by the high ages of the animals. Future CCHFV prevalence studies should at least consider the age of surveyed animals in order to avoid misinterpretations. Author summary: Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV) is a silent threat that repeatedly causes severe hemorrhagic disease in humans who have been in close contact with livestock of endemic countries. The detection of CCHFV IgG antibodies in livestock can be a first indication whether the virus circulates in a given region and is thus a valuable diagnostic tool for determining the endemic status. Interestingly, earlier data from Mauritania showed a noticeable difference in IgG prevalence between sheep (18%) and cattle (67%). In contrast to sheep and cattle, current monitoring data on CCHFV IgG antibody presence in camels and goats in Mauritania is very limited. This study was conducted to provide a comprehensive up-to-date overview of CCHFV seroprevalences in the four most important Mauritanian livestock breeds (cattle, sheep, goats and camels). It attempts to highlight the role of potential risk factors responsible for deviating prevalences. In addition, we developed a camel-specific IgG ELISA, which can be used in future CCHFV seroprevalence studies. Furthermore, findings of this study contribute to a better understanding of the current epidemiological CCHFV situation in sub-Saharan Africa and which role different livestock species play regarding the viral circulation in endemic regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article examines the phenotypic features of cattle and their use in breeding to improve the characteristics of milk productivity. As part of the research, 483 black-and-white pedigree cows in the breeding enterprises of the Omsk region were evaluated by a set of characteristics. It was found that the average age of calving cows was 2.5 years. 42.7% in the total cow population were full-grown cows. The maximum level of milk productivity was observed in second lactation cows. The milk yield for 305 days of the second lactation was 6.720 kg, which was 621 kg or 9.24% higher than that in first-calf heifers. The phenotypic characterization of breeding stock allowed us to identify all the necessary reserves for obtaining high-yielding offspring, in order to increase the level of milk production in the black-and-white cattle population of the region. This research was conducted with the use of the technical base and laboratory areas of the Department of Animal Science (Faculty of Animal Science, Commodity Science and Standardization), as well as the Center for the Collective Use of Scientific Equipment of the Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education "Omsk State Agrarian University named after P.A. Stolypin". The analytical data and the results of the research presented in this publication may be of interest for students of specialized educational institutions, as well as for specialists in dairy cattle farming, and can be implemented at breeding enterprises. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Heat stress in domestic animals has become a major limit factor for livestock production in tropical and subtropical regions. These traits that adapt to torrid environment are important in livestock breeding. Methods: In this study, we identified and genotyped six Single nucleotide polymorphism for the CDC37, AHSA1 and STIP1 gene in the Droughtmaster, Angus and Simmental cattle breeds using the SNaPshot Multiplex system. Result: Result of pair-wise differences (FST) revealed three SNP locus (CDC37-6 (A16154247/G), CDC37-7 (C16157867/G), AHSA1- 10 (G89722567/A) were significantly different in the Droughtmaster population than Angus and Simmental cattle breeds. Moreover, it was found that CDC37-7 (C16157867/G) locus deviated from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium, suggesting that the CDC37-7 (C16157867/ G) genes have been influenced by the selective breeding of the Droughtmaster breed. Therefore, CDC37-7 (C16157867/G) locus could be used as a marker-assisted candidate gene locus of heat tolerance. This study provides valuable information, concerning marker-assisted selection in the breeding of heat stress resistant cattle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although persistent efforts have identified and characterized a few candidate genes and related biological processes with potential functions in the adaptation of many species to extreme environments, few works have been conducted to determine the genomic basis of adaptation in endangered livestock breeds that have been living in extreme conditions for more than thousands of years. To fill this gap, we sequenced the whole genomes of nine individuals from three Chinese native endangered cattle breeds that are living in high‐altitude or arid environments. Phylogenetic and evolutionary history analyses of these three and other six breeds showed that the genetic structure of the cattle populations is primarily related to geographic location. Interestingly, we identified pervasive introgression from the yak to Zhangmu cattle (ZMC) that cover several genes (e.g., NOS2, EGLN1 and EPAS1) involved in the hypoxia response and previously identified as positive selection