Animals

12 pages, 2262 KiB

Open AccessArticle

In Vitro Evaluations and Comparison of the Efficacy of Two Commercial Products Containing Condensed Tannins and of Saifoin (Onobrychis viciifolia Scop.) Hay against Gastrointestinal Nematodes of Goats

by Alessia L. Gazzonis, Sara Panseri, Radmila Pavlovic, Sergio A. Zanzani, Luca Chiesa, Luca Rapetti, Marco Battelli, Luca Villa and Maria Teresa Manfredi

Animals 2023, 13(3), 547; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13030547 - 3 Feb 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1939

Abstract

Gastrointestinal nematodes (GINs) is a limiting health factor for dairy goats, and the integration of the diet with fodder containing condensed tannins (CT) is becoming increasingly important to control GINs. To preliminary evaluate their potential role as part of GIN control in goat [...] Read more.

Gastrointestinal nematodes (GINs) is a limiting health factor for dairy goats, and the integration of the diet with fodder containing condensed tannins (CT) is becoming increasingly important to control GINs. To preliminary evaluate their potential role as part of GIN control in goat breeding, the in vitro anthelmintic efficacy of the CTs of Silvafeed BYPRO (SBP), Silvafeed Q powder (SQ), and sainfoin hay (SH) was evaluated, and the untargeted metabolomics profiling of the selected formulations was performed. CTs were extracted in water and in ethanol, their concentration was determined, and their chemical characterization was conducted using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) coupled to High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry (HRMS) platform. The in vitro anthelmintic activity of the extracts was evaluated using the Eggs Hatch Test (EHT) and the Larval Migration Inhibition Test (LMIT) using different extract concentrations (150, 300, 600, and 1200 μg/mL). The metabolomic profile of the ethanol extract showed a high number of flavonoids, while the water extract showed higher levels of hydrolysable tannins. The ethanol extracts were effective on both eggs hatching and larvae migration at low concentrations (150 μg/mL) for the three analyzed samples, while the water extracts showed more varied results: SH showed the greatest ovicidal efficacy (concentration 150 μg/mL, %IH = 40.9), while SBP and SQ were more effective against the larvae migration (concentration 600 μg/mL, %LMI = 69.7% and 88%), respectively. The integration of CT-rich fodder into the diet may be considered for the control of GIN infection in goats. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Small Ruminants)

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16 pages, 3678 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Decomposition-Based Multi-Step Forecasting Model for the Environmental Variables of Rabbit Houses

by Ronghua Ji, Shanyi Shi, Zhongying Liu and Zhonghong Wu

Animals 2023, 13(3), 546; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13030546 - 3 Feb 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1577

Abstract

To improve prediction accuracy and provide sufficient time to control decision-making, a decomposition-based multi-step forecasting model for rabbit house environmental variables is proposed. Traditional forecasting methods for rabbit house environmental parameters perform poorly because the coupling relationship between sequences is ignored. Using the [...] Read more.

To improve prediction accuracy and provide sufficient time to control decision-making, a decomposition-based multi-step forecasting model for rabbit house environmental variables is proposed. Traditional forecasting methods for rabbit house environmental parameters perform poorly because the coupling relationship between sequences is ignored. Using the STL algorithm, the proposed model first decomposes the non-stationary time series into trend, seasonal, and residual components and then predicts separately based on the characteristics of each component. LSTM and Informer are used to predict the trend and residual components, respectively. The aforementioned two predicted values are added together with the seasonal component to obtain the final predicted value. The most important environmental variables in a rabbit house are temperature, humidity, and carbon dioxide concentration. The experimental results show that the encoder and decoder input sequence lengths in the Informer model have a significant impact on the model’s performance. The rabbit house environment’s multivariate correlation time series can be effectively predicted in a multi-input and single-output mode. The temperature and humidity prediction improved significantly, but the carbon dioxide concentration did not. Because of the effective extraction of the coupling relationship among the correlated time series, the proposed model can perfectly perform multivariate multi-step prediction of non-stationary time series. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Mammals)

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9 pages, 583 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Absence of Hepatitis E Virus (HEV) in Italian Lagomorph Species Sampled between 2019 and 2021

by Luca De Sabato, Giovanni Ianiro, Virginia Filipello, Sara Arnaboldi, Francesco Righi, Fabio Ostanello, Monica Giammarioli, Antonio Lavazza and Ilaria Di Bartolo

Animals 2023, 13(3), 545; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13030545 - 3 Feb 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1874

Abstract

The zoonotic hepatitis E virus genotype 3 (HEV-3) causes most autochthonous human hepatitis E cases in Europe, which are due to the consumption of raw or undercooked food products of animal origin. Pigs and wild boars are considered the main reservoirs of this [...] Read more.

The zoonotic hepatitis E virus genotype 3 (HEV-3) causes most autochthonous human hepatitis E cases in Europe, which are due to the consumption of raw or undercooked food products of animal origin. Pigs and wild boars are considered the main reservoirs of this genotype, while rabbits are the reservoir of a distinct phylogenetic group named HEV-3ra, which is classified within the HEV-3 genotype but in a separate clade. Evidence for the zoonotic potential of HEV-3ra was suggested by its detection in immunocompromised patients in several European countries. HEV-3ra infection was found in farmed and feral rabbit populations worldwide and its circulation was reported in a few European countries, including Italy. Furthermore, Italy is one of the major rabbit meat producers and consumers across Europe, but only a few studies investigated the presence of HEV in this reservoir. The aim of this study was to assess the presence of HEV in 328 Italian hares and 59 farmed rabbits collected in 3 Italian macro-areas (North, North-Central, and South-Central), between 2019 and 2021. For this purpose, liver samples were used to detect HEV RNA using broad-range real-time RT-PCR and nested RT-PCR. Using 28 liver transudates from hares, the ELISA test for anti-HEV IgG detection was also performed. Neither HEV RNA nor anti-HEV antibodies were detected. Further studies will be conducted to assess the HEV presence in Italian lagomorphs to establish the role of this host and the possible risk of transmission for workers with occupational exposure, to pet owners and via food. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Mammals)

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14 pages, 1645 KiB

Open AccessArticle

African Elephant Milk Short Saccharide and Metabolite Composition and Their Changes over Lactation

by Gernot Osthoff, Irenie Wiese and Francois Deacon

Animals 2023, 13(3), 544; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13030544 - 3 Feb 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2616

Abstract

Elephant milk composition is unique, as are its changes over lactation. Presented here is the milk non-dedicated metabolite composition of three African elephants. Their lactation times are overlapping and span day one to thirty months. Metabolites were identified and quantified by ¹H [...] Read more.

