Detection and Analysis of Antidiarrheal Genes and Immune Factors in Various Shanghai Pig Breeds.

The aim of this study was to identify effective genetic markers for the Antigen Processing Associated Transporter 1 (TAP1), α (1,2) Fucosyltransferase 1 (FUT1), Natural Resistance Associated Macrophage Protein 1 (NRAMP1), Mucin 4 (MUC4) and Mucin 13 (MUC13) diarrhea-resistance genes in the local pig breeds, namely Shanghai white pigs, Fengjing pigs, Shawutou pigs, Meishan pigs and Pudong white pigs, to provide a reference for the characterization of local pig breed resources in Shanghai. Polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLR) and sequence sequencing were applied to analyze the polymorphisms of the above genes and to explore the effects on the immunity of Shanghai local pig breeds in conjunction with some immunity factors. The results showed that both TAP1 and MUC4 genes had antidiarrheal genotype GG in the five pig breeds, AG and GG genotypes of the FUT1 gene were detected in Pudong white pigs, AA antidiarrheal genes of the NRAMP1 gene were detected in Meishan pigs, the AB type of the NRAMP1 gene was detected in Pudong white pigs, and antidiarrheal genotype GG of the MUC13 gene was only detected in Shanghai white pigs. The MUC13 antidiarrhea genotype GG was only detected in Shanghai white pigs. The TAP1 gene was moderately polymorphic in Shanghai white pigs, Fengjing pigs, Shawutou pigs, Meishan pigs and Pudong white pigs, among which TAP1 in Shanghai white pigs and Shawutou pigs did not satisfy the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. The FUT1 gene of Pudong white pigs was in a state of low polymorphism. NRAMP1 of Meishan pigs and Pudong white pigs was in a state of moderate polymorphism, which did not satisfy the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. The MUC4 genes of Shanghai white pigs and Pudong white pigs were in a state of low polymorphism, and the MUC4 genes of Fengjing pigs and Shawutou pigs were in a state of moderate polymorphism, and the MUC4 genes of Fengjing pigs and Pudong white pigs did not satisfy the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. The MUC13 gene of Shanghai white pigs and Pudong white pigs was in a state of moderate polymorphism. Meishan pigs had higher levels of IL-2, IL-10, IgG and TNF-α, and Pudong white pigs had higher levels of IL-12 than the other pigs. The level of interleukin 12 (IL-12) was significantly higher in the AA genotype of the MUC13 gene of Shanghai white pigs than in the AG genotype. The indicator of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) in the AA genotype of the TAP1 gene of Fengjing pigs was significantly higher than that of the GG and AG genotypes. The indicator of IL-12 in the AG genotype of the Shawutou pig TAP1 gene was significantly higher than that of the GG genotype. The level of TNF-α in the AA genotype of the NRAMP1 gene of Meishan pigs was markedly higher than that of the AB genotype. The IL-2 level of the AG type of the FUT1 gene was obviously higher than that of the GG type of Pudong white pigs, the IL-2 level of the AA type of the MUC4 gene was dramatically higher than that of the AG type, and the IgG level of the GG type of the MUC13 gene was apparently higher than that of the AG type. The results of this study are of great significance in guiding the antidiarrhea breeding and molecular selection of Shanghai white pigs, Fengjing pigs, Shawutou pigs, Meishan pigs and Pudong white pigs and laying the foundation for future antidiarrhea breeding of various local pig breeds in Shanghai.

The interaction between seminal plasma, sperm, and endometrium in inter- and intra-species breeding in equids.

In brief: In some instances, extra-species breeding in equids is more successful than intraspecies breeding; however, little is known about the immunomodulatory effect of donkey semen and seminal plasma on the mare's endometrium. This study compared the mare uterine inflammatory response during extra- and intraspecies breeding. Abstract: Anecdotal experience suggests horse mares have less post-breeding inflammation and better fertility when bred with donkeys. This study aimed to compare the post-breeding inflammatory response of mares exposed to donkey and horse semen and seminal plasma and evaluate the proteome and metabolome of donkey and horse sperm and seminal plasma. Uterine edema, intrauterine fluid accumulation, polymorphonuclear neutrophils on cytology, and concentrations of progesterone, and pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL1A, IL1B, IL4, IL6, CXCL8, IL10) were assessed pre- and post infusion of semen and seminal plasma (donkey and horse). The metabolome and proteome were analyzed by LC-MS/MS. Mare cycles bred with horse semen had a greater progesterone concentration than those bred with donkey semen at 8 days post ovulation (P = 0.046). At 6 h post infusion, the inflammatory response due to the donkey semen tended to be lower (P = 0.074). Donkey seminal plasma had anti-inflammatory properties compared to horse semen and seminal plasma, as determined by fewer neutrophils on uterine cytology (P < 0.05). Horse semen resulted in greater concentrations of IL6 and lesser concentrations of IL1B (P < 0.05). PGE1, PGE3, and lactoferrin concentrations were significantly more abundant in donkey sperm and seminal plasma. Prostaglandins play an important role in immunomodulation and might contribute to the response triggered in interspecies breeding. In conclusion, breeding horse mares with donkey semen induces similar post-breeding endometritis as observed with horse semen. Donkey seminal plasma results in a lower post-infusion inflammatory response compared to other combinations in the immediate post-breeding.

