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An 8-y-old Pygora doe was presented to the University of California-Davis, Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital because of non-healing facial swelling of 2-wk duration. The lesion grew despite medical treatment, causing discomfort masticating, little-to-no airflow from the right nasal passage, and led to euthanasia. On gross examination, a large facial mass with a draining tract through the skin and hard palate was identified. On section, the mass was brown-pink, homogeneous, and friable. Abscess-like masses were identified in the lungs and kidney. Histopathology of the face, including oral and nasal cavities, salivary glands, and lymph nodes, as well as the lung and kidney lesions, revealed large areas of necrosis with numerous wide ribbon-like, mostly aseptate, fungal hyphae consistent with zygomycetes. PCR for fungal organisms performed on formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue from the face identified Lichtheimia corymbifera (formerly Absidia corymbifera) of the order Mucorales and an Aspergillus sp. The lesion was suspected to have started either as a fungal rhinitis or dental feed impaction, subsequently spreading to the face and systemically to the lungs and kidney. We describe here the lesions associated with facial mucormycosis in a goat and present a literature review of L. corymbifera infection in veterinary species and fungal infections in goats.

Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is a tickbome zoonosis caused by CCHF virus (CCHFV). The World Health Organization considers CCHF one of the highest priority diseases because of its epidemic potential, [...]

Since the first mouse induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) was derived, the in vitro culture of domestic iPSCs functionally and molecularly comparable with mouse iPSCs has been a challenge. Here, we established dairy goat iPSCs (giPSCs) from goat ear fibroblast cells with mouse iPSCs morphology, the expression of pluripotent markers and differentiation ability in vitro delivered by piggyBac transposon with nine Dox-inducible exogenous reprogramming factors. These reprogramming factors were bOMSK (bovine OCT4 , CMYC , SOX2 , and KLF4), pNhL (porcine NANOG and human LIN28), hRL (human RARG and LRH1), and SV40 Large T. Notably, AF-giPSCs (induced in activin A and bFGF condition) were capable of differentiation in embryoid bodies in vitro and could contribute to interspecies chimerism in mouse E6.5 embryos in vitro , demonstrating that AF-giPSCs have the developmental capability to generate some embryonic cell lineages. Moreover, Wnt/β-catenin signaling has an important role in driving goat induced trophoblast-like stem cells (giTLSCs) from Dox-independent giPSCs. This study will support further establishment of the stable giPSC lines without any integration of exogenous genes. • The goat induced pluripotent stem cells (giPSCs) expressed pluripotent markers and have differentiation ability in vitro. • The AF-giPSCs contributed to mouse E6.5 embryos in vitro. • The goat induced trophoblast like stem cells (giTLSCs) were firstly derived from Dox-independent giPSCs. • We found Sox2 co-expressed with Cdx2, and as well as with Eomes in the nucleus indicated the potency of giTLSC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Substantiated incidents of poor welfare affecting cattle, sheep and goats (livestock) in non‐dairy extensive farming systems continue to occur. This study sought to describe the common causes of poor welfare of livestock and the associated circumstances, by analysing 39 years of de‐identified, livestock welfare investigation records. There were a total of 2179 alleged offenders (AOff), defined as individual/s that had an incident of poor welfare affecting livestock on at least one occasion. Approximately 27% of AOff were found to have poor welfare on more than one occasion. The majority of livestock welfare incidents were associated with neglect, more specifically, inadequate nutrition (56%), treatment (65%) and management/husbandry (83%). Records of malicious acts were rare (1%). In the analysis, cases were allocated to 10 animal welfare severity categories (AWSC) based on the number of incidents and visits, whether the AOff reoffended, or if the incident was ongoing and whether the welfare issue was likely to affect the whole herd. A significantly higher proportion of cases in the most severe AWSC had a failure to shear, mark, dip/drench, draft and wean/cull, were overstocked or were not providing proper and sufficient feed, compared to the least severe AWSC (P ≤ 0.05). Reoffending was significantly more likely when animals were found to be injured/unwell, recumbent, stuck in mud/yard/pen or in poor body condition, or when there was a failure to wean/cull, mark, dip/drench and draft. Some of the issues identified here may be risk factors more commonly identified on farms with poor livestock welfare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The list of standard abbreviations for JDS is available at adsa.org/jds-abbreviations-24. Nonstandard abbreviations are available in the Notes. The casein composition, salt composition, and micelle size varies substantially between milk samples of individual animals. In goats, the links between those casein characteristics are unknown and could provide useful insights into goat casein micelle structure. In this study, the casein and salt composition of 42 individual Dutch goats from 17 farms was studied and linked to casein micelle size. Micelle size, the proportions of individual caseins, and protein content were associated with one another. Milk with smaller casein micelles was higher in protein content, salt content, and proportion of α s1 -CN, but lower in α s2 -CN and β-CN. The higher salt content in milk with small casein micelles was mainly attributed to a higher protein content, but changes in casein composition might additionally contribute to differences in mineralization. The nonsedimentable casein content in goat milk correlated with nonsedimentable fractions of β-CN and κ-CN and was independent of micelle size. Between large and small casein micelles, goat casein micelles showed more differences in casein and salt composition than bovine micelles, indicating differences in internal structure. Nevertheless, the casein mineralization in goat milk was similar to casein mineralization in bovine milk, indicating that mineralization of casein micelles follows a general principle. These results can help to better understand how composition and micelle structure in goat milk are related to each other, which may be useful to improve processing and product properties of goat milk in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Goat bucks are seasonal breeders that show variation in sperm quality, endogenous melatonin (MLT), and presumably in the expression of MLT receptors on the sperm throughout the year, which may modify sperm freezability. The aim of this study was to determine whether sperm freezability is associated with (i) endogenous melatonin levels in seminal plasma and (ii) the expression of sperm plasma membrane melatonin receptors (MT1, MT2). To evaluate this, spermatozoa from seven Saanen goat bucks were cryopreserved throughout the year in Mexico using a standard freezing protocol. Seminal plasma MLT concentrations were determined by ELISA and the expression and localization of MT1 and MT2 were detected by immunocytochemistry and confirmed by western blotting. The recovery rate of progressive motility after thawing was higher in spring than autumn and winter; in contrast, the F pattern (CTC assay) was higher in winter than in the other seasons. A proportional increase in the AR pattern (CTC assay) was smaller in winter than in the other seasons and the proportion of sperm showing high plasma membrane fluidity was higher in spring than in summer and autumn. The seminal plasma MLT concentrations showed no significant interseasonal differences. The MT1 receptor was immunolocalised at the apical region of the sperm head, while MT2 was mainly localised in the neck. The relative expression of MLT receptors showed significant differences between summer and winter for all bands, except at 75 kDa of MT2. In conclusion, there was an association between the relative expression of MT1 and MT2 receptors throughout the year and sperm freezability in goat bucks in México. Post-thaw sperm quality is enhanced in semen samples collected during breeding season. • MLT concentration in goats' seminal plasma does not show interseasonal variation. • Expression of MLT receptors in goat spermatozoa shows variation throughout the year. • Goat buck sperm freezability is associated with the expression of MLT receptors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Goat milk is considered a nutritionally superior resource, owing to its advantageous nutritional attributes. Nevertheless, it is susceptible to spoilage and the persistence of pathogens. Electron beam irradiation stands as a promising non‐thermal processing technique capable of prolonging shelf life with minimal residue and a high degree of automation. RESULTS: The effects of electron beam irradiation (2, 3, 5, and 7 kGy) on microorganisms, physicochemical properties, and protein structure of goat milk compared with conventional pasteurized goat milk (PGM) was evaluated. It was found that a 2 kGy electron beam irradiation reduces the total microbial count of goat milk by 6‐logs, and the irradiated goat milk protein secondary structure showed a significant decrease in ɑ‐helix content. Low irradiation doses led to microaggregation and crosslinking. In contrast, high doses (≥ 5 kGy) slightly disrupted the aggregates and decreased the particle size, disrupting the microscopic surface structure of goat milk, verified by scanning electron microscopy and confocal laser scanning microscopy. CONCLUSION: The irradiation of goat milk with a 2 kGy electron beam may effectively inactivate harmful microorganisms in the milk and maintain/or improve the physicochemical quality and protein structure of goat milk compared to thermal pasteurization. