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Context: The fate of kids born in dairy goat production systems is a growing concern. Aims: This study aimed to evaluate the carcass characteristics and meat quality of Saanen and Saanen × Boer goat kids slaughtered at 30 and 60 days of age. Methods: We used 32 entire male goats, suckler and with access to solid food from 30 to 60 days, distributed in a completely randomised design, in a 2 (breed) × 2 (age at slaughter) factorial arrangement. We evaluated animal performance, carcass characteristics, instrumental analyses of the Quadriceps femoral muscle, and consumer perception. Key results: There was no interaction between breed and age of the goats (P > 0.05) on the initial and final liveweight, weight gain, cold carcass weight, hot carcass weight, and hot and cold carcass yields. However, age at slaughter influenced these variables (P < 0.05). The breed did not influence pH, meat colour, water-retention capacity, weight loss by cooking, or shear force (P > 0.05). However, shear force increased when goats were slaughtered at 60 days of age (P < 0.05). The muscle pH determined at 24 h after slaughter, and lipid oxidation, were lower in the meat of goats slaughtered at 60 days of age (P < 0.05), but did not differ between breeds. Higher consumer scores for flavour and appearance (P < 0.05) were attributed to the meat of crossbred animals in sensory analysis. Conclusions: Slaughtering goat kids at 60 days of age (versus 30 days of age) is an alternative for improving some aspects of meat quality. We recommend crossing Saanen × Boer to increase consumer acceptance of meat. Implications: This study is important for Saanen goat kids producers to understand that crossbreeding with the Boer breed improves carcass characteristics and meat acceptance by consumers. We compared Saanen and Saanen × Boer kid meats and found that the Saanen × Boer crossbreed contributes to increased carcass yield and greater acceptance of the meat by consumers. When comparing different slaughter ages (30 and 60 days), we observed that the carcass fat content increased and lipid oxidation in the meat decreased when the kids were slaughtered at 60 days of age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Enterotoxemia" or "overeating disease" is considered a common and often fatal disease affecting the economy of small ruminant breeding systems. This study presents findings on the occurrence of a peracute form of enterotoxemia in a herd of Saanen and Alpine, including an examination of the clinical signs, post-mortem findings, and methods for diagnosis. Methods: In a herd of goats a distressing situation occurred where the goats displayed signs (Sudden death and high fever) of peracute enterotoxemia (125 kids). It is noteworthy that these goats had previously been vaccinated against enterotoxemia. The onset of the condition seemed to be linked to three instances of interruption and reconnection of concentrate feed. To obtain a definitive diagnosis, the findings from postmortem examinations and ELISA were utilized. Results: In total, 60 Alpine and 65 Saanen succumbed to this peracute form. These losses occurred over three days but were successfully stopped by re-vaccination after two days. Clinical signs, postmortem observations, bacterial analysis, and ELISA results all provided confirmation of enterotoxemia. Notable findings included high fever (90%), duodenum hyperemia (89%), pulmonary edema (82%), convulsions (43%), and hemorrhage in the pericardium and endocardium (58%). Conclusion: Frequent and consecutive changes in goats' diet or discontinuation of concentrate supply by breeders can disrupt the vaccine-induced immune barrier, increasing the likelihood of enterotoxemia, and leading to casualties and economic losses. Consistent and stable nutrition practices are essential for maintaining vaccination efficacy and preventing enterotoxemia in goats, particularly kids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hoof overgrowth in commercial housed dairy goats is a major health and welfare concern; thus, it is important to better understand hoof trimming, a priority practice which addresses hoof growth. We evaluated the immediate effects of trimming on external conformation, internal joint positions, and hoof wall overgrowth of front and hind hooves. Eighty female goats were enrolled. Pre and post hoof trimming data were collected at 13, 17, 21 and 25 months of age. Overall, before trimming, a high percentage of hooves were scored as overgrown (77.8%). Trimming decreased the percentage of overgrown hooves (17.6%: P < 0.001) and other moderate/severe conformational issues: dipped heels (49.3% vs. 26.7; P < 0.001), misshaped claws (37.0% vs. 17.6%; P < 0.001), splayed claws (73.7% vs. 56.7%; P < 0.001). More hind than front hooves had dipped heels pre-trimming and (91.3% vs. 7.3%; P < 0.001) and post-trimming (52.8% vs. 0.6%; P < 0.001); over half of the hind heels were not restored to an upright position. A greater proportion of toe length was removed from the hind hooves compared to the front (0.50 vs. 0.43, P < 0.001), with the greatest proportion of hoof wall overgrowth removed from the hind hoof medial claw at the 13-month assessment (P < 0.001). Following trimming, distal interphalangeal joint angle decreased more in hind compared to front hooves (11.0° vs. 6.9°; P < 0.001); distal interphalangeal joint height decreased (0.21 cm, P < 0.001), and proximal interphalangeal joint, and heel, angles increased (7.76° and 8.93°, respectively; P < 0.001). Trimming did not restore conformation of all hooves when trimmed every 4 months, suggesting a need to investigate reasons for underlying poor conformation, including trimming frequency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Enterotoxemia" or "overeating disease" is considered a common and often fatal disease affecting the economy of small ruminant breeding systems. This study presents findings on the occurrence of a peracute form of enterotoxemia in a herd of Saanen and Alpine, including an examination of the clinical signs, post-mortem findings, and methods for diagnosis. Methods: In a herd of goats a distressing situation occurred where the goats displayed signs (Sudden death and high fever) of peracute enterotoxemia (125 kids). It is noteworthy that these goats had previously been vaccinated against enterotoxemia. The onset of the condition seemed to be linked to three instances of interruption and reconnection of concentrate feed. To obtain a definitive diagnosis, the findings from postmortem examinations and ELISA were utilized. Results: In total, 60 Alpine and 65 Saanen succumbed to this peracute form. These losses occurred over three days but were successfully stopped by re-vaccination after two days. Clinical signs, post-mortem observations, bacterial analysis, and ELISA results all provided confirmation of enterotoxemia. Notable findings included high fever (90%), duodenum hyperemia (89%), pulmonary edema (82%), convulsions (43%), and hemorrhage in the pericardium and endocardium (58%). Conclusion: Frequent and consecutive changes in goats' diet or discontinuation of concentrate supply by breeders can disrupt the vaccine-induced immune barrier, increasing the likelihood of enterotoxemia, and leading to casualties and economic losses. Consistent and stable nutrition practices are essential for maintaining vaccination efficacy and preventing enterotoxemia in goats, particularly kids.

Goat milk offers a variety of health benefits. The objective of this study is to evaluate the influence of refrigerated storage on the quality of unprocessed and pasteurized goat milk within a defined timeframe. In addition, also analyzes the chemical and microbiological composition of both raw and pasteurized goat milk during refrigerated storage to assess its longevity. Goat milk samples were obtained from healthy Saanen female goats, aged 3-4 years, with a body condition score (BCS) ranging from 2 to 3. The samples were taken from UniSZA Pasir Akar farm in Besut, Terengganu, Malaysia. The milk samples were processed through pasteurization. Exactly 10 goats were meticulously chosen, with each goat yielding 1 liter of milk. The goats were segregated into two cohorts: one cohort for raw milk (n=5) and the other for pasteurized milk (n=5). Subsequently, the milk samples from both groups were subjected to chilling storage experimentation at the food technology laboratory of Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin (UniSZA) in Besut. The milk samples (duplicates) were monitored for 42 days to assess their physical characteristics. The pasteurized goat milk samples were evaluated for milk composition (fat, solid non-fat, protein, and lactose) and microbial contents (TPC and EMB) from Week 0 to Week 6. The effect of shelf life, composition values, and bacterial growth were measured weekly, and the data were presented descriptively (SEM±STD) with paired T-Test as the statistical analysis, considering p