Effect of metabolically divergent pig breeds and tissues on mesenchymal stem cell expression patterns during adipogenesis.

BACKGROUND: Unraveling the intricate and tightly regulated process of adipogenesis, involving coordinated activation of transcription factors and signaling pathways, is essential for addressing obesity and related metabolic disorders. The molecular pathways recruited by mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) during adipogenesis are also dependent on the different sources of the cells and genetic backgrounds of donors, which contribute to the functional heterogeneity of the stem cells and consequently affect the developmental features and fate of the cells. METHODS: In this study, the alteration of transcripts during differentiation of synovial mesenchymal stem cells (SMSCs) derived from fibrous synovium (FS) and adipose synovial tissue (FP) of two pig breeds differing in growth performance (German Landrace (DL)) and fat deposition (Angeln Saddleback (AS)) was investigated. SMSCs from both tissues and breeds were stimulated to differentiate into adipocytes in vitro and sampled at four time points (day 1, day 4, day 7 and day 14) to obtain transcriptomic data. RESULTS: We observed numerous signaling pathways related to the cell cycle, cell division, cell migration, or cell proliferation during early stages of adipogenesis. As the differentiation process progresses, cells begin to accumulate intracellular lipid droplets and changes in gene expression patterns in particular of adipocyte-specific markers occur. PI3K-Akt signaling and metabolic pathways changed most during adipogenesis, while p53 signaling and ferroptosis were affected late in adipogenesis. When comparing MSCs from FS and FP, only a limited number of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and enriched signaling pathways were identified. Metabolic pathways, including fat, energy or amino acid metabolism, were highly enriched in the AS breed SMSCs compared to those of the DL breed, especially at day 7 of adipogenesis, suggesting retention of the characteristic metabolic features of their original source, demonstrating donor memory in culture. In contrast, the DL SMSCs were more enriched in immune signaling pathways. CONCLUSIONS: Our study has provided important insights into the dynamics of adipogenesis and revealed metabolic shifts in SMSCs associated with different cell sources and genetic backgrounds of donors. This emphasises the critical role of metabolic and genetic factors as important indications and criteria for donor stem cell selection.

Improving the latency for 5G/B5G based smart healthcare connectivity in rural area.

Smart hospitals are poised to greatly enhance life quality by offering persistent health monitoring capabilities. Remote healthcare and surgery, which are highly dependent on low latency, have seen a transformative improvement with the advent of 5G technology. This has facilitated a new breed of healthcare services, including monitoring and remote surgical procedures. The enhanced features of 5G, such as Enhanced Mobile Broadband (eMBB) and Ultra-Reliable Low Latency Communications (URLLC), have enabled the development of advanced healthcare systems. These systems reduce the need for direct patient contact in hospitals, which is especially pertinent as 5G becomes more widespread. This research presents novel hybrid detection algorithms, specifically QR decomposition with M-algorithm maximum likelihood-minimum mean square error (QRM-MLD-MMSE) and QRM-MLD-ZF (zero forcing), for use in Massive MIMO (M-MIMO) technology. These methods aim to decrease the latency in MIMO-based Non-Orthogonal Multiple Access (NOMA) waveforms while ensuring optimal bit error rate (BER) performance. We conducted simulations to evaluate parameters like BER and power spectral density (PSD) over Rician and Rayleigh channels using both the proposed hybrid and standard algorithms. The study concludes that our hybrid algorithms significantly enhance BER and PSD with lower complexity, marking a substantial improvement in 5G communication for smart healthcare applications.

Evaluation of the effectiveness of single nucleotide polymorphisms compared to microsatellite markers for parentage verification in Moroccan horses.

