An association weight matrix identified biological pathways associated with bull fertility traits in a multi-breed population.

Using seven indicator traits, we investigated the genetic basis of bull fertility and predicted gene interactions from SNP associations. We used percent normal sperm as the key phenotype for the association weight matrix-partial correlation information theory (AWM-PCIT) approach. Beyond a simple list of candidate genes, AWM-PCIT predicts significant gene interactions and associations for the selected traits.

Estimating the heritability of nitrogen and carbon isotopes in the tail hair of beef cattle.

Background: The natural abundance of nitrogen (δN) and carbon (δC) isotopes in animal tissues are used to estimate an animal's efficiency in nitrogen utilization, and their feed conversion efficiency, especially in tropical grazing systems with prolonged protein restriction. It is postulated that selection for improving these two characteristics (δN and δC) would assist the optimisation of the adaptation in ever-changing environments, particularly in response to climate change. The aim of this study was to determine the heritability of δN and δC in the tail hair of tropically adapted beef cattle to validate their inclusion in genetic breeding programs.

Unravelling the genetic variability of host resilience to endo- and ectoparasites in Nellore commercial herds.

Background: Host resilience (HR) to parasites can affect the performance of animals. Therefore, the aim of this study was to present a detailed investigation of the genetic mechanisms of HR to ticks (TICK), gastrointestinal nematodes (GIN), and Eimeria spp. (EIM) in Nellore cattle that were raised under natural infestation and a prophylactic parasite control strategy.

Sequence level genome-wide associations for bull production and fertility traits in tropically adapted bulls.

Background: The genetics of male fertility is complex and not fully understood. Male subfertility can adversely affect the economics of livestock production. For example, inadvertently mating bulls with poor fertility can result in reduced annual liveweight production and suboptimal husbandry management.

Publisher Correction: Uncovering Sub-Structure and Genomic Profiles in Across-Countries Subpopulations of Angus Cattle.

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.

Uncovering Sub-Structure and Genomic Profiles in Across-Countries Subpopulations of Angus Cattle.

Highlighting genomic profiles for geographically distinct subpopulations of the same breed may provide insights into adaptation mechanisms to different environments, reveal genomic regions divergently selected, and offer initial guidance to joint genomic analysis. Here, we characterized similarities and differences between the genomic patterns of Angus subpopulations, born and raised in Canada (N = 382) and Brazil (N = 566). Furthermore, we systematically scanned for selection signatures based on the detection of autozygosity islands common between the two subpopulations, and signals of divergent selection, via F and varLD tests.

Microscopical study of experimental wound healing in Notothenia coriiceps (Cabeçuda) at 0 degrees C.

Notothenia coriiceps (Cabeçuda) is an Antarctic benthic fish frequently found with lesions in the tegument caused by seal predation. We have investigated epidermal repair in these animals by means of a microscopic study of experimental wound healing at 0 degrees C. At 24--48 h after wound induction, mucous exudate and necrotic lining cells covered the wound.