Elephant milk composition is unique, as are its changes over lactation. Presented here is the milk non-dedicated metabolite composition of three African elephants. Their lactation times are overlapping and span day one to thirty months. Metabolites were identified and quantified by ¹H nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Lactose and short oligosaccharides are a large component of the metabolites, with lacto-N-difucohexaose I as the major oligosaccharide. These were followed by metabolites of lipids, amino acids, and the citric acid cycle. The content of lactose, lacto-N-difucohexaose I, 2′-fucosyllactose, and some unidentified oligosaccharides decrease over lactation, while that of difucosyllactose and other unidentified ones increase. The high content of glutamate, as a glucogenic amino acid, supported the uprated synthesis of saccharides by the milk gland cells. The content of succinate and choline increase over lactation, indicating higher energy expenditure and phospholipid synthesis during later lactation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Wildlife)

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13 pages, 1242 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Social Isolation Does Not Alter Exploratory Behaviour, Spatial Learning and Memory in Captive Damaraland Mole-Rats (Fukomys damarensis)

by Arantxa Silvia Blecher and Maria Kathleen Oosthuizen

Animals 2023, 13(3), 543; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13030543 - 3 Feb 2023

Viewed by 1821

Abstract

Exploratory behaviour, spatial learning and memory affect the survival of animals and appear to be dependent on the specific habitat that a species occupies. Good spatial navigation and memory are particularly important for subterranean animals, as it is energetically expensive to inhabit this [...] Read more.

Exploratory behaviour, spatial learning and memory affect the survival of animals and appear to be dependent on the specific habitat that a species occupies. Good spatial navigation and memory are particularly important for subterranean animals, as it is energetically expensive to inhabit this niche. Damaraland mole-rats are subterranean mammals that live in colonies with organised social structures. Damaraland mole-rats have been maintained in the laboratory for many years and can be housed in groups or individually. We evaluated the effect of social isolation on the exploratory behaviour and spatial memory of single-housed and colony-housed animals and also considered potential differences in animals with different social statuses. We predicted that solitary housing would increase anxiety-like behaviour and result in higher activity and more errors when solving a maze. Exploration by colony- and single-housed mole-rats was tested in an open-field test, where all individuals explored readily. Single-housed queens and non-breeding females showed increased activity and spent more time in tunnels, which can be explained by increased anxiety. In the Y-maze, improvements in solving the maze were observed in all experimental groups, except in single-housed non-breeding females. In addition, all males showed a decrease in the number of errors in the maze. Spatial learning is thus apparent but could not be conclusively proven. It was possibly underestimated, as magnetic cues that may be used by mole-rats as stimuli for navigation were removed in the experimental setup. Overall, it appears that social isolation has a limited effect on the exploratory behaviour and spatial learning of Damaraland mole-rats. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physiology and Behaviour of African Mole-Rats)

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18 pages, 293 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Slaughterhouse Visual and Palpation Method for Estimating the Economic Damage of Porcine Proliferative Enteropathy (PPE)

by István Szabó, István Makkai, Péter Máté, Tamás Molnár, Hanny Swam, Stephan von Berg, Derald J. Holtkamp, Róbert Glávits, István Szabó, Jr., László Ózsvári and László Búza

Animals 2023, 13(3), 542; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13030542 - 3 Feb 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2283

Abstract

Background: Ileitis is a wasting disease of pigs. Clinical symptoms are diarrhea in growing pigs, wasting and reduced performance. Ileitis is ubiquitous in pig producing countries all around the world. It is estimated that the economic losses caused by the disease are USD [...] Read more.

Background: Ileitis is a wasting disease of pigs. Clinical symptoms are diarrhea in growing pigs, wasting and reduced performance. Ileitis is ubiquitous in pig producing countries all around the world. It is estimated that the economic losses caused by the disease are USD 4.65 per fattening pig, and American pig farmers lose USD 56.1 million annually. It has become necessary to develop a slaughterhouse ileitis monitoring method that is simple, feasible to perform at modern slaughter lines, leads to immediate results and is cost effective. The practical experiences of applying the method are presented below. Methods: Our studies were performed on pig herds and slaughterhouses in Central European countries (Hungary, Romania, Poland, Croatia, and Slovakia). Experiences were evaluated based on visual and palpation. The results of our investigations were evaluated by a scoring method. Authors made histological and immunohistochemical examinations of investigated ileums. The hypothetic economic losses due to the disease in each farm were determined by estimating the loss of profit according to Holtkamp’s presentation in 2019. Results: The essentials of the method we have developed are: it can be performed during slaughterhouse processing, it does not interfere with or make it impossible to carry out normal technological processes, and the results of the procedure are correlated with the results of other laboratory diagnostic tests for ileitis (histology, immunohistochemistry, herd serology, fecal PCR). It is noteworthy that the results of the method can be used to immediately estimate the impact of Lawsonia intracellularis infection on the performance of the herd from which the slaughter animals come. Conclusion: Using the results of the slaughtered pigs’ visual and tactile examination at the slaughterhouse, the magnitude of the loss caused by Lawsonia intracellularis infection can be estimated quickly and accurately, and the return on investment of the strategy to be applied can be accurately planned. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gastrointestinal Tract Health in Pigs)

13 pages, 1830 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Drivers of Consumer Preference Derived from Active Volatiles for Cooked Eriocheir sinensis

by Qi Lu, Wei Ding, Xueqian Guo, Tong Xiao and Xichang Wang

Animals 2023, 13(3), 541; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13030541 - 3 Feb 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1619

Abstract

Consumers’ perception of volatiles determines their preferences and choices of food. Furthermore, various factors, such as varieties, origin, gender, and edible parts, may influence volatiles. The perception of edible parts of E. sinensis in two origins (Chongming and Taixing) regarding overall hedonic score [...] Read more.

Consumers’ perception of volatiles determines their preferences and choices of food. Furthermore, various factors, such as varieties, origin, gender, and edible parts, may influence volatiles. The perception of edible parts of E. sinensis in two origins (Chongming and Taixing) regarding overall hedonic score (9-points), just-about-right scale (5-points), and intensity of attributes (7-points) were analyzed. The results showed that consumers preferred the hepatopancreas odor of female crabs in Chongming, with an overall preference of 6.84 and R_MAT (calculate the R-index by matrix) values >52.93%. The crabs’ origin (different feeding and rearing condition) was the primary reason for the odor profiles. The appropriate meaty and toasted odor in the hepatopancreas increased the overall preference by approximately 14.65–20.60%. Furthermore, 2-acetylthiazole, a volatile compound with a fatty odor, may significantly affect preferences and consumption behavior. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Animal Products)

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14 pages, 999 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Parity on the Quality of Colostrum of Holstein Dairy Cows in the Organic Production System

by Kinga Grodkowska, Marcin Gołębiewski, Jan Slósarz, Grzegorz Grodkowski, Piotr Kostusiak, Tomasz Sakowski, Marija Klopčič and Kamila Puppel

Animals 2023, 13(3), 540; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13030540 - 3 Feb 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2088

Abstract

A special feature of organic production systems is the cows’ significantly lower productivity, which is adapted to environmental conditions. The quantity and quality of colostrum is negatively correlated, high amounts of colostrum are associated with low amounts of immunoglobulins. Cows’ parity is also [...] Read more.

