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Animals
Volume 14
Issue 9
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Animals, Volume 14, Issue 9 (May-1 2024) – 139 articles

Cover Story (view full-size image): Sports science and training metrics inform athletes on progression toward a competitive goal. New technology can now be harnessed to do the same for racehorses. Here, fitness trackers recorded training metrics in 485 racehorses (3418 training sessions) in Australia. Colts and ‘stayers’ performed better than fillies. Higher speed over the last 600 m of a standardised timed trial in training predicted (P = 0.04) the horses that performed better in races. Combining training metrics with less tangible, experiential factors from racehorse trainers or other personnel will help aid decision-making regarding which horses to place in races and potentially reduce the incidence of poor performance on race day. View this paper
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9 pages, 5922 KiB  
Communication
The Impact of Environmental Enrichment on the Cortisol Level of Shelter Cats
by Justyna Wojtaś, Piotr Czyżowski, Kamila Kaszycka, Klaudia Kaliszyk and Mirosław Karpiński
Animals 2024, 14(9), 1392; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14091392 - 6 May 2024
Viewed by 1661
Abstract
Enriching cats’ living environment in shelters is crucial in reducing their stress. Easier access to resources allows cats to display natural behavior. This study aimed to assess whether cats staying in an enriched environment would be less stressed than cats staying in a [...] Read more.
Enriching cats’ living environment in shelters is crucial in reducing their stress. Easier access to resources allows cats to display natural behavior. This study aimed to assess whether cats staying in an enriched environment would be less stressed than cats staying in a standard environment. The first group consisted of cats living in an environment with fewer resources (standard environment)—103 cats. The second group consisted of cats living in an enriched environment—76 cats. The research material consisted of hair collected to determine the cortisol level. The results indicate that cats from a more enriched environment have almost half the level of cortisol in hair than cats from an environment with fewer resources (0.059 ng/mg vs. 0.101 ng/mg; p = 0.000001). Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Companion Animals)
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16 pages, 731 KiB  
Article
Influences of a Supplemental Blend of Essential Oils Plus 25-Hydroxy-Vit-D3 and Zilpaterol Hydrochloride (β2 Agonist) on Growth Performance and Carcass Measures of Feedlot Lambs Finished under Conditions of High Ambient Temperature
by Alfredo Estrada-Angulo, Moisés Verdugo-Insúa, Lucía de G. Escobedo-Gallegos, Beatriz I. Castro-Pérez, Jesús D. Urías-Estrada, Elizama Ponce-Barraza, Daniel Mendoza-Cortez, Francisco G. Ríos-Rincón, Francisco Monge-Navarro, Alberto Barreras, Richard A. Zinn, Luis Corona-Gochi and Alejandro Plascencia
Animals 2024, 14(9), 1391; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14091391 - 6 May 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1251
Abstract
Forty-eight Pelibuey × Katahdin male intact lambs (25.12 ± 3.79 kg LW) were used in a 70-d growing-finishing trial. Dietary treatments consisted of total mixed corn-based diet supplemented with: (1) no feed additives (Control); (2) 150 mg of essential oils blend plus 0.10 [...] Read more.
