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BACKGROUND: Neonatal hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy disproportionately affects low- and middle-income countries, where ≈96% of affected infants reside. The current standard of care, therapeutic hypothermia, is frequently ineffective in this setting, likely because injury may be occurring earlier during labor. Here, we studied the pharmacokinetics, safety, and efficacy of perinatal caffeine administration in near-term lambs following global ischemic injury to support the development of earlier treatment strategies targeting the fetus in utero as well as the infant postnatally. METHODS: Ewes were randomly assigned to receive either 1 g IV caffeine citrate or placebo before delivery and placental transport assessed. Near-term lambs (141-143 days) of both sexes were subjected to severe global hypoxia-ischemia utilizing an acute umbilical cord occlusion model. Lambs that received caffeine in utero also received 20 mg/kg IV caffeine citrate following resuscitation and 10 mg/(kg·d) IV for 2 days. An additional cohort received 60 mg/kg followed by 30 mg/(kg·d) (low dose versus high dose) postnatally. Biochemical, histological, and neurological outcome measures in lambs were assessed over a 6-day period. RESULTS: Perinatal caffeine administration demonstrated excellent placental transport kinetics and was well tolerated with lamb plasma levels comparable to those targeted in neonates with apnea of prematurity. Caffeine administration resulted in a systemic immunomodulatory effect, evidenced by significant reductions in proinflammatory IP-10 levels. Treated lambs demonstrated improved neurodevelopmental outcomes, while histological analysis revealed that caffeine reduced gray matter injury and attenuated inflammation in the cingulate and parasagittal cortex. This neuroprotective effect was greater and via a different mode of action than we previously reported for azithromycin. A higher caffeine dosing regimen demonstrated significant toxicity. CONCLUSIONS: Perinatal caffeine administration is well tolerated, attenuates systemic and brain inflammation, and contributes to improvements in histological and neurological outcomes in an ovine model of neonatal hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy.

Objectives: This systematic review aimed to search the literature for the answer to the following questions. In human studies: Does the osseodensification technique increase the resonance frequency analysis given in implant stability quotient value and the insertion torque value compared to the conventional technique? In animal studies: Does the osseodensification technique increase implant stability quotient, bone-to-implant contact, and bone area fraction occupancy values over the conventional technique? Data sources: A search forstudies was carried out in eight databases until August 2021. Out of the 447 publications found, 11 were included. Results: In human studies, osseodensification technique showed better results for implant stability quotient values with a summarized median difference of 8.57. As for secondary stability, there was no significant difference, with summarized median difference of 4.49 in favor of the osseodensification technique. In animal studies, all results were favorable to the osseo-densification technique. Regarding insertion torque, bone-to-implant contact, and bone area fraction occupancy between counterclockwise osseodensification technique vs conventional, the mean difference was 46.79 for insertion torque, 2.17 for bone-to-implant contact, and 2.11 for bone area fraction occupancy. High heterogeneity was observed between the studies. The risk of bias in humans was moderate in three studies and low in one; and in animal studies, four presented moderate risk, two low risk, and one high risk. The certainty of evidence ranged from low to moderate. Conclusion: The osseodensification technique showed improvement concerning the resonance frequency and the insertion torque value of implants in human studies. In addition, it increased the values of bone-to-implant contact, bone area fraction occupancy, and implantstability quotient in animal studies, when compared to the conventional technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change reduces snowpack, advances snowmelt phenology, drives summer warming, alters growing season precipitation regimes, and consequently modifies vegetation phenology in mountain systems. Elevational migrants track spatial variation in seasonal plant growth by moving between ranges at different elevations during spring, so climate-driven vegetation change may disrupt historic benefits of migration. Elevational migrants can furthermore cope with short-term environmental variability by undertaking brief vertical movements to refugia when sudden adverse conditions arise. We uncover drivers of fine-scale vertical movement variation during upland migration in an endangered alpine specialist, Sierra Nevada bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis sierrae) using a 20-year study of GPS collar data collected from 311 unique individuals. We used integrated step-selection analysis to determine factors that promote vertical movements and drive selection of destinations following vertical movements. Our results reveal that relatively high temperatures consistently drive uphill movements, while precipitation likely drives downhill movements. Furthermore, bighorn select destinations at their peak annual biomass and maximal time since snowmelt. These results indicate that although Sierra Nevada bighorn sheep seek out foraging opportunities related to landscape phenology, they compensate for short-term environmental stressors by undertaking brief up- and downslope vertical movements. Migrants may therefore be impacted by future warming and increased storm frequency or intensity, with shifts in annual migration timing, and fine-scale vertical movement responses to environmental variability.

Mannheimia haemolytica-associated abomasitis has been clinically described as a cause of sudden death in lambs, but it is poorly characterized. We describe the pathological features of a severe fibrinonecrotizing abomasitis in 3 lambs that died suddenly. All 3 abomasums had a thickened submucosa due to edema and necrotic areas delimited by bands of degenerate neutrophils with slender nuclei (oat cells) and angiocentric distributions. The overlying mucosa was congested. Myriads of gram-negative coccobacilli were observed within the oat cell bands. M. haemolytica was isolated from the abomasum in all 3 animals and was serotyped as A2 in one of them. Pericarditis and pleuritis were observed in 2 of the lambs. Clostridium spp. were isolated in 1 lamb and detected by immunohistochemistry in the 3 animals, suggesting clostridial co-infection. M. haemolytica should be considered among the differential diagnoses of necrotizing abomasitis in lambs.

Pericytes are located around blood vessels, in close contact with endothelial cells. We discovered that pericytes dampen pro-inflammatory endothelial cell responses. Endothelial cells co-cultured with pericytes had markedly reduced expression of adhesion molecules (PECAM-1 and ICAM-1) and proinflammatory cytokines (CCL-2 and IL-6) in response to bacterial stimuli (Brucella ovis, Listeria monocytogenes, or Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide). Pericyte-depleted mice intraperitoneally inoculated with either B. ovis, a stealthy pathogen that does not trigger detectable inflammation, or Listeria monocytogenes, developed peritonitis. Further, during Citrobacter rodentium infection, pericyte-depleted mice developed severe intestinal inflammation, which was not evident in control mice. The anti-inflammatory effect of pericytes required connexin 43, as either chemical inhibition or silencing of connexin 43 abrogated pericyte-mediated suppression of endothelial inflammatory responses. Our results define a mechanism by which pericytes modulate inflammation during infection, which shifts our understanding of pericyte biology: from a structural cell to a pro-active player in modulating inflammation.ImportanceA previously unknown mechanism by which pericytes modulate inflammation was discovered. The absence of pericytes or blocking interaction between pericytes and endothelium through connexin 43 results in stronger inflammation, which shifts our understanding of pericyte biology, from a structural cell to a player in controlling inflammation.

BACKGROUND: Mechanical thrombectomy (MT) has become the gold standard care for treating acute ischemic stroke (AIS) due to large vessel occlusion. Emerging evidence suggests that understanding the composition of clots prior to intervention could be useful for the selection of neuroendovascular techniques, potentially improving the efficacy of treatments. However, current imaging modalities lack the ability to distinguish clot composition accurately and reliably. Since water content can influence signal intensity on CT and MRI scans, its assessment may provide indirect clues about clot composition. This study aimed to elucidate the correlation between water content and clot composition using human clots retrieved from stroke patients and experimentally generated ovine clots. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study involved an analysis of ten clots retrieved from patients with AIS undergoing MT. Additionally, we created ten red blood cells (RBC)-rich and ten fibrin-rich ovine blood clots, which were placed in a human intracranial vascular model under realistic flow conditions. The water content and compositions of these clots were evaluated, and linear regression analyses were performed to determine the relationship between clot composition and water content. RESULTS: The regression analysis in human stroke clots revealed a significant negative association between RBC concentration and water content. We also observed a positive correlation between water content and both fibrin and platelets in ovine blood clots. Conclusion.

Statin therapy is a cornerstone in the treatment of systemic vascular diseases. However, statins have failed to translate as therapeutics for pulmonary vascular disease. Early pulmonary vascular disease in the setting of congenital heart disease (CHD) is characterized by endothelial dysfunction, which precedes the more advanced stages of vascular remodeling. These features make CHD an ideal cohort in which to re-evaluate the potential pulmonary vascular benefits of statins, with a focus on endothelial biology. However, it is critical that the full gamut of the pleiotropic effects of statins in the endothelium are uncovered. The purpose of this investigation was to evaluate the therapeutic potential of simvastatin for children with CHD and pulmonary over-circulation, and examine mechanisms of simvastatin action on the endothelium. Our data demonstrate that daily simvastatin treatment preserves endothelial function in our shunt lamb model of pulmonary over-circulation. Further, using pulmonary arterial endothelial cells (PAECs) isolated from Shunt and control lambs, we identified a new mechanism of statin action mediated by increased expression of the endogenous Akt1 inhibitor, C-terminal modifying protein (CTMP). Increases in CTMP were able to decrease the Akt1-mediated mitochondrial redistribution of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) which correlated with increased enzymatic coupling, identified by increases in NO generation and decreases in NOS-derived superoxide. Together our data identify a new mechanism by which simvastatin enhances NO signaling in the pulmonary endothelium and identify CTMP as a potential therapeutic target to prevent the endothelial dysfunction that occurs in children born with CHD resulting in pulmonary over-circulation.