The International Society for Animal Genetics (ISAG) currently advocates for a transition towards single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers as a potential alternative for equine parentage verification. To ascertain the efficacy of this transition, it is imperative to evaluate the performance of parentage testing using SNPs in juxtaposition with short tandem repeats (STRs). As per ISAG's recommendation, we used an equine genotyping-by-sequencing panel with 144 SNPs for this purpose. Equine parentage is currently realized using 16 microsatellites (STRs) excluding the LEX3 marker. In this study, 1074 horses were genotyped using the 144 SNPs panel, including 432 foals, 414 mares, and 228 stallions, from five different breeds: 293 Arabians, 167 Barbs, 189 Thoroughbreds, 73 Anglo-Arabians, and 352 Arabian-Barbs. As a result, two SNPs markers were eliminated from the panel system due to inconsistent amplification across all examined individuals leaving 142 SNPs markers for analysis. A comparative analysis between SNPs and STRs markers revealed that the mean expected heterozygosity was 0.457 for SNPs and 0.76 for STRs, while the mean observed heterozygosity stood at 0.472 for SNPs and 0.72 for STRs. Furthermore, the probability of identity was calculated to be 5.722 × 10-57 for SNPs and 1.25 × 10-15 for STRs markers. In alignment with the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium in polyploids test, 110 out of the total SNPs were consistent with the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium in polyploids test (p > 0.05). Employing both SNPs and STRs markers, the mean polymorphic information content was discerned to be 0.351 for SNPs and 0.72 for STRs. The cumulative exclusion probabilities for SNP markers exceeded 99.99%, indicating that the 142 SNPs panel might be adequate for parentage testing. In contrast, when utilizing STRs markers, the combined average exclusion probabilities for one and both parents were determined to be 99.8% and 99.9%, respectively. Our comprehensive study underscores the potential of SNPs in equine parentage verification, especially when compared to STRs in terms of exclusion probabilities. As a corollary, the application of SNPs for parentage verification and identification can significantly contribute to the conservation initiative for the five Moroccan horse breeds. Nonetheless, further research is required to address and replace the deficient SNPs within the panel.

Impact of STAT5A-CNVs on growth traits in Chinese beef cattle breeds.

CNVs, which are a type of structural variation, make a substantial impact on diverse characteristics in multiple species. Q-PCR and data association analysis were used for STAT5A gene copy in this study. This study aimed to investigate the copy number variation (CNV) of the STAT5A gene in seven Chinese cattle breeds, namely Qinchuan cattle, Xianan cattle, Yunling cattle, Ji'an cattle, Jiaxian Red cattle, Qaidam cattle, and Guyuan yellow cattle. Blood samples were collected for CNV typing, and the correlation between CNV type and growth traits was analyzed using SPSS 23.0 software and ANOVA. The findings revealed variations in the distribution of different copy number types among the different cattle breeds. Furthermore, association analysis demonstrated a positive impact of CNV in the STAT5A gene on cattle growth: in the JX, individuals with duplication types exhibited superior performance in terms of rump length (P < 0.05). Conversely, normal GY cattle demonstrated better body height and abdomen circumference (P < 0.05), while QD cattle exhibited a significant correlation between weight and body length with normal individuals (P < 0.05). Moreover, QC bovine duplication individuals outperformed other types, with copy number variation significantly associated with chest depth, chest width, and body length (P < 0.05). The results validate the correlation between copy number variation (CNV) of the STAT5A gene and growth characteristics in five different cattle breeds, providing a reliable benchmark for the purpose of cattle breeding.

Detection of genomic variations and selection signatures in Wagyu using whole-genome sequencing data.

Wagyu is recognized for producing marbled beef with high nutritional value and flavor. Reportedly, Wagyu has been widely used to improve the meat quality of local breeds around the world. However, studies on the genetic mechanism of meat quality in Wagyu at the whole-genome level are rarely reported. Here, whole-genome sequencing data of 11 Wagyu and 115 other individuals were used to explore the genomic variations and genes under selection pressure in Wagyu. A total of 31 349 non-synonymous variants and 53 102 synonymous variants were identified in Wagyu. The population structure analysis showed that Wagyu had the closest genetic relationship with Mishima-Ushi cattle and was apparently separated from other cattle breeds. Then, composite likelihood ratio (CLR), integrated haplotype score, fixation index and cross-population composite likelihood ratio (XP-CLR) tests were performed to identify the candidate genes under positive selection in Wagyu. In total, 770 regions containing 312 genes were identified by at least three methods. Among them, 97 regions containing 27 genes were detected by all four methods. We specifically illustrate a list of interesting genes, including LRP2BP, GAA, CACNG6, CXADR, GPCPD1, KLF2, KLF13, SOX5, MYBPC1, SLC25A10, ATP8A1 and MYH15, which are associated with lipid metabolism, fat deposition, muscle development, bone development, feed intake and growth traits in Wagyu. This is the first study to explore the genomic variations and selection signatures of Wagyu at the whole-genome level. These results will provide significant help to beef cattle improvement and breeding.