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of energy and organic zinc supplements, specifically zinc palm oil soap (ZPOS), on digestibility and unsaturated fatty acid profiles in vitro. The study used a completely randomized design with 4 treatments and 5 replications. The treatments were: T0= basal diet without supplementation, T1= basal diet + 5% palm oil (PO), T2= basal diet + 5% partial ZPOS (3.75% ZPOS + 1.25% PO), and T3= basal diet + 5% ZPOS. The inoculum source was rumen liquid from three fistulated female dairy goats and was homogenized. The goats were fed ration consisting of corn straw, soybean hulls, and concentrate containing total digestible nutrients (TDN) 63%, crude protein (CP) 14%, and neutral detergent fiber (NDF) 35%. Results showed that both 5% partial ZPOS and 5% ZPOS supplementation (T2 and T3) resulted in the increase of total volatile fatty acids (VFA), acetate, propionate, butyrate, unsaturated fatty acids (USFA) and a decrease in the ratio of acetate/propionate (A/P) compared to the control and supplementation of 5% PO (p<0.05). Supplementation of 5% partial ZPOS (T2) is better than 5% ZPOS because increased the digestibility of ether extract (EE), crude fiber (CF), NDF, and acids detergent fiber (ADF) (p<0.05) and decreased of methane compared to the control (p<0.05). In conclusion, adding 5% partial ZPOS (3.5% ZPOS and 1.5% PO) increases fiber digestibility, VFA, LCFA, and USFA concentration, and decreases methane production in the rumen liquid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maintaining genetic diversity and variation in livestock populations is critical for natural and artificial selection promoting genetic improvement while avoiding problems due to inbreeding. In Laos, there are concerns that there has been a decline in genetic diversity and a rise in inbreeding among native goats in their village‐based smallholder system. In this study, we investigated the genetic diversity of Lao native goats in Phin, Songkhone and Sepon districts in Central Laos for the first time using Illumina's Goat SNP50 BeadChip. We also explored the genetic relationships between Lao goats with 163 global goat populations from 36 countries. Our results revealled a close genetic relationship between Lao native goats and Chinese, Mongolian and Pakistani goats, sharing ancestries with Guangfen, Jining Grey and Luoping Yellow breeds (China) and Teddi goats (Pakistan). The observed (Ho) and expected (He) heterozygosity were 0.292 and 0.303 (Laos), 0.288 and 0.288 (Sepon), 0.299 and 0.308 (Phin) and 0.289 and 0.305 (Songkhone), respectively. There was low to moderate genetic differentiation (FST: 0.011–0.043) and negligible inbreeding coefficients (FIS: −0.001 to 0.052) between goat districts. The runs of homozygosity (ROH) had an average length of 5.92–6.85 Mb, with short ROH segments (1–5 Mb length) being the most prevalent (66.34%). Longer ROH segments (20–40 and >40 Mb length categories) were less common, comprising only 4.81% and 1.01%, respectively. Lao goats exhibit moderate genetic diversity, low‐inbreeding levels and adequate effective population size. Some genetic distinctions between Lao goats may be explained by geographic and cultural features. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To determine the pharmacokinetics and physiological effects following oral and intravenous (IV) administration of gabapentin in goats. Prospective, crossover study with a 3 week washout period between treatments. A total of eight healthy, client-owned, female goats. Gabapentin (10 mg kg–1) was administered to goats either orally or IV. Gabapentin concentrations were measured in serum samples collected 0–96 hours post-administration using liquid chromatography–quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry. Heart rate, respiratory rate, blood pressure and temperature were recorded before and throughout the study. Correlations of the mean serum concentrations of gabapentin to those of each physiological parameter were determined using the Pearson method. The mean and standard deviation of oral bioavailability for gabapentin was 60.9 ± 11.2%. Maximum serum concentration of gabapentin was lower following oral (1.19 ± 0.29 μg mL–1) than after IV administration (59.76 ± 14.38 μg mL–1, p < 0.0001). Half-lives were longer following PO (8.18 ± 0.57 hours) than after IV administration (1.79 ± 0.06 hours, p < 0.0001). Time to maximum concentration was 6.86 ± 2.27 hours following oral administration. Heart rate was inversely correlated with serum gabapentin concentrations. Slight ataxia was observed in three animals, and one became recumbent following IV gabapentin. Gabapentin is well-absorbed following oral administration to goats but yielded significantly lower serum concentrations than the IV route. The longer half-life of gabapentin following oral than after IV administration may result from prolonged absorption throughout the caprine gastrointestinal tract. IV gabapentin may cause slight ataxia in some goats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Veterinarska Stanica is the property of Croatian Veterinary Institute and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Listeriosis is highly prevalent in the animal farming industry, with Listeria monocytogenes as the causative pathogen. To identify potential therapeutic targets for LM infection, we investigated the mechanisms of LM infection in goat uteri. We inoculated a group of goats with LM via jugular vein injection, isolated and raised them, and subsequently collected sterile samples of their uterine tissue after they exhibited clinical symptoms of LM infection. We used Giemsa staining, immunohistochemical staining, real-time qPCR, and Western blotting as experimental methods.First, we investigated the mechanism of Listeria monocytogenes (LM) infection in the goat uterus by examining the expression levels of listeriolysin O, E-cadherin, and tyrosine kinase c-Met in the uterus. Furthermore, we investigated the impact of LM infection on uterine autophagy and cell apoptosis. The results indicate that the injection of LM into the goats' jugular veins leads to LM infection in the goats' uteri. During LM survival inside the goat uterine cells, there is a significant increase in the expression levels of LLO, E-cadherin, and c-Met in the host uterine tissue. This suggests that LM may potentially infect goat uteri through the InlA/E-cadherin and InlB/c-Met pathways. Furthermore, LM infection increases the levels of apoptosis and autophagy in goat uteri. Apoptosis genes Bcl-2 and Bax, as well as autophagyrelated genes LC3B, PINK1, and Parkin, exhibit varying degrees of changes in localization and expression in goat uteri, mediating the occurrence of apoptotic and autophagic responses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND RESULTS CONCLUSION Depression is a common psychological disorder, and traditional therapeutic drugs often result in side effects such as emesis, dry mouth, headache, dysentery and constipation. Probiotics and goat milk have garnered widespread attention for their ability to modulate immune function and regulate the endocrine system, and for their anti‐inflammatory effects. In this work, the effects of Tibetan goat kefir on the behavior, immune status, neuroendocrine response and gut microbiological composition of chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) mouse models were evaluated.The results indicated that Tibetan kefir goat milk significantly alleviated behavioral despair in mice. Furthermore, the results demonstrated that Tibetan kefir goat milk mitigated the inflammatory response in the mice and moderated the hyperactivity of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis and the expression of brain‐derived neurotrophic factor. Meanwhile, chronic stress‐induced gut microbial abnormalities were restored. In addition, the correlation between gut microbiota and nervous system was evaluated.These results explained the potential mechanism of Tibetan kefir in the antidepressant effect on the CUMS model and enriched diets for depressed patients. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neoplastic processes of the mandible and their treatment are rarely reported in large animal species. Specifically, giant cell tumor of bone is an uncommon tumor in animals and has been associated in humans with locally invasive behavior and a high recurrence rate. En-bloc resection is the treatment of choice, but depending on the localization of the tumor, this may result in functional deficits. This report details the diagnostic work-up, treatment, and long-term outcome of a giant cell tumor of bone involving the rostral mandible and mandibular symphysis of a goat. Extensive rostral mandibulectomy involving the entire mandibular symphysis without surgical fixation of the hemimandibles was performed. Histological and electron microscopic findings of the tumor were consistent with a giant cell tumor of bone. Although a mutation of the H3F3A gene is considered the driver of tumor development in human giant cell tumors, using molecular analysis, this gene mutation could not be confirmed in this case. Follow-up examinations revealed spontaneous secondary fusion of both hemimandibles and no signs of tumor recurrence. Nearly 1 year after surgery, the owners reported no signs of tumor regrowth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of yeast culture (YC) on dairy goat milk yield and potential effects of rumen microbial population changes on rumen fermentation are poorly understood. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of YC on milk yield and rumen fermentation in dairy goats and explore the potential microbial mechanisms. Forty Laoshan dairy goats with a weight of 51.23 ± 2.23 kg and daily milk yield of 1.41 ± 0.26 kg were randomly divided into 4 groups: control (no YC), YC1 (10 g/day per goat), YC2 (25 g/day per goat), and YC3 (40 g/day per goat). The pre-feeding period was 15 days, and the official period was 60 days. Laoshan dairy goats were milked twice daily, and the individual milk yield was recorded. On the last day of the official period, rumen fluid was collected to measure rumen fermentation, perform quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and detect metabolites. Compared to the control group, the YC group had greater milk yield; higher acetic acid, butyric acid, and total volatile fatty acid contents; and lower ammonia-N (NH3-N) content in the rumen (p < 0.05). YC increased the abundance of Clostridia_UCG-014 and Paraprevotella (p < 0.05). Differential metabolites L-leucine and aspartic acid were screened. This study revealed the microbial mechanisms linking the relative abundance of Paraprevotella and Clostridia_UCG-014 to L-leucine and aspartic acid utilization. These results describe the potential benefits of supplementing 10 g/day per goat YC in the diets of Laoshan dairy goats for improving the rumen environment and milk yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Hypothesis/Objective Animals Methods Results Conclusions and Clinical Importance Symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA), a sensitive biomarker for detecting renal injury, has not been characterized in goats. Obstructive urolithiasis (OU) is the most common urinary tract disease in male small ruminants.Establish an SDMA reference interval (RI) in healthy adult goats and describe SDMA concentrations in goats with OU. We hypothesize that the SDMA RI in healthy adult goats will be similar to that of other adult veterinary species and that SDMA can be utilized to assess the renal function of goats experiencing OU.Fifty‐five healthy adult male and female goats from a university herd were enrolled for SDMA RI development. Twenty male and female goats from a university herd were enrolled for validation of the SDMA RI established. Thirteen male goats diagnosed with OU were enrolled.Clinical trial. Serum samples for all animals enrolled were collected and analyzed for SDMA using an immunoassay (IDEXX Laboratories, Inc); goats with OU had additional blood work analyzed (PCV, total solids, and serum biochemistry). Symmetric dimethylarginine and other values in goats with OU were analyzed and compared at specific time points.The SDMA RI for healthy, adult goats is 8.03 μg/dL (90% CI 4.81‐11.04) to 25.93 μg/dL (90% CI 22.88‐28.97). There was no correlation identified between serum creatinine and SDMA in goats with OU.The SDMA RI for adult goats is higher than in other adult large animal species. Use of SDMA in goats with OU is not useful in assessing their renal function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the impact of feeding 17% moringa leaf meal (MLM) on the ruminal and fecal microbial composition and body weight gain (BWG) performance of lambs (Ovis aries) and kids (Capra hircus). A total of n = 28 lambs (n = 14, no-moringa, n = 14, 17% moringa) and 24 kids (n = 12, no-moringa, n = 12, 17% moringa) were involved in the experiment and body weight was recorded fortnightly. Metagenomic shotgun sequencing was performed on 28, 22, and 26 ruminal solid, liquid fraction, and fecal samples from lambs, and 23, 22, and 23 samples from kids. Moringa supplementation significantly increased BWG in lambs (21.09 ± 0.78 to 26.12 ± 0.81 kg) and kids (14.60 ± 1.29 to 18.28 ± 1.09 kg) (p-value ≤ 0.01). Microbiome analysis revealed an elevated Firmicutes:Bacteroidetes ratio in the moringa diet group. Moringa-fed animals exhibited increased microbial genera associated with volatile fatty acids (VFAs) production (Prevotella, Anaerovibrio, Lachnospiraceae, Butyrivibrio, Christensenella) and starch and fiber digesters (Proteobacteria, Ruminococcus). The increase in the bacterial genus Sharpea suggested possible methane reduction and decreased proportion of pathogens, Aliarcobacter_ID28198, Campylobacter_ID194 and Campylobacter_ID1660076 suggest health benefits. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis demonstrated significant alterations in microbial gene pool and metabolic pathways related to carbohydrate, protein, lipid and energy metabolism, indicating potential improvements in animal health. Overall, moringa feeding showed higher energy recovery, improved growth, and potential benefits in methane reduction and reduced pathogenic bacteria. Key points: •Study assessed the effects of Moringa olifera diet on lambs and kids. •Improved growth performance noted with moringa diet. •Moringa feed increased Firmicutes:Bacteroidetes ratio in rumen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Shipin Kexue/ Food Science is the property of Food Science Editorial Department and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Introduction: Batai virus (BATV), a zoonotic pathogen transmitted by mosquitoes, infects vertebrates, including livestock, birds, and humans. Although BATV has been detected and isolated in mosquitoes in Yunnan Province, China, there have been no reports of livestock infection. Thus, we conducted a molecular and serological investigation of BATV in cattle and goat sera collected in spring and autumn from 2021 to 2022 in Honghe Prefecture, Yunnan Province, on the China-Vietnam border. Methods: We used indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays and reverse transcription real-time PCR (RT-qPCR) to test 929 cattle and 973 goat serum samples. Results: BATV antibodies were detected in 262/929 (28.2%) cattle and 263/973 (27.0%) goat serum samples. RT-qPCR did not detect BATV RNA. Discussion: The positive rate of BATV serum antibodies in cattle and goats in Luxi County was higher compared with other areas, and it was also higher in autumn compared with spring, which may be related to climate, temperature, and mosquito density. Although our findings indicated the presence of BATV infection in livestock in the region, RT-qPCR did not detect BATV RNA. Therefore, BATV monitoring in cattle and goats should be heightened in autumn, and the scope of host monitoring should be expanded to clarify the hosts and vectors of BATV infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Livestock provide meat, milk, draught labour, are used for breeding, and act as a store of value for smallholder farmers. High young stock mortality (YSM) has the potential to cause significant financial loss. The Young Stock Mortality Reduction Consortium collaborated on a project to deliver a package of basic health and husbandry interventions to reduce YSM for cattle and small ruminants in mixed and pastoral production systems in Ethiopia. Prior to the intervention, YSM rates ranged from 9.8% for calves in mixed systems, to 35.6% for small ruminants in pastoral systems. Proportional reductions YSM from the intervention ranged from 60% for calves and for small ruminants in mixed systems, to 72% for calves in pastoral systems. This brief research report assesses the costs and benefits of the intervention ex-poste to determine its efficiency. NPVs for the intervention (per household) were calculated for a range of benefit periods (from 1 to 20 years), based on the cost of training enumerators and farmers and the net annual household benefits realised within each benefit period. We found in both pastoral and mixed systems the net annual household benefit for the intervention was positive. For pastoral households the intervention achieves a positive NPV after 2 years. For mixed households the intervention achieves a positive NPV after 11 years. Overall, we found the benefits of the intervention exceed the costs, by a very large amount in pastoral systems, and that benefits were larger for households that kept larger numbers of breeding females. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The accelerated rise in antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a significant global health risk, necessitating the exploration of alternative strategies to combat pathogenic infections. Biofilm-related infections that are unresponsive to standard antibiotics often require the use of higher-order antimicrobials with toxic side effects and the potential to disrupt the microbiome. Probiotic therapy, with its diverse benefits and inherent safety, is emerging as a promising approach to prevent and treat various infections, and as an alternative to antibiotic therapy. In this study, we isolated novel probiotic bacteria from the gut of domestic goats (Capra hircus) and evaluated their antimicrobial and anti-biofilm activities against the 'ESKAPE' group of pathogens. We performed comprehensive microbiological, biochemical, and molecular characterizations, including analysis of the 16S-rRNA gene V1-V3 region and the 16S-23S ISR region, on 20 caprine gut-derived lactic acid bacteria (LAB). Among these, six selected Lactobacillus isolates demonstrated substantial biofilm formation under anaerobic conditions and exhibited robust cell surface hydrophobicity and autoaggregation, and epithelial cell adhesion properties highlighting their superior enteric colonization capability. Notably, these Lactobacillus isolates exhibited broad-spectrum growth inhibitory and anti-biofilm properties against 'ESKAPE' pathogens. Additionally, the Lactobacillus isolates were susceptible to antibiotics listed by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) within the prescribed Minimum Inhibitory Concentration limits, suggesting their safety as feed additives. The remarkable probiotic characteristics exhibited by the caprine gut-derived Lactobacillus isolates in this study strongly endorse their potential as compelling alternatives to antibiotics and direct-fed microbial (DFM) feed supplements in the livestock industry, addressing the escalating need for antibiotic-free animal products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The motility pattern of the reticulo-rumen is a key factor affecting feed intake, rumen digesta residence time, and rumen fermentation. However, it is difficult to study reticulo-ruminal motility using general methods owing to the complexity of the reticulo-ruminal structure. Thus, we aimed to develop a technique to demonstrate the reticulo-ruminal motility pattern in static goats. Six Xiangdong black goats (half bucks and half does, body weight 29.5 ± 1.0 kg) were used as model specimens. Reticulo-ruminal motility videos were obtained using medical barium meal imaging technology. Videos were then analyzed using image annotation and the centroid method. The results showed that reticulo-ruminal motility was divided into primary (stages I, II, III, and IV) and secondary contraction, and the movements of ruminal digesta depended on reticulo-ruminal motility. Our results indicated common motility between the ruminal dorsal sac and ruminal dorsal blind sac. We observed that stages I (3.92 vs. 3.21 s) (P < 0.01), II (4.81 vs. 4.23 s) (P < 0.01), and III (5.65 vs. 5.15 s) (P < 0.05); interval (53.79 vs. 50.95 s); secondary contraction time (10.5 vs. 10 s); and were longer, whereas stage IV appeared to be shorter in the bucks than in the does (7.83 vs. 14.67 s) (P < 0.01). The feasibility of using barium meal imaging technology for assessing reticulo-ruminal and digesta motility was verified in our study. We determined the duration of each stage of reticulo-ruminalmotility and collected data on the duration and interval of each stage of ruminal motility in goats. This research provides new insights for the study of gastrointestinal motility and lays a solid foundation for the study of artificial rumen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Animal behavior is a critical aspect for a better understanding and management of animal health and welfare. The combination of cameras with artificial intelligence holds significant potential, particularly as it eliminates the need to handle animals and allows for the simultaneous measurement of various traits, including activity, space utilization, and inter-individual distance. The primary challenge in using these techniques is dealing with the individualization of data, known as the multiple object tracking problem in computer science. In this article, we propose an original solution called “Puzzle.” Similar to solving a puzzle, where you start with the border pieces that are easy to position, our approach involves commencing with video sequences where tracking is straightforward. This initial phase aims to train a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) capable of deriving the appearance clues of each animal. The CNN is then used on the entire video, together with distance-based metrics, in order to associate detections and animal id. We illustrated our method in the context of outdoor goat tracking, achieving a high percentage of good tracking, exceeding 90%. We discussed the impact of different criteria used for animal ID association, considering whether they are based solely on location, appearance, or a combination of both. Our findings indicate that, by adopting the puzzle paradigm and tailoring the appearance CNN to the specific video, relying solely on appearance can yield satisfactory results. Finally, we explored the influence of tracking efficacy on two behavioral studies, estimating space utilization and activity. The results demonstrated that the estimation error remained below 10%. The code is entirely and extensively documented. Additionally, it is linked to a data-paper to facilitate the training of any automatic detection algorithm for goats, with the goal of fostering open access within the deep-learning livestock community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peste des petits ruminants virus (PPRV) is a multi-host pathogen with sheep and goats as main hosts. To investigate the role of cattle in the epidemiology of PPR, we simulated conditions similar to East African zero-grazing husbandry practices in a series of trials with local Zebu cattle (Bos taurus indicus) co-housed with goats (Capra aegagrus hircus). Furthermore, we developed a mathematical model to assess the impact of PPRV-transmission from cattle to goats. Of the 32 cattle intranasally infected with the locally endemic lineage IV strain PPRV/Ethiopia/Habru/2014 none transmitted PPRV to 32 co-housed goats. However, these cattle or cattle co-housed with PPRV-infected goats seroconverted. The results confirm previous studies that cattle currently play a negligible role in PPRV-transmission and small ruminant vaccination is sufficient for eradication. However, the possible emergence of PPRV strains more virulent for cattle may impact eradication. Therefore, continued monitoring of PPRV circulation and evolution is recommended. Field trials and modeling in East Africa suggest zebu cattle, often co-housed with goats under zero-grazing conditions, show no evidence of transmitting PPRV to goats, supporting the strategy of focusing vaccination on small ruminants for PPR eradication in mixed-species systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study was conducted to investigate the effect of slaughter age on carcass traits, meat quality, and the relative mRNA levels of lipid metabolism-related genes in different muscles of Taihang black goats. Methods: In this study, the triceps brachii (TB), longissimus dorsi (LD) and gluteus (GL) muscles of 15 grazing Taihang black goats slaughtered at the age of 2, 3, and 4 (designated as 2-year-old, 3-year-old, and 4-year-old, respectively) were collected. The differences in carcass shape, meat quality, amino acid composition and lipid metabolism gene expression among Taihang black goats of different ages and from different plant parts were compared. Results: Compared with goats at other ages, goats slaughtered at the age of 4 had greater live and carcass weights, meat weights, bone weights and skin areas (p<0.05). LD in the 4-years-old had the lowest cooking loss and moisture content. The crude protein content in the LD of 2-year-old was significantly greater than that in the other age group, and at the age of 2, the LD had the highest crude protein content than TB and GL. The highest fat content was in LD, followed by TB, for goats slaughtered at the age of 4. Eight out of 9 essential amino acids had higher content in the TB compared with other muscles, regardless of age. The total essential amino acid content was highest in the 4-year-old and lowest in the GL muscle at the age of 3. The sterol regulatory element-binding protein-1c (SREBP-1c) and adipose triglyceride lipase (ATGL) genes were significantly more abundant in the TB muscle than in the other muscles for goats slaughtered at the age of 2. At the age of 4, the ATGL and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) genes were significantly more abundant in the GL than in the LD, while the fatty acid synthase (FAS) genes were significantly less abundant in the GL than in the other muscles. Similarly, compared with those in goats of other ages, the relative mRNA expression levels of the FAS and heart-type fatty acid binding protein (H-FABP) genes in goats slaughtered at the age of 4 were the highest, and the relative mRNA expression of the PPARγ gene was the lowest (p<0.05). The relative mRNA expression of the H-FABP and FAS genes was positively correlated with the intramuscular fat (IMF) content, while the relative mRNA expression levels of the PPARγ and ATGL genes was negatively correlated with the IMF content. Conclusion: Overall, a better nutritional value was obtained for TB from 4-year-old goats, in which the total essential amino acid and fat contents were greater than those of other muscles. The comprehensive action of lipid metabolism genes was consistent with that of the IMF content, among which the FAS, H-FABP, PPARγ, and ATGL genes had positive and negative effects on the process of IMF deposition in Taihang black goats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The list of standard abbreviations for JDS is available at adsa.org/jds-abbreviations-24. Nonstandard abbreviations are available in the Notes. Total bacterial count (TBC) and SCC are important quality