Introduction: Integrated crop-livestock systems (ICLS) use animals to graze crop residues or cover crops before planting fresh produce and provide ecosystem services to support organic vegetable production. However, there is a risk of foodborne pathogen transfer to fresh produce because grazing may introduce enteric foodborne pathogens into the soil via animal feces, which may subsequently be transferred to the produce. Methods: To examine the effect of cover crop use and the risk of cover crop grazing on the contamination of soil and produce by foodborne pathogens in ICLS, a three-year (2019–2021) experimental study was conducted in organically managed plots, which were assigned three different treatments (fallow without cover crop or grazing, cover crop without grazing, or cover crop with grazing by sheep) in a maize/tomato rotation. During the three years of the experiment, a total of 184 pre- and post-graze fecal samples and 96 samples of tomatoes were collected to test for foodborne pathogens (Escherichia coli O157, non-O157 Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC), and Listeria (L.) monocytogenes). Soil samples were collected monthly until 126–171 days after grazing (824 in total) to examine the presence of foodborne pathogens, and generic E. coli (MPN/g) was quantified to compare its persistence among the three treatments. Results and Discussion: We did not detect any foodborne pathogens from harvested tomatoes in 2020 and 2021. One non-O157 STEC positive soil sample (0.1%, 1/824) was detected in the fallow treatment, and one L. monocytogenes-positive (1.1%, 1/92) was detected from the post-graze fecal samples. When assessing proportions of generic E. coli positive and counts of generic E. coli in the soil samples using mixed effect zero-inflated negative binomial models, soil samples collected in the graze cover crop treatment plot showed significant increases in the counts of generic E. coli until 61–82 days post grazing, but no difference was observed after 96–123 days, compared to the baseline of the fallow treatment. Findings from generic E. coli counts support the use of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Organic Program (NOP) 90- or 120-day interval rule between applying raw manure and harvesting in organic farming into ICLS. Additionally, we confirmed that commercial organic compost application before cover crop seeding in the winter had no significant effect on the proportions and counts of generic E. coli in the soil of the following growing seasons. This longitudinal field trial confirmed that the effect of sheep grazing on foodborne pathogen contamination in ICLS is minimal but further studies comparing the genetic associations between fecal and soil samples would be necessary to distinguish the source of foodborne pathogen contamination.

BACKGROUND: There is only limited information on the clinical presentation, medical management, and outcomes of hospitalized sheep diagnosed with bluetongue virus (BTV) disease. OBJECTIVES: To describe the signalment, history, clinical signs, clinicopathological findings, medical management, and clinical outcomes of sheep diagnosed with BTV disease. ANIMALS: Thirty-five hospitalized sheep with BTV disease. METHODS: Retrospective case series. Medical records from 1989 to 2021 were evaluated. History, signalment, clinical signs, laboratory test results, treatments, and outcomes were recorded. RESULTS: BTV disease was diagnosed from July to December, with a peak proportion (43%; 15/35) of diagnoses recorded in October. Pyrexia and anorexia, respiratory disease, vasculitis, coronitis and lameness, and ulcerative mucosal lesions were present in 71%, 71%, 66%, 49%, and 22% of sheep, respectively. BTV serotypes 10, 11, 13, and 17 were identified, with serotype 17 (75%) being the most frequent. Management of cases included administration of antimicrobials (89%), anti-inflammatories (77%), IV fluids (60%), vitamins (20%), proton-pump inhibitors (14%), diuretics (9%), and antioxidants (9%). Six ewes were pregnant on presentation, but none aborted. Six (17%) sheep died or were euthanized because of clinical deterioration, whereas 83% were discharged. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: The proportion of sheep that survived BTV disease after treatment was relatively high. Serotyping of BTV is recommended because of the mismatch between frequently identified serotypes and the serotype present in the vaccine.

Domesticated sheep have adapted to contrasting and extreme environments and continue to play important roles in local community‐based economies throughout Africa. Here we review the Neolithic migrations of thin‐tailed sheep and the later introductions of fat‐tailed sheep into eastern Africa. According to contemporary pictorial evidence, the latter occurred in Egypt not before the Ptolemaic period (305–25 BCE). We further describe the more recent history of sheep in Egypt, the Maghreb, west and central Africa, central‐east Africa, and southern Africa. We also present a comprehensive molecular survey based on the analysis of 50 K SNP genotypes for 59 African breeds contributed by several laboratories. We propose that gene flow and import of fat‐tailed sheep have partially overwritten the diversity profile created by the initial migration. We found a genetic contrast between sheep north and south of the Sahara and a west–east contrast of thin‐ and fat‐tailed sheep. There is no close relationship between African and central and east Asian fat‐tailed breeds, whereas we observe within Africa only a modest effect of tail types on breed relationships. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The preservation of locally endangered breeds is essential for maintaining ecosystem services that benefit both society and the environment. Reproductive fitness becomes a crucial consideration in this context. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNA molecules that play a key role in post-transcriptional regulation. Typically, they function within the tissues where they are produced. However, when they are released into extracellular fluid, they are referred to as circulating miRNAs (c-miRNAs). C-miRNAs may serve as potential biomarkers, whose profile changes under different physiological states. The purpose of this study is to establish a connection between distinctive variations in the expression of c-miRNAs and specific estrus cycle phases in Frabosana-Roaschina sheep, an endangered Piedmontese breed. Methods: Two trials, each involving 20 ewes with different reproductive efficiencies (nulliparous in the first trial and pluriparous in the second trial), were sampled on alternate days after synchronization for blood, saliva, and feces. Ultrasound scans were performed during the induced estrus cycle. The animals' behaviors were assessed through video recordings. Results: In the first trial, play behaviors were detected without sexual behaviors, whereas in the second trial, sexual behaviors were observed without play behaviors. Based on plasma trends of 17β-estradiol and progesterone and ultrasound images, two moments were identified for miRNAs analyses: the beginning of the follicular phase (day 2) and the beginning of the luteal phase (day 11). C-miRNAs of six representative animals from the second trial were sequenced. Analyses of the sequencing data have identified 12 c-miRNAs that were differentially expressed (DE) when comparing day 11 with day 2: five miRNAs were found to be upregulated, whereas seven miRNAs were downregulated. An enrichment analysis, based on predicted targets, using the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) and Gene Ontology (GO) databases was performed. Many of these genes regulate reproductive pathways with the possible involvement of miRNAs. Finally, qRT-PCR was conducted to validate the DE miRNAs in all ewes. Differences in gene expression between the two sampling points and the two trials were observed, in line with existing literature. Discussion: Investigating the role of these miRNAs in regulating estrus could improve the reproductive performance and welfare of Frabosana-Roaschina ewes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Key points Programming effects of maternal undernutrition on fetal metabolic and cardiovascular systems are well elucidated, yet a detailed characterization of maternal haemodynamics is not available. This study used comprehensive cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging to quantify maternal haemodynamics after 29 days (111–140 days) of late‐gestation undernutrition (LGUN) in pregnant sheep. Control ewes received 100% of metabolizable energy requirements (MERs, n = 15), whereas LGUN ewes were globally nutrient restricted to 50% MER (n = 18), with a subset of fetuses undergoing continuous glucose infusion (LGUN + G, n = 6/18). Ewes underwent CMR (138–140 days’ gestation), and placental tissue was collected the next day. Ewes in both LGUN groups had reduced body weight and mean blood glucose concentration across gestation. Ventricular dimensions were lower in both LGUN groups. Uterine artery blood flow (QUtA) was elevated in the LGUN group compared with controls, whereas peripheral blood flow was reduced and further diminished in LGUN + G. Maternal weight change correlated with all haemodynamic parameters across all groups. Uteroplacental oxygen and glucose delivery were increased in LGUN compared to control ewes, whereas uteroplacental oxygen consumption was preserved. LGUN did not impact placental or fetal weight, and markers of brain‐sparing physiology were absent. Placental expression of insulin‐like growth factors (IGF‐1 and IGF‐2) and their receptors, glucose, fatty acid (FA) or amino acid transporters and markers of angiogenesis was not impacted. FA transporter expression was positively correlated with QUtA, and FA binding protein correlated negatively with maternal weight change. Maternal cardiovascular adaptations in response to LGUN manifest as preservation of placental growth and function, thereby preserving fetal growth. Maternal undernutrition during pregnancy alters fetal metabolic and cardiovascular physiology, but little is known about alterations in maternal haemodynamics. Late‐gestation undernutrition (LGUN) and LGUN + G redirected maternal blood flow from the periphery to the uteroplacental unit, concomitantly increasing the delivery of glucose and oxygen to the uteroplacental unit. Substrate transporter expression and uteroplacental oxygen consumption were preserved in LGUN and LGUN + G, suggesting prioritization of the placenta. This study is the first to report detailed maternal haemodynamics in the setting of maternal undernutrition, where placental growth and function were maintained, ultimately preserving fetal oxygen metabolism and growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The frigid and droughty climate of Xinjiang in China has given rise to unique indigenous sheep breeds with robust adaptability and resistance. To investigate the genetic mechanism of adaptability of Xinjiang sheep to the local extreme environment, we conducted population genetic structure analyses for three native Xinjiang sheep breeds: Altay sheep (ALT), Bashbay Sheep (BSBC), and Duolang sheep (DLC), as well as two foreign sheep breeds: Suffolk and Dorset, using the Ovine Infinium HD SNP BeadChip(680 K). Our findings revealed distinct genetic and evolutionary histories between Xinjiang and foreign sheep breeds. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and phylogenetic tree effectively differentiate these five sheep breeds based on their geographical origins, and the domestication level of Xinjiang sheep is comparatively lower than that of foreign sheep breeds. Furthermore, by utilizing three selective signature methods, namely Fixation Index (Fst), Cross Population Extended Haplotype Homozygosity Test (XP-EHH), and Nucleotide Diversity (π), we have successfully identified 22 potential candidate genes. Among these genes, there are TBXT, PDGFD, and VEGFA, which are closely related to tail type and lipid metabolism; VIL1, SLC11A1, and ZBTB46, which are associated with immune function; and candidate genes such as BNC1, HDAC1, and BMP5, which impact sheep reproductive traits. This study establishes a foundation for conserving and utilizing local sheep germplasm resources in Xinjiang and provides molecular insights into the genetic mechanisms governing sheep adaptation to extreme cold and arid environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hypothalamus is the coordination center of the sheep (Ovis aries) endocrine system and plays an important role in the reproductive processes of sheep. However, the specific mechanism by which the hypothalamus affects sheep reproductive performance remains unclear. In this study, the hypothalamus tissues of high-reproduction small-tailed Han sheep and low-reproduction Wadi sheep were collected, and full-length transcriptome sequencing by Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT) was performed to explore the key functional genes associated with sheep fecundity. The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were screened and enriched using DESeq2 software through Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG). Approximately 41.75 million clean reads were obtained from the hypothalamus tissues of high- and low-reproduction sheep, after quality control, 32,194,872 high-quality full-length sequences and 2,114 DEGs were obtained, including 1,247 upregulated genes and 867 downregulated genes (P adjust < 0.05, |log2FC|>1). Some DEGs were enriched in oocyte meiosis, progesterone-mediated oocyte maturation, estrogen signaling pathway, GnRH signaling pathway and other development-related signaling pathways. The constructed protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks identified the reproduction-related genes, such as GSK3B, PPP2R1B, and PPP2CB. The results of this study will enrich and supplement the genomic information available for small-tailed Han sheep and Wadi sheep, as well as expand the understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the regulation of animal reproduction by the hypothalamus, and they also provided reference data for further investigations on the mechanism of high reproduction in sheep. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Consistent individual behavioral differences (CIDs) among livestock are known to be inherent qualities of the animal that are repeatable over time and across contexts and can be related to production. Shepherds rely on qualities of the ewe to promote lamb health, survival, and performance, and selecting ewes based on desirable phenotypes may be one way to benefit lamb outcome. Previous research indicates that traits observed among breeding ewes in restrained contexts during human-animal interactions (HAIs) may have a greater association with maternal care and lamb outcome than responses in an open testing environment. The current study investigated the relationship between several behaviors in multiparous ewes (n = 42) in two distinct contexts: 1) human-animal interactions, with no lamb present, during post-breeding, gestation, and weaning, which were performed three times per year for 2 years (six trials in total), and 2) HAIs, with the lamb present, after parturition once per year for 2 years (two trials in total). Tests without the lamb present included a Human Contact, Presence, and Approach test within each of the six trials, and tests with the lamb present included a Lamb Handling and Tie Down test. General additive models with a random term for individual were used to investigate the relationship between behaviors from outside of the lambing season to behaviors within the lambing season. The proportion of time in the 'peripheral zone' in the Human Presence test, at post-breeding, was a significant negative predictor of 'environmental vigilance' (i.e., being on look-out rather than attending to lamb) in the Lamb Tie Down test (P=0.02). A post-hoc negative relationship was found between 'environmental vigilance' and 'sniffing/grooming' the lamb in the Lamb Tie Down test. In addition, sheep who were more environmentally vigilant in the Lamb Tie Down test were less avoidant of the human in the Human Presence test (post-breeding). Weaning weights, yet not birth weights, were highly repeatable within ewes [R=0.70, P =0.001, CI(0.29, 0.91)], and weaning weight models were improved with the inclusion of time in the 'peripheral zone' in the Human Presence test and grooming and 'environmental vigilance' in the Lamb Tie Down test. Of note, the avoidance of the human, when the lamb was not present, was associated with weaning weights and therefore could be considered as a metric to consider when selecting ewes. Ewe behavior in response to humans outside of the lambing season be useful in gauging future maternal behavior (i.e., grooming) and lamb birth and weaning weights. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The intracranial cavity contains vitally important organs. The brain, cerebellum, meninges and the vessels that supply these organs are located in the intracranial cavity. Therefore, it is important to learn about the intracranial cavity and to study it. However, there is limited information about the intracranial cavity in the veterinary field. The aim of this study was to determine the differences between the intracranial cavities of different species of animals by using stereology and tomography methods, volume calculations and morphometric measurements. In addition, the compatibility of the methods used with each other was investigated. In the study, six male adult goats and six male adult sheep were used. In this study, the intracranial cavities of sheep and goats were calculated by using Cavalieri's principle and 3D modelling using tomography sections. Morphometric measurements were taken over the intracranial space, and index calculations were made. In 3D models using computed tomography, the intracranial volume was 153.31 ± 24.06 cm3 in goats and 128.07 ± 7.93 cm3 in sheep. In the calculation using Cavalieri's principle, it was determined to be 152.73 ± 22.73 cm3 in goats and 126.15 ± 8.38 cm3 in sheep. As a result of the study, the MWCC (maximum width of the cranial cavity) parameter was found to be statistically significant between species (p < 0.05). The two methods used in Bland‐Altman analysis were found to be within the limits of agreement, and the methods can be alternative to each other. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The ossicula auditus is the structure that transmits vibrations from the tympanic cavity to the auris interna. This assembly is formed by three ossicles: the malleus, incus and stapes. In addition, the bone that exists as os lenticulare in humans exists as processus lenticulare in most mammals. Objective: To our knowledge, no in‐depth study has been published on the ossicula auditus of gazelles. This study aims to provide a comparative study of the morphology of the auditory ossicles in sheep, goats and gazelles. Methods: Ossicula auditus from six adult Awassi sheep, six hair goats and six gazelles was examined and photographed under a stereomicroscope. Results and conclusion: It was determined that the ossicula auditus of gazelle, hair goat and Awassi sheep consisted of malleus, incus and stapes. In the species examined, it was observed that the articular surface on the caput mallei, the malleus protrusions and the distal part of the manubrium mallei differed between species. It was determined that the incus bone consists of a body and two crus. As an important morphological difference, the proc. lenticulare was found to be on the crus breve in all three species. It was determined that the stapes bone was quadrangular in the species examined, especially in goats, but this quadrangular shape, which is specific to ruminants, was not fully formed in other species. As a result, it was determined that the ossicula auditus of gazelle, hair goat and Awassi sheep showed morphologically different characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Identifying associations between phenotype and genotype is the fundamental basis of genetic analyses. Inspired by frequentist probability and the work of R. A. Fisher, genome-wide association studies (GWAS) extract information using averages and variances from genotype-phenotype datasets. Averages and variances are legitimated upon creating distribution density functions obtained through the grouping of data into categories. However, as data from within a given category cannot be differentiated, the investigative power of such methodologies is limited. Genomic informational field theory (GIFT) is a method specifically designed to circumvent this issue. The way GIFT proceeds is opposite to that of GWAS. Although GWAS determines the extent to which genes are involved in phenotype formation (bottom-up approach), GIFT determines the degree to which the phenotype can select microstates (genes) for its subsistence (top-down approach). Doing so requires dealing with new genetic concepts, a.k.a. genetic paths, upon which significance levels for genotype-phenotype associations can be determined. By using different datasets obtained in Ovis aries related to bone growth (dataset 1) and to a series of linked metabolic and epigenetic pathways (dataset 2), we demonstrate that removing the informational barrier linked to categories enhances the investigative and discriminative powers of GIFT, namely that GIFT extracts more information than GWAS. We conclude by suggesting that GIFT is an adequate tool to study how phenotypic plasticity and genetic assimilation are linked. NEW & NOTEWORTHY: The genetic basis of complex traits remains challenging to investigate using classic genome-wide association studies (GWASs). Given the success of gene editing technologies, this point needs to be addressed urgently since there can only be useful editing technologies whether precise genotype-phenotype mapping information is available initially. Genomic informational field theory (GIFT) is a new mapping method designed to increase the investigative power of biological/medical datasets suggesting, in turn, the need to rethink the conceptual bases of quantitative genetics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context. As a 'duty of care', it is important to test whether new forage plants for ruminants contain secondary compounds (PSCs) that affect reproductive performance. We have previously observed, a posteriori, that the presence of a methanolic extract of Biserrula pelecinus during maturation of sheep oocytes increased fertilisation rate and blastocyst development. This result needed to be verified a priori and, if