The KISS1 gene, which activates G protein-coupled receptor-54 (GPR54) and plays a crucial role in the neuroendocrine regulation of GnRH secretion, is known to encode a family of neuropeptides called kisspeptins. Therefore, the KISS1 gene is thought to be associated with sexual maturity, offspring development, and estrus. The g.2124T>A polymorphism of the KISS1 gene, is believed to affect the reproductive system, has been studied in Indonesian goat breeds, Damascus, Zarabi, Baladi, Gaddi, Kaligesing, Guanzong, Xinong Saanen and Boer goat breeds until now. These studies are generally related determining polymorphism frequencies or the effect of genotype on litter size. The study aims to determine the allele and genotype frequencies of the KISS1 gene g.2124T>A SNP by the PCR-RFLP method and define the relationship between the genotypic structures and reproductive parameters such as luteal growth, maximum corpus luteum diameter, and mating rate in Saanen goats (n=30). According to the results, the genotype frequencies in Saanen goats for the KISS1 gene g.2124T>A were 10.35%, 55.17%, and 34.48% for AA, TT and AT, respectively. Moreover, the genotypic structure did not have a statistically significant effect on the investigated fertility characteristics. The average values of expected heterozygosity (He), observed heterozygosity (Ho), the effective number of alleles (Ne), fixation index values (FIS), and the polymorphism information content (PIC) were 0.3996, 0.3448, 1.6655, 0.8629 and 0.855, respectively. The Hardy-Weinberg chi-square (χ2) value was found to be 0.5435. In conclusion, it was found necessary to study the KISS1 - g.2124T>A polymorphism in larger herds with different gene pools as a reason for the existence of genotypic variation and the narrow population size. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Infectious diarrhea in young goats is one of the most common and serious threats to the animals' health, influencing the profitability of the goat industry. Considering the need to investigate the factors involved in the occurrence of neonatal diseases, especially diarrhea, to improve livestock health and increase productivity, especially in Iran, the present study was conducted with the aim of investigating the bacterial agents involved in the diarrhea of Alpine and Saanen kids. Methods: Between 1421 goats (714 Saanen and 704 Alpine) under the supervision, 254 goats (17.8%) of different ages died due to diarrhea sign. Samples from the liver, heart, and lungs were taken during the necropsy process, and bacteriological examinations were performed. Results: Forty-four kids died of non-infectious cause. Diarrhea caused by bacterial agents (10.9%) was much more than non-infectious agents (3.1%). Significantly more so than at other ages, the bacterial agent was isolated from the age of less than 2 months. Isolated bacterial agents included Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus (12.3%), Pseudomonas (7.1%), Bacillus (11%) and Klebsiella (2.6%). E. coli was isolated frequently (63.2%), and mostly at the age of less than 2 months. The highest rate of isolation of bacterial agents was from the heart, especially E. coli. Conclusion: The findings of the current research showed that in Saanen and Alpine goats reared in intensive rearing systems, E. coli bacteria has a high contribution to the occurrence of digestive problems and diarrhea, which can be avoided by controlling environmental health, improvement and preventing the density of parturitions in a short time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Infectious diarrhea in young goats is one of the most common and serious threats to the animals' health, influencing the profitability of the goat industry. Considering the need to investigate the factors involved in the occurrence of neonatal diseases, especially diarrhea, to improve livestock health and increase productivity, especially in Iran, the present study was conducted with the aim of investigating the bacterial agents involved in the diarrhea of Alpine and Saanen kids. Methods: Between 1421 goats (714 Saanen and 704 Alpine) under the supervision, 254 goats (17.8%) of different ages died due to diarrhea sign. Samples from the liver, heart, and lungs were taken during the necropsy process, and bacteriological examinations were performed. Results: Forty-four kids died of non-infectious cause. Diarrhea caused by bacterial agents (10.9%) was much more than non-infectious agents (3.1%). Significantly more so than at other ages, the bacterial agent was isolated from the age of less than 2 months. Isolated bacterial agents included Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus (12.3%), Pseudomonas (7.1%), Bacillus (11%) and Klebsiella (2.6%). E. coli was isolated frequently (63.2%) , and mostly at the age of less than 2 months. The highest rate of isolation of bacterial agents was from the heart, especially E. coli. Conclusion: The findings of the current research showed that in Saanen and Alpine goats reared in intensive rearing systems, E. coli bacteria has a high contribution to the occurrence of digestive problems and diarrhea, which can be avoided by controlling environmental health, improvement and preventing the density of parturitions in a short time.