A special feature of organic production systems is the cows’ significantly lower productivity, which is adapted to environmental conditions. The quantity and quality of colostrum is negatively correlated, high amounts of colostrum are associated with low amounts of immunoglobulins. Cows’ parity is also a modulating factor, and studies have shown an increase in colostral IgG corresponds with increasing parity. This study’s aim was to determine the effect of cows’ parity on colostrum quality, in an organic farm setting. From a basic organic herd of dairy cattle, 40 Polish Holstein–Friesian cows were selected: 10 cows each of primiparous, second lactation, fourth lactation, and fifth lactation. Colostrum and transition milk samples were taken from each cow seven times: twice daily on the 1st and 2nd days after calving (every 12 h), and once daily on the 3rd to 5th days. Multiparous cows’ colostrum had higher levels of total proteins, casein, and non-fat dry matter, versus primiparous. Only cows in the second and fourth lactations produced very good quality colostrum (with immunoglobulins over 50 g/L), meeting standards for immunoglobulin concentration. In conclusion, the production of very good quality colostrum is limited during the first lactation, which may suggest the mammary gland is poorly developed, and, thus, immunoglobulin transport is limited. Variability in the colostrum’s immunoglobulin content from first and second collections post-calving was higher in multiparous versus primiparous cows. Therefore, it should be good practice to freeze colostrum from multiparous cows in case of poor-quality primiparous colostrum. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Cattle)

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9 pages, 1104 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Prevalence of Sex-Related Chromosomal Abnormalities in a Large Cohort of Spanish Purebred Horses

by Sebastián Demyda-Peyrás, Nora Laseca, Gabriel Anaya, Barbara Kij-Mitka, Antonio Molina, Ayelén Karlau and Mercedes Valera

Animals 2023, 13(3), 539; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13030539 - 3 Feb 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 4849

Abstract

Chromosomal abnormalities are largely associated with fertility impairments in the domestic horse. To date, over 600 cases of individuals carrying abnormal chromosome complements have been reported, making the domestic horse the species with the highest prevalence. However, studies analyzing the prevalence of chromosomal [...] Read more.

Chromosomal abnormalities are largely associated with fertility impairments in the domestic horse. To date, over 600 cases of individuals carrying abnormal chromosome complements have been reported, making the domestic horse the species with the highest prevalence. However, studies analyzing the prevalence of chromosomal diseases in whole populations are scarce. We, therefore, employed a two-step molecular tool to screen and diagnose chromosomal abnormalities in a large population of 25,237 Pura Raza Español horses. Individuals were first screened using short tandem repeats parentage testing results and phenotypic evaluations. Those animals showing results suggesting chromosomal abnormalities were re-tested using a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP)-based diagnostic methodology to accurately determine the chromosomal complements. Thirteen individuals showed a positive screening, all of which were diagnosed as chromosomally abnormal, including five 64,XY mares with sex development disorders (DSD) and four cases of blood chimerism (two male/female and two female/female cases). In addition, we detected one Turner and one Klinefelter syndrome and two individuals carrying complex karyotypes. The overall prevalence in the entire population was ~0.05%, with the prevalence of 64,XY DSD and blood chimerism ~0.02% and ~0.016%, respectively. However, the overall results should be taken with caution since the individuals carrying Turner syndrome (in full (63,X) or mosaic (mos 63,X/64,XX) forms) cannot be detected due to limitations in the methodology employed. Finally, the lack of agreement between populational studies performed using karyotyping or molecular methods is discussed. To our knowledge, this is the largest populational study performed evaluating the prevalence of the most common chromosomal abnormalities in the domestic horse. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cytogenetics of Domestic Animals: Clinical, Molecular and Evolutionary Aspects)

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11 pages, 1122 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Detection of the Endangered Siamese Bat Catfish (Oreoglanis siamensis Smith, 1933) in Doi Inthanon National Park Using Environmental DNA

by Thanatrinan Rodpai, Chatmongkon Suwannapoom and Maslin Osathanunkul

Animals 2023, 13(3), 538; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13030538 - 3 Feb 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2099

Abstract

Siamese bat catfish (Oreoglanis siamensis Smith, 1993) has been listed as an endangered species, and its abundance has been severely declining due to habitat degradation and overfishing. To establish an appropriate management strategy, it is crucial to gain information about the distribution [...] Read more.

Siamese bat catfish (Oreoglanis siamensis Smith, 1993) has been listed as an endangered species, and its abundance has been severely declining due to habitat degradation and overfishing. To establish an appropriate management strategy, it is crucial to gain information about the distribution of this endangered species. As O. siamensis live under rocks in streams, detecting their presence is difficult. Recently, environmental DNA (eDNA)–based detection has been demonstrated to be a valid tool for monitoring rare species, such as O. siamensis. Therefore, this study developed an eDNA assay targeting a 160 bp fragment of the COI region to detect the presence of this species in its natural habitat. An amount of 300 mL of water samples (0.7 μm filtered) were collected from 15 sites in the Mae Klang sub-basin, where this fish species was visually detected at two locations. O. siamensis eDNA was detected at 12 of the 15 sites sampled with varying concentrations (0.71–20.27 copies/mL), including at the sites where this species was visually detected previously. The developed O. siamensis eDNA assay was shown to be effective for detecting the presence of this endangered species in the Klang Phat and Klang Rivers within the Doi Inthanon National Park. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental DNA for Biodiversity Assessment and Monitoring: Challenges and Perspectives)

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15 pages, 1230 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Two Are Better Than One: Integrating Spatial Geometry with a Conspicuous Landmark in Zebrafish Reorientation Behavior

by Greta Baratti and Valeria Anna Sovrano

Animals 2023, 13(3), 537; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13030537 - 3 Feb 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2058

Abstract

Within bounded environments of a distinctive shape, zebrafish locate two geometrically equivalent corner positions, based on surface metrics and left-right directions. For instance, the corners with a short surface right/long surface left cannot be distinguished as unique spatial locations unless other cues break [...] Read more.

Within bounded environments of a distinctive shape, zebrafish locate two geometrically equivalent corner positions, based on surface metrics and left-right directions. For instance, the corners with a short surface right/long surface left cannot be distinguished as unique spatial locations unless other cues break the symmetry. By conjoining geometry with a conspicuous landmark, such as a different-color surface, one of the two geometric twins will have a short different-colored surface right, becoming identifiable. Zebrafish spontaneously combine a rectangular white arena’s shape with a blue wall landmark, but only when this landmark is near the target corner; when far, that cue triggers a steady attractiveness bias. In this study, we trained zebrafish to use a blue wall landmark in conjunction with a rectangular-shaped arena, providing them rewards over time. We found that trained zebrafish learned to locate the target corner, regardless of the landmark’s length and distance, overcoming the attractiveness bias. Zebrafish preferred geometry after removing the landmark (geometric test), but not if put into conflict geometry and landmark (affine transformation). Analysis on movement patterns revealed wall-following exploration as a consistent strategy for approaching the target corner, with individual left-right direction. The capacity of zebrafish to handle different sources of information may be grounds for investigating how environmental changes affect fish spatial behavior in threatened ecosystems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Behavioral Ecology of Aquatic Animals)

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2 pages, 178 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Understanding the Role of Community Ecology and Pathogen Dynamics in Infectious Diseases in Animals

by João R. Mesquita

Animals 2023, 13(3), 536; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13030536 - 2 Feb 2023

Viewed by 1351

Abstract

Since the beginning of ages, pathogens have circulated worldwide, with many causing significant morbidity and mortality in humans [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Infectious Diseases in Animals: Community Ecology and Pathogen Dynamics)

11 pages, 601 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Black Cumin Seed (Nigella sativa) and Coconut Meals (Cocos nucifera) on Broiler Performance and Cecal Microbiota

by Ahmed Zaazaa, Samer Mudalal, Mohammed Sabbah, Mohammad Altamimi, Abdelhafeed Dalab and Maen Samara

Animals 2023, 13(3), 535; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13030535 - 2 Feb 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3604

Abstract

The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of dietary supplementation with black cumin seed meal (BCSM) and coconut meal (CM) on the performance and cecal microbiota of Cobb 500 hybrid broilers. The study was conducted on 600 chicks on the [...] Read more.