Recurrence and survival in dogs with excised colorectal polyps: A retrospective study of 58 cases.

BACKGROUND: Compared to humans, colorectal polyps are relatively rare in dogs. Epidemiological and prognostic data remain accordingly sparse, although they could help veterinary clinicians in the management of these cases. OBJECTIVES: To report the epidemiological data of dogs with colorectal polyps and identify factors associated with recurrence and survival. ANIMALS: Fifty-eight client-owned dogs with colorectal polyps admitted to 7 veterinary hospitals (53 dogs from France, 5 dogs from Spain, and 4 dogs from Portugal) were included. METHODS: Retrospective multicentric cohort study. Medical records and long-term outcome of the dogs were reviewed. When available, histological samples were reassessed by 2 board-certified pathologists according to the revised Vienna classification (RVC). RESULTS: The West Highland White Terrier (WHWT) breed was significantly associated with the presence of colorectal polyps (OR: 20; 95% CI: 7.5-52; P < .001). The overall median time to recurrence was not reached after 2000 days. The overall estimated median survival time was 1640 days. WHWT breed and larger polyps were significantly associated with a shorter time of polyp recurrence after surgical removal (respectively, P = .05 and P = .01). CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: The probability of recurrence of colorectal polyps in dogs is low, but increased in WHWTs and larger polyps, which might benefit from routine screening after removal. No effective predictors of polyp recurrence and survival were identified using the RVC.

Evolutionary origin of genomic structural variations in domestic yaks.

Yak has been subject to natural selection, human domestication and interspecific introgression during its evolution. However, genetic variants favored by each of these processes have not been distinguished previously. We constructed a graph-genome for 47 genomes of 7 cross-fertile bovine species. This allowed detection of 57,432 high-resolution structural variants (SVs) within and across the species, which were genotyped in 386 individuals. We distinguished the evolutionary origins of diverse SVs in domestic yaks by phylogenetic analyses. We further identified 334 genes overlapping with SVs in domestic yaks that bore potential signals of selection from wild yaks, plus an additional 686 genes introgressed from cattle. Nearly 90% of the domestic yaks were introgressed by cattle. Introgression of an SV spanning the KIT gene triggered the breeding of white domestic yaks. We validated a significant association of the selected stratified SVs with gene expression, which contributes to phenotypic variations. Our results highlight that SVs of different origins contribute to the phenotypic diversity of domestic yaks.

Mate selection: A useful approach to maximize genetic gain and control inbreeding in genomic and conventional oil palm (Elaeis guineensis Jacq.) hybrid breeding.

Genomic selection (GS) is an effective method for the genetic improvement of complex traits in plants and animals. Optimization approaches could be used in conjunction with GS to further increase its efficiency and to limit inbreeding, which can increase faster with GS. Mate selection (MS) typically uses a metaheuristic optimization algorithm, simulated annealing, to optimize the selection of individuals and their matings. However, in species with long breeding cycles, this cannot be studied empirically. Here, we investigated this aspect with forward genetic simulations on a high-performance computing cluster and massively parallel computing, considering the oil palm hybrid breeding example. We compared MS and simple methods of inbreeding management (limitation of the number of individuals selected per family, prohibition of self-fertilization and combination of these two methods), in terms of parental inbreeding and genetic progress over four generations of genomic selection and phenotypic selection. The results showed that, compared to the conventional method without optimization, MS could lead to significant decreases in inbreeding and increases in annual genetic progress, with the magnitude of the effect depending on MS parameters and breeding scenarios. The optimal solution retained by MS differed by five breeding characteristics from the conventional solution: selected individuals covering a broader range of genetic values, fewer individuals selected per full-sib family, decreased percentage of selfings, selfings preferentially made on the best individuals and unbalanced number of crosses among selected individuals, with the better an individual, the higher the number of times he is mated. Stronger slowing-down in inbreeding could be achieved with other methods but they were associated with a decreased genetic progress. We recommend that breeders use MS, with preliminary analyses to identify the proper parameters to reach the goals of the breeding program in terms of inbreeding and genetic gain.