Forty-eight Pelibuey × Katahdin male intact lambs (25.12 ± 3.79 kg LW) were used in a 70-d growing-finishing trial. Dietary treatments consisted of total mixed corn-based diet supplemented with: (1) no feed additives (Control); (2) 150 mg of essential oils blend plus 0.10 mg of 25-hydroxy-Vit-D3/kg diet offered throughout the 70-d experimental period (EOD3); (3) Control diet fed during the first 35 days and zilpaterol hydrochloride (ZH) supplementation at 6 mg/kg diet offered during the final 35 days of the experiment (32 days with ZH with a withdrawal 3-d before harvest), and (4) basal diet supplemented with EOD3 during first 35 days finishing, and EOD3 in combination with ZH (EOD3 + ZH) during the subsequent 32-days with ZH withdrawal 3 days before harvest. The temperature–humidity index during the experiment averaged 80.4 ± 3.2. There were no treatment interactions (p > 0.20) on growth performance and carcass measures. Supplemental EOD3 did not affect (p = 0.43) dry matter intake (DMI), but increased (p < 0.01) carcass adjusted average daily gain (ADG, 9.2%), gain efficiency (GF, 6.7%), and observed vs. expected dietary net energy for maintenance (NEm, 4.8%) and for gain (NEg, 6.4%). Supplemental ZH did not affect dry matter intake (DMI, p = 0.50) but increased (p < 0.01) carcass adjusted ADG (14.5%), GF (13%) and observed vs. expected dietary NEm (9%) and NEg (11.7%). Compared to control lambs, the combination of both additives increased ADG (24.9%), GF (21.2%), and observed vs. expected dietary NEm and NEg (14.2% and 18.9%, respectively). There were no treatment interactions on carcass characteristics, visceral organ mass, or on gene expression of IGF1, IGF2 and mTOR in longissimus muscle (LM). Supplemental EOD3 increased hot carcass weight (HCW; 4.0%, p < 0.01) but did not affect other carcass measures. Supplemental EOD3 decreased (3%, p = 0.03) intestine mass weight (g intestine/kg empty body weight). Supplemental ZH increased HCW (6%, p < 0.01), dressing percentage (1.7%, p = 0.04), and LM area (9.7%, p < 0.01), and decreased kidney-pelvic-fat percentage (16.2%, p < 0.01), fat thickness (14.7%, p = 0.03), and visceral fat. Compared to controls, the combination of EOD3 with ZH increased HCW (10.2%). It is concluded that growth performance responses to supplemental EOD3 and ZH are additive. Both supplements can be fed in combination without detrimental effects on expected benefits when fed separately. In addition, ZH supplementation improves carcass traits. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feed Additives, Performance and Welfare in Domestic Animals)
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14 pages, 4263 KiB  
Article
Prediction of Potential Suitable Distribution Areas for an Endangered Salamander in China
by Jiacheng Tao, Yifeng Hu, Jianping Jiang, Wanji Yang, Tian Zhao and Shengqi Su
Animals 2024, 14(9), 1390; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14091390 - 6 May 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1032
Abstract
Climate change has been considered to pose critical threats for wildlife. During the past decade, species distribution models were widely used to assess the effects of climate change on the distribution of species’ suitable habitats. Among all the vertebrates, amphibians are most vulnerable [...] Read more.
Climate change has been considered to pose critical threats for wildlife. During the past decade, species distribution models were widely used to assess the effects of climate change on the distribution of species’ suitable habitats. Among all the vertebrates, amphibians are most vulnerable to climate change. This is especially true for salamanders, which possess some specific traits such as cutaneous respiration and low vagility. The Wushan salamander (Liua shihi) is a threatened and protected salamander in China, with its wild population decreasing continuously. The main objective of this study was to predict the distribution of suitable habitat for L. shihi using the ENMeval parameter-optimized MaxEnt model under current and future climate conditions. Our results showed that precipitation, cloud density, vegetation type, and ultraviolet radiation were the main environmental factors affecting the distribution of L. shihi. Currently, the suitable habitats for L. shihi are mainly concentrated in the Daba Mountains, including northeastern Chongqing and western Hubei Provinces. Under the future climate conditions, the area of suitable habitats increased, which mainly occurred in central Guizhou Province. This study provided important information for the conservation of L. shihi. Future studies can incorporate more species distribution models to better understand the effects of climate change on the distribution of L. shihi. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Protecting Endangered Species)
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15 pages, 2087 KiB  
Article
Physical and Chemical Characteristics of Droppings as Sensitive Markers of Chicken Health Status
by Erika Mozuriene, Ernestas Mockus, Dovile Klupsaite, Vytaute Starkute, Ernesta Tolpeznikaite, Valentas Gruzauskas, Romas Gruzauskas, Agne Paulauskaite-Taraseviciene, Vidas Raudonis and Elena Bartkiene
Animals 2024, 14(9), 1389; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14091389 - 6 May 2024
Viewed by 1121
Abstract
The aim of this study was to analyze the physical and chemical characteristics of chicken droppings (n = 73), which were collected during different age periods and classified by visual inspection into normal (N) and abnormal (A). Significant differences were found in the [...] Read more.