parameters in goat milk. Exceeding the bulk milk TBC (BMTBC) thresholds leads to price penalties for Dutch dairy goat farmers. Controlling these milk quality parameters can be challenging, especially around kidding. First, we describe the variation and the peaks around kidding of TBC and SCC in census data on Dutch bulk milk over the last 22 yr. Second, to explore causes of these elevations, we studied the variation of TBC and SCC in individual goat milk from 3 wk before to 5 wk after kidding and their association with systemic response markers IFN-γ, calprotectin, BHB, BCS, and fecal consistency. We visited 4 Dutch dairy goat farms weekly for 10 to 16 wk around kidding. Some of the goats had been dried off; other goats were milked continuously throughout pregnancy. A total of 1,886 milk samples from 141 goats were collected for automated flow cytometric quantification of TBC and SCC measurement. IFN-γ, calprotectin, and BHB were determined twice in blood of the same goats; most samples were collected after kidding. The BCS and fecal consistency were scored visually before and after kidding. We found a strong correlation between TBC and SCC (Spearman's rho = 0.87) around kidding. Furthermore, in the third week before kidding, the average TBC (5.67 log 10 cfu/mL) and SCC (6.70 log 10 cells/mL) were significantly higher compared with the fifth week after kidding, where the average TBC decreased to 4.20 log 10 cfu/mL, and the average SCC decreased to 5.92 log 10 cells/mL. In multivariable linear regression models, farm and stage of lactation were significantly associated with TBC and SCC, but none of the systemic response markers correlated with TBC or SCC. In conclusion, TBC and SCC in dairy goats were high in late lactation and decreased shortly after parturition. For SCC, the dilution effect might have caused the decrease, but this was not plausible for TBC. Moreover, the excretion of bacteria and cells in goat milk was not associated with the selected systemic response markers that were chosen as a readout for general immunity status, intestinal health, and metabolic diseases. Therefore, we assume that the TBC increase before kidding and the decrease after parturition are caused by other systemic, possibly hormonal, processes. To reduce BMTBC and bulk milk SCC, it would be advisable to keep milk of goats with highest numbers of bacteria and cells in their milk out of the bulk milk during end lactation. Further studies are needed to investigate the effects of withholding this end-lactation milk from the bulk tank. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The list of standard abbreviations for JDS is available at adsa.org/jds-abbreviations-24. Nonstandard abbreviations are available in the Notes. Milk and dairy products are excellent sources of mineral elements, including Ca, P, Mg, Na, K, and Zn. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of nonthermal (homogenization) and thermal (heat treatment) treatments on the distribution of mineral elements in 4 milk fractions: fat, casein, whey protein, and aqueous phase. The study results revealed that the distribution of mineral elements (such as Mg and Fe) in fat fractions is extremely low, whereas significant mineral elements such as Ca, Zn, Fe, and Cu are mostly dispersed in casein fractions. For nontreated goat milk, Mo is the only element identified in the whey protein fraction, whereas K and Na are mostly found in the aqueous phase. Mineral element concentrations in fat (K, Zn, and so on) and casein fractions (Fe, Mo, and so on) increased dramatically after homogenization. Homogenization greatly decreased the concentration of mineral elements in the whey protein fraction (Ca, Na, and so on) and aqueous phase (Fe, Cu, and so on). After heat treatment, the element content in the fat fraction and casein fraction increased greatly when compared with raw milk, such as Cu and Mg in the fat fraction, Na and Cu in the whey protein fraction, the concentration of components such as Mg and Na in casein fraction increased considerably. In contrast, after homogenization, Zn in the aqueous phase decreased substantially, whereas Fe increased significantly. Therefore, both homogenization and heat treatment have an effect on the mineral element distribution in goat milk fractions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The tolerance of 17 isolates of enterobacteria isolated from raw goat milk was evaluated against three sanitisers. All isolates were tolerant to sodium hypochlorite (1250 to >5000 ppm) and eight isolates were tolerant to peracetic acid (up to 1000 ppm). Two isolates were tolerant to all tested concentrations of quaternary ammonium with biguanide (>150/100 ppm). Although not all isolates are considered pathogens, they exert an important influence on the milk production chain. Sanitisers based on quaternary ammonium and biguanide seem to be more suitable for sanitisation in goat milk chain than sodium hypochlorite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Improving the understanding of the causes and effects of anthropogenic hybridization is fundamental to ensure species conservation, particularly in the case of hybridization between wild species and their domestic relatives. Knowledge is missing for many species also because of a lack of appropriate tools for hybrid identification. Here, coupling genotype and phenotype analysis, we carried out an extensive investigation of ongoing hybridization in Alpine ibex Capra ibex, a mountain ungulate of conservation concern from a genetic perspective. By genotyping 63 diagnostic and 465 neutral SNPs, 20 suspected hybrids and 126 Alpine ibex without suspicious phenotype, representing 8 populations across a major part of the species distribution, we found evidence for ongoing hybridization between Alpine ibex and domestic goat. We identified different levels of hybridization including backcrosses into both Alpine ibex and domestic goat. Our results suggest a lack of reproductive barriers between the two species and good survival and reproductive success of the hybrids. Hybridization was locally intense, like a hybrid swarm, but not spread across the rest of the species distribution. Most of the hybrids were discovered in two locations in the north‐west of Italy, while random sampling of individuals from different areas did not provide evidence of recent hybridization. Our method, based on amplicon sequencing of 63 diagnostic SNPs specifically developed for this purpose, allowed us to identify hybrids and backcrosses up to the fourth to fifth generations and was suitable for genetic samples of different quality, although with varying levels of certainty regarding the exact number of generations passed since hybridization. Based on the paired analysis of genotype and phenotype, we provide guidelines for the first identification of hybrids in the field and suggest a procedure for the reliable identification of hybrids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: This study provides a description of the surveillance strategies adopted during an outbreak caused by the ST79 genotype of Coxiella burnetii, which has been endemic in the area for over a decade. It provides a detailed overview of C. burnetii infection in both wild and domestic animal populations in the Abruzzo and Molise regions. In the review of C. burnetii infections, data on the prevalence and impact of the bacterium in different animal hosts have been presented. This includes molecular findings that allow an assessment of the dynamics of infection before and after vaccination. In addition, this study proposes a novel NGS-based approach for in silico multi-spacer typing (MST) of C. burnetii. The results highlight the importance of surveillance and control measures in domestic animal populations to reduce the risk of zoonotic transmission. Coxiella burnetii is the causative agent of Q fever. The main reservoirs for this bacterium, which can lead to human infection, in our region are typically cattle, goats, and sheep. In animals, C. burnetii infection is often detected due to reproductive problems. European Member States are required to report confirmed cases annually, but the lack of uniform reporting methods makes the data rather inconsistent. The Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell'Abruzzo e del Molise is involved in official controls to identify the causes of abortions, monitor suspected or positive herds, evaluate suspected infections in pets and humans, monitor the spread in wildlife, etc. In this paper, we summarize the presence of C. burnetii over the last five years (2019–2023). Additionally, a detailed overview of C. burnetii infection in wild and domestic animals is provided. Five hundred sixty animals—including cattle; goats; sheep; wild animals, such as deer, boars, wolves, roe deer, owls, and otters; buffalo; dogs; horses; cats; and a donkey—and six human samples were tested by real-time PCR on the transposase gene IS1111 to detect C. burnetii. The MST profile was identified in some of the samples. Outbreaks of C. burnetii occurred in four herds. In one of them, it was possible to follow the outbreak from inception to eradication by evaluating the effect of vaccination on real-time PCR Ct values. A total of 116 animals tested positive for C. burnetii, including 73 goats, 42 sheep, and one bovine. None of the other samples tested positive. The strains for which the ST was performed were identified as ST79, a strain that has been present in the area for more than ten years. The effect of vaccination on