Uncovering genes underlying coat color variation in indigenous cattle breeds through genome-wide positive selection.

The identification of candidate genes related to pigmentation and under selective sweep provides insights into the genetic basis of pigmentation and the evolutionary forces that have shaped this variation. The selective sweep events in the genes responsible for normal coat color in Indian cattle groups are still unknown. To find coat color genes displaying signs of selective sweeps in the indigenous cattle, we compiled a list of candidate genes previously investigated for their association with coat color and pigmentation. After that, we performed a genome-wide scan of positive selection signatures using the BovineSNP50K Bead Chip in 187 individuals of seven indigenous breeds. We applied a wide range of methods to find evidence of selection, such as Tajima's D, CLR, iHS, varLD, ROH, and FST. We found a total of sixteen genes under selective sweep, that were involved in coat color and pigmentation physiology. These genes are CRIM1 in Gir, MC1R in Sahiwal, MYO5A, PMEL and POMC in Tharparkar, TYRP1, ERBB2, and ASIP in Red Sindhi, MITF, LOC789175, PAX3 and TYR in Ongole, and IRF2, SDR165 and, KIT in Nelore, ADAMTS19 in Hariana. These genes are related to melanin synthesis, the biology of melanocytes and melanosomes, and the migration and survival of melanocytes during development.

Associations Between Dog Breed and Clinical Features of Mammary Epithelial Neoplasia in Bitches: an Epidemiological Study of Submissions to a Single Diagnostic Pathology Centre Between 2008-2021.

Mammary cancer is one of the most common neoplasms of dogs, primarily bitches. While studies have been carried out identifying differing risk of mammary neoplasia in different dog breeds, few studies have reported associations between dog breeds and clinical features such as number of neoplastic lesions found in an individual case or the likelihood of lesions being benign or malignant. Such epidemiological studies are essential as a foundation for exploring potential genetic drivers of mammary tumour behaviour. Here, we have examined associations between breed, age and neuter status and the odds of a diagnosis of a mammary epithelial-origin neoplastic lesion (as opposed to any other histopathological diagnosis from a biopsied lesion) as well as the odds of a bitch presenting with either a single mammary lesion or multiple lesions, and the odds that those lesions are benign or malignant. The study population consisted of 129,258 samples from bitches, including 13,401 mammary epithelial neoplasms, submitted for histological assessment to a single histopathology laboratory between 2008 and 2021.In multivariable analysis, breed, age and neuter status were all significantly associated with the odds of a diagnosis of a mammary epithelial-origin neoplastic lesion. Smaller breeds were more likely to receive such a diagnosis. In cases diagnosed with a mammary epithelial neoplasm, these three factors were also significantly associated with the odds of diagnosis with a malignant lesion and of diagnosis with multiple lesions. Notably, while neutered animals were less likely to have a mammary epithelial neoplasm diagnosed, and were less likely to have multiple neoplasms, they were more likely to have malignant disease. Exploration of the patterns of risk of developing malignant disease, or multiple lesions, across individual breeds showed no breed with increased odds of both outcomes. Breeds with altered odds compared to the Crossbreed baseline were either at increased risk of malignant disease and decreased risk of multiple lesions, or vice versa, or they were at significantly altered odds of one outcome with no change in the other outcome. Our analysis supports the hypothesis that age, neuter status and intrinsic biological and genetic factors all combine to influence the biological heterogeneity of canine mammary neoplasia.

Insertion/deletions within the bovine FoxO1 gene and their association analysis with growth traits in three Chinese cattle breeds.

FOXO1 (FKHR) gene, as a transcription factor, plays a vital role in animal growth and development, participating in many biological processes. The aim of this study was to ascertain Insertion/deletions (Indels) polymorphism within bovine FoxO1 gene in 679 Chinese adult cows and associate them with stature traits. Two Indels (named as Indel-3 and Indel-4, recorded as rs383545622 and rs525318770 in NCBI, respectively) were successfully genotyped by the Once PCR method, which was reliable, rapid and cost effective for simultaneous detection of two or more Indels. Indel-3 and Indel-4 were located at the second intron. All four different haplotypes (H1: D3D4, H2: I3D4, H3: D3I4, H4: I3I4) could be identified, and the D (del-) allele, DD (del-/del-) genotype and D3D4 haplotype retained the highest frequency. However, individuals with DI (D3I3, D4I4 or H1H4/H2H3 genotype) showed significantly better phenotypic traits than those with the other genotypes in Nanyang cattle, showing a hybrid vigor. The results implied that this DI genotype can be applied to early selective breeding to improve the productivity of Nanyang cattle. Our results suggested that these two Indels within the bovine FoxO1 gene might be used as genetic markers for marker-assisted selection (MAS) in cattle breeding and genetics.