The aim of this study was to analyze the physical and chemical characteristics of chicken droppings (n = 73), which were collected during different age periods and classified by visual inspection into normal (N) and abnormal (A). Significant differences were found in the texture, pH, dry matter (DM), fatty acids (FAs), short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), and volatile compounds (VCs) between the tested dropping groups (p ≤ 0.05). The age period of the chicken had a significant influence on the color coordinates, texture, pH, DM, and SCFA contents in N and A as well as on all FAs content in N (p ≤ 0.05). Droppings from the N group had a harder texture, lower values of a* and b* color coordinates, higher DM content, higher level of linoleic FA, and lower level of α-linolenic FA than the droppings from the A group in each age period (p ≤ 0.05). The predominant SCFA was acetic acid, the content of which was significantly lower in the N group compared to that of the A group. The alcohol and organic acid contents were the highest in most of the A group at different age periods, while ketones dominated in the N and A groups. In conclusion, the majority of the tested dropping characteristics were influenced by the age period. While certain characteristics demonstrate differences between N and A, a likely broader range of droppings is required to provide more distinct trends regarding the distribution of characteristics across different droppings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Poultry Feeding and Gut Health)
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9 pages, 1405 KiB  
Article
Sperm Incubation in Biggers–Whitten–Whittingham Medium Induces Capacitation-Related Changes in the Lizard Sceloporus torquatus
by Uriel Ángel Sánchez-Rivera, Norma Berenice Cruz-Cano, Alfredo Medrano, Carmen Álvarez-Rodríguez and Martín Martínez-Torres
Animals 2024, 14(9), 1388; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14091388 - 6 May 2024
Viewed by 1433
Abstract
Sperm capacitation involves biochemical and physiological changes that enable sperm to fertilize the oocyte. It can be induced in vitro under controlled conditions that simulate the environment of the oviduct. While extensively studied in mammals, its approach in lizards remains absent. Understanding the [...] Read more.
Sperm capacitation involves biochemical and physiological changes that enable sperm to fertilize the oocyte. It can be induced in vitro under controlled conditions that simulate the environment of the oviduct. While extensively studied in mammals, its approach in lizards remains absent. Understanding the mechanisms that ensure reproduction is essential for advancing the implementation of assisted reproductive technologies in this group. We aimed to perform a sperm analysis to determine if capacitation-related changes were induced after incubation with capacitating media. Fifteen males of Sceloporus torquatus were collected during the early stage of the reproductive season. The sperm were isolated from the seminal plasma and then diluted up to a volume of 150 μL using BWW medium to incubate with 5% CO2 at 30 °C for a maximum duration of 3 h. A fraction was retrieved hourly for ongoing sperm assessment. The sperm analysis included assessments of its motility, viability, the capacitation status using the chlortetracycline (CTC) assay, and the acrosome integrity with the lectin binding assay to detect changes during incubation. We found that total motility was maintained up to 2 h post incubation, after which it decreased. However, sperm viability remained constant. From that moment on, we observed a transition to a deeper and less symmetrical flagellar bending in many spermatozoa. The CTC assay indicated a reduction in the percentage of sperm showing the full (F) pattern and an increase in those exhibiting the capacitated (B) and reactive (RA) patterns, accompanied by an elevation in the percentage of damaged acrosomes as revealed by the lectin binding assay. In mammals, these changes are often associated with sperm capacitation. Our observations support the notion that this process may also occur in saurian. While sperm analysis is a valuable method for assessing certain functional changes, additional approaches are required to validate this process. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Reproduction: Semen Quality Assessment, Volume II)
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11 pages, 1835 KiB  
Communication
The Effect of κ-Carrageenan on Porcine Sperm Cryo-Survival
by Areeg Almubarak, Eunji Kim, Il-Jeoung Yu, Hanseul Park and Yubyeol Jeon
Animals 2024, 14(9), 1387; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14091387 - 6 May 2024
Viewed by 1389
Abstract
κ-Carrageenan is a sulfated polysaccharide from red seaweed with substantial antioxidant activities. This study aimed to investigate the effect of κ-Carrageenan treatment on frozen–thawed (FT) porcine semen quality. Therefore, the spermatozoa were diluted and cryopreserved in a freezing extender supplemented with 0 (control), [...] Read more.