The objectives of this study were 1) to compare models to describe the lactation curve of the Saanen, Moxotó, and Anglo-Nubian 2) to evaluate the effect of genetic groups on production and composition milk and efficiency of mobilization of body reserves during lactation. Twenty-three multiparous goats, newly calved, were divided into three treatments (genetic groups: 9 Saanen, 8 Moxotó, and 6 Anglo-Nubian). The goats were randomly distributed in collective pens, under the same feeding conditions. Five mathematical models were used to adjust the lactation curves: Wood (WD); Papajcsik and Bodero (PB); Adapted from Papajcsik and Bodero (APB); Nelder (ND) and Wilmink (WM). To indicate the best fit, the model evaluation system software was used, performing additional analyzes with the observed and predicted values for each fitted equation. There were differences (P<0.05) in the parameters a, b and c between the genetic groups in each mathematical model. The APB model is recommended for use in all genetic groups to evaluate milk yield (Y), following the parameters: Y = 1.196+0.0545×t×e (-0.038×t) for Saanen, Y = 0.297+0.031×t×e(-0.0462×t) for Moxotó and Y = 0.757+0.0554×t×e(-0.0417×t) for Anglo-Nubian. The results for average milk production during 27 weeks of lactation were 1.37; 0.37 and 0.9 kg d-1 for Saanen, Moxotó and Anglo-Nubian, respectively. Except for lactose, there was a difference (P<0.05) between the genetic groups for milk composition and plasma beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) levels. Considering milk composition, the Saanen, Moxoto and Anglo Nubiana presented the averages (%) for fat of 3.66, 6.75, and 5.10, protein 3.32, 4.97, and 4.18 and lactose 4.28, 4.46, and 4.39%, respectively. There was no effect (P>0.05) on B-HBO in response to days of lactation, but Saanen and Anglo Nubian goats had higher plasma levels of this metabolite compared to Moxotó goats. Saanen had a greater weight loss of 12.83 kg, which was verified at 35 days of lactation. Saanen and Anglo-Nubian animals have a greater ability to mobilize body reserves compared to Moxotó. APB model is adequate to describe milk production of goats in tropical areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Infectious and non-infectious abortions are necessary to be evaluated in Saanen and Alpine breeds as they have been recently imported to Iran whith out enough information about their susceptibility to diseases in the country situation. The present study aimed to investigate the causes of abortion in Saanen and Alpine to compare their susceptibility to each identified abortion factor. Methods: A total of 600 Saanen and 600 Alpine breeds were studied. Abomasal contents of foeti and serum samples from aborted does were analyzed by PCR and conventional culture methods and beta-hydroxy butyrate was measured in the serum of aborted animals. Results: Among 1200 pregnant goats, 59 Saanens and 80 Alpines aborted their fetus. Escherichia coli was isolated from 4 Saanens and 3 Alpines. Trueperella pyogenes was isolated from 5 Saanens and 7 Alpines. Pregnancy toxemia was the cause of abortion in 12 Saanens and 30 Alpines which showed a significant difference between the two breeds. Six Saanens and 10 Alpines aborted their fetus following trauma. Conclusion: As abortion is an economically important issue, especially for the breeds which we have less information about, the susceptibility of animals and the frequency of each abortifacient should be evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Crossbreeding is carried out with the aim of enhancing and combining favorable traits between different breeds. The results of crossbreeding can be analyzed through genetic distance measured by various parameters, including morphometric measurements of livestock bodies. This study aims to analyze the morphometric diversity based on body measurements and canonical analysis in PE, Saanen, and Sapera goats to determine their genetic proximity. The research utilized a quantitative descriptive method using primary and secondary data from the BALITNAK Ciawi dairy goat station through a canonical analysis approach. The study and collection of primary and secondary data were conducted from March to April 2022. The research was carried out at the BALITNAK Dairy Goat Research Station in Ciawi Subdistrict, Bogor Regency. The results of this study indicate that the genetic distance between Sapera and Saanen goats is closer than between Sapera and PE goats. Furthermore, in terms of body measurements, the measurements of Sapera goats are closer to the Saanen goats compared to the PE goats. It can be concluded that the body size of Sapera goats is more similar to that of PE goats, while their external appearance is closer to the Saanen goats, which have predominantly white fur color. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Goat milk production has been increasing in northern Mexico; however, there is little information available about its quality. Objective: To compare goat milk quality during three seasons among creole goats in a traditional grazing system and stabled Saanen and French-Alpine goats. Methods: An experiment was performed in a completely randomized nested design with seasonality factor (fixed effects) with three levels (rain, transition, and drought) and breed factor (fixed effect with three levels (Creole, Saanen and French-Alpine)) nested within the season-of-the-year factor. Fifteen goats were randomly selected: five Creole in the extensive grazing system, five stabled Saanen, and five stabled French-Alpine. The factors assessed in milk were fat content, non-fat solids, protein, lactose, salts, density, freezing point, conductivity, and pH (using a Lactoscan® device). Results: With respect to season for all the breeds: fat, non-fat solids, protein, lactose, and salt contents were higher (p≤0.05) for goats sampled in the rainy season, followed by drought and transition seasons, respectively. The variables related to milk quality by breed and season showed that milk fat content of creole goats was greater (p≤0.05) in the drought season; salt and non-fat content (p≤0.05) in the three seasons of the year; density and protein increased (p≤0.05) in the transition and rainy seasons, while lactose was greater (p≤0.05) in drought and rainy seasons; protein was greater (p≤0.05) in transition and rainy seasons; and the freezing point was lower (p≤0.05) in the transition season. Regarding conductivity, French-Alpine milk was greater (p≤0.05) in the drought season. Conclusion: Season of the year significantly affects milk quality, with increased quality during the rainy season in creole grazing goats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The high environmental temperature of the tropical area compromises milk production in dairy animals, and an increase in the energy required for heat dissipation produces both acid and reactive oxygen species. This response causes an acid–base imbalance and oxidative stress which indirectly affect milk synthesis. We previously showed that a high dietary cation and anion difference (DCAD) supplement increased heat dissipation. Moreover, a high-dose vitamin C (vit C) supplement has been used in dairy ruminants to decrease oxidative stress. The present experiment aimed to investigate the relationship between acid–base balance, oxidative stress, and mammary gland function under high environmental temperature conditions. The results showed that high DCAD and vit C could change acid–base balance and oxidative status. In addition, milk compositions were changed when the oxidative stress was compromised. We conclude that the high environmental temperature compromises milk synthesis in part by changing acid–base balance and oxidative stress. High ambient temperature (HTa) causes acid–base imbalance and systemic oxidative stress, and this may indirectly affect the mammary gland. Furthermore, HTa induces intracellular oxidative stress, which has been proposed to affect cell metabolism directly. We previously showed in dairy goats that the negative effect of HTa was compromised by enhancing heat dissipation during a high dietary cation and anion difference (DCAD) regimen. Moreover, high-dose vitamin C or ascorbic acid (AA) supplements have been used to manage oxidative stress in ruminants. The present study hypothesized that high DCAD and AA supplements that could alleviate the HTa effect would influence the milk synthesis pathway and mammary gland function. The results showed that goats fed with high DCAD had higher blood pH than control goats in the 4th week. The high dose of AA supplement decreases urine pH in the 8th week. The percent reduction of urine pH from the AA supplement was significant in the DCAD group. The high-dose AA supplement decreased plasma glutathione peroxidase activity and malonaldehyde. This effect was enhanced by a high DCAD supplement. In addition, supplementation with AA increased milk protein and citrate and decreased milk FFA. These alterations indicate the intracellular biochemical pathway of energy metabolism and milk synthesis. It can be concluded that a high DCAD regimen and AA supplement in dairy goats fed under HTa could influence the milk synthesis pathway. The evidence suggests that HTa decreases mammary gland function by modification of acid–base homeostasis and oxidative stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The purpose of Saanen and Alpine raising farms is milk production, so control of mastitis is essential. Antibiotic resistance among mastitis pathogens has been increased by long-time usage of antibiotics. The aim of the present study was to isolate bacteria from mastitis cases in Saanen and Alpine goats and to determine their antibiotic resistance. Methods: Milk sample of 26 Saanen and 29 Alpine was cultured on microbiological media. Polymerase chain reaction was performed for the detection of Mycoplasma. Antibiotic resistance of the bacteria was tested by 12 antibacterial disks. Significant difference in resistance levels between Saanen and Alpine was assessed. Results: Mycoplasma spp. was detected in 12.73% of samples. The isolated bacteria were Escherichia coli (29.1%), Trueperella pyogenes (25.5%), Staphylococcus aureus (16.4%), Streptococcus agalactiae (9.1%), coagulase negative staphylococci (5.5%), and Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis (1.8%). The significant difference was observed in antibiotic resistance to amoxicillin which was higher in Alpine. Conclusion: Accordingly using antibiotics more accurate and using antibiogram by clinician are necessary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Goat milk production has been increasing in northern Mexico; however, there is little information available about its quality. Objective: To compare goat milk quality during three seasons among creole goats in a traditional grazing system and stabled Saanen and French-Alpine goats. Methods: An experiment was performed in a completely randomized nested design with seasonality factor (fixed effects) with three levels (rain, transition, and drought) and breed factor (fixed effect with three levels (Creole, Saanen and French-Alpine)) nested within the season-of-the-year factor. Fifteen goats were randomly selected: five Creole in the extensive grazing system, five stabled Saanen, and five stabled French-Alpine. The factors assessed in milk were fat content, non-fat solids, protein, lactose, salts, density, freezing point, conductivity, and pH (using a Lactoscan® device). Results: With respect to season for all the breeds: fat, non-fat solids, protein, lactose, and salt contents were higher (p≤0.05) for goats sampled in the rainy season, followed by drought and transition seasons, respectively. The variables related to milk quality by breed and season showed that milk fat content of creole goats was greater (p≤0.05) in the drought season; salt and non-fat content (p≤0.05) in the three seasons of the year; density and protein increased (p≤0.05) in the transition and rainy seasons, while lactose was greater (p≤0.05) in drought and rainy seasons; protein was greater (p≤0.05) in transition and rainy seasons; and the freezing point was lower (p≤0.05) in the transition season. Regarding conductivity, French-Alpine milk was greater (p≤0.05) in the drought season. Conclusion: Season of the year significantly affects milk quality, with increased quality during the rainy season in creole grazing goats.

Robenacoxib (RX) is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) of the coxib class. This study aimed to evaluate the plasma dispositions and faecal excretion profiles of RX in Alpine and Saanen goats following oral and subcutaneous routes. Two different goat breeds were allocated into two treatment groups concerning the breed. RX was administered subcutaneously to animals at a dose of 4 mg/kg b.w. Following a one-week washout period, RX was administered by oral route to the same animals at the same dose. Heparinized blood samples were collected from all animals before drug administration (0 h) and subsequently up to 24 h. Faecal samples were collected at various times between 8 h and 36 h. The concentrations of RX in plasma and faeces were determined by HPLC. The plasma half-life (T 1/2λz) of RX in Saanen goats (1.21 h) was significantly longer (P < 0.017) than in Alpine goats (0.90 h) after subcutaneous administration. In both goat breeds, statistical differences were observed between subcutaneous and oral administration of RX for T 1/2λz , T last , C max , AUC 0-∞ , and MRT 0-∞. Faecal C max and T max parameters following oral administrations were 0.92 µg/g and 0.85 µg/g at 30 h and at 24 h in Alpine and Saanen goats, respectively. The difference in plasma protein ratio between Alpine and Saanen goats may have affected the T 1/2λz of the drug. NSAIDs are among the drug groups frequently detected in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems around the world and there are data on the effects of NSAID residues on wildlife and aquatic species. Therefore, revealing the excretion of NSAIDs, which are frequently used in the veterinary field, in faeces and urine should be considered for ecological sustainability. • Plasma dispositions and faecal excretion of RX in Saanen and Alpine goats after PO and SC administration were evaluated. • Plasma T 1/2λz of RX after SC administration was affected by goat breeds. • Faecal concentration of RX after PO administration was similar in both breeds. • RX concentration in faeces was 1.73 and 1.77 times higher than plasma in Alpine and Saanen goats, respectively. • SC administration of RX in goats may be a preferred route, particularly in acute cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract We evaluated the influence of the substitution of soybean meal by detoxified castor cake on performance, digestibility of nutrients, nitrogen balance, hepatic and renal functions of pregnant goats fed with diets containing detoxified castor cake by alkaline solutions during the stages (first two-thirds and final third) of pregnancy. Three diets were provided: one based on soybean meal and the other two based on castor cake detoxified with whit calcium hydroxide or sodium hydroxide. Goats fed detoxified castor cake sodium hydroxide had lower consumption. Was no effect (P>0.05) of diets or stages on the digestibility of dry matter and nutrients. The goats that received the diets based on soybean meal and detoxified castor cake calcium hydroxide consumed larger amounts of nitrogen. The goats fed with diet the basis of SM had greater weight in the parturition day. The average levels of enzymes for hepatic and renal functions were within normal patterns. Of enzymes related to liver metabolism, only the gamma-glutamyl transferase increased in the final third of pregnancy. The present study demonstrated that detoxified castor by sodium hydroxide reduces the consumption of goats during gestation, but did not affect negatively the renal and hepatic parameters.