The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of dietary supplementation with black cumin seed meal (BCSM) and coconut meal (CM) on the performance and cecal microbiota of Cobb 500 hybrid broilers. The study was conducted on 600 chicks on the first day of hatching; the chicks were randomly distributed equally into 12 equal-sized floor pens. Four dietary treatments (C, T1, T2 and T3) were replicated three times (50 chicks/replicate): C was the control group; T1 was supplemented with 10% BCSM; T2 was supplemented with 10% CM; T3 was supplemented with 5% BCSM and 5% CM. At slaughter age on day 35, our findings showed that treatment T2 increased significantly body weight and feed conversion ratio (FCR) compared to C, T1 and T3. In addition, the hot carcass dressing percentages in treatments T1, T2, and T3 were significantly higher than that of the C group. The results of relative normalized comparative gene expression of Clostridioides difficile, Roseburia and Streptococcus were not significantly changed in all treatments (p > 0.05). Treatment T1 resulted in a significant decrease in gene expression of the entire microbiota, while treatment T2 resulted in a significant increase in gene expression of all microbes, leading to an enriched and diverse microbial community. It can be concluded that supplementation with 10% BCSM is beneficial in inhibiting pathogenic microbes during early post-hatch days. In contrast, CM may promote and enhance the diversity of microbial communities during broiler growth. The inclusion of non-conventional feed ingredients in poultry diets may improve growth performance and may reduce the cost of broiler feed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Poultry Nutrition and Metabolism)

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21 pages, 388 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Genetic Parameters for Functional Longevity, Type Traits, and Production in the Serbian Holstein

by Radica Djedović, Natascha Vukasinovic, Dragan Stanojević, Vladan Bogdanović, Hasan Ismael, Dobrila Janković, Nikolija Gligović, Muhamed Brka and Ljuba Štrbac

Animals 2023, 13(3), 534; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13030534 - 2 Feb 2023

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2331

Abstract

In this study, the authors focused on the evaluation of the genetic parameters of longevity, milk yield traits, and type traits in dairy cattle populations in the Republic of Serbia. The total dataset used consisted of production records and pedigree data for 32,512 [...] Read more.

In this study, the authors focused on the evaluation of the genetic parameters of longevity, milk yield traits, and type traits in dairy cattle populations in the Republic of Serbia. The total dataset used consisted of production records and pedigree data for 32,512 Holstein cows that calved from 1981 to 2015. The animal model was applied to determine the variance and covariance components and genetic parameters of the analyzed traits by applying the restricted maximum likelihood (REML) approach and using the programs VCE6 and PEST. The heritability of longevity traits was estimated using the Survival Kit V6.0 software package. Variance and covariance were estimated for five production traits: milk yield (MY), fat yield (FY), protein yield (PY), milk fat content (MC), and protein content (PC), and three longevity traits: length of productive life (LPL), lifetime milk yield (LMY), and the number of lactations achieved (NL) as well as for 18 standard type traits. Heritabilities for the milk, fat, and protein yield traits were 0.20 (MY), 0.15 (FY), and 0.19 (PY), respectively. The estimated coefficients of heritability for the longevity traits were higher when using the Weibull proportional hazards model compared to the traditional linear methods and ranged from 0.08 for NL to 0.10 for LPL. Heritability values for the type traits varied from a low of 0.10 (RLSsv—rear legs set–side view) to medium values of 0.32 (ST-stature). Genetic correlations were found between MY and the following longevity traits: LPL, LMY, and NL with values of −0.18, −0.11, and −0.09, respectively. Genetic correlations were found between MY and a number of linear type traits and varied from 0.02 (between MY and RUH-rear udder height) to 0.28 (between MY and FUA-fore udder attachment). Genetic correlations between the 18 investigated type traits ranged from −0.33 between TL (top line) and RTP (rear teats position) to 0.71 between AN (angularity) and RUH (rear udder height). Genetic correlations between most linear type traits and longevity traits (LPL, LMY, and NL) were generally negative and very low. The highest positive genetic correlation was found between UD and LPL (r_xy = 0.38). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Impact of Genetic Parameters on Complex Traits of Livestock)

15 pages, 1177 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Executive Functions as Measured by the Dog Executive Function Scale (DEFS) over the Lifespan of Dogs

by Maike Foraita, Tiffani Howell and Pauleen Bennett

Animals 2023, 13(3), 533; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13030533 - 2 Feb 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3599

Abstract

Executive Functions (EFs) are needed for effortful self-regulation of behaviour and are known to change over the lifespan in humans. In domestic dogs, EFs can be assessed through behavioural rating scales, such as the Dog Executive Function Scale (DEFS). The primary aim of [...] Read more.

Executive Functions (EFs) are needed for effortful self-regulation of behaviour and are known to change over the lifespan in humans. In domestic dogs, EFs can be assessed through behavioural rating scales, such as the Dog Executive Function Scale (DEFS). The primary aim of this study was to investigate whether the DEFS, developed initially using a sample of adult dogs, can be used in juvenile (<1 year) and senior (>8 years) dogs. Confirmatory factor analysis of a juvenile and senior dog sample led to good model fit indices, indicating that juvenile and senior dogs’ EF structure follows the same functional organisation as found in the DEFS. The secondary aim was to analyse the lifespan development of EFs. Analysis of subscale scores revealed multifaceted relationships with age for four subscales. Working Memory and Attention Towards Owner showed the u-shaped curve traditionally associated with the lifespan development of EFs. Forms of inhibition showed complex associations with age, i.e., Delay Inhibition declined in aging and Motor Regulation increased during aging. Training history and Working Status influenced performance independent of age. More highly trained dogs and working dogs exhibited higher EF skills. Training history appeared more important for EF in non-working dogs than working dogs, perhaps because all working dogs receive a high level of training. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Canine Cognition and Communication: Current Findings in Scientific and Applied Settings)

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25 pages, 2713 KiB

Open AccessReview

Mother–Young Bonding: Neurobiological Aspects and Maternal Biochemical Signaling in Altricial Domesticated Mammals

by Cécile Bienboire-Frosini, Míriam Marcet-Rius, Agustín Orihuela, Adriana Domínguez-Oliva, Patricia Mora-Medina, Adriana Olmos-Hernández, Alejandro Casas-Alvarado and Daniel Mota-Rojas

Animals 2023, 13(3), 532; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13030532 - 2 Feb 2023

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 6471

Abstract

Mother–young bonding is a type of early learning where the female and their newborn recognize each other through a series of neurobiological mechanisms and neurotransmitters that establish a behavioral preference for filial individuals. This process is essential to promote their welfare by providing [...] Read more.