κ-Carrageenan is a sulfated polysaccharide from red seaweed with substantial antioxidant activities. This study aimed to investigate the effect of κ-Carrageenan treatment on frozen–thawed (FT) porcine semen quality. Therefore, the spermatozoa were diluted and cryopreserved in a freezing extender supplemented with 0 (control), 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, and 0.8 mg/mL κ-Carrageenan. Sperm kinematics were assessed immediately after thawing (AT) and post-incubation for 120 min. The viability, acrosome integrity, lipid peroxidation, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), and intracellular caspase activity were measured AT. The results indicated that 0.2 mg/mL κ-Carrageenan increased total and progressive motility AT and post-incubation for 120 min (p < 0.05). Moreover, the viable sperm percentage and MMP after 0.2 mg/mL treatment were higher than those after control and other κ-Carrageenan concentration treatments. The proportion of acrosome-intact spermatozoa was significantly higher after 0.2 and 0.4 mg/mL κ-Carrageenan treatment than that after control and other κ-Carrageenan concentration treatments. The intracellular caspase activity was not significantly different among the experimental groups. However, the MDA concentration after 0.2 mg/mL κ-Carrageenan treatment was lower (p < 0.05) than that after the control treatment. Taken together, adding κ-Carrageenan to the porcine semen freezing extender improved the FT sperm quality mainly by influencing membrane stability and protecting against oxidative stress. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Animal Reproduction)
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23 pages, 7657 KiB  
Article
An Interactive Feeder to Induce and Assess Emotions from Vocalisations of Chickens
by Antonis Golfidis, Buddhamas Pralle Kriengwatana, Mina Mounir and Tomas Norton
Animals 2024, 14(9), 1386; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14091386 - 6 May 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1620
Abstract
Understanding the emotional states of animals is a long-standing research endeavour that has clear applications in animal welfare. Vocalisations are emerging as a promising way to assess both positive and negative emotional states. However, the vocal expression of emotions in birds is a [...] Read more.
Understanding the emotional states of animals is a long-standing research endeavour that has clear applications in animal welfare. Vocalisations are emerging as a promising way to assess both positive and negative emotional states. However, the vocal expression of emotions in birds is a relatively unexplored research area. The goal of this study was to develop an interactive feeding system that would elicit positive and negative emotional states, and collect recordings of the vocal expression of these emotions without human interference. In this paper, the mechatronic design and development of the feeder is described. Design choices were motivated by the desire for the hens to voluntarily interact with the feeder and experience the different stimuli that were designed to induce (1) positive low-arousal, (2) positive high-arousal, (3) negative low-arousal, and (4) negative high-arousal states. The results showed that hens were motivated to engage with the feeder despite the risk of receiving negative stimuli and that this motivation was sustained for at least 1 week. The potential of using the interactive feeder to analyse chicken vocalisations related to emotional valence and arousal is being explored, offering a novel proof of concept in animal welfare research. Preliminary findings suggest that hens vocalised in response to all four stimulus types, with the number of vocalisations, but not the probability of vocalising, distinguishing between low- and high-arousal states. Thus, the proposed animal–computer interaction design has potential to be used as an enrichment device and for future experiments on vocal emotions in birds. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal–Computer Interaction: Advances and Opportunities)
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25 pages, 915 KiB  
Article
Application of Epidemiological Methods in a Large-Scale Cross-Sectional Study in 765 German Dairy Herds—Lessons Learned
by Roswitha Merle, Martina Hoedemaker, Gabriela Knubben-Schweizer, Moritz Metzner, Kerstin-Elisabeth Müller and Amely Campe
Animals 2024, 14(9), 1385; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14091385 - 6 May 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1485
Abstract
From 2016 to 2020, the “PraeRi” study, conducted by three German veterinary universities, was aimed at enhancing animal health and welfare in dairy farms. With 765 dairy farms visited and 101,307 animals examined, this study provided a basis for improving animal health and [...] Read more.