The CSN1S1 gene is expressed as the milk alpha S1 casein which is valuable for cheese making. Allele E is a mutation of this gene, which is correlated with low quantity of expressed protein. This study aimed to identify the occurrence of CSN1S1 E allele on the Saanen population at BBPTU-HPT Baturraden. Blood samples of 45 does were drawn, followed by DNA isolation using the column spin method. The identification of E allele was carried out by Allele Specific Polymerase Chain Reactions (AS-PCR) with forward primer 5-TCAGGAGCAGTGGGTATGTG-3 and reverse 5-CCTCCCAATGGAATAATGACA-3. Allele E was found as heterozygote genotype with non-E allele in 28 out of 45 samples. This means that F allele frequency was 0.31 and 0.6 for non-E allele. There was no significant difference of milk protein in both groups. In summary, E allele was found in the Saanen goat population in BBPTU HPT Baturraden with no effect on milk protein production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, it was aimed to evaluate the performance of different estimators that will be used in regression analysis, which is one of the multivariate statistical methods in the presence of outliers in the data set. Sixth month live weight was estimated with various body measurements for Saanen kids taken from a private farm. In the data set, the use and performance of robust estimators were evaluated because the least squares method did not provide reliable results in the case of outliers. M (for Huber and Tukey bisquare) estimator, MM estimator and LTS estimator were used as robust used in the presence of outliers. MSE, RMSE, rRMSE, MAPE, MAD, R2, R2adj and AIC were used as model comparison criteria in the study. As a result of the study, in the case of outlier in the data set, Huber type M estimator can be recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The study characterized the lactoferrin (Lf) mRNA gene in different goat breeds in the Philippines and determined its association with subclinical mastitis (SCM). The study involved collection of milk at second week of lactation (n=75) and blood samples (n=5) to obtain extracted RNA and using cDNA to amplify Lf gene through polymerase chain reaction. The nucleotide and amino acid sequences were determined and used as reference in the evaluation of phylogenetic relationship. Amplified products were utilized for RFLP analysis before determining the association of the gene with SCM. Results of the study demonstrated that Lf gene in goats registered a molecular weight of 2135. Nucleotide and amino acid sequence of Lf gene revealed high similarity (99%) in Saanen, Anglo-Nubian and Philippine native goats with that of Capra hircus (U53857) Lf gene submitted to GenBank. Phylogenetic studies showed that Lf gene of Anglo-Nubian, Saanen and Native goats clade together with Lf gene of C. hircus (U53857). Three genotypes in goats were documented using the restriction enzymes AluI and HaeIII. Based on the Statistical analysis, association (comp 5.65, p = 0.0308) has been established between the Lf genes of goats with genotype BB to SCM using HaeIII restriction enzyme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of completely replacing soybean meal (SM) with castor cake detoxified (DCC) with two alkaline products on the nitrogen balance and hepatic and renal function in goat kids. Goat kids of two breeds, Saanen and Anglo Nubian, with an initial body weight of 16.2 ± 0.67 kg, and confined during the growth phase, were used. The treatments consisted of three diets: one based on SM and the other two based on castor cake detoxified with Ca(OH)2 or NaOH. Twenty-four goats kids were distributed in a completely randomized design using a 3 x 2 factorial scheme (diet x breed) with four replicates per combination. The experimental period lasted for 270 days. Consumed nitrogen, fecal nitrogen, urinary nitrogen, retained nitrogen, and nitrogen balance were influenced (p < 0.05) by diets. There was significant effect of diets (p < 0.05) on creatinine, direct bilirubin, urea, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase and gamma-glutamyltransferase blood levels, however without any negative changes involving renal or hepatic dysfunction. Inclusion of castor cake in the diet of goats kids in confinement is an attractive option, considering that goats kids use does not cause hepatic and renal alterations, suggesting that SM can be completely replaced. NaOH DCC stands in the substitution of soybean meal, because in spite of decreasing the consumption of nitrogen provides the same retention of soybean meal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to determine the current status of milking characteristics, hygiene and health protection practices in Saanen goat farms in Turkey, data were obtained from 92 farms through surveys in Çanakkale province. The farms are grouped according to the number of animals as small-scale (25–75 heads), medium-scale (76–150 heads) and large-scale (151 and overheads). As a result of the data observed, it has been seen that the majority of the farms (63.04%) had primary education and only 8.69% had education at the university level. While 44 farms have a milking machine or milking system in their farms, the other 48 farms use the hand milking. The 72.8% of the farms stated that they did not receive any training on milking hygiene and milking machines. Breast diseases are among the most common health problems in the farms (61.9%), followed by, digestive system diseases (8.6%), bacterial diseases (5.4%), foot diseases (2.1%) and viral diseases (4.3%), respectively. The prevalence of mastitis which is the leading cause of breast disease differs statistically in terms of scale (p

Aim: This study was carried out to reveal the socio-economic structure and present problems of Saanen goat farms in Çanakkale province. Materials and Methods: The primary data obtained from the Saanen goat farms by using questionnaire which are the members of Sheep and Goat Breeders' Association of Çanakkale province. The sample size consisted of 92 enterprises obtained by simple random sampling method. Results of the enterprises in 2017 were evaluated by means of descriptive analysis methods such as mean, percentage distribution and frequency, and statistically differences between 2016 and 2017 for some technical data were evaluated by independent t-test. Results: It was determined that the education level of the farmers was 63.04%, the average age was 43.64 years and the average professional experience was 12.47 years. The average milk yield per animal was 1.95 kg per day and the average lactation period was 228.15 days. The main problems in the enterprises were found as the instability in milk prices, insufficient marketing infrastructure and producer organization. Conclusion: Saanen goat breeding is an important production sector in terms of employment. The fact that the capital / income coefficient in animal husbandry is lower compared to other sectors that may play important role in creating employment and reducing unemployment. In addition to breeding activities that play a role in increasing milk yield per animal, it is also important to improve care and feeding, health and hygiene conditions in the farms. Increasing the effectiveness of cooperatives in marketing is also necessary for added value to be provided to producers.

The aim of this study is to compare the least squares (LS) method that lost its function in the case of multicollinearity in regression methods with Ridge Regression (RR) and Principal Components Regression (PCR) which are bias estimators. For this aim, the effect of some body measurements on body weight (BW), body length (BL), height at withers (HW), height at rump (HR), chest depth (CD), chest girth (CG) and chest width (CW) obtained from 59 Saanen kids at weaning period raised at Research Farm of Tokat Gaziosmanpaşa University. Determination coefficient (R2) and mean square error (MSE) values were used to evaluate the estimation performance of the methods. The multicollinearity between height at withers (HW) and height at rump (HR) which were used to estimate body weight was eliminated by using RR and PCR. When R2 and HKO values of the examined methods are compared; It has been shown that RR method have better results of live weight of Saanen goats.

High ambient temperature (HTa) causes acid–base imbalance and systemic oxidative stress, and this may indirectly affect the mammary gland. Furthermore, HTa induces intracellular oxidative stress, which has been proposed to affect cell metabolism directly. We previously showed in dairy goats that the negative effect of HTa was compromised by enhancing heat dissipation during a high dietary cation and anion difference (DCAD) regimen. Moreover, high-dose vitamin C or ascorbic acid (AA) supplements have been used to manage oxidative stress in ruminants. The present study hypothesized that high DCAD and AA supplements that could alleviate the HTa effect would influence the milk synthesis pathway and mammary gland function. The results showed that goats fed with high DCAD had higher blood pH than control goats in the 4th week. The high dose of AA supplement decreases urine pH in the 8th week. The percent reduction of urine pH from the AA supplement was significant in the DCAD group. The high-dose AA supplement decreased plasma glutathione peroxidase activity and malonaldehyde. This effect was enhanced by a high DCAD supplement. In addition, supplementation with AA increased milk protein and citrate and decreased milk FFA. These alterations indicate the intracellular biochemical pathway of energy metabolism and milk synthesis. It can be concluded that a high DCAD regimen and AA supplement in dairy goats fed under HTa could influence the milk synthesis pathway. The evidence suggests that HTa decreases mammary gland function by modification of acid–base homeostasis and oxidative stress.