genes in other species, which suggested that the adaptive introgression from yak may have contributed to the adaptation of ZMC to high‐altitude environments. In addition, by contrasting the breeds in opposite living conditions, we revealed a set of candidate genes with various functions from hypoxia response, water metabolism, immune response and body shape change to embryo development and skeletal system development, etc., that may be related to high‐altitude or arid adaptation. Our research provides new insights into the recovery and adaptation of endangered native cattle and other species in extreme environments and valuable resources for future research on animal husbandry to cope with climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Wild biodiversity and agrobiodiversity are affected by challenges such as agricultural intensification. However, it is unknown whether or not both components of biodiversity respond similarly to environmental factors and to these challenges. Here, we examine the spatial relationships between the distributions of wild biodiversity and agrobiodiversity, to quantify how and where they covary across the geography. Location: Mainland Spain, a European region that harbours high values of both wild and agro‐ biodiversity. Methods: We used geographically weighted regression models to analyse the spatial variation in the relationships between the distribution of wild vertebrates and environmental and agrobiodiversity variables. We modelled the spatial gradients in species richness of native terrestrial vertebrates—that is, specific groups of amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals—as a function of local livestock breed richness—that is, bovine, ovine, caprine, asinine, equine and porcine—climate variables and human footprint. Results: We found significant covariation between the distribution of native vertebrate species richness and climate, human footprint and livestock diversity. Overall, the association between species richness of the four wild terrestrial vertebrate groups and local livestock breed richness is positive across most of the studied area. However, local breed richness of cattle and sheep breed displays contrasting patterns, where cattle breeds associate positively to most wildlife vertebrates and sheep breeds show negative associations. Main conclusion: Wildlife diversity distributions are significantly associated with livestock agrobiodiversity. These spatial relationships are mediated by large‐scale environmental gradients. Since both, wildlife and livestock agrobiodiversity, tend to co‐occur spatially, future strategies for conservation in agricultural landscapes could benefit from integrated approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The variance in phenotypic trait values is a product of environmental and genetic variation. The sensitivity of traits to environmental variation has a genetic component and is likely to be under selection. However, there are few studies investigating the evolution of this sensitivity, in part due to the challenges of estimating the environmental variance. The livestock literature provides a wealth of studies that accurately partition components of phenotypic variance, including the environmental variance, in well‐defined environments. These studies involve breeds that have been under strong selection on mean phenotype in optimal environments for many generations, and therefore represent an opportunity to study the potential evolution of trait sensitivity to environmental conditions. Here, we use literature on domestic cattle to examine the evolution of micro‐environmental variance (CVR—the coefficient of residual variance) by testing for differences in expression of CVR in animals from the same breed reared in different environments. Traits that have been under strong selection did not follow a null expectation of an increase in CVR in heterogenous environments (e.g., grazing), a pattern that may reflect evolution of increased uniformity in heterogeneous environments. When comparing CVR across environments of different levels of optimality, here measured by trait mean, we found a reduction in CVR in the more optimal environments for both life history and growth traits. Selection aimed at increasing trait means in livestock breeds typically occurs in the more optimal environments, and we therefore suspect that the decreased CVR is a consequence of evolution of the expression of micro‐environmental variance in this environment. Our results highlight the heterogeneity in micro‐environmental variance across environments and point to possible connections to the intensity of selection on trait means. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During last decades, native uniqueness decreased in local livestock breeds due to the introgression of high‐yielding breeds. Recovery of native uniqueness became important because of conservation aspects regarding native genetic diversity and native traits. Thereby the expectation exists, that the relation between native uniqueness and genetic gain is contradictory. The aim of this study was to explore the influence of native uniqueness on performance traits and the total merit index in a local red cattle breed from Northern Germany. Data contained a pedigree file of 178,255 Red Dual‐Purpose cattle, 809 target genotypes and 3,581 reference genotypes from introgressed breeds. Native genetic contributions were tested for correlation with performance traits of milk yield, longevity, foundation, somatic cells, fertility and maternal calving and the total merit index. The study revealed that native uniqueness is favourably related to longevity (0.16), foundation (0.23), and somatic cells (0.08), and the total merit index (0.10). Selection on native uniqueness could probably lead to an increased longevity, udder health and genetic gain of the Red Dual‐Purpose cattle. Moreover, it was shown that the Red Dual‐Purpose cattle was not upgraded through introgression of high‐yielding breeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was undertaken with the objectives of molecular characterization and detection of genetic polymorphism in the GnRHR gene in Murrah bulls. Blood samples were collected from 109 Murrah bulls maintained at three different organized semen stations viz., Centralized Semen Collection Centre of Livestock Breeding and Training Centre, Dharwad; Nandini Sperm Station and State Livestock Breeding and Training Centre, Hessarghatta, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India. Genomic DNA was isolated from the blood samples within 24 hours of collection. Mutations were screened using Polymerase Chain Reaction - Single Stranded Conformational Polymorphism (PCR-SSCP) technique followed by Sanger Sequencing. PCR-SSCP method revealed similar band pattern within Murrah bulls. To confirm monomorphism in the studied population with respect to GnRHR gene, duplicate samples from each primer fragment were custom sequenced. PCR-SSCP and sequence analysis revealed monomorphism within the studied population that is coding region as well as exon-intron boundaries of GnRHR gene is highly conserved among Murrah bulls. However, a total of 28 Single Nucleotide variations (SNV's) have been found when compared with Bos Taurus reference sequence for GnRHR gene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Somalia, located in the horn of Africa and one of the world's poorest countries, livestock are the mainstay of the economy. While strengthening the livestock sector is considered key to reduced poverty and increased food security, few studies have reported the livestock management practices of Somali pastoralists, including on breeding issues. Here, we present the final of a series of papers documenting the breeding practices of women and men Somali pastoralists for goat, sheep, camel and cattle. Data for the study were obtained by surveying 200 livestock-keeping households located within the Tog-Dheer region of Somaliland. The most important livestock species kept, in terms of contribution to household livelihood, were goats and sheep, followed by camel, then cattle. Migration with livestock was practiced by two-thirds of the households for some or all of the year, whereas other households were settled with their livestock. On breeding practices, the main means of acquiring breeding animals was by the animal being born into the herd, and varied means were used to control mating, including castration, culling, separation of male and female animals, purposeful mating of best males to best females, and controlling the size of mating groups. On beliefs on breeding issues, the pastoralists had a varied understanding of whether specific livestock traits were influenced by genetics, environment, or a combination of both, and most could not articulate the basis of inheritance. Knowledge of inbreeding was poor, with almost all respondents indicating they did not consider the mating of related animals to be problematic. Additionally, some pastoralists tried to influence the sex of the livestock progeny born through various practices. Overall, the finding presented here and in the companion studies (Marshall et al. 2014, 2016) indicated that the women and men Somali pastoralists generally employ sound breeding practices, although there is room for capacity building such as on inbreeding. Livestock are the mainstay of the economy in Somalia, one of the world's poorest countries. Here we document the breeding practices of women and men Somali pastoralists, for the main livestock species kept (goat, sheep, camel and cattle). Overall the pastoralists were found to employ sound breeding practices, although there is room for capacity building such as on inbreeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of this work was to perform balances of energy, nitrogen, and phosphorus in pre-fattening and fattening bovine systems at Turiguanó Livestock Breeding Company, in the province of Ciego de Ávila, Cuba. Materials and methods: The botanical composition of the farms evaluated was determined, and energy, nitrogen, and phosphorus balances were performed. Results: The annual energy, nitrogen, and phosphorus balances were negative on the farms in the study. Conclusions: New strategies are required to enhance energy and nutrient (nitrogen and phosphorus) use to increase beef production during the final stage. Accordingly, improvements in recycling, balance, and efficiency in the use