From 2016 to 2020, the “PraeRi” study, conducted by three German veterinary universities, was aimed at enhancing animal health and welfare in dairy farms. With 765 dairy farms visited and 101,307 animals examined, this study provided a basis for improving animal health and welfare. The study population comprised three different regions representing a broad variety of characteristics. To ensure representative estimates, a sample size of 250 farms was determined for each region, employing a stratified sampling plan based on farm size. According to the information provided by the farmers, the most commonly occurring disease in their herds was mastitis without general disorder (14.2% to 16.3% of the herd—depending on the region). For most disorders, prevalence data were lowest for the region South compared with the two remaining regions. Multivariable regression analyses were performed to identify risk factors for various target variables, and the results were communicated through individual reports and benchmarking flyers to participating farmers. The authors encountered challenges in management and communication due to the project’s size in terms of personnel, data, and farms examined. Harmonizing data management and hypothesis testing across all involved parties added complexity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Disease Epidemiology in Farm Animal Production)
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13 pages, 10274 KiB  
Communication
Preliminary Ultrasonographic Study of Healthy California Sea Lion (Zalophus californianus) Pregnancy and Fetal Development
by Letizia Fiorucci, Francesco Grande, Roberto Macrelli and Pietro Saviano
Animals 2024, 14(9), 1384; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14091384 - 5 May 2024
Viewed by 1226
Abstract
Reproductive success is an important aspect of marine mammals’ population health, as it is an indicator of the trajectory for the population into the future. The aim of this study is to provide additional relevant data on fetus–maternal ultrasonographic monitoring in sea lion [...] Read more.
Reproductive success is an important aspect of marine mammals’ population health, as it is an indicator of the trajectory for the population into the future. The aim of this study is to provide additional relevant data on fetus–maternal ultrasonographic monitoring in sea lion species, in order to evaluate possible fetal distress or abnormalities. From 2018 to 2023, serial ultrasonographic scans of two healthy California sea lion females (16 ± 4 years old), kept under human care, were performed over the course of two pregnancies for each female. Animals were monitored from the ovulation to the delivery. Ultrasonography was performed weekly, and, during the last month, daily images were recorded using Logiq Versana Active, General Electric, with a 2–5 MHz curvilinear transducer, and Logiq V2, General Electric, with a 2–5 MHz curvilinear transducer. Right and left lateral recumbencies have been used during the examination. To the author’s knowledge, this is the first study describing in detail the sea lion organogenesis and their correlation with the stage of pregnancy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Mediterranean Monk Seal and Other Endangered Marine Mammals. From Past to Future: Perspectives on Ecology, Biology, Monitoring, and Conservation)
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11 pages, 1787 KiB  
Article
Evaluation of the Quality of Recovery from General Anesthesia in Dogs with Two Different Low Doses of Dexmedetomidine
by Chiara Di Franco, Irene Nocera, Pierre Melanie and Angela Briganti
Animals 2024, 14(9), 1383; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14091383 - 5 May 2024
Viewed by 1246
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the quality of recovery from general anesthesia with the administration of two low doses of dexmedetomidine in canine patients. For this blind randomized clinical trial study, 30 dogs undergoing general anesthesia for diagnostic procedures or [...] Read more.