The aim of this study was to monitor maternal-fetal ecobiometric parameters during physiological pregnancy in goats using ultrasound to predict gestational age by establishing mathematical equations. Twenty-five Saanen goats were included in the study. Assessments were performed weekly from the 21st day of pregnancy until parturition. The abdominal, thoracic, biparietal, and eye socket diameters; distance from the neck to snout; crown-rump, humerus, radius-ulna, metacarpal, femur, tibia, metatarsal, and placentome lengths; kidney height and length; and heart area were measured. Heart rate was obtained using the pulsed Doppler mode. The variables were correlated with gestational age using Spearman's test, and the adjustment of these variables to simple and multiple regression models was done to determine the mathematical formulas for calculating the gestational age. The highest obtained coefficients of determination (R2) were for humerus length (96.2), heart area (95.6), and distance from the neck to the snout (95.3). Only the placentome length and fetal heart rate presented low determination coefficients (R2 = 54.3, R2 = 45.0). The results indicated significant correlations between measures of maternal-fetal structures and gestational age, and can be used as reference values for detection of abnormalities during fetal development. • Mathematical equations to determine gestational age with predictive power above 90%. • Characterization of sonographic attributes/echogenicity of maternal-fetal structures. • Relation between gestational age and 17 biometric variables throughout goat pregnancy. • Report of echogenicity changes in the fetal lung and liver during the gestational period. • Description of ultrasound findings and their relation to physiological organogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Data analysis in goat production, such as those related to body and scrotal measurements, indicate the productive and reproductive animal development. The current study aimed to evaluate the correlations between thoracic perimeter (TP), body length (BL), body compacity (BC), body volume (BV), and scrotal circumference (SC) with body weight (BW) in young male goats of Saanen and Boer breeds. It was used 38 Saanen and 24 Boer male goats, with age average of 7.2 ± 2.0 months. Thoracic perimeter and body length measurements were obtained using a tape measure (cm) and the live weight (kg) a mechanic scale. The variables body compacity (BC) and body volume (BV) were calculated using the equations: and . Boer breed showed live weight and body compacity higher than Saanen breed (p < 0.05). Regarding correlations between biometric measurements and body weight, we did not find any statistical differences between the breeds (p > 0.05). The scrotal circumference presented the lowest association with body weight (p < 0.05). However, all biometric measurements showed highly significant correlations with live body (p < 0.01). In conclusion, thoracic perimeter was the main measure of body weight predictor, considering efficiency and practical aspects.

Few studies have investigated how meal patterns of ruminants are affected by diet fibre content. Dairy goats (N = 32) in late lactation and early gestation were housed in eight groups of four goats, with all combinations of breed (Alpine and Saanen) and lactation number (1 and 2) represented in each group. Each goat had access to its own individual feed trough placed on a weigh scale with data logged automatically. All goats were fed the same total mixed ration (TMR; 30% concentrate and 44.6% NDF in DM) ad libitum for a control period of 22 days. Using the same feed ingredients, half of the groups were then offered a High fibre diet (20% concentrate; 47.3% NDF), and the other half a Low fibre diet (40% concentrate; 41.5% NDF) for a treatment period of 16 days. Daily meal patterns (meal frequency, duration and size, feeding rate, daily feed intake and daily feeding time) were computed for each animal using a meal criterion of 8 min. The last 10 days for each period (control and treatment) were used to calculate individual period means and individual differences between the two periods. During the control period, the goats ate on average 12.1 ± 0.49 meals/day, consuming 4.2 ± 0.10 kg fresh TMR daily. When the ration changed, all measures of feeding behaviour except meal size changed asymmetrically for the goats on the two diets. Goats fed the High fibre diet reduced their meal frequency by 10%, and the first meal after feed distribution lasted 11% longer, leading to a 9% reduction in feeding rate and no significant changes in daily feed intake and daily feeding time. Goats on the Low fibre diet did not significantly change their meal frequency or meal size, but the combined changes nevertheless led to a 9% increase in daily feed intake. On the Low fibre diet, goats were able to increase their feeding rate by a third, leading to a reduction in meal durations, thus reducing daily feeding time by 13%. Goats adapt their feeding behaviour to the fibre proportion of the offered diet, with more changes when fibre content is lowered, which needs to be taken into account when comparing phenotypes and adaptability of small ruminants to different diets.

This study was carried out to determine the effect of non-genetic factors on growth and reproductive traits in Saanen goats. For this aim, total of 274 Saanen goats and kids were investigated for growth and reproductive traits in South Marmara Region of Turkey. Fertility parameters were evaluated during two reproductive years. Saanen kids were measured from birth to 6 months of life. The average live weights at birth, weaning, 60th, 90th, 120th and 180th days of age were calculated and determined as 3.05±0.04kg, 11.80±0.27kg, 12.26±0.08kg, 14.20±0.32kg, 17.41±0.45kg, 25.01±0.65kg, respectively. The effects of sex and birth type on live weights until 90th days of age; maternal age only on birth weight; month at birth on all of investigated days were found significant statistically. The pregnancy, birth rate per pregnancy (BRP), birth rate per mating (BRM), infertility, abortion, kidding rate (single, twin or triplet), survival rate (until weaning), number of kids per parturition (NKP), number of kids per mating (NKM) were found; 92.98%, 85.07%, 91.25%, 7.02%, 8.75%, 36.12%, 49.00%, 14.88%, 89.13% and 1.74±0.06, 1.42±0.07 respectively. The effects of maternal age on all rates (out of BRM and abortion rate); the year on birth, abortion, single kidding rate, survival rate and NKM were found significant for reproductive traits. The advanced reproductive performance and rapid growth rates were observed in Saanen goats. Environmental factors such as age, year, sex, birth type and month at birth were found significant on some growth and reproductive traits in Saanen. So consideration of these factors could be useful as a selection criteria in dairy goat breeding.

Genetic variations in the four casein genes CSN1S1, CSN2, CSN1S2, and CSN3 have obtained substantial attention since they affect the milk protein yield, milk composition, cheese processing properties, and digestibility as well as tolerance in human nutrition. Furthermore, milk protein variants are used for breed characterization, biodiversity, and phylogenetic studies. The current study aimed at the identification of casein protein variants in five domestic goat breeds from Sudan (Nubian, Desert, Nilotic, Taggar, and Saanen) and three wild goat species [Capra aegagrus aegagrus (Bezoar ibex), Capra nubiana (Nubian ibex), and Capra ibex (Alpine ibex)]. High-density capture sequencing of 33 goats identified in total 22 non-synonymous and 13 synonymous single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), of which nine non-synonymous and seven synonymous SNPs are new. In the CSN1S1 gene, the new non-synonymous SNP ss7213522403 segregated in Alpine ibex. In the CSN2 gene, the new non-synonymous SNPs ss7213522526, ss7213522558, and ss7213522487 were found exclusively in Nubian and Alpine ibex. In the CSN1S2 gene, the new non-synonymous SNPs ss7213522477, ss7213522549, and ss7213522575 were found in Nubian ibex only. In the CSN3 gene, the non-synonymous SNPs ss7213522604 and ss7213522610 were found in Alpine ibex. The identified DNA sequence variants led to the detection of nine new casein protein variants. New variants were detected for alpha S1 casein in Saanen goats (CSN1S1∗C1), Bezoar ibex (CSN1S1∗J), and Alpine ibex (CSN1S1∗K), for beta and kappa caseins in Alpine ibex (CSN2∗F and CSN3∗X), and for alpha S2 casein in all domesticated and wild goats (CSN1S2∗H), in Nubian and Desert goats (CSN1S2∗I), or in Nubian ibex only (CSN1S2∗J and CSN1S2∗K). The results show that most novel SNPs and protein variants occur in the critically endangered Nubian ibex. This highlights the importance of the preservation of this endangered breed. Furthermore, we suggest validating and further characterizing the new casein protein variants.