the reduction of positive samples and the variation of real-time PCR Ct values was evaluated in strict correlation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Tree climbing is an extremely rare behavior among ungulates and has rarely been reported in forest-dwelling ungulates. We collected 15 tree-climbing records of Formosan serows, mainly from social media platforms. They climbed trees to forage throughout the year in many locations in Taiwan. This is the first report of tree-climbing behavior in the Formosan serow, which is typically a forest dweller. Ungulates are terrestrial herbivores, basically adapted to running fast on the ground; tree-climbing behavior has been reported only in seven species, and five of them live in open habitats (Capra hircus, C. aegagrus, C. falconeri, C. cylindricornis, Oreotragus oreotragus). Tree-climbing behavior may also be evolved in ungulates inhabiting dense forests with abundant trees; however, this has rarely been reported in such species (Moschus leucogaster, M. moschiferus), probably due to the difficulty of observing in the wild. The numerous publicly available records in social networks hold potentially valuable information on the atypical behaviors of wild ungulates. Here, we explored the tree-climbing behavior of a forest-dwelling ungulate, the Formosan serow in Taiwan, a subtropical island, by extracting information from online social media platforms. We researched images and videos of Formosan serows through Facebook and YouTube and collected a total of 15 tree-climbing events. In these materials, Formosan serows climbed 10 tree species, including evergreen coniferous and broad-leaved trees, and a variety of parts, ranging in height from 0.6 to 4 m, and from branches of shrubs to trunks of tall trees. Tree-climbing behavior was recorded throughout Taiwan and from lowlands to subalpine zones, suggesting that tree climbing may be a common behavior in this species. Foraging while climbing trees was frequently observed (53.3%), suggesting that the purpose or benefit for climbing is to obtain additional food other than plants growing near the ground surface. In contrast to other tree-climbing ungulates, Formosan serows climbed trees not only in winter, but also in other seasons, when food is relatively abundant. This is the first scientific report of tree-climbing behavior in the Formosan serow that is typically a forest dweller. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Animal genetic resources are crucial for ensuring global food security. However, in recent years, a noticeable decline in the genetic diversity of livestock has occurred worldwide. This decline is pronounced in developing countries, where the management of these resources is insufficient. In the current study, we performed whole genome sequencing for 20 Wuxue (WX) and five Guizhou White (GW) goats. Additionally, we utilized the published genomes of 131 samples representing five different goat breeds from various regions in China. We investigated and compared the genetic diversity and selection signatures of WX goats. Whole genome sequencing analysis of the WX and GW populations yielded 120 425 063 SNPs, which resided primarily in intergenic and intron regions. Population genetic structure revealed that WX exhibited genetic resemblance to GW, Chengdu Brown, and Jintang Black and significant differentiation from the other goat breeds. In addition, three methods (nucleotide diversity, linkage disequilibrium decay, and runs of homozygosity) showed moderate genetic diversity in WX goats. We used nucleotide diversity and composite likelihood ratio methods to identify within‐breed signatures of positive selection in WX goats. A total of 369 genes were identified using both detection methods, including genes related to reproduction (GRID2, ZNF276, TCF25, and SPIRE2), growth (HMGA2 and GJA3), and immunity (IRF3 and SRSF3). Overall, this study explored the adaptability of WX goats, shedding light on their genetic richness and potential to thrive in challenges posed by climatic changes and diseases. Further investigations are warranted to harness these insights to enhance more efficient and sustainable goat breeding initiatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heat stress (HS) disrupts testicular homeostasis because of oxidative stress. N‐acetylcysteine (NAC) is a thiol compound with antioxidants, anti‐inflammatory and anti‐apoptotic properties. As a sequel, this research aimed to assess the ameliorative effects of NAC supplementation on the reproductive performance of goat bucks kept under environmental HS. Primarily, Doppler examination as well as semen collection and evaluation were conducted on 12 mature bucks for 2 weeks (W) as pre‐heat stress control (W1 and W2) during winter (February 2023). The temperature–humidity index (THI) was 63.4–64.3 (winter season). Then during summer HS conditions (from the beginning of July till the end of August 2023) bucks were assessed before NAC supplementation (W0), afterwards they were arbitrarily assigned into two groups. The control group (CON; n = 6) received the basal diet while the NAC group (n = 6) received the basal diet in addition to oral NAC daily for 7 weeks (W1–W7). The THI was 78.1–81.6 (summer season). Testicular blood flow parameters, serum concentration of nitric oxide (NO) and testosterone were measured. Additionally, total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and malondialdehyde (MDA) content in seminal plasma and semen quality parameters were evaluated. There were marked reductions (p < 0.05) in the resistive index (RI; W1, W4 and W5), pulsatility index (PI; W2 and W4–W7), and systolic/diastolic ratio (S/D; W4–W7) in the NAC group compared to the CON group. Furthermore, testosterone and NO levels were higher (p < 0.01 and p < 0.05, respectively) in the NAC group (W2, W3, W5 and W3–W5, respectively). Seminal plasma TAC increased (p < 0.05) and MDA decreased (p < 0.05) in the NAC group (W2, W4 and W5) compared to the CON group. Moreover, there were marked improvements (p < 0.05) in semen quality parameters (mass motility, total motility, viability and normal morphology) in the NAC group. In conclusion, oral NAC supplementation could be used to enhance the reproductive performance of goat bucks during HS conditions which is supported by remarkable enhancement in testicular haemodynamics, NO, testosterone levels and semen quality parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A thorough understanding of the development process of grazing activities and an elucidation of their complex mechanisms are crucial for the formulation and adjustment of livestock management policies. In the Selinco region of the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of year-end livestock numbers and densities over the past 30 years. The results indicate a gradual decline in overall livestock numbers in the Selinco region during this period, with a notable decrease between 2004 and 2014, followed by stabilization. Notably, the number of yaks has significantly increased, whereas the numbers of sheep, goats, and horses have markedly decreased. Regarding livestock density, there is a spatial pattern of decrease from northwest to southeast, with the density order being Seni District > Bange County > Anduo County > Shenzha County > Nima County > Shuanghu County. Between 2004 and 2014, most counties experienced a significant decline in livestock density, exhibiting a trough–peak pattern. However, after 2014, a complex spatiotemporal dynamic emerged. Concerning driving factors, from 1990 to 2004, rural population and economic development were the primary influences on livestock density. After 2004, forage–livestock balance management policies, snowstorms, and fluctuations in livestock prices likely became the main influencing factors. Further detailed analysis of these factors is essential for developing more effective management strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Enteric methanogenesis in ruminants is identified as one of the primary anthropogenic sources of total atmospheric methane. Recent evidence suggests that rumen methanogenesis is significantly suppressed by lovastatin. Nevertheless, it has not been reported whether the methane reduction by lovastatin depends on ruminant livestock type, nor has fiber degradability been examined. The current research aimed to analyze the in vitro effect of lovastatin on the major fermentation end-products, gas production (GP) kinetics, and fiber degradation of a forage-based diet using rumen inoculum from sheep, goats, and cows. The experiment was conducted as a 3 × 3 factorial arrangement of treatments (dose of lovastatin: 0, 80, and 160 mg/L and three inoculum sources) in a completely randomized design. The results suggested that lovastatin did not affect the GP kinetics parameters. The anti-methanogenic properties of lovastatin were variable depending on dose and inoculum source. Lovastatin demonstrated a superior methane-lowering effect in sheep rumen inoculum compared with goat and cow inocula. The total volatile fatty acid (VFA) production was unaffected by lovastatin, but changes in acetate and valerate proportions were registered. Remarkably, lovastatin decreased the NH3-N concentration with goat and sheep inocula and the in vitro neutral fiber detergent (NDF) degradation for all inoculum sources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In contact with water, chia seeds release mucilage (MC), which is a source of various health-promoting compounds including