Intervention group logotherapy and performance measures for reducing phubbing in Generation Z / Logoterapia de grupo de intervenção e medidas de desempenho para redução do phubbing na Geração Z

Objective This study aims to explore in-depth how to apply logotherapy to people with phubbing. Methods The research methodology uses with mixed methods, a sequential approach used in this study for handling the phubbing population is 110 students. Samples taken by purposive sampling with attention to the range aged 10-25 years, and the research sample obtains as many as 16 students. The sample was determined based on the scale analysis results and recommendations from the school - research data from research instruments in observation sheets and qualitative data interviews. A Phubbing scale was used to get quantitative data. Results The results of the study showed that there were better changes as evidenced by changes in phubbing scale scores before and after being given treatment. Conclusion The study's conclusion shows that Logotherapy Counseling effectively reduces phubbing in Generation Z.

Objetivo Este estudo tem como objetivo explorar em profundidade como aplicar a logoterapia a pessoas que são praticantes de phubbing. Método A metodologia da pesquisa dispõe de métodos mistos, com uma abordagem sequencial em uma população de 110 estudantes praticantes de phubbing. As amostras foram obtidas por amostragem proposital, respeitando uma faixa etária de 10 a 25 anos, resultando em 16 estudantes. A amostra foi determinada com base nos resultados da análise da escala de phubbing, usada para obtenção de dados quantitativos, e nas recomendações da escola - dados provenientes de instrumentos de pesquisa em fichas de observação e entrevistas de dados qualitativos. Resultados Os resultados do estudo mostraram que houve melhorias, como evidenciado pelas mudanças na pontuação da escala de phubbing antes e depois de receber o tratamento. Conclusão Concluímos que a Logoterapia reduz efetivamente o phubbing na Geração Z.

Morphometric measurements and carcass characteristics of Black Australorp, Naked Neck, and Rhode Island Red crossbreds under alternative production systems / Medições morfométricas e características de carcaça de Black Australorp, Naked Neck e Rhode Island Red crossbreds sob sistemas de produção alternativos

The present trial explained the effect of alternative production systems on growth, morphometric and carcass traits of four different chicken genotypes. The second generation of two genotypes RNN (Rhode Island Red × Naked Neck) and BNN (Black Australorp × Naked Neck) obtained by two self-crosses (RNN × RNN = RR and BNN × BNN = BB) and two reciprocal crosses (RNN × BNN = RB and BNN × RNN = BR) were evaluated in three alternative production systems (conventional cages, enriched cages, and aviary). At the 6th week of age after sexing, a total of 600 birds, comprising 150 from each crossbred with a total of 300 pullets and 300 cockerels were divided into conventional cages, enriched cages, and aviary systems having 200 birds in each.Birds were organized into 3×4 factorial arrangements under Completely Randomized Design (3 production systems × 4 genotypes × 2 sexes × 25 birds = 600 birds). Regarding genotypes, RB and BR males showed higher (p < 0.01) carcass yield, drumstick weight, breast weight, and thigh weight than BB and RR genotypes. Females of BR genotype showed higher (p < 0.01) breast weight, thigh weight and drumstick weight. As far as production systems are concerned, higher (p < 0.01) liver weight, heart weight, breast weight, intestinal weight, drumstick weight, and thigh weight were observed in the males reared in enriched cages compared with conventional cages and aviary system. Females reared in enriched cages showed higher (p < 0.01) heart weight, breast weight, intestinal weight, drumstick weight, and thigh weight when compared with those reared in conventional cages and aviary. It is concluded that chickens (both sexes) of BR and RB genotypes had better morphological measurements and carcass traits than those of RR and BB genotype chickens. Among alternative production systems, chickens reared in enriched cages had better traits than those of reared in conventional cages and aviary during the growing phase.