Abstract: The objective of this work was to evaluate the effect of replacing soybean meal (SM) by detoxified castor bean cake (DCC), containing different alkaline solutions, on the nutritional parameters of Saanen and Anglo-Nubian female goat (Capra aegagrus hircus) kids. The treatments consisted of three diets: one based on corn and SM; and two with DCC with Ca(OH)2 or NaOH. Intake and digestibility data were analyzed in two phases according to the growth curves of the goats, which showed: a linear accelerated growth (phase I, from 60 to 298 days of life) and a reduction in the intensity of body growth (phase II, from 299 to 345 days). During phase I, the goat kids fed DCC with NaOH showed a lower intake of dry matter (DM) and nutrients. During phase II, there was significant effect of diets on the intake of nutrients, with the exception of ether extract (EE), total digestible nutrients, and metabolizable energy (ME). A diet effect was observed on the digestibility of DM, crude protein, EE, and neutral detergent fiber, mainly for goat kids fed diets with DCC. Despite their lower intake, the diets formulated with DCC do not negatively affect the nutritional performance of female goats kids in both growth phases, since they result in a greater feed efficiency.

Genetic variations in the four casein genes CSN1S1 , CSN2 , CSN1S2 , and CSN3 have obtained substantial attention since they affect the milk protein yield, milk composition, cheese processing properties, and digestibility as well as tolerance in human nutrition. Furthermore, milk protein variants are used for breed characterization, biodiversity, and phylogenetic studies. The current study aimed at the identification of casein protein variants in five domestic goat breeds from Sudan (Nubian, Desert, Nilotic, Taggar, and Saanen) and three wild goat species [ Capra aegagrus aegagrus (Bezoar ibex), Capra nubiana (Nubian ibex), and Capra ibex (Alpine ibex)]. High-density capture sequencing of 33 goats identified in total 22 non-synonymous and 13 synonymous single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), of which nine non-synonymous and seven synonymous SNPs are new. In the CSN1S1 gene, the new non-synonymous SNP ss7213522403 segregated in Alpine ibex. In the CSN2 gene, the new non-synonymous SNPs ss7213522526, ss7213522558, and ss7213522487 were found exclusively in Nubian and Alpine ibex. In the CSN1S2 gene, the new non-synonymous SNPs ss7213522477, ss7213522549, and ss7213522575 were found in Nubian ibex only. In the CSN3 gene, the non-synonymous SNPs ss7213522604 and ss7213522610 were found in Alpine ibex. The identified DNA sequence variants led to the detection of nine new casein protein variants. New variants were detected for alpha S1 casein in Saanen goats (CSN1S1 ∗C1), Bezoar ibex (CSN1S1 ∗J), and Alpine ibex (CSN1S1 ∗K), for beta and kappa caseins in Alpine ibex (CSN2 ∗F and CSN3 ∗X), and for alpha S2 casein in all domesticated and wild goats (CSN1S2 ∗H), in Nubian and Desert goats (CSN1S2 ∗I), or in Nubian ibex only (CSN1S2 ∗J and CSN1S2 ∗K). The results show that most novel SNPs and protein variants occur in the critically endangered Nubian ibex. This highlights the importance of the preservation of this endangered breed. Furthermore, we suggest validating and further characterizing the new casein protein variants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate the influence of the substitution of soybean meal (SM) by detoxified castor (DCC) by two alkaline products on the feeding behavior and physiological parameters of lactating goats of Saanen breeds and Anglo Nubian. The treatments consisted of three diets, with a standard formulation based on corn and FS and the others were formulated with detoxified castor by calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2 DCC) and another by sodium hydroxide (NaOH) DCC, which were and isonitrogenous and isoenergic. There was effect of diets on the consumption of DM and NDFap (P<0.05), with lower values for the goats fed with NaOH DCC. There was no effect (P<0.05) of diets on the fill times, rumination, time in other activities and time in idleness, rumination efficiency of NDF and chewing time total were influenced (P<0.05) by the diets. The goats fed with diet the basis of SM presented a higher heart rate and increased rectal temperature. When used in the composition of diets for lactating goats, the detoxified castor with sodium hydroxide leads to the reduction of intake DM, as well as the NDF, but both pies do not adversely affect the physiological parameters of goats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the present study was to determine the factors that influenced growth performance of the goat kids of Black Bengal (BB), Saanen (SA), and their crossbred F1 (male Bengal × female Saanen [BBSA] and male Saanen × female Black Bengal [SABB]). Data for 674 kids were analyzed from 316 litters and 134 does. All kids were weekly measured on their characteristics (body weight, length, height at the withers, and chest girth) from birth to 11 weeks old. The kid's breed and sex, litter size, and season of kidding influenced birth weight and other characteristics through the experiment. The SA and BBSA kids showed similar performance, which were higher than BB and SABB kids. Male kids had higher performance than female kids, and kids from a single litter showed the highest performance. Kids born during rainy season showed lower performance than those born in hot and cool seasons. In conclusion, the crossbred BBSA is superior to SABB or BB to raise in tropical climate Moreover, sex, litter size, and kidding season also affected growth performance during the preweaning period up to 11 weeks old. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The enhanced availability of sequence data in livestock provides an opportunity for more accurate predictions in routine genomic evaluations. Such evaluations would therefore no longer rely only on the linkage disequilibrium between a chip marker and the causal mutation. The objective of this study was to assess the usefulness of sequence data in Saanen goats (n = 33) to better capture a quantitative trait locus (QTL) on chromosome 19 (CHI19) and improve the accuracy of predictions for 3 milk production traits, 5 type traits, and somatic cell scores. All 1,207 50K genotypes were imputed to the sequence level. Four scenarios, each using a subset of CHI19 imputed variants, were then tested. Sequence-derived information included all CHI19 variants (529,576), all variants in the QTL region (22,269), 178 variants selected in the QTL region and added to an updated chip, or 178 randomly selected variants on CHI19. Two genomic evaluation models were applied: single-step genomic BLUP and weighted single-step genomic BLUP. All scenarios were compared with single-step genomic BLUP using 50K genotypes. Best overall results were obtained using single-step genomic BLUP on 50K genotypes completed with all variants in the QTL region of chromosome 19 (6.2% average increase in accuracy for 9 traits) with the highest accuracy gain for fat yield (17.9%), significant increases for milk (13.7%) and protein yields (12.5%), and type traits associated with CHI19. Despite its association with the QTL region of chromosome 19, the somatic cell score showed decreased accuracy in every alternative scenario. Using all CHI19 variants led to an overall decrease of 4.8% in prediction accuracy. The updated chip was efficient and improved genomic evaluations by 3.1 to 6.4% on average, depending on the scenario. Indeed, information from only a few carefully selected variants increased accuracies for traits of interest when used in a single-step genomic BLUP model. In conclusion, using QTL region variants imputed from sequence data in single-step genomic evaluations represents a promising perspective for such evaluations in dairy goats. Furthermore, using only a limited number of selected variants in QTL regions, as available on SNP chip updates, significantly increases the accuracy for QTL-associated traits without deteriorating the evaluation accuracy for other traits. The latter approach is interesting, as it avoids time-consuming imputation and data formatting processes and provides reliable genotypes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Data analysis in goat production, such as those related to body and scrotal measurements, indicate the productive and reproductive animal development. The current study aimed to evaluate the correlations between thoracic perimeter (TP), body length (BL), body compacity (BC), body volume (BV), and scrotal circumference (SC) with body weight (BW) in young male goats of Saanen and Boer breeds. It was used 38 Saanen and 24 Boer male goats, with age average of 7.2 ± 2.0 months. Thoracic perimeter and body length measurements were obtained using a tape measure (cm) and the live weight (kg) a mechanic scale. The variables body compacity (BC) and body volume (BV) were calculated using the equations: 1= . -1 and = 1. . Boer breed showed live weight and body compacity higher than Saanen breed (p < 0.05). Regarding correlations between biometric measurements and body weight, we did not find any statistical differences between the breeds (p > 0.05). The scrotal circumference presented the lowest association with body weight (p < 0.05). However, all biometric measurements showed highly significant correlations with live body (p < 0.01). In conclusion, thoracic perimeter was the main measure of body weight predictor, considering efficiency and practical aspects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT The objective was to evaluate the intake, digestibility, nitrogen balance, and metabolic profile of lactating goats fed diets containing detoxified castor cake (DCC) by alkaline solutions during 150 days of lactation. Twenty-four Saanen and Anglo Nubian goats, approximately 17 months old (first lactation) and body weights of 43±2.97 kg, were distributed in a completely randomized block design with eight replicates. Treatments consisted of three diets, one containing soybean meal (SM) and two others containing DCC, with calcium hydroxide [Ca(OH)2] and sodium hydroxide (NaOH). The diets significantly influenced the intake of dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), ether extract (EE), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), and total digestible nutrients (TDN). We observed a higher dry matter intake (DMI) in goats fed SM, similar to that of goats fed Ca(OH)2 DCC. Intake of nutrients followed the same trend as DMI. There was no significant effect of diets on digestibility of DM, CP, EE, and NDF; however, we observed a significant effect of diets on the levels of nitrogen intake (NI) and urinary nitrogen (UN). The goats fed SM consumed a larger quantity of nitrogen, but all had the same nitrogen balance, indicating that goats fed DCC were more efficient. The diets did not influence renal and hepatic parameters. Inclusion of castor cake in the diet of goats in confinement is an attractive option, considering that goats fed DCC present lower feed conversion, and its use does not cause hepatic and renal alterations, suggesting that SM can be completely replaced.