Mother–young bonding is a type of early learning where the female and their newborn recognize each other through a series of neurobiological mechanisms and neurotransmitters that establish a behavioral preference for filial individuals. This process is essential to promote their welfare by providing maternal care, particularly in altricial species, animals that require extended parental care due to their limited neurodevelopment at birth. Olfactory, auditory, tactile, and visual stimuli trigger the neural integration of multimodal sensory and conditioned affective associations in mammals. This review aims to discuss the neurobiological aspects of bonding processes in altricial mammals, with a focus on the brain structures and neurotransmitters involved and how these influence the signaling during the first days of the life of newborns. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Perinatology: Behavior and Health of the Dam and Her Offspring)

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13 pages, 3145 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Next-Generation Sequencing of the Complete Huaibei Grey Donkey Mitogenome and Mitogenomic Phylogeny of the Equidae Family

by Jingjing Xia, Liang Chang, Dashuang Xu, Yuqing Jia, Yuanfei Ding, Chengcheng Cao, Zhaoyu Geng and Sihua Jin

Animals 2023, 13(3), 531; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13030531 - 2 Feb 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1951

Abstract

The Huaibei grey donkey (HGD) is an endangered species and a vital native breed in Anhui Province, China. However, its complete mitogenome, phylogeny, and maternal origin remain unclear. The objectives of this study were to detect the genetic diversity of the HGD and [...] Read more.

The Huaibei grey donkey (HGD) is an endangered species and a vital native breed in Anhui Province, China. However, its complete mitogenome, phylogeny, and maternal origin remain unclear. The objectives of this study were to detect the genetic diversity of the HGD and investigate its phylogenetic relationship with other breeds to inform conservation management. The complete mitogenome of the HGD was sequenced through next-generation sequencing, and the most variable region in the mitochondrial DNA displacement-loop (D-loop) was amplified via a polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Next, we used the median-joining network (MJN) to calculate the genetic relationships among populations and the neighbor-jointing method to build a phylogenetic tree and speculate as to its origin. The results showed that the mitogenome contains 22 tRNAs, 2 rRNAs, 13 PCGs, and 1 D-loop region. Analyzing the D-loop region of the HGDs, we identified 23 polymorphic sites and 11 haplotypes. The haplotype and nucleotide diversity were 0.87000 (Hd) and 0.02115 (Pi), respectively. The MJN analysis indicated that the HGD potentially has two maternal lineages, and phylogenetic analysis indicated that the Somali lineage could be the most probable domestication center for this breed. Therefore, our mitogenome analysis highlights the high genetic diversity of the HGD, which may have originated from the Somali wild ass, as opposed to the Asian wild ass. This study will provide a useful resource for HGD conservation and breeding. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Animal Genetics and Genomics)

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13 pages, 2814 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Histopathological Changes and Inflammatory Response in Specific Pathogen-Free (SPF) with Porcine Circovirus Type 3 Infection

by Huidan Deng, Song Zhu, Ling Zhu, Zhijie Jian, Yuancheng Zhou, Fengqin Li, Lishuang Deng, Junliang Deng, Youtian Deng, Siyuan Lai and Zhiwen Xu

Animals 2023, 13(3), 530; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13030530 - 2 Feb 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2865

Abstract

Since the first report of PCV3 virus infection in 2016, it has been linked to multisystemic inflammation, reproductive failure, cardiac pathology, and clinical indications resembling porcine dermatitis and nephropathy syndrome (PDNS). However, the pathogenesis and clinical significance of PCV3 is still unclear. In [...] Read more.

Since the first report of PCV3 virus infection in 2016, it has been linked to multisystemic inflammation, reproductive failure, cardiac pathology, and clinical indications resembling porcine dermatitis and nephropathy syndrome (PDNS). However, the pathogenesis and clinical significance of PCV3 is still unclear. In this study, a PCV3 infection model was created using SPF pigs, and histopathology and fluorescence quantitative PCR were utilized to examine PCV3’s pathogenicity. Reductions in body weight gain and fever were observed during this study. However, other clinical signs such as Dermatitis and Nephropathy Syndrome were not observed through the study. Viremia was detected in the PCV3-inoculated group from 17 days post-inoculation (p.i.) until the end of the study. Nasal shedding was detected from 21 to 35 dpi and fecal shedding was detected during 25–33 days and 39 days, respectively. Gross lesions and histological evaluation were detected in various tissues and organs, including the lung, heart, kidney, lymph nodes, spleen, liver, small intestine, and testis. The heart, lung, liver, kidney, lymph nodes, and spleen showed pathological changes. The pathological features include swelling, inflammation, cell degeneration, necrosis, and hemorrhage. The lesions are consistent with multisystemic inflammation. Tissue viral load results showed only heart, lung, liver, kidney, lymph nodes, and spleen was positive by qRT-PCR. Moreover, the pro-inflammation cytokines in serum increased a lot in the PCV3-inoculated group compared to the control group, demonstrating that the induced inflammation response may be the cause of tissue damage in PCV3-infection. This study demonstrated that PCV3 can produce mild pathological damage to multiple organs, especially multisystemic inflammatory cell infiltration and prolonged viremia, viral shedding in nasal secretions. This is the first in vivo characterization of PCV3 infection in the SPF piglets model using isolated PCV3 strain, and this is also the first time to show the gross and pathological lesion with all tissue and organs in the PCV3-inoculated group. Our findings might serve as a starting point for more investigation into PCV3’s pathogenic mechanism. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Pigs)

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13 pages, 2116 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Behavior of Piglets in an Observation Arena before and after Surgical Castration with Local Anesthesia

by Regina Miller, Andrea Grott, Dorian Patzkéwitsch, Dorothea Döring, Nora Abendschön, Pauline Deffner, Judith Reiser, Mathias Ritzmann, Anna M. Saller, Paul Schmidt, Steffanie Senf, Julia Werner, Christine Baumgartner, Susanne Zöls, Michael Erhard and Shana Bergmann

Animals 2023, 13(3), 529; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13030529 - 2 Feb 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2467

Abstract

Surgical castration of piglets is generally recognized as a painful procedure, but there is currently no gold standard for the assessment of pain behavior in piglets. However, pain assessment is essential for evaluating the effectiveness of local anesthetics. In this study, we investigated [...] Read more.