the outcome was repeated, we needed to identify the plant secondary metabolite responsible. Aims. To test whether PSCs from B. pelecinus, when added to the oocyte maturation medium, improve fertilisation rate and blastocyst development; to test whether loliolide is the active molecule produced by B. pelecinus. Methods. Methanol-chloroform extracts of B. pelecinus were fractionated using rapid silica filtration and solvents of increasing polarity. Fractions at final concentrations of 0, 100 or 200 µg mL-1 were added to the medium used to mature sheep cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) and effects were determined for maturation, subsequent cleavage rate, blastocyst rate, hatching rate, blastocyst efficiency and total blastocyst cell number (TCN). Results. Fraction BP-6 at 100 µgmL-1 reduced blastocyst rate (P < 0.05), but had no effect when the dose was doubled to 200 µg mL-1. Further fractionation using semi-preparative high-performance liquid chromatography showed loliolide as the most abundant compound in BP-6. Supplementation of the in vitro maturation medium with loliolide (0, 2.5, 5, 10 and 25 µgmL-1) did not affect any measure of embryo development. All COCs treated with B. pelecinus fractions reached the final stage of embryo development, blastocyst hatching. Total blastocyst cell number was not affected. Conclusion. The presence of fractions of B. pelecinus extract during in vitro oocyte maturation can reduce embryo development. Implications. In vitro techniques can detect potential effects of forages on reproduction. Some fractions from an extract of B. pelecinus when present during oocyte maturation can reduce embryo development. The abundant PSC, loliolide, was not responsible. There was no indication that a PSC in B. pelecinus improves outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context. The use of progesterone vaginal implants in sheep is frequently associated with vaginitis and adherences; and can hamper fertility in estrus synchronization programs. Aims. The aim of this study was to characterize the plasma hormone profile induced by two injectable progesterone (iP4) formulations in ewes. Methods. In Experiment 1, ewes received 20 or 40 mg of an iP4, with a third group as a control. In Experiment 2, 75 or 150 mg of a long-acting iP4 were administered, again with a control group. Key results. In Experiment 1, progesterone concentrations remained at luteal levels for less than 24 h. The intervals from iP4 treatment to the onset of estrus and ovulation were greater treated than in control ewes (P < 0.01). The proportion of ewes that ovulated within 8 days after treatment was lower in ewes that received 40 mg iP4 than in control ewes (P < 0.05). In Experiment 2, mean progesterone concentrations remained at luteal levels for 120 h. The interval from iP4 administration to estrus was longer in 150 mg treated ewes than in control ewes (P < 0.01). The interval from treatment to ovulation was longer in ewes treated with 150 mg than 75 mg and control ewes < 0.05). The proportion of ewes that ovulated was lower at 150 mg (P < 0.05). Conclusions. The iP4 formula used in Experiment 1 could not maintain luteal levels for more than 24 h. The use of longacting iP4 maintained plasma progesterone concentrations above luteal levels for at least 5 days. The longacting treatment can therefore be tested for estrous synchronization treatments. Implications. The long-acting progesterone may be an alternative to short estrous synchronization protocols. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: To determine the reproductive effects of feeding spent hemp biomass (SHB) to rams. Several studies suggest cannabidiols negatively affect reproductive characteristics, and the reproductive effects of SHB ingestion have not been investigated in any species. Spent hemp biomass is high in protein and essential fatty acids, indicating a potential use in livestock diets pending studies investigating its safety in animals. METHODS: Polypay rams approximately 6 months old were randomly assigned to 5 feeding trial groups (n = 7/group): either a low or high concentration of SHB in diet for either 4 or 8 weeks plus a control group. Blood samples were collected for hormone assays. At the conclusion of the feeding trial, the testes were removed, and sperm collected directly from the vas deferens were evaluated for motility (total, progressive, and speed), morphology, and concentration. A section from each ram's testes was formalin fixed, paraffin embedded, and subjected to routine immunohistochemistry to determine the expression of fertility-associated proteins deleted in azoospermia-like and Boule, followed by quantitative image analysis. RESULTS: Rams fed either 10% or 20% SHB for 8 weeks had significantly higher progressive sperm motility compared to controls. There were no significant differences between the treatment and control groups in the other parameters studied. Boule immunoexpression was adversely affected, whereas deleted in azoospermia-like immunoexpression was differentially affected by SHB ingestion. CONCLUSION We conclude that up to 20% of the diet can be fed as SHB to rams for 8 weeks without adversely affecting testicular or sperm function. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Supplementing young rams with SHB is unlikely to affect fertility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents the biography of a Neo-Assyrian gypsum relief fragment from Ashurbanipal's 7th century b.c.e. North Palace at Nineveh, now in the Arizona State Museum, University of Arizona. Its discovery by British explorers in late 1853 or early 1854, its journey to the United States, probably in the mid-19th century through missionaries in Ottoman Mesopotamia, its connection with the circus impresario P. T. Barnum and Tufts College, and its acquisition in 1959 by the Arizona State Museum are discussed, along with the changing uses and meaning of the object in its various contexts. The fragment depicts fat-tailed sheep being led in procession by a royal eunuch. It is related to a larger relief fragment in the British Museum that was positioned to the right of this fragment, allowing some conclusions about its probable location within the North Palace and interpretations concerning its iconography. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Flock-level prevalence and characterization of Mycoplasma ovipneumoniae is determined almost exclusively using nasal swabbing followed by molecular detection with either quantitative PCR or multi-locus sequence typing. However, the diagnostic performance and efficiency of swabbing the nasal passage compared to other anatomical locations has not been determined within sheep populations. The goal of this research was to assess the diagnostic capability of nasopharyngeal swabs in comparison to nasal swabs for the detection of Mycoplasma ovipneumoniae. Results: Nasal and nasopharyngeal swabs were collected during a controlled exposure study of domestic sheep with Mycoplasma ovipneumoniae. Both swab types were then analyzed via conventional and quantitative PCR. This dataset showed that the use of nasopharyngeal swabs in lieu of nasal swabs resulted in higher sensitivity, reduced inhibition during quantitative PCR, and higher bacterial copy numbers per swab. Moreover, it was demonstrated that diagnostic sensitivity could be further increased during quantitative PCR via ten-fold dilution of the extracted DNA. To confirm these observations in naturally infected animals, we conducted a field study employing a production flock of domestic sheep using both nasal and nasopharyngeal swabbing techniques. Extracted DNA was assessed using the same molecular techniques, where detection of Mycoplasma ovipneumoniae was confirmed by sequencing of either the rpoB or 16S rRNA gene. Similar improvements were observed for nasopharyngeal swabs and template treatment methods within the naturally infected flock. Conclusions: Results demonstrate increased diagnostic sensitivity and specificity when sampling with nasopharyngeal swabs as compared to nasal swabs. Therefore, alternate field-testing strategies employing nasopharyngeal swabs should be considered for diagnosis of the presence of M. ovipneumoniae. Importantly, sample treatment following acquisition was found to affect the sensitivity of quantitative PCR, where dilution of eluted DNA template doubled the calculated sensitivity. This demonstrates that, in addition to anatomical location, the presence of inhibitory components in swab extracts also strongly influences diagnostic performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Efficient traceability is paramount for Australia's biosecurity system and market access. Electronic identification (eID) offers higher traceability performance than that achieved with visual and mob‐based identification used for the sheep and goats National Livestock Identification System (NLIS). The current study aims to gain an understanding of the barriers and motivations of using eID for NLIS sheep and goats in New South Wales (NSW) and to provide recommendations to support the transition to eID. A social research study using a mixed‐methods approach was used through semi‐structured interviews and a cross‐sectional epidemiological and behavioural study among sheep and goat producers. The COM‐B behaviour change model based on capabilities, opportunities and motivations was used as a framework for the study. A total of 269 participants informed this study: 25 interviews were conducted with government, industry and private stakeholders, and 184 and 58 sheep and goat producers participated in the cross‐sectional study, respectively. The study identified poor understanding of the purpose and importance of NLIS among producers, with over two‐thirds not supporting eID implementation. The main barriers identified to the eID implementation were practical, including costs, technology quality and increased workload. Attitudinal, behavioural and knowledge barriers, such as the perception of the current system providing efficient traceability and the perceived lack of benefits of eID were also identified. This study provides an in‐depth analysis of practices and perceptions of stakeholders and producers on sheep and goat traceability and recommendations to address barriers identified, based on education and appropriate behavioural and technical support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maternal asthma is associated with increased rates of neonatal lung disease, and fetuses from asthmatic ewes have fewer surfactant‐producing cells and lower surfactant‐protein B gene (SFTPB) expression than controls. Antenatal betamethasone increases lung surfactant production in preterm babies, and we therefore tested this therapy in experimental maternal asthma. Ewes were sensitised to house dust mite allergen, and an asthmatic phenotype induced by fortnightly allergen lung challenges; controls received saline. Pregnant asthmatic ewes were randomised to receive antenatal saline (asthma) or 12 mg intramuscular betamethasone (asthma+beta) at 138 and 139 days of gestation (term = 150 days). Lambs were delivered by Caesarean section at 140 days of gestation and ventilated for 45 min before tissue collection. Lung function and structure were similar in control lambs (n = 16, 11 ewes) and lambs from asthma ewes (n = 14, 