ABSTRACT We aimed to evaluate the lactation curves, composition, and fatty acid profile of milk of lactating goats fed diets containing detoxified castor cake (DCC) by alkaline solutions during 150 days of lactation. Twenty-four Saanen and Anglo Nubian goats, approximately 17 months old (first lactation) and 43±2.97 kg body weight, were distributed in a completely randomized block design with eight replicates. Treatments consisted of three diets, one containing soybean meal (SM) and two others containing DCC, with calcium hydroxide [Ca(OH)2] and sodium hydroxide (NaOH). The lactation curves showed greater persistence of lactation in Saanen goats. There were significant effects of diets on the profile of some fatty acids present in the milk. We observed that the NaOH DCC diet led to an increase in desirable fatty acid content. Both Ca(OH)2 and NaOH DCC diets led to decreased milk production during the lactation period; however, the NaOH DCC diet led to high productive efficiency. Furthermore, NaOH DCC did not negatively affect the desirable fatty acid content, unlike Ca(OH)2 DCC. Diets formulated with detoxified castor decrease the production of milk from goats during lactation phase. It should be emphasized that milk produced by goats fed DCC diets does not contain unwanted waste.

We studied the ontogenetic growth of goat wethers (castrated male goats) of the Saanen and Swiss Alpine breeds based on a large range of intraspecific body mass (BM). The body parts and the chemical constituents of the empty body were described by the allometric function by using BM and the empty body mass (EBM) as the predictors for morphological traits and chemical composition, respectively. We fitted the allometric scaling function by applying the SAS NLMIXED procedure, but to evaluate assumptions regarding variances in morphological and compositional traits, we combined the scaling function with homoscedastic (MOD1), and the heteroscedastic exponential (MOD2) and power-of-the-mean (MOD3) variance functions. We also predicted the ontogenetic growth by using the traditional log-log transformation and back-transformed results into the arithmetic scale (MOD4). We obtained predictions from MOD4 in the arithmetic scale by a two-step process, and evaluated MOD1, MOD2 and MOD3 by a model selection framework, and compared MOD4 with MOD1, MOD2 and MOD3 based on goodness-of-fit measures. Based on information criteria for model selection, heterogeneous variance functions were more likely to describe 10 over 36 traits with a low level of model selection uncertainty. One trait was predicted by averaging the MOD1 and MOD2 variance functions; and nine traits were better described by averaging the MOD2 and MOD3 variance functions. The predictions for other 16 traits were averaged from MOD1, MOD2 and MOD3. However, MOD4 better described 11 traits according to the goodness-of-fit measures. Depending on the variable being analyzed, the body parts and the chemical amounts exhibited the three types of allometric behavior with respect to BM and EBM, that is, positive, negative and isometric ontogenetic growth. Reference BMs, that is, 20, 27, 35 and 45 kg, were used to compute the net protein and energy requirements based on the first derivative of the scaling function, and the results were presented in reference to the EBM and EBM0.75. Both the net protein and energy requirements scaled to EBM0.75 increased from 20 to 45 kg of BM.

In order to determine the current status of milking characteristics, hygiene and health protection practices in Saanen goat farms in Turkey, data were obtained from 92 farms through surveys in Çanakkale province. The farms are grouped according to the number of animals as small-scale (25–75 heads), medium-scale (76–150 heads) and large-scale (151 and overheads). As a result of the data observed, it has been seen that the majority of the farms (63.04%) had primary education and only 8.69% had education at the university level. While 44 farms have a milking machine or milking system in their farms, the other 48 farms use the hand milking. The 72.8% of the farms stated that they did not receive any training on milking hygiene and milking machines. Breast diseases are among the most common health problems in the farms (61.9%), followed by, digestive system diseases (8.6%), bacterial diseases (5.4%), foot diseases (2.1%) and viral diseases (4.3%), respectively. The prevalence of mastitis which is the leading cause of breast disease differs statistically in terms of scale (p <.05). In this period, the scale of the farms increased and the use of machine milking became widespread in dairy goat farms. Considering that Saanen breed goats, which have high milk yield, are also sensitive to diseases and are delicate breeds, it is important for the farmers to be educated and informed about breeding, herd management, and milking hygiene practices in order to increase milk production and quality and to prevent economic losses. The current status of milking hygiene and practices was evaluated. Mastitis was the most common disease (39.1%) observed in Saanen goat farms. To prevent economic losses due to diseases, farmers should be trained on hygiene and management practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was carried out to investigate the possibilities of obtaining slaughtered kids using indigenous breeds in Saanen flocks, which does not require breeding. The birth weights were 3.22 kg, 3.05 kg, and 3.18 kg for the Saanen, Turkish Hair × Saanen (F1), and Honamlı × Saanen (F1) crossbred kids, respectively. The mean live weight values of the same genotypes at the end of fattening (146th day) were determined as 25.96 kg, 27.11 kg, and 29.57 kg for the male kids, respectively. The cold carcass weights and dressing percentage (%) of the same genotypes were determined to be 10.95 kg, 12.40 kg, and 13.21 kg and 43.59%, 44.43%, and 44.48%, respectively for the male kids. M. Longissimus dorsi (MLD) cross-sectional areas were 9.42 cm2, 9.94 cm2, and 11.44 cm2 for the genotypes among the examined factors, which was statistically significant (P < 0.05). It might be thought that the study was important as it was among the first studies on the use of different genotypes as a sire line on the Saanen goats. The study also focused on a rarely tried pattern of commercial crossbreeding and kid production in a time when the Saanen farms do not need to breed kids. This attempt was a new concept for Saanen rearing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

On-farm assessment of caprine colostrum quality is important for goat farmers; the ability to quickly recognize whether colostrum is suitable to feed to kids helps achieve successful passive transfer of immunity. The study compared the use of optical and digital Brix refractometers and a hydrometer against the international gold standard radial immunodiffusion (RID), using both fresh and frozen samples. A locally available ELISA methodology was included for comparison. A total of 300 samples were collected from 2 farms (farm 1: n = 157, collected by research staff within 24 h of parturition; farm 2: n = 143, collected by the farmer within 12 h of parturition). Farm 1 provided doe age for a subset of samples (n = 86). Samples were tested fresh and then frozen for shipment and repeated testing. Specific gravity was measured using a hydrometer in a subset of samples (n = 22) from farm 2. Because no gold standard thresholds are currently available for caprine colostrum, RID-derived values of 30, 40, and 50 g/L IgG were used as potential "good quality" thresholds. Pearson (ρ) and Lin's concordance correlation coefficients (CCC) were calculated for comparison of methods. Optimum thresholds were established maximizing the Youden index and minimizing the "distance closest to the top left corner" of the receiver operator characteristic curves. Brix values were correlated with RID (optical Brix, fresh: ρ = 0.73; digital Brix, fresh: ρ = 0.71; digital Brix, frozen: ρ = 0.76) and with each other (range: ρ = 0.93 to 0.99; CCC = 0.91 to 0.99). Specific gravity measured by the hydrometer yielded a strong relationship with RID (ρ = 0.83) and with Brix values (range: ρ = 0.88 to 0.90). The ELISA method was not correlated with Brix methods (range: ρ = 0.02 to 0.09) or RID (ρ = 0.20). Depending on the colostrum IgG threshold, the hydrometer yielded high Youden indices (range: 0.78 to 0.93) and low distance closest to the top left corner criteria (0 to 0.05) at a threshold of 1.047 specific gravity. For all RID IgG thresholds, the best Brix threshold (regardless of type or whether the sample was fresh or frozen) was 18 or 19%, with the highest Youden indices (range: 0.47 to 0.61) and lowest distance to the top left corner criteria (range: 0.09 to 0.16); however, we recommend 19%, because this reduces the potential of feeding poor-quality colostrum. The ELISA method was the poorest predictor of colostrum concentration. Age was not found to affect colostrum quality; however, the sample size of this subset was small. Hydrometers are inexpensive and easy to use, whereas Brix methods use only a small amount of colostrum; we suggest that either method could be used on-farm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Data control is critical to success the production systems. However, goat farming in semi-arid and tropical regions mostly produce artisanal dairy derivatives or handcraft meat products as sausages and salami. Despite the importance, body weight (BW) is frequently unmeasured by small and medium producers due to lack of weighing scales, pen structures and inadequate rural installations. The main objective of this study was to establish equations to estimate BW in Saanen and Anglo Nubian. Data were collected from 125 animals comprising of 65 goats Saanen and 60 goats Anglo-Nubian of different age groups. Measurements were made for withers height, rump height; body length, chest depth, thoracic girth (TG), rump length, rump width (RW), abdominal circumference and BW. For all relationships evaluated between BW (kg) and morphometric measurements (cm), gender effect was significant (P < 0.01), but the breed was not (P > 0.01). The RW presented the highest correlations (R2 = 0.92) with BW of females, while the measurements of TG presented the highest correlations (R2 = 0.92) with BW of males. The following equations were adjusted: BW females = 0.1188 × RW2 + 0.5732 × RW - 5.5888; and BW males = 0.0127 × TG2 - 0.6611 × TG + 11.261. In addition, to estimate BW considering the age in days (t): BW = 36.5674 × exp (-2.2404 exp (-0.0046t)) for males and BW = 27.2616 × exp (-2.4151 exp (-0.00775t)) for females. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