O presente estudo explicou o efeito de sistemas alternativos de produção sobre o crescimento, características morfométricas e carcaças de quatro genótipos de frango diferentes. A segunda geração de dois genótipos RNN (Rhode Island Red × Naked Neck) e BNN (Black Australorp × Naked Neck) obtida por duas autocruzes (RNN × RNN = RR e B ANN × BNN = BB) e duas cruzes recíprocas (RNN × BNN = RB e BNN × RNN = BR) foi avaliada em três sistemas de produção alternativos (gaiolas convencionais, gaiolas enriquecidas e aviário). Na 6ª semana de idade após o sexo, um total de 600 aves, compostas por 150 de cada raça cruzada com um total de 300 pullets e 300 galos, foi dividido em gaiolas convencionais, gaiolas enriquecidas e sistemas aviários com 200 aves em cada. As aves foram organizadas em 3×4 arranjos fatoriais sob projeto completamente randomizado (3 sistemas de produção × 4 genótipos × 2 sexos × 25 aves = 600 aves). Em relação aos genótipos, os machos RB e BR apresentaram maior rendimento de carcaça (p < 0,01), peso da baqueta, peso mamário e peso da coxa do que os genótipos BB e RR. As fêmeas do genótipo BR apresentaram maior (p < 0,01) peso mamário, peso da coxa e peso da baqueta. No que diz respeito aos sistemas de produção, maior (p < 0,01) peso hepático, peso cardíaco, peso mamário, peso intestinal, peso da baqueta e peso da coxa foram observados nos machos criados em gaiolas enriquecidas em comparação com gaiolas convencionais e sistema aviário. As fêmeas criadas em gaiolas enriquecidas apresentaram maior (p < 0,01) peso cardíaco, peso mamário, peso intestinal, peso da baqueta e peso da coxa quando comparadas com as criadas em gaiolas convencionais e aviárias. Conclui-se que as galinhas (ambos os sexos) dos genótipos BR e RB apresentaram melhores medidas morfológicas e traços de carcaça do que os de frangos genótipos RR e BB. Entre os sistemas de produção alternativos, [...].

Reproductive Management in Catteries: Optimising health and wellbeing through veterinarian-breeder collaboration.

PRACTICAL RELEVANCE: Many veterinarians - even those engaged in small animal reproduction - are uncomfortable with taking care of cat breeders or being in charge of catteries. Likely reasons for this are that feline reproduction is largely under-represented in undergraduate and graduate reproduction teaching, as well as in postgraduate education and science, whereas cat breeders themselves are often well informed and actively share knowledge with other cat breeders via the internet and social media. CLINICAL CHALLENGES: A variety of problems can exist within a cattery, and collaboration between veterinarian and breeder to solve these is ultimately beneficial for the breeder, for the veterinarian, and for the health and wellbeing of the individual cats and of the cattery as a whole. AIM: This review presents a comprehensive overview of aspects of cattery management that might negatively impact reproduction, including sanitation, hygiene and infectious disease control. It also discusses monitoring of reproductive performance, breeding recommendations, and the diagnostic and therapeutic approach to some common and specific problems. EQUIPMENT AND TECHNICAL SKILLS: Reproductive management in the cattery requires no specialised equipment, as such. What it does need is an open mind, in terms of seeing how things are done, an open ear, for listening to the breeder, and the veterinarian's clinical skills in palpation, auscultation and, where required, further examination of the animals. Keeping abreast of the latest information on infectious diseases, disinfection and genetics ensures proper advice is provided. EVIDENCE BASE: Current knowledge of reproductive management in catteries is summarised in order to apply an evidence-based approach, whenever possible. Notwithstanding, much of the information remains empirical.

Laboratory breeding of two Phortica species (Diptera: Drosophilidae), vectors of the zoonotic eyeworm Thelazia callipaeda.

BACKGROUND: Some species of drosophilid flies belonging to the genus Phortica feed on ocular secretions of mammals, acting as biological vectors of the zoonotic eyeworm Thelazia callipaeda. This study describes an effective breeding protocol of Phortica variegata and Phortica oldenbergi in insectary conditions. METHODS: Alive gravid flies of P. oldenbergi, P. variegata and Phortica semivirgo were field collected in wooded areas of Lazio region (Italy) and allowed to oviposit singularly to obtain isofamilies. Flies were maintained in ovipots (200 ml) with a plaster-covered bottom to maintain high humidity level inside. Adult feeding was guaranteed by fresh apples and a liquid dietary supplement containing sodium chloride and mucin proteins, while larval development was obtained by Drosophila-like agar feeding medium. The breeding performances of two media were compared: a standard one based on cornmeal flour and an enriched medium based on chestnut flour. All conditions were kept in a climatic chamber with a photoperiod of 14:10 h light:dark, 26 ± 2 °C and 80 ± 10% RH. RESULTS: From a total of 130 field-collected Phortica spp., three generations (i.e. F1 = 783, F2 = 109, F3 = 6) were obtained. Phortica oldenbergi was the species with highest breeding performance, being the only species reaching F3. Chestnut-based feeding medium allowed higher adult production and survival probability in both P. oldenbergi and P. variegata. Adult production/female was promising in both species (P. oldenbergi: 13.5 F1/f; P. variegata: 4.5 F1/f). CONCLUSIONS: This standardized breeding protocol, based on controlled climatic parameters and fly densities, together with the introduction of an enriched chestnut-based feeding medium, allowed to investigate aspects of life history traits of Phortica spp. involved in the transmission of T. callipaeda. Obtaining F3 generation of these species for the first time paved the road for the establishment of stable colonies, an essential requirement for future studies on these vectors in controlled conditions.