9 ewes). Dynamic lung compliance was higher in lambs from asthma+beta ewes (n = 12, 8 ewes) compared to those from controls (P = 0.003) or asthma ewes (P = 0.008). Lung expression of surfactant protein genes SFTPA (P = 0.048) and SFTPB (P < 0.001), but not SFTPC (P = 0.177) or SFTPD (P = 0.285), was higher in lambs from asthma+beta than those from asthma ewes. Female lambs had higher tidal volume (P = 0.007), dynamic lung compliance (P < 0.001), and SFTPA (P = 0.037) and SFTPB gene expression (P = 0.030) than males. These data suggest that betamethasone stimulates lung maturation and function of near‐term neonates, even in the absence of impairment by maternal asthma. What is the central question of this study?Does antenatal betamethasone before near‐term delivery mitigate the increased risk of neonatal lung disease in a sheep model of maternal asthma?What is the main finding and its importance?Maternal asthma did not impair neonatal lung function or reduce surfactant gene expression, likely reflecting a mild maternal and fetal phenotype in this cohort. Nevertheless, antenatal maternal betamethasone treatment in asthmatic pregnancies increased dynamic lung compliance and surfactant protein A and B mRNA expression in newborn lambs. These data suggest potential benefits of betamethasone on lung maturation when mothers have asthma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Understanding the genetic basis of growth and metabolic traits in sheep is crucial for improving production efficiency and sustainability. The current study aimed to estimate the genetic influences, both direct and maternal, on growth rate and Kleiber's ratio traits in Harnali sheep using pedigree data under Bayesian inference. The data pertained to 2404 animals spanned over 24 years (1998–2021). Fixed factors such as birth period, lamb sex and dam's weight at lambing were considered. The traits studied included average daily gains (ADGs) categorised into ADG1 (birth to weaning age), ADG2 (weaning to 6 months of age) and ADG3 (6–12 months of age), as well as corresponding Kleiber's ratios (KR1, KR2 and KR3). Six single‐trait animal models were employed to estimate covariance components and heritabilities, integrating direct additive and maternal effects alongside significant fixed factors using THRGIBBS1F90 and POSTGIBBSF90 programmes. Direct heritability estimates were obtained for ADG1 (0.11 ± 0.05), ADG2 (0.06 ± 0.03), ADG3 (0.03 ± 0.03), KR1 (0.07 ± 0.03), KR2 (0.06 ± 0.03) and KR3 (0.05 ± 0.03). Maternal genetic effects have contributed significant particularly to pre‐weaning traits. The study identified an antagonistic relationship between direct additive and maternal genetic effects. Positive genetic and phenotypic correlations emphasised the intricate relationship between growth and metabolic efficiency in Harnali sheep. The current study offers critical insights into the genetic basis of growth and metabolic traits in Harnali sheep, ultimately contributing to more efficient and sustainable sheep production systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is the most prevalent methylation of mRNA and plays crucial roles in various physiological processes, including pigmentation. Yet, the regulatory mechanisms, including long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) m6A methylation contributing to pigmentation in sheep skin remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to identify potential lncRNAs and the m6A methylation of lncRNAs associated with pigmentation. Methods: RNA-seq and MeRIP-seq were performed to study the expression of lncRNAs and the m6A methylation of lncRNAs in black and white sheep skin. Furthermore, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was used to verify the consistency with the RNA-seq and MeRIP-seq data. Results: We identified 168 differentially expressed lncRNAs between the two sheep skin colors. The differentially expressed lncRNAs enriched in the pathway of ECM-receptor interaction, Rap1 signaling pathway, and Non-homologous end-joining may play essential roles in pigmentation. We identified 577 m6A peaks and 617 m6A peaks in black and white sheep skin, respectively, among which 20 m6A peaks showed significant differences. The enriched motif in sheep skin was "GGACU", which aligned with the consensus motif "RRACH" (R = A or G, H = A, C or U). Differently methylated lncRNAs enriched in PI3K-Akt signaling pathway and Wnt signaling pathway might participate in skin pigmentation. ENSOARG00020015168 was the unique lncRNA with high expression and methylation (Hyper-Up) in black sheep shin. A lncRNA-mRNA network was constructed, with pigmentation-related genes, such as PSEN2, CCND3, COL2A1, and ERCC3. Conclusion: The m6A modifications of lncRNAs in black and white colored sheep skin were analyzed comprehensively, providing new candidates for the regulation of pigmentation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Fetal inflammatory response syndrome associated with acidosis during labor is a high‐risk situation for the fetus. This study evaluated hemodynamic, gasometric, and heart rate variability changes during acute fetal inflammatory response syndrome associated with hypoxia, compared with isolated hypoxia. Material and Methods: Acute fetal inflammatory response syndrome was obtained via an intravenously injection of lipopolysaccharide derived from Escherichia coli. Hypoxia was induced by repeated umbilical cord occlusions during three phases: mild, moderate, and severe umbilical cord occlusions. Two groups were created with chronically instrumented near‐term fetal sheep: one group with isolated hypoxia, the other with hypoxia and fetal inflammatory response syndrome. Hemodynamic, gas parameters, and fetal heart rate variability were compared between the groups. Results: The hypoxia and fetal inflammatory response syndrome group had a higher mortality rate (n = 4/9) compared with the hypoxia group (n = 0/9). Gasometric state was altered earlier in case of lipopolysaccharide injection (pH = 7.22 (7.12–7.24) vs 7.28 (7.23–7.34) p = 0.01; lactate = 10.3 mmol/L (9.4–11.0) vs 6.0 mmol/L (4.1–8.2) p < 0.001 after mild occlusions). After mild occlusions, the hypoxia and fetal inflammatory response syndrome group had higher values on seven heart rate variability parameters compared with the hypoxia group. After moderate occlusions, two parameters remained significantly higher. Conclusions: During fetal inflammatory response syndrome, fetal adaptation to hypoxia is impaired. In case of fetal infection, acidosis during labor is likely to become severe more rapidly, requiring closer fetal monitoring during labor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vitrification of oocyte has become an important component of assisted reproductive technology and has important implications for animal reproduction and the preservation of biodiversity. However, vitrification adversely affects mitochondrial function and oocyte developmental potential, mainly because of oxidative damage. Rutin is a highly effective antioxidant, but no information is available to the effect of rutin on the mitochondrial function and development in vitrified oocytes. Therefore, we studied the effects of rutin supplementation of vitrification solution on mitochondrial function and developmental competence of ovine germinal vesicle (GV) stage oocytes post vitrification. The results showed that supplementation of vitrification solution with 0.6 mM rutin significantly increased the cleavage rate (71.6 % vs. 59.3 %) and blastocyst rate (18.9 % vs. 6.8 %) compared to GV-stage oocytes in the vitrified group. Then, we analyzed the reactive oxygen species (ROS), glutathione (GSH), mitochondrial activity and membrane potential (ΔΨm), endoplasmic reticulum (ER) Ca2+, and annexin V (AV) of vitrified sheep GV-stage oocytes. Vitrified sheep oocytes exhibited increased levels of ROS and Ca2+, higher rate of AV-positive oocytes, and decreased mitochondrial activity, GSH and ΔΨm levels. However, rutin supplementation in vitrification solution decreased the levels of ROS, Ca2+ and AV-positive oocytes rate, and increased the GSH and ΔΨm levels in vitrified oocytes. Results revealed that rutin restored mitochondrial function, regulated Ca2+ homeostasis and decreased apoptosis potentially caused by mitophagy in oocytes. To understand the mechanism of rutin functions in vitrified GV-stage oocytes in sheep, we analyzed the transcriptome and found that rutin mediated oocytes development and mitochondrial function, mainly by affecting oxidative phosphorylation and the mitophagy pathways. In conclusion, supplementing with 0.6 mM rutin in vitrification solution significantly enhanced developmental potential through improving mitochondrial function and decreased apoptosis potentially caused by mitophagy after vitrification of ovine GV-stage oocytes. • Rutin enhances the developmental capacity of vitrified ovine GV-stage oocytes. • Rutin ameliorates mitochondrial dysfunction in oocytes by reducing ROS levels. • Rutin reduces apoptotic events in vitrified ovine GV-stage oocytes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chlamydia abortus is a reported cause of infertility and endometritis in sheep, cattle, and pigs; however, the association between uterine disease and C. abortus is poorly understood in horses. Recently, a high prevalence of C. abortus in equine aborted chorioallantoises was reported in horses in western Canada. Based on this high prevalence, investigation into the effects of C. abortus on infertility and endometritis in western Canadian mares is prudent. We examined 98 formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded endometrial biopsies from western Canada submitted between 2014 and 2022 using a Chlamydia -specific 16S rRNA PCR test; 40 samples tested positive for Chlamydia on PCR, and 28 were sequenced as C. abortus. The C. abortus –positive cases were primarily associated with a history of failure to conceive, early embryonic loss, or abortion. Our findings suggest that C. abortus may be a cause of conception failure and abortion in horses in western Canada. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atypical scrapie is a transmissible spongiform encephalopathy that is rarely diagnosed in living animals. In March 2022, a 7-y-old Herdwick ewe was referred to the Scottish Centre for Production Animal Health and Food Safety because of circling behavior and ill thrift. The ewe had a low body condition score, was obtunded, with a wide-based stance of the pelvic limbs, and was circling to the left. Hematologic, biochemical, and CSF analyses were unremarkable, but postmortem magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings were consistent with diffuse, bilateral, and symmetrical atrophy of the forebrain and ventriculomegaly. The clinical signs, the involvement of an individual older ewe, and the MRI results led to the clinical diagnosis of scrapie. Immunohistochemistry on the fixed brain, performed by the U.K. Animal and Plant Health Agency, revealed deposits of PrPSc, which is a specific disease marker of transmissible spongiform encephalopathies, mainly in the cerebellum and at lower concentrations in the cerebrum and obex, consistent with the diagnosis of atypical scrapie. MRI findings in a sheep with atypical scrapie have not been described previously, to our knowledge. Scrapie should be included in the list of clinical differential diagnoses when veterinarians are presented with sheep with progressive neurologic signs of several weeks' duration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metabolic diseases are significant diseases that affect the welfare, health, and production of small ruminant flocks raised for dairy and meat purposes. In breeding females, they mainly occur from six to eight weeks before and after parturition, respectively. Pregnancy toxemia and lactational ketosis are manifestations of hyperketonemia, primarily due to energetic deficit. Hypocalcemia and hypomagnesemia are related to the metabolic unavailability of calcium and magnesium, respectively. This review aimed to identify and discuss the current and most relevant aspects related to individual and herd health management of these interrelated metabolic diseases with impact on the sheep and goats' farm sustainability. These diseases are primarily due to nutritional deficits, but homeostatic and homeorhetic disruptions are responsible for clinical signs and forms. Currently, their clinical diagnosis and monitoring are mainly assessed by biochemistry of body fluids and feed bromatological evaluation. Epidemiological studies and measuring risk factors also contribute to their prevention. Nevertheless, research on specific biomarkers and composite indices related to these diseases, in the context of herd health management and precision medicine, are new pathways driven to suitable and efficient animal production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) occurs due to inadequate support of female pelvic organs and is often treated with synthetic implants. However, complications like infections, mesh shrinkage, and tissue erosion can arise due to biomechanical incompatibilities with native tissue. This study aimed to optimize the melt electrowriting process using medical-grade biodegradable Poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) with a pellet extruder to print meshes that mimic the mechanical properties of vaginal tissue. Square and diagonal mesh designs with filament diameters of 80 µm, 160 µm, and 240 µm were produced and evaluated through mechanical testing, comparing them to a commercial mesh and sheep vaginal tissue. The results showed that when comparing medical-grade with non-medical-grade square meshes, there was a 54% difference in the Secant modulus, with the non-medical-grade meshes falling short of matching the properties of vaginal tissue. The square-shaped medical-grade PCL mesh closely approximated vaginal tissue, showing only a 13.7% higher Secant modulus and a maximum stress of 0.29 MPa, indicating strong performance. Although the diagonal-shaped mesh exhibited a 14% stress difference, its larger Secant modulus discrepancy of 45% rendered it less suitable. In contrast, the commercial mesh was significantly stiffer, measuring 77.5% higher than vaginal tissue. The diagonal-shaped mesh may better match the stress–strain characteristics of vaginal tissue, but the square-shaped mesh offers stronger support due to its higher stress–strain curve. Overall, meshes printed with medical-grade PCL show superior performance compared to non-medical-grade meshes, suggesting that they are a promising avenue for future advancements in the field of POP repair. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ovine herpesvirus-2 (OvHV-2) is the causative agent of malignant catarrhal fever (MCF), a serious and often fatal disease that affects cattle and other ruminants. This study aimed to investigate the molecular epidemiology and genetic diversity of OvHV-2 strains circulating in sheep and cattle populations in the Jammu and Kashmir region of India. Screening of 150 sheep and 57 cattle blood samples revealed the presence of the OvHV-2 polymerase (pol) gene in 8.6% of sheep, 10% of apparently healthy cattle, and 29.7% of cattle exhibiting MCF-like symptoms. The full-length glycoprotein B (gB) gene (2800 bp) and an 875 bp internal fragment were successfully amplified, cloned, and sequenced from pol-positive samples. Comparative sequence analysis of the deduced gB amino acid sequences identified seven substitutions at positions 278, 341, 390, 440, 468, 539, and 566 compared to reference strains. Phylogenetic analysis based on the gB nucleotide sequences clustered the OvHV-2 strains from this study within the Indian clade, distinct from strains reported in the UK and US. These findings provide insights into the genetic diversity of OvHV-2 strains circulating in Jammu and Kashmir, with the identified mutations potentially influencing virus-host interactions. Further investigations into the functional implications of these mutations are warranted to understand their role in viral pathogenesis and tropism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to investigate the impact of adding two doses of a commercial probiotic on productive performance, ruminal and fecal microbiome in growing lambs. Forty-two Texel or Ile de France crossbred lambs aged 86.9 ± 8.0 days (body weight: 27.4 ± 3.7 kg) were distributed into three groups: basal diet without probiotic supplementation (CG); basal diet + 1 g/animal/day of probiotic (GP1) and basal diet + 5 g/animal/day of probiotic (GP5). The experimental period was 84 days. The weight was evaluated weekly and dry matter intake (DMI) and leftovers were measured daily. At the end of the experiment, lambs were slaughtered. Feces and rumen fluid were collected for microbiome analysis and rumen fragments for histological evaluation. The use of probiotics did not affect weight gain, but GP1 showed a higher silage and DMI intake than CG (p < 0.001). The CG had a greater thickness of keratinized epithelium and stratum corneum (< 0.001) than GP1 and GP5, and greater total papilla width (p = 0.039) than GP1. There was no difference in the general abundance in the rumen and fecal microbiomes. GP5 had a higher proportion of Azoarcus and Dialister taxa in the rumen fluid (p = 0.012 and p = 0.017, respectively) and higher proportion of Treponema and Fibrobacter taxa in the fecal microbiome (p = 0.015 and p = 0.026, respectively), whereas CG had a higher proportion of Anaeroplasma than the other groups (p = 0.032). These results demonstrated the benefits of probiotics for ruminal epithelium protection and microbial diversity. However, there was no effect on performance parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water salinity has a significant impact on water quality, posing challenges for livestock production and productivity, particularly in arid regions where climate change affects freshwater availability. This study aimed to determine the effect of drinking saline water on the carcass and meat quality traits of sheep and goats in Ethiopia. A total of 100 males with an average initial body weight of growing (18.17 ± 0.51) and mature (22.22 ± 0.52 kg) Blackhead Ogaden sheep and growing (17.99 ± 0.50) and mature (21.99 ± 0.54) kg) Somali goats were used. The design of the experiment was a three-way factorial RCBD with three-factor combinations (5 treatment levels, 2 species, and 2 age groups).Water treatments were natural water (Lake Basaka water (control), low saline water (L-SW), moderate saline water (M-SW), high saline water (H-SW), and very high saline water (VH-SW); that is, NaCl was added to natural water at concentrations of 7.95, 11.93, 15.90, and 19.88 g TDS/L, respectively. The finding showed that increasing salinity levels in drinking water reduced slaughter body weight (SBW), carcass weight (CW), dressing percentage (DP), rib eye area (RAE), total edible components (TEC), and increased total non-edible components (TNEC) (P < 0.05). Similarly, sheep and mature animals had higher (P < 0.001) SBW, CW, DP, RAE, and TEC than goats and growing animals. Sensory evaluation, shear force, and proximate analysis were affected by water salinity, species, and age groups (P < 0.05). Overall, the study revealed that consuming saline water above 11 g TDS/L affected carcass traits and meat quality in Somali goats and Blackhead Ogaden sheep. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The theory of "metafounders" proposes a unified framework for relationships across base populations within breeds (e.g. unknown parent groups), and base populations across breeds (crosses) together with a sensible compatibility with genomic relationships. Considering metafounders might be advantageous in pedigree best linear unbiased prediction (BLUP) or single-step genomic BLUP. Existing methods to estimate relationships across metafounders Γ are not well adapted to highly unbalanced data, genotyped individuals far from base populations, or many unknown parent groups (within breed per year of birth). Methods: We derive likelihood methods to estimate Γ . For a single metafounder, summary statistics of pedigree and genomic relationships allow deriving a cubic equation with the real root being the maximum likelihood (ML) estimate of Γ . This equation is tested with Lacaune sheep data. For several metafounders, we split the first derivative of the complete likelihood in a term related to Γ , and a second term related to Mendelian sampling variances. Approximating the first derivative by its first term results in a pseudo-EM algorithm that iteratively updates the estimate of Γ by the corresponding block of the H-matrix. The method extends to complex situations with groups defined by year of birth, modelling the increase of Γ using estimates of the rate of increase of inbreeding ( Δ F ), resulting in an expanded Γ and in a pseudo-EM+ Δ F algorithm. We compare these methods with the generalized least squares (GLS) method using simulated data: complex crosses of two breeds in equal or unsymmetrical proportions; and in two breeds, with 10 groups per year of birth within breed. We simulate genotyping in all generations or in the last ones. Results: For a single metafounder, the ML estimates of the Lacaune data corresponded to the maximum. For simulated data, when genotypes were spread across all generations, both GLS and pseudo-EM(+ Δ F ) methods were accurate. With genotypes only available in the most recent generations, the GLS method was biased, whereas the pseudo-EM(+ Δ F ) approach yielded more accurate and unbiased estimates. Conclusions: We derived ML, pseudo-EM and pseudo-EM+ Δ F methods to estimate Γ in many realistic settings. Estimates are accurate in real and simulated data and have a low computational cost. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to differences in their feeding behavior, sheep and goats are often assumed to respond differently to helminth infections. The present study compared Haemonchus contortus infection profile between sheep and goats under the same experimental setting. Experimental infection was conducted using a randomized block design in four groups of intact sheep (InfSH and ConSH) and goats (InfG, and ConG). Groups InfSH and InfG (N = 7 each) received 10,000L3 of H. contortus whereas the control groups ConSH and ConG (N = 7 each) remained uninfected. Faecal egg counts and PCV were measured from Day 0 to day 56 post infection (PI). On day 56 PI, animals were humanely slaughtered and abomasal contents were recovered to measure worm burden, worm length and in utero egg count. The findings show that: (1) Haemonchus infected animals showed an increase in FEC starting from day 21 PI, (2) progressive reduction in PCV was registered from day 7 PI and continued to the end of the experiment while this remained at pre-infection levels in control groups, (3) FEC was much higher (P < 0.001) and PCV was significantly lower (P < 0.05) in infected goats than in infected sheep, (4) at necropsy, total worm burden with worm establishment rates of 63% and 28.87% were registered respectively for infected goats and sheep with significant difference (P < 0.05), (5) Female worms were significantly longer (P < 0.05) in InfG (22.8(± 1.2) compared to InfSH (20.5 ± 0.67 mm) while (6) Mean worm fecundity was 974.8 ± 239.4 and 1162.5 ± 89.4 respectively for groups InfSH and InfG with no significant difference (P = 0.07), and (7) Parasite traits such as worm burden, FEC and female worm length were well correlated in sheep whereas few such patterns were observed in goats. In conclusion, under the same experimental infection, Arsi-Bale goats are more susceptible to H. contortus infection than Arsi-Bale sheep and hence deserve special attention when they are forced to live on grazing rather than browsing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Abomasal ulcers are a challenge in animal farming, affecting health, welfare, and productivity. Omeprazole's (OPZ) efficacy in treating these ulcers is known, but data on its pharmacokinetics (PK) in adult goats and sheep are lacking. The purpose of this research was to investigate and contrast OPZ's PK in these animals following a single intravenous (IV, 1 mg/kg) and subcutaneous (SC, 2 mg/kg) doses. Sheep and goats had similar exposure levels for all administration routes, with no significant AUC(0‐∞)D variations. Half‐life was short in both species (sheep: 0.20 h; goats: 0.31 h). Goats had a higher volume of distribution after IV administration. Clearance was rapid, and extraction ratio values were high for both goats and sheep (43% and 30%, respectively). SC administration showed similarities in Cmax and Tmax values between species. Both goats and sheep had high bioavailability (about 80%) levels and comparable mean absorption times (MAT). Despite some PK parameters' variances, systemic exposure to OPZ is similar in sheep and goats. SC administration's high bioavailability suggests it as a convenient field application route. Further investigations are needed to understand OPZ's effectiveness in small ruminants with abomasal ulcers and improve dosing regimens for clinical use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Substance use disorders (SUDs) are common, and there is evidence of clinically significant benefit of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). The efficacy of CBT in SUDs has been confirmed, although relapse rates of 40%– 60% have been reported. An enhancement of CBT-based therapy through an animal-assisted intervention (AAI) with sheep to normalize the occurrence of negative emotions and improve positive emotions as well as mindfulness and self-efficacy expectancy was investigated. Methods: A single-session AAI with sheep in a group setting was investigated against treatment as usual over time. N = 36 psychiatric inpatients with SUDs were examined by questionnaires before and 1 week after the intervention and additionally immediately after the intervention. Results: Positive emotions improved significantly in the AAI group 1 week after the intervention with a medium effect size, but not in the control group. Similarly, mindfulness and self-efficacy expectancy improved over time in the AAI group. When exploratory results were evaluated immediately after the intervention while still on the farm, the effects in favor of AAI were even larger. Conclusions: AAI can thus be considered effective in improving positive emotions, mindfulness, and self-efficacy expectancy. The impressive effect sizes immediately after the intervention encourage us to consider what can be done to maintain these even greater effect sizes over time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Central European forests have been shaped by complex human interactions throughout the Holocene, with significant changes following the introduction of domesticated animals in the Neolithic (∼7.5–6.0 ka before present [BP]). However, understanding early pastoral practices and their impact on forests is limited by methods for detecting animal movement across past landscapes. Here, we examine ancient sedimentary DNA (seda DNA) preserved at the Velký Mamuťák rock shelter in northern Bohemia (Czech Republic), which has been a forested enclave since the early Holocene. We find that domesticated animals, their associated microbiomes, and plants potentially gathered for fodder have clear representation by the Late Neolithic, around 6.0 ka BP, and persist throughout the Bronze Age into recent times. We identify a change in dominant grazing species from sheep to pigs in the Bronze Age (∼4.1–3.0 ka BP) and interpret the impact this had in the mid-Holocene retrogressions that still define the structure of Central European forests today. This study highlights the ability of ancient metagenomics to bridge archaeological and paleoecological methods and provide an enhanced perspective on the roots of the "Anthropocene." • We analyze metagenomic data from a rock shelter using sedimentary ancient DNA • Ancient DNA reveals domesticated animals and their associated microbiomes • Phylogenetic analyses detect mitochondrial haplogroups in domestic sheep and cattle • seda DNA can help improve the understanding of our herding practices and forest management Sedimentary ancient DNA buried underneath a rock shelter reveals shifts in the presence of domesticated animals, associated microbiomes, and plants gathered for fodder from the Late Neolithic to the Bronze Age. Zampirolo et al. highlight the potential of using ancient DNA from rock shelter deposits to infer past human-environment interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Public health concerns continue about the spread of colistin resistance, especially after the discovery of the mobile colistin resistance (mcr) gene in Eschierichia coli a decade ago, which could potentially transfer resistance to other bacteria, posing risks to humans, animals and the environment. This study investigated the presence of colistin-resistant and ESBL-producing E. coli in both conventional indoor and organic outdoor Wallon meat lambs from birth to slaughter. Assessing n = 109 fecal samples in 2020 and 2021, 15% of E. coli isolates from conventional sheep showed reduced sensitivity to colistin, and 8% of these were multi-resistant. Genetic analysis showed the resistance was due to chromosomal mutations rather than the mcr-1 gene. In contrast, no resistant E. coli was isolated from the n = 32 samples from organic sheep, potentially due to different husbandry practices. The results highlight the importance of careful antimicrobial use and strict hygiene during slaughter to minimize risks to consumers, aligning with the One Health approach. Major efforts have been made to reduce the use of colistin in livestock since the discovery of the plasmid-borne mobile colistin resistance (mcr) gene in E. coli a decade ago, to curb the burden of its potential transmission to other bacterial species, spread between animals, humans and the environment. This study explored the longitudinal prevalence and characteristics of colistin-resistant and extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing (ESBL) E. coli via in vivo fecal and ex vivo carcass swabs from two batches of conventional indoor and organic outdoor Wallon meat sheep from birth to slaughter in 2020 and 2021. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing via broth microdilution revealed that n = 16/109 (15%) E. coli isolates from conventional meat lamb fecal samples had a reduced colistin sensitivity (MIC = 0.5 μg/mL) and thereof, n = 9/109 (8%) were multi-drug-resistant E. coli, while no resistant isolates were recovered from their carcasses. Sequencing revealed causative pmrB genes, indicating that the reduced sensitivity to colistin was not plasmid-borne. While the sample size was small (n = 32), no colistin-resistant and ESBL-producing E. coli were isolated from the organic meat sheep and their carcasses, potentially due to the different husbandry conditions. Prudent and judicious antimicrobial use and strict slaughter hygiene remain imperative for effective risk management to protect consumers in a sustainable One Health approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Trueperella pyogenes is a significant opportunistic pathogen that can infect a wide range of animals and humans. Understanding its virulence factors and antibiotic resistance mechanisms is essential for the prevention and control of infections. Presently, research predominantly concentrates on Trueperella pyogenes in dairy cows and pigs, with limited investigations into its prevalence in small ruminants like sheep and goats, despite their importance as food sources. In light of the rapid expansion of China's sheep and goat industry, this study focused on the isolation rate of Trueperella pyogenes from clinical samples obtained from various farms in western China. The objectives were to identify virulence genes and assess drug resistance characteristics in the isolated strains. Furthermore, the genetic relationships and virulence gene profiles, including antibiotic resistance gene carriage, were evaluated in selected isolates. The study underscored the threat posed by Trueperella pyogenes to sheep and goats and highlighted the high levels of antibiotic resistance observed. These findings provide crucial insights for the prevention and treatment strategies on farms and advocate for the prudent use of antibiotics to mitigate the transmission of drug-resistant bacteria through the food chain, thereby protecting human health. Trueperella pyogenes is a significant opportunistic pathogen that causes substantial economic losses in animal agriculture due to its ability to infect various animal tissues and organs. Limited research has been conducted on the prevalence and biological characteristics of T. pyogenes isolated from sheep and goats. This study aimed to isolate T. pyogenes from clinical samples of sheep and goats in western China, examining genetic evolutionary relationships, antibiotic resistance, and virulence genes. Between 2021 and 2023, standard bacteriological methods were used to isolate and identify T. pyogenes from 316 samples (209 from goats and 107 from sheep) collected from 39 farms. Susceptibility to 14 antibiotics was tested using broth microdilution per CLSI guidelines, and PCR detected eight virulence genes. Whole-genome sequencing analyzed genetic relationships and gene carriage status in 39 isolates. The results indicated that 86 strains of T. pyogenes were isolated from 316 samples, yielding an isolation rate of 27.2% (goats n = 47, 22.5%; sheep n = 39, 36.4%). The virulence genes plo, cbpA, nanH, nanP, fimA, fimC, and fimE were present in 100%, 66.7%, 64.1%, 71.8%, 69.2%, 59.0%, and 82.1% of isolates, respectively, with none carrying the fimG gene. The dominant virulence genotype was plo/nanH/nanP/fimA/fimC/fimE. The isolates exhibited resistance to erythromycin (44.2%, 38/86), gentamicin (38.4%, 33/86), sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim (37.2%, 