of energy and these minerals are linked to increases in live weight/day, and better final weights for the industry during that stage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Certain livestock breeds are adapted to hot and humid environments, and these breeds have genetics that could be useful in a changing climate. The expression of several genes has been identified as a useful biomarker for heat stress. In this study, the responses to heat exposure of heat-tolerant Vechur and Kasaragod cattle found in Kerala state in India (also known as dwarf Bos taurus indicus) were compared to crossbred cattle (crosses of Bos t. taurus with Bos t. indicus). At various time points during heat exposure, rectal temperature and the expression of HSPA1A were determined, and the relationship between them was characterized. We characterized HSPA1A mRNA in Vechur cattle and performed molecular clock analysis. The expression of HSPA1A between the lineages and at different temperature humidity index (THI) was significant. There were significant differences between the expression profiles of HSPA1A in Kasaragod and crossbred (p < 0.01) and Vechur and crossbred (p < 0.01) cattle, but no significant difference in expression was observed between Vechur and Kasaragod cattle. The genetic distance between Vechur, B. grunniens, B. t. taurus, and B. t. indicus was 0.0233, 0.0059, and 0.007, respectively. The genetic distance between Vechur and the Indian dwarf breed Malnad Gidda was 0.0081. A molecular clock analysis revealed divergent adaptive evolution of Vechur cattle to B. t. taurus , with adaptations to the high temperatures and humidity that are prevalent in their breeding tract in Kerala, India. These results could also prove useful in selecting heat-tolerant animals using HSPA1A as a marker. • Under a climate change scenario, selection for thermal tolerance is crucial among cattle. • A reduction in body size is considered a response to thermal stress. • Profiling and characterization of HSPA1A gene in crossbred and dwarf Vechur cattle. • A potential candidate gene for heat tolerance is HSPA1A. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

John Shortt (1822-1889) of the Madras Medical Service also practiced as a veterinary surgeon in Madras, India after qualifying as a Member of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons of England. Based on his veterinary practice in Madras Presidency, he wrote an invaluable book "A Manual of Indian Cattle and Sheep -- Their Breeds, Management and Diseases", the third and last edition of which was published in Madras, soon after his death in Yercaud (Salem). Besides talking of the etiology and management of cattle and sheep diseases, Shortt also extensively talks of the phenotypic variations among cattle and sheep in southern India in particular. This article validates Shortt's notes and the historical significance of this monumental work by referring to the biological diversity of southern Indian cattle in the light of modern cattle research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Livestock trypanosomiasis, transmitted mainly by tsetse flies of the genus Glossina is a major constraint to livestock health and productivity in the sub-Saharan Africa. Knowledge of the prevalence and intensity of trypanosomiasis is important in understanding the epidemiology of the disease. The objectives of this study were to (a) assess the prevalence and intensity of trypanosome infections in cattle, and (b) to investigate the reasons for the heterogeneity of the disease in the tsetse infested districts of Amuru and Nwoya, northern Uganda. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from September, 2011 to January, 2012. Blood samples were collected from 816 cattle following jugular vein puncture, and screened for trypanosomes by HCT and ITS-PCR. A Pearson chi-squared test and logistic regression analyses were performed to determine the association between location, age, sex, and prevalence of trypanosome infections. Results: Out of the 816 blood samples examined, 178 (22 %) and 338 (41 %) tested positive for trypanosomiasis by HCT and ITS-PCR, respectively. Trypanosoma vivax infection accounted for 77 % of infections detected by ITS-PCR, T. congolense (16 %), T. brucei s.l (4 %) and mixed (T. vivax/ T. congolense/T.brucei) infections (3 %). The risk of trypanosome infection was significantly associated with cattle age (χ2 = 220.4, df = 3, P < 0.001). The highest proportions of infected animals were adult males (26.7 %) and the least infected were the less than one year old calves (2.0 %). In addition, the risk of trypanosome infection was significantly associated with sex (χ2 = 16.64, df=1, P < 0.001), and males had a significantly higher prevalence of infections (26.8 %) than females (14.6 %). Conclusion: Our results indicate that the prevalence and intensity of trypanosome infections are highly heterogeneous being associated with cattle age, location and sex. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Improvement in animal productivity has been achieved over the years through careful breeding and selection programs. Today, variations in the genome are gaining increasing importance in livestock improvement strategies. Genomic information alone, however, explains only a part of the phenotypic variance in traits. It is likely that a portion of the unaccounted variance is embedded in the epigenome. The epigenome encompasses epigenetic marks such as DNA methylation, histone tail modifications, chromatin remodeling, and other molecules that can transmit epigenetic information such as noncoding RNA species. Epigenetic factors respond to external or internal environmental cues such as nutrition, pathogens, and climate, and have the ability to change gene expression leading to emergence of specific phenotypes. Accumulating evidence shows that epigenetic marks influence gene expression and phenotypic outcome in livestock species. This review examines available evidence of the influence of epigenetic marks on livestock (cattle, sheep, goat, and pig) traits and discusses the potential for consideration of epigenetic markers in livestock improvement programs. However, epigenetic research activities on farm animal species are currently limited partly due to lack of recognition, funding and a global network of researchers. Therefore, considerable less attention has been given to epigenetic research in livestock species in comparison to extensive work in humans and model organisms. Elucidating therefore the epigenetic determinants of animal diseases and complex traits may represent one of the principal challenges to use epigenetic markers for further improvement of animal productivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main objectives of this study were (i) to investigate the best fitting model for the genetic analysis of type traits and (ii) to estimate the genetic parameters of 4 composite (body size, muscularity, body shape, and udder) and 22 individual type traits between and within the two strains of the Valdostana dual purpose breed: the Aosta Red Pied (ARP; n =25,183 records) and the Aosta Black Pied and Chestnut (ABP-CHES; n =14,701 records). All type traits were scored from 2000 to 2012 on primiparous cows using a 1 to 5-point scale system. A model comparison was undertaken by considering the Akaike Information Criterion values obtained from the analysis, producing a final model that took into account the effects of herd-year-classifier, days in milk, age at calving as fixed and the animal additive genetic effect as random. Heritability estimates obtained through single trait animal model analysis varied from 0.03 for thinness (in both strains) to 0.32 (ARP) and 0.29 (ABP-CHES) for stature. Medium-low heritability estimates were obtained for individual muscularity traits (0.22 for ARP and 0.13 for ABP-CHES), and for individual udder type traits (0.12 on average in both Valdostana strains). The highest genetic correlations between composite traits were for muscularity with body shape in both Valdostana strains (0.55 for ARP and 0.52 for ABP-CHES). Different and opposite values of genetic correlations were found for the composite body shape and the composite udder traits (0.13 for ARP and –0.25 for ABP-CHES; P <0.01), probably due to the different breeding purposes set up for the two Valdostana strains. Regarding the individual type traits, for the ARP strain the highest genetic correlation was 0.97 (between thigh, buttocks side and rear view), whereas for the ABP-CHES strain it was 0.98 (between stature and body length), meaning that improving one trait of each pair led to a positive variation in the other. Most of the genetic correlations between the individual muscularity traits and the individual udder traits were negative, especially those involving udder volume (from –0.19 to –0.42 in ARP, and from –0.17 to –0.41 in ABP-CHES; P <0.01), indicating a substantial antagonistic situation of type traits related to dairy and beef traits. In conclusion, the selection for the dual purpose in local breeds such as in Valdostana cattle implies a thorough consideration of opposite morphological traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Selection of agricultural animals for improved performance based on genetics has seen significant progress made over the past few decades. Further improvements are likely by combining genetic selection with epigenetic selection or manipulation. However, before this can be undertaken, an understanding of epigenetic mechanisms is required, and this can be obtained only by precise and accurate analysis of epigenetic patterns. Even when one only considers a single epigenetic modification such as DNA methylation, the last 10 years have seen a wide array of technologies developed. For scientists whose primary training is in a field other than epigenetics, the choices can be confusing, and it can be challenging to determine which technology is best for the task at hand. There are many factors to take into consideration before beginning analysis of DNA methylation in animals. It is crucial that the most appropriate tools are selected to ensure that the best possible results are achieved. This review provides an overview of the most common methods of analysing DNA methylation in animals, when they are appropriate, what resolution of information they can provide and what their limitations are. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]