ATP synthase subunit e is a shrimp growth-associated breeding marker.

Penaeus vannamei is one of the most popular aquaculture species in the world. This species is featured with its fast-growing and delicious taste, which drives people develop various strains. During this process identification of trait-associated markers could effectively increase breeding efficiency. Driven by this, we tried to screen fast-growing key regulators via a FACS-based high throughput method, in which 2-NBDG was applied as a fluorescent indicator for direct glucose uptake measurement. Totally six candidate genes were screened out followed by in vitro validation in 293T cells. After that, the correlation between these genes and shrimp growing was further verified in a hybrid lineage. The expression level of two genes including ATP synthase subunit e and inhibitor of apoptosis protein showed some correlation with shrimp growth speed. Furthermore, we tested these two candidate markers in various lineages and confirmed that ATP synthase subunit e could be a shrimp growth-associated breeding marker.

Genom-wide analysis identifies single nucleotide polymorphism variations and altered pathways associated with poor semen quality in breeding bulls.

The reason for poor semen quality among the breeding bulls is not well understood. In the present study, we performed high-throughput RNAseq analysis of spermatozoa to identify the SNPs present in good and poor-quality semen-producing Holstein Friesian breeding bulls. A total of 21,360 and 44,650 SNPs were identified in good and poor-quality semen with a minimum read depth of 20, among which 4780 and 8710 novel variants were observed in good and poor-quality semen, respectively. Greater SNPs and indels variations were observed in poor compared to good-quality semen. In poor-quality semen, SNP variations were observed in ZNF280B, SLC26A2, DMXL1, OR52A1, MACROD2 and REV1 genes, which are associated with regulation of spermatogenesis, post-testicular maturation, Cl- channel activity, V-ATPase-mediated intracellular vesicle acidification, a mono-ADP-ribosyl hydrolase and ATR-Chk1 checkpoint activation. GO analysis of filtered genes with significant variations between good and poor-quality semen showed enrichment in important pathways related to semen quality such as MAPK signalling pathway, Akt signalling pathway, focal adhesion, cAMP signalling pathway, and Rap1 signalling pathway. Network analysis of filtered genes in poor-quality semen showed variations in pathways of purine metabolism, pyrimidine metabolism, prolactin signalling pathway and RNA cap-binding complex. It is inferred that SNP in genes involved in maintaining sperm functions could be the reason for poor-quality semen production in bulls, and the identified SNPs hold potential to be used as biomarkers for semen quality in bulls.

Establishment of a Captive Cave Nectar Bat (Eonycteris spelaea) Breeding Colony in Singapore.

Bats are known natural reservoirs of several highly pathogenic zoonotic viruses, including Hendra virus, Nipah virus, rabies virus, SARS-like coronaviruses, and suspected ancestral reservoirs of SARS-CoV-2 responsible for the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The capacity to survive infections of highly pathogenic agents without severe disease, together with many other unique features, makes bats an ideal animal model for studying the regulation of infection, cancer, and longevity, which is likely to translate into human health outcomes. A key factor that limits bat research is lack of breeding bat colonies. To address this need, a captive bat colony was established in Singapore from 19 wild-caught local cave nectar bats. The bats were screened for specific pathogens before the start of captive breeding. Custom-made cages and an optimized diet inclusive of Wombaroo dietary formula, liquid diet, and supplement of fruits enabled the bats to breed prolifically in our facility. Cages are washed daily and disinfected once every fortnight. Bats are observed daily to detect any sick bat or abnormal behavior. In addition, bats undergo a thorough health check once every 3 to 4 mo to check on their overall wellbeing, perform sampling, and document any potential pregnancy. The current colony houses over 80 bats that are successfully breeding, providing a valuable resource for research in Singapore and overseas.