dietary fibres. MC has been previously used as a thickening agent in cow milk yoghurt, but there are no available data on its application in goat milk. In this study, three goat milk yoghurts (without—MC0, with 1.5%—MC15 and with 3% mucilage—MC30) were produced. The rheology, texture, microbial counts, syneresis, microstructure and sensory acceptance of the yoghurts were investigated. The MC addition resulted in a reduced hysteresis area, but increased yoghurt viscosity at lower shear rates. It also improved all texture parameters at both concentration levels, while syneresis values were reduced only in sample MC30. The MC addition promoted lactobacilli viability in both supplemented yoghurts. The texture perceived by sensory evaluation was rated the highest for the sample MC30, which was also the most accepted by consumers overall. Critical attributes that reduced the acceptability of all yoghurts were flavour and acidity. In conclusion, chia seed mucilage can be used as a functional ingredient in goat milk yoghurt to produce an innovative dairy product and meet consumer expectations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Goats respond to pain and often require chemical restraints for veterinary procedures. Information regarding the cardiopulmonary, haematological and biochemical effects of chlorpromazine (CPZ) or chlorpromazine-pentazocine (CPZ-PTZ) in West African Dwarf (WAD) goats has not been fully established. The study aimed to evaluate the cardiopulmonary, haematological and biochemical responses of WAD goats following sedation with either CPZ alone or a combination of CPZ-PTZ. Six healthy adult WAD bucks were randomly selected for two separate experiments using CPZ or CPZ-PTZ in a prospective crossover trial. Anaesthetic indices were taken. Blood samples were collected before the experiment (0 minutes), 45 minutes, 90 minutes and 24 hours for haematology and serum biochemistry assay. Heart rate (HR), respiratory rate (RR) and rectal temperature (°C) were measured at intervals of 10 minutes for 90 minutes. In between clinical trials, the bucks were given a 14-day break. The duration of recumbency for CPZ (43.00 ± 12.95 minutes) was significantly lower compared to the CPZ-PTZ protocol (46.50 ± 27.32 minutes). Analgesia was recorded in only the CPZ-PTZ group for 41.67 ± 1.75 minutes. The HR was significantly higher (p<0.05) in the CPZ-PTZ group than in the CPZ group from 0 to 70 minutes. The CPZ-PTZ protocol was a better one as it did not exert a negative effect on the red blood cells or serum protein compared with CPZ alone in the goats. Haematological, biochemical and cardiopulmonary changes were also evident in the goats. Further research may determine the risk-benefit profile of this anaesthetic regimen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study was conducted using twenty-one (21) West African Dwarf (WAD) goats with an average weight of 10.50 ± 0.36 kg to evaluate the nutrient intake, weight gain, and nitrogen balance of WAD goats fed microbial-treated Bambara nutshell diets. The chemical and mineral compositions of the diets were also determined. The goats were allotted to seven dietary treatments, replicated three times in a completely randomized design. The Bambara nutshells were sterilized for 15 minutes, inoculated with 25, 50, and 75 ml of each Pleurotus pulmonaris and Aspergillus niger, incubated for 7 days and air dried. The treated Bambara nutshell was incorporated into the diets at the rate of 0ml (Diet A), 25 ml P. pulmonaris (Diet B), 50 ml P. pulmonaris (Diet C), (Diet D), 75 ml P. pulmonaris (Diet E), 25 ml A. niger (Diet F) 50 ml A. niger and (Diet G) 75 ml A. niger respectively. The experimental period lasted for 56 days excluding 2 weeks of adaptation. Results showed that the proximate compositions were significantly influenced (p<0.05) by the treatment except for crude protein (CP). Diet F had the highest dry matter (DM) values (94.77%) and CP (20.33%) while Diet C had the least (92.33%) DM and Diet G (19.16%) had the least CP. Goats fed Diet D had the highest daily weight gain (107.14 g/day), and best feed/gain ratio of 6.20. Conclusively, microbial treatment of Bambara nutshell will help in the conversion of these wastes to better quality ruminant feed for better performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was undertaken to assess the ameliorative effect of dietary supplementation of astaxanthin in Sirohi goats under simulated heat stress conditions. Eighteen healthy female Sirohi goats were divided equally into three groups (n = 6): Heat-Stressed Control (HSC), Treatment 1 (T1), and Treatment 2 (T2). During the experiment, goats in the T1 group were supplemented with astaxanthin at the rate of 25 mg/animal/day, while those in the T2 group received supplementation of 50 mg/animal/day. The experiment was conducted for 42 days: 14 days of acclimatization period, next 21 days animals were exposed to 42ºC for 6 h from 09:00 h to 15:00 h and 7 days of recovery period. On a daily basis, we recorded the physiological responses of goats and collected environmental data at the experimental site. Blood samples were collected 0 and 14th days of acclimatization, on 1st, 6th, 11th, 16th and 21st day of heat exposure and on the 7th day of the recovery period. The rectal temperature and respiration rates of the treatment groups were lower than those of the HSC group during the exposure period. Heat stress in the supplemented groups was associated with reduced levels of hepatic enzymes such as AST and ALT. Serum urea, creatinine and albumin levels were significantly (P < 0.05) different between control and treatment groups. It was thus concluded that dietary inclusion of antioxidant astaxanthin can ameliorate induced thermal load as evident from changes in physio-biochemical parameters in the Sirohi goats, that was more prominent at 50 mg/ animal/day than 25 mg/ animal/day. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Liver biopsy is a minimally invasive technique for liver evaluation, but its use is limited in dairy goats. Here, our main goal was to describe a liver biopsy method suitable for goat herds. The liver biopsy technique allows for the taking of liver samples to measure hepatic triglycerides and glycogen while preserving animal health and welfare. We evaluated the major factors that may cause changes in hepatic content in dairy goats, such as the peripartum period, number of fetuses, diet, supplementation, and milk production. The level of milk production and days relative to parturition influence hepatic triglyceride levels and glycogen content in dairy goats. Biopsy techniques in dairy goats are currently limited. This study aimed to describe a liver biopsy technique in dairy goats and to evaluate liver triglyceride levels and glycogen content. Sixty-nine dairy goats in the final stage of pregnancy and early lactation period were selected. Fifty goats were selected randomly for hepatic biopsy (HB) according to gestational period and were characterized according to fetus number (single: n = 16, multiple: n = 34), supplementation with propylene glycol (diet: n = 23, diet+PG: n = 27), and milk production levels (high: 3.0 ± 0.4 L/day, n = 15; low: 1.4 ± 0.4 L/day, n = 26). Liver tissue samples were obtained through biopsy on days −30, −20, −15, −10, −5, and 15 days after calving. Hepatic triglyceride and glycogen were quantified. The results were analyzed using the F-test at a 5% significance level and a comparison of means using the Tukey test. The liver biopsies did not influence dry matter intake, body weight, or milk yield. Hepatic glycogen concentration was lower 15 days after calving than it was prior to calving, except on day −20. Goats that generated high levels of milk production had lower triglyceride levels than goats that generated low levels of milk production. The biopsy technique is a safe method for obtaining tissue and evaluating liver content in dairy goats. The milk production level and days relative to parturition influence the hepatic triglyceride and glycogen content in dairy goats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: In the past few years, mRNA vaccines have exhibited numerous advantages over conventional vaccines owing to their high potency, safety, efficacy, accelerated development cycles, and potential for rapid, low-cost manufacturing. Here, we made the first attempt to establish animal tests for mRNA vaccines prepared against BVDV-1, a virus responsible for bovine viral diarrhea in livestock. Our preliminary data indicate that the RNA technology holds great promise for the further development of efficient and secure BVDV vaccines. Bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) is an RNA virus associated with severe economic losses in animal production. Effective vaccination and viral surveillance are urgent for the prevention and control of BVDV infection. However, the application of traditional modified live vaccines and inactivated vaccines is faced with tremendous challenges. In the present study, we describe the preclinical efficacy of two BVDV mRNA vaccines tested in mice and guinea pigs, followed by a field trial in goats, where they were compared to a commercial vaccine (formaldehyde inactivated). The two mRNAs were engineered to express the envelope protein E2 of BVDV-1, the most prevalent subtype across the world, through a 5′ cap-dependent or independent fashion. Better titers of neutralizing antibodies against BVDV-1 were achieved using the capped RNA in the sera of mice and guinea