At the first lactation, cow (n = 6), goat (n = 6) and sheep (n = 6) milk samples were collected during the first three months at 14 days intervals in order to determine fatty acid and total conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) content. Milk fat was extracted and converted to methyl esters with 14% BF3-methanol and the separation of fatty acids with GC-FID was made. The differences between the contents of C16:0, C17:0, C17:1, C18:1n9c, C18:2n6t, saturated fatty acids (SFA), unsaturated fatty acids (UFA) and monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) in cow's milk were found to be statistically significant. Effects of lactation period on fatty acids except C16:1, C18:0, C18:2n6c, C22:0 and C20:4n6 in goat milk and C16:0, C16:1, C18:1n9t, C20:0, C22:0 and C20:3n3c in sheep milk fatty acids were found to be statistically significant. C11:0 is only found in cow milk, C20:2 and C20:3n3 is only found in goat milk. The effect of the species on C14:1 and CLA content were statistically insignificant. Cow milk includes more C16:0, C16:1, C18:1n9t, C18:2n6t and C18:2n6c fatty acids, goat milk includes more C6:0, C8:0, C10:0, C12:0, C18:3n6 and C18:3n3 fatty acids, sheep milk includes more C4:0 and C17:0 fatty acids than others. While the SFA content of goat milk was 5% higher than the SFA content of cow and sheep milk, UFA content of cow and sheep milk was found to be 13% higher than that of UFA content of goat milk. It was determined that MUFA content of cow and sheep milk was 25% higher than that of goat milk. In terms of PUFA content, goat milk was 36% and 39% richer than cow and sheep milk, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Goats provide valuable products that are appreciated by consumers who are looking for food that is not only tasty but also healthy, and, probably, one of them is goat meat. Breeding of local breeds such as the native Carpathian goat has been gaining importance in recent years, which creates an opportunity for the development of the goat meat market. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of goat breed on the basic chemical, fatty and amino acid composition, colour and sensory evaluation of meat. The research material consisted of Carpathian goats from the NRIAP experimental plant located in the southern part of Poland, and goats from a farm keeping Saanen goats in south-eastern Poland. Ten male goat kids from each breed were taken to the NRIAP farm. The quality of meat obtained from the leg (m. biceps femoris) of male goat kids about 150 days old at slaughter was analysed. The meat of the Carpathian goat was characterised by a lower content of protein and cholesterol (p < 0.01), and a higher content of fat and general collagen compared to the meat from Saanen goats (p < 0.05). Cholesterol content in goat meat of both breeds was similar and ranged from 55.08 mg/100 g (Carpathian) to 56.79 mg/100 g (Saanen). Despite the higher collagen content, the goat meat of Carpathian breeds was characterised by lower shear force, less hardness (p < 0.05) and chewiness, being a more delicate meat. The fat of Carpathian goat breeds was characterised by a higher content of monounsaturated acids, mainly C 18:1n:9, and a more favourable (lower) saturation index, S/P (p < 0.05). The meat of Carpathian goats was characterised by a higher health-promoting quality compared to the meat from Saanen goats. In the goat meat of both breeds, there were no differences between the total content of exogenous and endogenous amino acids. The essential/nonessential amino acids (EAA/NEAA) ratio in the meat of the analysed breeds was 0.88:0.89. However, the meat of the Carpathian goats was statistically significantly higher concerning the content of phenylalanine, histidine, proline, alanine and tyrosine, as compared to the meat of the Saanen goats. The obtained results confirm the high quality of the meat of the local Carpathian breed in comparison to the Saanen breed.

Mineral requirements of pregnant dairy goats are still not well defined; therefore, we investigated the net Ca, P, Mg, Na and K requirements for pregnancy and for maintenance during pregnancy in two separate experiments. Experiment 1 was performed to estimate the net Ca, P, Mg, Na and K requirements in goats carrying single or twin fetuses from 50 to 140 days of pregnancy (DOP). The net mineral requirements for pregnancy were determined by measuring mineral deposition in gravid uterus and mammary gland after comparative slaughter. In total, 57 dairy goats of two breeds (Oberhasli or Saanen), in their third or fourth parturition, were randomly assigned to groups based on litter size (single or twin) and day of slaughter (50, 80, 110 and 140 DOP) in a fully factorial design. Net mineral accretion for pregnancy did not differ by goat breed. The total daily Ca, P, Mg, Na and K requirements for pregnancy were greatest in goats carrying twins (P

Eprinomectin is extensively used in veterinary medicine, particularly in the treatment of internal and external parasites in livestock, including goats. The pharmacokinetic behavior of eprinomectin in plasma and faeces was studied after a single subcutaneous administration in two different goat breeds at a dose of 0.2 mg/kg body weight. The study was conducted on one-year-old female Saanen (n = 8) and Alpine (n = 8) goats in a parallel design. There were no significant differences between Saanen and Alpine goats on the peak plasma concentration (C max , 28.59 ± 7.46 ng/mL vs. 37.69 ± 14.89 ng/mL), area under the curve (AUC 0-∞ , 93.08 ± 11.66 ng.d/mL vs. 116.98 ± 48.36 ng.d/mL), area under the first moment curve (AUMC 0-∞ , 311.05 ± 67.23 ng.d 2 /mL vs. 348.25 ± 202.64 ng.d 2 /mL) and mean residence time (MRT, 3.24 ± 0.77 d vs. 2.74 ± 0.64 d) values. The plasma terminal half-life and the time to reach peak plasma concentration were significantly higher in Saanen goats (T 1/2λz , 2.18 ± 0.43 d; T max , 1.21 ± 0.25 d) than in Alpine goats (T 1/2λz , 1.66 ± 0.41 d; T max , 0.79 ± 0.25 d). The results revealed that the plasma concentration of eprinomectin did not differ depending on the breed in Saanen and Alpine goats. However, it was determined that the eprinomectin clearance from the body may vary depending on the breed in goats. The faecal eprinomectin concentration of Saanen and Alpine goats was 90 and 80 times higher than the plasma eprinomectin concentration, respectively. Although high faecal excretion of eprinomectin confers a high efficacy advantage against parasites in the gastrointestinal tract, it may pose an ecotoxicological risk to manure fauna and aquatic organisms with high susceptibility to this compound., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest The authors declare that they have no conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2023 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

This study was completed to investigate the breed factor that influences milk production in different goat breeds in the tropical environmental area. A total of 28 goats were utilized in this work. These goats consisted of two different breeds, which were Anglo-Nubian and Saanen. Blood samples were withdrawn through jugular veins of goats into plastic tubes without EDTA for gene polymorphism. A t-test was used to analyse if there are any significant differences in molecular weight and frequency values of DNA between breeds. Investigation of DNA polymorphism in alleles A, B and C of α-casein were identified in all breeds, while allele F were studied in Saanen goats only. As a conclusion; Saanen goats have more varieties α-casein allele. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]