Surgical castration of piglets is generally recognized as a painful procedure, but there is currently no gold standard for the assessment of pain behavior in piglets. However, pain assessment is essential for evaluating the effectiveness of local anesthetics. In this study, we investigated the efficacy of four local anesthetics in terms of pain relief during and after surgical castration in three sequential study parts. To do so, we filmed 178 piglets before the applied procedures, after injection of the local anesthetic, and up to 24 h after castration (five observation times in total) in an observation arena and compared their behavior before and after castration and between treatments and control groups. The results showed significant differences in the behavior of the piglets before and after castration and between the sham-castrated control group and the control group castrated without anesthesia. The different local anesthesia treatment groups showed diverging differences to the control groups. The most frequently shown pain-associated behaviors of the piglets were changes in tail position and hunched back posture. We observed a reduction but no complete elimination of the expressed pain-associated behaviors after local anesthesia. Several behavioral changes—such as changes in tail position, hunched back posture or tail wagging—persisted until the day after castration. Owing to the limited duration of the effects of the local anesthetics, local anesthesia did not influence long-term pain. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Welfare and Pain Assessment in Farmed Species)

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12 pages, 627 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dairy Cows Grazing Plantain-Based Pastures Have Increased Urine Patches and Reduced Urine N Concentration That Potentially Decreases N Leaching from a Pastoral System

by Thi Truong Nguyen, Soledad Navarrete, David Horne, Daniel Donaghy, Racheal H. Bryant and Peter Kemp

Animals 2023, 13(3), 528; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13030528 - 2 Feb 2023

Viewed by 2843

Abstract

The objective of this study was to determine the effect of grazing plantain-based pastures on urine volume, urination frequency, and urinary nitrogen (UN) concentration of dairy cows under a typical pastoral dairy practice offering approximately 25% supplemented feeds. The experiment was a completely [...] Read more.

The objective of this study was to determine the effect of grazing plantain-based pastures on urine volume, urination frequency, and urinary nitrogen (UN) concentration of dairy cows under a typical pastoral dairy practice offering approximately 25% supplemented feeds. The experiment was a completely randomised design with three pasture treatments (perennial ryegrass–white clover (RGWC); RGWC + low plantain rate (PLL); and RGWC + high plantain rate (PLH)), five replicate plots, and repeated in two sequential grazing periods. Forty-five lactating Friesian × Jersey cows were randomly assigned into three groups of 15 animals each to graze over six days in adaptation paddocks and three days in experimental plots. Urine flow sensors were used to measure urine volume and urinary frequency, while spot urine sampling was conducted to determine nitrogen (N) concentration in cow urine. The results showed that including 25% plantain in the diet (PLH) increased daily urine volume by 44% and the daily number of urinations by 28%, compared to grazing the RGWC pasture. In addition, N concentration in cow urine was decreased by 18 and 29% when the diet contained 18% and 25% plantain, respectively. In conclusion, under a typical dairy farm practice, incorporating plantain into the RGWC pasture with the proportion of 25% plantain in the diet can increase the number of urine patches and reduce the concentration of N in the urine, thereby providing the opportunity to decrease N leaching from pastoral systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Cattle)

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14 pages, 2012 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Partial Replacement of Soybean Meal with Defatted Hermetia illucens Meal in the Diet of Laying Hens on Performance, Dietary Egg Quality, and Serum Biochemical and Redox Indices

by Patrycja Zawisza, Beata Szymczyk, Anna Arczewska-Włosek and Kinga Szczepanik

Animals 2023, 13(3), 527; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13030527 - 2 Feb 2023

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2000

Abstract

This study was carried out on 96 caged Bovans Brown laying hens at an initial age of 25 weeks, which were randomly assigned to four experimental groups of 12 replicates (cages) of two hens per cage. The control group hens received a diet [...] Read more.

This study was carried out on 96 caged Bovans Brown laying hens at an initial age of 25 weeks, which were randomly assigned to four experimental groups of 12 replicates (cages) of two hens per cage. The control group hens received a diet containing 20% soybean meal (SBM), without Hermetia illucens larvae meal (HIM) content. The hens in the experimental groups received a diet containing defatted HIM at levels of 5, 10, and 15% (HIM 5%, HIM 10%, and HIM 15%, respectively), at the expense of a proportionally decreasing content of SBM. During the 12-week experiment, the laying performance, biochemical and redox blood indices, and liver condition were examined. The cholesterol level, fatty acid profile, and malondialdehyde content in egg yolks were also evaluated to determine the dietary quality of the eggs. The inclusion of HIM at any level in the diet did not affect the laying performance parameters (p > 0.05). Increased serum Ca and uric acid contents were observed. There was no effect on the redox indices in plasma. The number of hepatocytes was decreased in the HIM-fed groups. The level of cholesterol in yolks was reduced, and the fatty acid profile showed significant changes. Despite the high lauric acid content in the H. illucens meal, it was present in trace amounts in yolks. In the HIM-fed groups, the levels of saturated fatty acids increased significantly, whereas those of unsaturated fatty acids decreased in the yolks in the same groups. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Effects of Feed Ingredients on Growth Performance and Carcass Characteristics in Animals)

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20 pages, 678 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Looking for Possible Benefits of Combining Short-Chain Fructo-Oligosaccharides (scFOS) with Saccharomyces cerevisiae Sc 47 on Weaned Pigs Orally Challenged with Escherichia coli F4⁺

by Laia Ferreres-Serafini, Lorena Castillejos, Marga Martín, Cindy Le Bourgot and Susana M. Martín-Orúe

Animals 2023, 13(3), 526; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13030526 - 2 Feb 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2309

Abstract

The objective of this work was to evaluate the effect of supplementing short-chain fructo-oligosaccharides (scFOS) combined or not with live yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae Sc 47 on weanling pigs challenged with Escherichia coli F4⁺. We allocated ninety-six piglets to four experimental diets: [...] Read more.

The objective of this work was to evaluate the effect of supplementing short-chain fructo-oligosaccharides (scFOS) combined or not with live yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae Sc 47 on weanling pigs challenged with Escherichia coli F4⁺. We allocated ninety-six piglets to four experimental diets: control (CTR); supplemented with scFOS (5 g/kg Profeed^® P95) (scFOS); S. cerevisiae Sc 47 (1 g/kg Actisaf^® Sc 47 HR +) (YEA); or both (SYN). Parameters included: performance; E. coli F4⁺ detection; fermentation activity; inflammatory biomarkers; and ileal histomorphology. Our results showed that supplementing scFOS was able to reduce the incidence of diarrhea, and both supplements were able to lower counts of EHEC along the gut. Supplementing scFOS was mostly associated with changes in the gut ecosystem and increases in the lactobacilli population, while S. cerevisiae Sc 47 registered increases in the numbers of ileal intraepithelial lymphocytes. The synbiotic mixture showed the lowest diarrhea incidence and fecal scores, benefiting from complementary modes of action and possible synergistic effects due to a hypothesized yeast–LAB cross-feeding phenomenon in the foregut. In conclusion, our results evidence that supplementing scFOS or Saccharomyces cerevisiae Sc 47 is efficacious to fight post-weaning colibacillosis, and combining both could be beneficial in high-risk scenarios. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Probiotics in Pig Production: Boost Growth and Health)

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10 pages, 1097 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Comparison of Feathers and Oral Swab Samples as DNA Sources for Molecular Sexing in Companion Birds

by Maria-Carmen Turcu, Anamaria Ioana Paștiu, Lucia Victoria Bel and Dana Liana Pusta

Animals 2023, 13(3), 525; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13030525 - 2 Feb 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2803

Abstract

The early age determinism of the sex in case of monomorphic birds is very important, because most companion birds have no distinct sexual dimorphic traits. Molecular genetic sexing was proved to be one of the most accurate sex determinations in monomorphic birds. The [...] Read more.