pigs, with maximum values reaching 9.4 and 13.7 (by −log2), respectively, on the 35th day post-vaccination. At the same time point, the antibody levels in goats were 9.1 and 10.2 for the capped and capless RNAs, respectively, and there were no significant differences compared to the commercial vaccine. The animals remained healthy throughout the experiment, as reflected by their normal leukogram profiles. Collectively, our findings demonstrate that mRNA vaccines have good safety and immunogenicity, and we laid a strong foundation for the further exploitation of efficient and safe BVDV vaccines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: In intensive dairy goat farms, artificial lactation is used for kids, often with only the colostrum from the first milking being used, discarding the milk from the second milking, or transition milk. On the other hand, in modern pig breeds, the number of piglets born with low birth weight is increasing, mainly due to the growth in litter sizes. These piglets are less likely to survive in the first hours of life due to their low energy reserves, among other factors. The aim of this study was to improve the current knowledge of goat colostrum for its use as an alternative energy supplement for newborn piglets. In order to assess the similarity of sow and goat colostrum, the fatty acid (FA) composition of both was examined in detail. The major FAs (palmitic, oleic, and linoleic acids) were the same in both species, although they were found in different proportions. Goat colostrum is mainly characterized by a high proportion of short- and medium-chain FAs (4:0, 6:0, 8:0, and 10:0), which are absent in sow colostrum. This group of FAs may play an important role in colostrum, as they are a readily available source of energy and have also been attributed to strong antibacterial activity. Therefore, the surplus of goat colostrum and milk from the second milking not used for feeding kids could be a promising energy supplement for newborn piglets, especially for the weakest and smallest of the litter, which are the most in need. Currently, the utilization of hyperprolific sows has stimulated the search for supplements aimed at enhancing piglet survival, as these sows yield more offspring than they can adequately feed with their colostrum production. In contrast, intensive goat farming often yields surplus colostrum, thus necessitating its removal, since kids are exclusively fed colostrum through lactation solely within the initial day of birth. The objective of this study was to examine and compare the fatty acid (FA) profiles of colostrum from sows and goats, together with possible influencing factors such as sow parity and the postpartum day of the goat, for possible use as an energy supplement for neonatal piglets. Swine colostrum was collected from sows with a 0–5 parity. In addition, samples of goat colostrum were collected on their first (D1) and second (D2) days of postpartum milking. The FA profiles of the colostrum were analyzed via gas chromatography. The parity value of the sows did not affect (p > 0.05) the FA colostrum composition. High proportions of palmitic, oleic, and linoleic acids were found in both types of colostrum. Levels of palmitic, oleic, and linoleic acids were significantly higher in D1 goat colostrum, whereas saturated FAs of less than 14 carbons (4:0, 6:0, 8:0, 10:0, and 12:0) were found in higher proportions in D2. These FAs play an important role in colostrum as they are a readily available source of energy and have also been attributed strong antibacterial activity. Therefore, goat colostrum, especially D2, could be used as an alternative energy supplement for newborn piglets, in particular for the weakest and smallest of the litter, which are the most in need. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the physicochemical and functional properties of goat milk whey with heat and non‐heat treatments (pasteurisation, high‐temperature heating, ultrasonic treatment and microwave heating) and lactose hydrolysis. The optimal lactose hydrolysis conditions were obtained through orthogonal test. The results revealed the lactose and glucose in low‐lactose goat milk whey remained largely unchanged through all four treatments, while high‐temperature and microwave treatments induced protein structure alteration. The foaming and emulsifying properties of low‐lactose whey powder were enhanced by heating and ultrasonic treatments, although foam stability decreased. Our findings provide valuable insights into exploiting more nutritional goat milk products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Goats were domesticated in the Fertile Crescent about 10,000 years before present (YBP) and subsequently spread across Eurasia and Africa. This dispersal is expected to generate a gradient of declining genetic diversity with increasing distance from the areas of early livestock management. Previous studies have reported the existence of such genetic cline in European goat populations, but they were based on a limited number of microsatellite markers. Here, we have analyzed data generated by the AdaptMap project and other studies. More specifically, we have used the geographic coordinates and estimates of the observed (Ho) and expected (He) heterozygosities of 1077 European, 1187 African and 617 Asian goats belonging to 38, 43 and 22 different breeds, respectively, to find out whether genetic diversity and distance to Ganj Dareh, a Neolithic settlement in western Iran for which evidence of an early management of domestic goats has been obtained, are significantly correlated. Results: Principal component and ADMIXTURE analyses revealed an incomplete regional differentiation of European breeds, but two genetic clusters representing Northern Europe and the British-Irish Isles were remarkably differentiated from the remaining European populations. In African breeds, we observed five main clusters: (1) North Africa, (2) West Africa, (3) East Africa, (4) South Africa, and (5) Madagascar. Regarding Asian breeds, three well differentiated West Asian, South Asian and East Asian groups were observed. For European and Asian goats, no strong evidence of significant correlations between Ho and He and distance to Ganj Dareh was found. In contrast, in African breeds we detected a significant gradient of diversity, which decreased with distance to Ganj Dareh. Conclusions: The detection of a genetic cline associated with distance to the Ganj Dareh in African but not in European or Asian goat breeds might reflect differences in the post-domestication dispersal process and subsequent migratory movements associated with the management of caprine populations from these three continents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the differences in genetic variation between local Chinese dairy goat breeds and imported breeds can help germplasm innovation and molecular breeding. However, the research is limited in this area. In this study, whole-genome resequencing data from 134 individuals of both local and imported dairy goat breeds were analyzed, and their differences in genomic genetic variation, genetic diversity, and population structure were subsequently identified. We also screened candidate genes associated with important traits of dairy goats such as milk production (STK3, GHR, PRELID3B), reproduction (ATP5E), growth and development (CTSZ, GHR), and immune function (CTSZ, NELFCD). Furthermore, we examined allele frequency distributions for the genes of interest and found significant differences between the two populations. This study provides valuable resources for the study of genetic diversity in dairy goats and lays the foundation for the selective breeding of dairy goats in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Litter size is a key indicator of production performance in livestock. However, its genetic basis in goats remains poorly understood. In this work, a genome‐wide selection sweep analysis (GWSA) on 100 published goat genomes with different litter rates was performed for the first time to identify candidate genes related to kidding rate. This analysis was combined with the public RNA‐sequencing data of ovary tissues (follicular phase) from high‐ and low‐yielding goats. A total of 2278 genes were identified by GWSA. Most of these genes were enriched in signaling pathways related to ovarian follicle development and hormone secretion. Moreover, 208 differentially expressed genes between groups were obtained from the ovaries of goats with different litter sizes. These genes were substantially enriched in the cholesterol and steroid synthesis signaling pathways. Meanwhile, the weighted gene co‐expression network was used to perform modular analysis of differentially expressed genes. The results showed that seven modules were reconstructed, of which one module showed a very strong correlation with litter size (r = −0.51 and p‐value <0.001). There were 51 genes in this module, and 39 hub genes were screened by Pearson's correlation coefficient between core genes > 0.4, correlation coefficient between module members > 0.80 and intra‐module connectivity ≥5. Finally, based on the results of GWSA and hub gene Venn analysis, seven key genes (ACSS2, HECW2, KDR, LHCGR, NAMPT, PTGFR and TFPI) were found to be associated with steroid synthesis and follicle growth development. This work contributes to understanding of the genetic basis of goat litter size and provides theoretical support for goat molecular breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]