32/86), tetracycline (32.6%, 28/86), and streptomycin (32.6%, 28/86), and low resistance to chloramphenicol (14.0%, 12/86), ciprofloxacin (7.0%, 6/86), penicillin (5.8%, 5/86), and clindamycin (4.7%, 4/86). All isolates were susceptible to cefotaxime, vancomycin, and linezolid. Among the 86 isolates, 37 (43.0%) displayed multidrug resistance (MDR) characteristics. The whole genome sequencing of 39 isolates identified eight types of resistance genes, including ant(2″)-Ia, ant(3″)-Ia, cmlA1, cmx, erm(X), lnu(A), sul1, and tet(W). Except for tet(W), erm(X), and sul1, the other resistance genes were reported for the first time in T. pyogenes isolated in China. The drug susceptibility test results and resistance gene detection for the isolated strains were consistent for tetracycline, erythromycin, gentamicin, and sulfisoxazole. Similar allelic profiles and genetic evolutionary relationships were found among isolates from different farms. This study highlights the antibiotic resistance status and virulence gene-carrying rate of Trueperella pyogenes, providing a basis for clinical medication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural or artificial selection causes animals to adapt to their environment. The adaptive changes generated by the rumen population and metabolism form the basis of ruminant evolution. In particular, the adaptive drive for environmental adaptation reflects the high-quality traits of sheep that have migrated from other places or have been distant from their origins for a long time. The Hu sheep is the most representative sheep breed in the humid and low-altitude environments (Tai Lake region) in East Asia and has been widely introduced into the arid and high-altitude environments (Tibetan Plateau and Hotan region), resulting in environmental adaptive changes in the Hu sheep. In this study, a joint analysis of the rumen microbial metagenome and metabolome was conducted on Hu sheep from different regions (area of origin and area of introduction) with the objective of investigating the quality traits of Hu sheep and identifying microorganisms that influence the adaptive drive of ruminants. The results demonstrated that the growth performance of Hu sheep was altered due to changes in rumen tissue and metabolism following their introduction to the arid area at relatively high altitude. Metagenomic and metabolomic analyses (five ramsper area) revealed that 3580 different microorganisms and 732 different metabolites were identified in the rumen fluid of arid sheep. Among these, the representative upregulated metabolites were 4,6-isocanedione, methanesulfonic acid and N2-succinyl-L-arginine, while the dominant microorganism was Prevotella ruminicola. The downregulated metabolites were identified as campesterol, teprenone and dihydroclavaminic acid, while the disadvantaged microorganisms were Dialister_succinatiphilus, Prevotella_sp._AGR2160, Prevotella_multisaccharivorax and Selenomonas_bovis. The results of the Pearson analysis indicated that the rumen microbiota and metabolite content of sheep were significantly altered and highly correlated following their relocation from a humid lowland to an arid upland. In particular, the observed changes in rumen microorganisms led to an acceleration of body metabolism, rendering sheep highly adaptable to environmental stress. Prevotella_ruminicola was identified as playing an important role in this process. These findings provide insights into the environmental adaptation mechanisms of sheep. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thymidine analogs such as ethynyl deoxyuridine (EdU) or bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) can be used to label mitosis of mammary epithelial cells (MEC) and to quantify their proliferation. However, labeling cells in larger animals requires considerable amounts of chemical that can be costly and hazardous. We developed a strategy to infuse EdU into the mammary glands of ewes to directly label mitotic MEC. First, each udder half of nulliparous ewes (n = 2) received an intramammary infusion of one of four different concentrations of EdU (0, 0.1, 1.0 or 10 mM) which was compared to BrdU IV (5 mg/kg) 24 h later. Tissues were analyzed by immunofluorescent histochemistry to detect EdU, BrdU, and total MEC. Of the EdU doses tested, 10 mM EdU yielded the greatest labeling index, while a proportion of MEC were labeled by both EdU and BrdU. We next sought to establish whether intramammary labeling could detect the induction of mitosis after exposure to exogenous estrogen and progesterone (E + P). We first infused EdU (10 mM) into the right udder half of ewes (n = 6) at t 0, followed by thymidine (100 mM) 24 h later to prevent further labeling. Three ewes were then administered E + P for 5 d, while n = 3 ewes served as controls. On d 5, EdU was infused into the left udder half of all mammary glands alongside BrdU IV (5 mg/kg). By the time of necropsy 24 h later an average MEC labeling index of 2.9% resulted from EdU delivered at t 0. In the left half of the udder on d 5, CON glands had a final EdU labeling index of 3.4% while glands exposed to E + P had a labeling index of 4.6% (p = 0.05). The corresponding degree of labeling with BrdU was 5.6% in CON glands, and 12% following E + P (p < 0.001). Our findings reveal that intramammary labeling is an efficient and cost-effective method for single- and dual-labeling of cell division in the mammary glands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The evolution of structural changes and the textural features during the ripening process of four varieties of Spanish sheep cheese were studied using Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). Specifically, longitudinal (T1) and transverse (T2) relaxation times and apparent diffusion coefficient maps were analyzed. Also, proton density was used to improve the description of the structure of the cheeses. The MRI results displayed important information about cheese matrix structure, associated with different manufacturing processes (industrial vs. traditional), ripening times (RTs, from 2 to 180 days), and geographical origins. A significant interaction between RT and cheese variety related to the variations in physicochemical and textural parameters was found. Linear regression models were developed per the abundant literature. Logarithmic regression models showed the highest R2 when monitoring the dependency on T1 and T2 parameters of water content, water activity, RT, and some texture parameters. Therefore, these results support that MRI is a useful technology to monitor the ripening process, predict textural behavior and physicochemical variables, and characterize the structure of different varieties of sheep cheese. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change and heat stress pose significant challenges to livestock. Local breeds, particularly small ruminants, are gaining importance due to their adaptability to harsh climates. However, the extensive system they are commonly reared in leaves them exposed to the effects of climate change. This study aims to describe the distribution and climate-related challenges faced by registered Italian sheep and goat breeds over the past seven decades. Geolocalized data from all registered small ruminant farms were combined with climatic information retrieved from the "ERA-5-Land hourly data from 1950 to present" dataset. These data were used to calculate average daily temperature, temperature humidity index (THI), and total precipitation during summer. Additionally, THI-based heat waves (HWs) were examined, including the yearly number of HW days and mean THI during HW days. These data were analysed through linear regression models including region or breed, year, and their interaction as fixed factors. The climate data indicate a concerning trend of rising summer temperatures, THI, and HW frequency and intensity, particularly over the past three decades. Central-northern Italy, including the Po Valley and the Alpine Arch, is the most affected region, impacting breeds like Rosset and Brogne sheep, and Lariana and Frisa Valtellinese goats. This is of particular concern because these populations have not been selected for hot climates, and their already small population size exacerbates the problem. Conversely, southern Italy, characterized by hotter and drier temperatures, remained relatively stable. Breeds from this region, such as Girgentana and Nicastrese goats and Nera di Arbus sheep, might represent excellent case studies for climatic adaptation and potential resources for selection for resilience in the face of ongoing climate changes. The findings presented here are essential for the development of monitoring and intervention strategies for breeds facing future vulnerabilities, as well as for designing experiments to explore environmental adaptability in small ruminants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hybridization can substantially improve growth performance. This study used metagenomics and metabolome sequencing to examine whether the rumen microbiota and its metabolites contributed to this phenomenon. We selected 48 approximately 3 month-old male ♂Hu × ♀Hu (HH, n = 16), ♂Poll Dorset × ♀Hu (DH, n = 16), and ♂Southdown × ♀Hu (SH, n = 16) lambs having similar body weight. The sheep were fed individually under the same nutritional and management conditions for 95 days. After completion of the trial, seven sheep close to the average weight per group were slaughtered to collect rumen tissue and content samples to measure rumen epithelial parameters, fermentation patterns, microbiota, and metabolite profiles. The final body weight (FBW), average daily gain (ADG), and dry matter intake (DMI) values in the DH and SH groups were significantly higher and the feed-to-gain ratio (F/G) significantly lower than the value in the HH group; additionally, the papilla height in the DH group was higher than that in the HH group. Acetate, propionate, and total volatile fatty acid (VFA) concentrations in the DH group were higher than those in the HH group, whereas NH3-N concentration decreased in the DH and SH groups. Metagenomic analysis revealed that several Prevotella and Fibrobacter species were significantly more abundant in the DH group, contributing to an increased ability to degrade dietary cellulose and enrich their functions in enzymes involved in carbohydrate breakdown. Bacteroidaceae bacterium was higher in the SH group, indicating a greater ability to digest dietary fiber. Metabolomic analysis revealed that the concentrations of rumen metabolites (mainly lysophosphatidylethanolamines [LPEs]) were higher in the DH group, and microbiome-related metabolite analysis indicated that Treponema bryantii and Fibrobacter succinogenes were positively correlated with the LPEs. Moreover, we found methionine sulfoxide and N-methyl-4-aminobutyric acid were characteristic metabolites in the DH and SH groups, respectively, and are related to oxidative stress, indicating that the environmental adaptability of crossbred sheep needs to be further improved. These findings substantially deepen the general understanding of how hybridization promotes growth performance from the perspective of rumen microbiota, this is vital for the cultivation of new species and the formulation of precision nutrition strategies for sheep. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]