The early age determinism of the sex in case of monomorphic birds is very important, because most companion birds have no distinct sexual dimorphic traits. Molecular genetic sexing was proved to be one of the most accurate sex determinations in monomorphic birds. The aim of this study was to compare the results obtained by PCR performed on isolate genomic DNA from paired samples of feathers and oral swabs collected from the same individuals. Samples of oral swabs (n = 101) and feathers (n = 74) were collected from 101 companion birds from four different species (Columba livia domestica, Psittacula krameri, Neophema splendida and Agapornis spp.). The PCR was performed for the amplification of the CHD1W and CHD1Z genes in females and the CHD1Z gene in males. The overall PCR success rate of sex determination was significantly higher from oral swabs than from feathers. The PCR success rate from oral swabs was higher in juveniles and from feathers was significantly higher in adults. The similarity between the oral swab and feathers was obtained in 78.38% of the birds. Oral swabs proved to be a more reliable sample for genetic sex determination in the species tested in this study. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Birds)

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25 pages, 826 KiB

Open AccessReview

Interactions between Humans and Dogs during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Recent Updates and Future Perspectives

by Mohamed S. Kamel, Amr A. El-Sayed, Rachel A. Munds and Mohit S. Verma

Animals 2023, 13(3), 524; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13030524 - 2 Feb 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 6180

Abstract

COVID-19 is one of the deadliest epidemics. This pandemic is caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), but the role of dogs in spreading the disease in human society is poorly understood. This review sheds light on the limited susceptibility of [...] Read more.

COVID-19 is one of the deadliest epidemics. This pandemic is caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), but the role of dogs in spreading the disease in human society is poorly understood. This review sheds light on the limited susceptibility of dogs to COVID-19 infections which is likely attributed to the relatively low levels of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) in the respiratory tract and the phylogenetic distance of ACE2 in dogs from the human ACE2 receptor. The low levels of ACE2 affect the binding affinity between spike and ACE2 proteins resulting in it being uncommon for dogs to spread the disease. To demonstrate the role of dogs in spreading COVID-19, we reviewed the epidemiological studies and prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 in dogs. Additionally, we discussed the use of detection dogs as a rapid and reliable method for effectively discriminating between SARS-CoV-2 infected and non-infected individuals using different types of samples (secretions, saliva, and sweat). We considered the available information on COVID-19 in the human–dog interfaces involving the possibility of transmission of COVID-19 to dogs by infected individuals and vice versa, the human–dog behavior changes, and the importance of preventive measures because the risk of transmission by domestic dogs remains a concern. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Susceptibility of Animals to SARS-CoV-2)

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14 pages, 571 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Herd Level Yield Gap Analysis in a Local Scale Dairy Farming System: A Practical Approach to Discriminate between Nutritional and Other Constraining Factors

by Igino Andrighetto, Lorenzo Serva, Davide Fossaluzza and Giorgio Marchesini

Animals 2023, 13(3), 523; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13030523 - 2 Feb 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2001

Abstract

This study performed a yield gap analysis to help farmers understand whether their constraints were mainly due to nutritional factors or management and health issues. Twenty-nine farms were periodically evaluated. Milk yield (MY), dry matter intake (DMI), total mixed ration (TMR) composition and [...] Read more.

This study performed a yield gap analysis to help farmers understand whether their constraints were mainly due to nutritional factors or management and health issues. Twenty-nine farms were periodically evaluated. Milk yield (MY), dry matter intake (DMI), total mixed ration (TMR) composition and homogeneity index (HI), TMR digestibility, income over feed cost (IOFC), and MY summer–winter ratio (SWR) were collected. Farms were divided and compared according to the average annual MY: Low (L), Medium (M) and High (H), characterised by <31.1, 31.1–36.7 and >36.7 kg/head/day. An ANOVA mixed model and a stepwise regression to assess the relationship between nutritional variables and MY were run. H farms showed higher IOFC (p < 0.001), DMI (p = 0.006), DDM (p < 0.001), digestible crude protein (DCP, p = 0.019), HI (p = 0.09), SWR (p = 0.041) and lower HI coefficient of variation (p = 0.04). The conversion of DDM into milk was higher in H and M farms. Stepwise regression for MY selected DDM and CP (R² = 0.716, p < 0.05). M farms were mainly constrained by nutritional factors, whereas L farms were also affected by other factors such as those related to management and health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animals in 2023)

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8 pages, 246 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Coat, Claw and Dewclaw 17-β-Estradiol and Testosterone Concentrations in Male and Female Postpubertal Cats: Preliminary Results

by Jasmine Fusi, Tanja Peric, Monica Probo, Roberta Bucci, Massimo Faustini and Maria Cristina Veronesi

Animals 2023, 13(3), 522; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13030522 - 1 Feb 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1918

Abstract

In the recent past, tissue materials such as hair/coat and nails/claws have proved to be useful for the study of long-term hormonal changes in humans and animals and shown to be advantageous in terms of being collectable without invasiveness, with a benefit in [...] Read more.

In the recent past, tissue materials such as hair/coat and nails/claws have proved to be useful for the study of long-term hormonal changes in humans and animals and shown to be advantageous in terms of being collectable without invasiveness, with a benefit in terms of animal welfare. However, studies using these tissue materials in cats are scarce, especially on sexual hormone measurement. In this study, the concentrations of 17-β-estradiol (E2) and testosterone (T) were assessed in 20 male and 18 female domestic postpubertal cats at the time of neutering/spaying during the breeding season. Hormones were measured in coat shaved from the forearm (ACOAT) and from the surgical area (SCOAT); claws were collected from the forearms (CLAWS) and the dewclaws (DCLAWS). Although all these tissue materials were shown to be useful for E2 and T long-term measurement, only T concentrations were higher (p < 0.001) in males from both ACOAT and SCOAT samples when compared to females and therefore useful for distinguishing between the two sexes. Within each sex, E2 and T concentrations can be assessed on coat, but also on the dewclaws, providing an alternative, practical, matrix for sexual steroid measurement in postpubertal cats during the breeding season. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Animal Reproduction)

21 pages, 1350 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Features of Fractal Conformity and Bioconsolidation in the Early Myogenesis Gene Expression and Their Relationship to the Genetic Diversity of Chicken Breeds

by Ivan I. Kochish, Evgeni A. Brazhnik, Nikolai I. Vorobyov, Ilya N. Nikonov, Maxim V. Korenyuga, Olga V. Myasnikova, Darren K. Griffin, Peter F. Surai and Michael N. Romanov

Animals 2023, 13(3), 521; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13030521 - 1 Feb 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1934

Abstract

Elements of fractal analysis are widely used in scientific research, including several biological disciplines. In this study, we hypothesized that chicken breed biodiversity manifests not only at the phenotypic level, but also at the genetic-system level in terms of different profiles of fractal [...] Read more.

Elements of fractal analysis are widely used in scientific research, including several biological disciplines. In this study, we hypothesized that chicken breed biodiversity manifests not only at the phenotypic level, but also at the genetic-system level in terms of different profiles of fractal conformity and bioconsolidation in the early myogenesis gene expression. To demonstrate this effect, we developed two mathematical models that describe the fractal nature of the expression of seven key genes in the embryonic breast and thigh muscles in eight breeds of meat, dual purpose, egg and game types. In the first model, we produced breed-specific coefficients of gene expression conformity in each muscle type using the slopes of regression dependencies, as well as an integral myogenesis gene expression index (MGEI). Additionally, breed fractal dimensions and integral myogenesis gene expression fractal dimension index (MGEFDI) were determined. The second gene expression model was based on plotting fractal portraits and calculating indices of fractal bioconsolidation. The bioconsolidation index of myogenesis gene expression correlated with the chick growth rate and nitric oxide (NO) oxidation rate. The proposed fractal models were instrumental in interpreting the genetic diversity of chickens at the level of gene expression for early myogenesis, NO metabolism and the postnatal growth of chicks. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genetic Expression and Regulation during Growth and Reproduction of Poultry)

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12 pages, 1204 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Vaccination Upregulates Th1 Cytokines in the Lung of Pigs Experimentally Infected with Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae

by Francisco Rodríguez, Rubén S. Rosales, Ana S. Ramírez and José B. Poveda

Animals 2023, 13(3), 520; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13030520 - 1 Feb 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2074

Abstract

Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae (Mhy) is the causative agent of enzootic pneumonia, characterized by high morbidity and low mortality rates in intensive swine production systems. To better understand the mechanisms underlying the protection of an inactivated whole cell vaccine, we investigated the immunohistochemical differences in the [...] Read more.

Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae (Mhy) is the causative agent of enzootic pneumonia, characterized by high morbidity and low mortality rates in intensive swine production systems. To better understand the mechanisms underlying the protection of an inactivated whole cell vaccine, we investigated the immunohistochemical differences in the cytokine expression in vaccinated and non-vaccinated pigs experimentally infected with Mhy. Four-week-old Mhy-negative pigs (n = 24) were allocated to negative control (n = 8), or one of two Mhy-infected groups: vaccinated (n = 8) and non-vaccinated (n = 8). Infection was carried out by a combination of trans-tracheal and aerosol route. Lung samples were processed for histopathological and immunohistochemical studies, by using antibodies against Mhy, IL1-α, IL1-β, IL-2, IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, Il-8, IL-10, IL-12p35, IL-13, IL-17A, TNF-α, IFN-γ, and CD-4 lymphocytes. Although all cytokines increased in both infected groups, IL-2, IL-12, and IFN-γ were significantly overexpressed in vaccinated pigs. These findings, in conjunction with the decrease of macroscopic and histological lesions in vaccinated animals, indicate the importance to enhance Th1 response in the immunization strategies to control Mhy infection. Full article

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8 pages, 1274 KiB

Open AccessCase Report

Proximal Ulnar Osteotomy as a Treatment for Humeral Intracondylar Fissure in a Shetland Sheepdog

by Stavros Karydas and Alan Danielski

Animals 2023, 13(3), 519; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13030519 - 1 Feb 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2231

Abstract

A seven-month-old male Shetland Sheepdog was presented for assessment of thoracic limb lameness of 3 weeks duration. Orthopaedic examination revealed severe discomfort in elbow extension, bilaterally. CT-scan confirmed presence of a complete humeral intracondylar fissure (HIF), bilaterally, and arthroscopic examination of both elbows [...] Read more.

A seven-month-old male Shetland Sheepdog was presented for assessment of thoracic limb lameness of 3 weeks duration. Orthopaedic examination revealed severe discomfort in elbow extension, bilaterally. CT-scan confirmed presence of a complete humeral intracondylar fissure (HIF), bilaterally, and arthroscopic examination of both elbows confirmed the presence of the cartilaginous lesion previously reported in dogs suffering from HIF. A staged oblique proximal ulnar osteotomy was performed to address the humero-anconeal incongruency believed to be the cause of HIF formation. Orthopaedic examination performed 5 weeks after each surgical procedure confirmed that pain previously present on elbow manipulation had subsided. Follow-up examination performed 8 months after the second surgery revealed the dog to be sound at walking on the thoracic limbs with no discomfort present on elbow manipulation. Repeated CT scan confirmed complete healing of both HIFs. This is the first report documenting the presence of HIF in a Shetland sheepdog and complete healing of both HIFs following a proximal ulnar osteotomy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Diagnostic and Treatment Methods for Joint Diseases in Dogs and Cats)

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14 pages, 876 KiB

Open AccessArticle

First Insights on the Administration of Insect Oil (Black Soldier Fly Larvae) in the Diet of Juvenile Onychostoma macrolepis

by Nina Gou, Kaifeng Wang, Tiezhi Jin and Bin Yang

Animals 2023, 13(3), 518; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13030518 - 1 Feb 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1876

Abstract

The use of insect products in aquatic feed is the focus of the aquaculture industry. Black soldier fly larvae oil (BSFLO) has been examined as a potential lipid source for diets for some fish species, but its utilization on Onychostoma macrolepis has not [...] Read more.

The use of insect products in aquatic feed is the focus of the aquaculture industry. Black soldier fly larvae oil (BSFLO) has been examined as a potential lipid source for diets for some fish species, but its utilization on Onychostoma macrolepis has not been explored. The influences of substituting fish oil (FO) with BSFLO in the diet on growth, biological indicators, approximate composition, serum biochemistry, antioxidant capacity and expression of lipid metabolism genes in juvenile O. macrolepis were investigated in an eight-week feeding experiment. Four experimental diets were prepared by replacing 0 (control), 25% (BSFLO-25), 50% (BSFLO-50) and 100% (BSFLO-100) FO with BSFLO, and then randomly assigned to twelve aquariums with ten fish (1.75 ± 0.05 g) in each aquarium. The findings showed that the growth indicators, body composition and serum biochemistry in the BSFLO-25 and BSFLO-50 groups had no statistical differences from those of the control group. The activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) (91.22–94.96 U/mgprot) and the contents of malondialdehyde (MDA) (1.12–1.16 nmol/mgprot) in the liver appeared to be significantly the highest and the lowest in the BSFLO-25, BSFLO-50 and BSFLO-100 groups (p < 0.05). The adipocyte size and intraperitoneal fat index value of fish fed on the BSFLO-100 diet were significantly decreased compared to the control group (p < 0.05). The expression levels of lipid catabolism genes pparα, (peroxisome proliferators-activated receptor alpha) and cpt1a (carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1 isoform a) in the BSFLO-100 group were significantly higher than those of the control group (p < 0.05). The above results indicated that it was feasible to replace 25–50% dietary FO with BSFLO in juvenile O. macrolepis. Dietary BSFLO supplementation could enhance the antioxidant capacity of the liver and suppress intraperitoneal fat accumulation in O. macrolepis. The use of other insect oils in the diets of this species will be evaluated in future research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition, Growth, Health and Quality of Fish and Other Marine Products)

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