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the quality of recovery from general anesthesia with the administration of two low doses of dexmedetomidine in canine patients. For this blind randomized clinical trial study, 30 dogs undergoing general anesthesia for diagnostic procedures or elective surgery (ovariectomy/castration) were included. The patients were randomly divided into three groups, and at the end of anesthesia, they received a bolus of dexmedetomidine at 1 mcg/kg IV (D1), or a bolus of dexmedetomidine at 0.5 mcg/kg (D0.5), or a bolus of NaCl, in a total of 0.5 mL of solution for all three groups. After administration of the bolus, the anesthetist monitored the patients every 5 min by measuring heart rate, systolic and mean blood pressure, respiratory rate, and oxygen saturation. The quality of recovery was also assessed using 4 different scales. The extubation time, time of headlift, and standing position were also recorded. Both groups receiving dexmedetomidine had better awakening and a lower incidence of delirium when compared to saline administration. The heart rate was lower, while the systolic pressure was higher in the two groups D1 and D0.5 compared to the NaCl with a low presence of atrioventricular blocks. The extubation time resulted significantly higher in the D1 (17 ± 6 min) compared to the D0.5 (10 ± 4 min) and NaCl (8 ± 3 min) (p < 0.0001); the headlift time D1 (25 ± 10 min) resulted significantly longer than the NaCl group (11 ± 5 min) (p = 0.0023) but not than the D0.5 (18 ± 9 min). No significant differences were found among the three groups for standing positioning (D1 50 ± 18 min, D0.5 39 ± 22 min, NaCl 28 ± 17 min). The preventive administration of a bolus of dexmedetomidine at a dosage of 0.5 mcg/kg or 1 mcg/kg IV during the recovery phase improves the quality of recovery in patients undergoing general anesthesia. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Veterinary Clinical Studies)
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16 pages, 5502 KiB  
Article
The Effect of Inhibiting the Wingless/Integrated (WNT) Signaling Pathway on the Early Embryonic Disc Cell Culture in Chickens
by Wenjie Ren, Dan Zheng, Guangzheng Liu, Gaoyuan Wu, Yixiu Peng, Jun Wu, Kai Jin, Qisheng Zuo, Yani Zhang, Guohui Li, Wei Han, Xiang-Shun Cui, Guohong Chen, Bichun Li and Ying-Jie Niu
Animals 2024, 14(9), 1382; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14091382 - 4 May 2024
Viewed by 1122
Abstract
The utilization of chicken embryonic-derived pluripotent stem cell (PSC) lines is crucial in various fields, including growth and development, vaccine and protein production, and germplasm resource protection. However, the research foundation for chicken PSCs is relatively weak, and there are still challenges in [...] Read more.
The utilization of chicken embryonic-derived pluripotent stem cell (PSC) lines is crucial in various fields, including growth and development, vaccine and protein production, and germplasm resource protection. However, the research foundation for chicken PSCs is relatively weak, and there are still challenges in establishing a stable and efficient PSC culture system. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the effects of the FGF2/ERK and WNT/β-catenin signaling pathways, as well as different feeder layers, on the derivation and maintenance of chicken embryonic-derived PSCs. The results of this study demonstrate that the use of STO cells as feeder layers, along with the addition of FGF2, IWR-1, and XAV-939 (FIX), allows for the efficient derivation of chicken PSC-like cells. Under the FIX culture conditions, chicken PSCs express key pluripotency genes, such as POUV, SOX2, and NANOG, as well as specific proteins SSEA-1, C-KIT, and SOX2, indicating their pluripotent nature. Additionally, the embryoid body experiment confirms that these PSC-like cells can differentiate into cells of three germ layers in vitro, highlighting their potential for multilineage differentiation. Furthermore, this study reveals that chicken Eyal–Giladi and Kochav stage X blastodermal cells express genes related to the primed state of PSCs, and the FIX culture system established in this research maintains the expression of these genes in vitro. These findings contribute significantly to the understanding and optimization of chicken PSC culture conditions and provide a foundation for further exploration of the biomedical research and biotechnological applications of chicken PSCs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Poultry)
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15 pages, 17531 KiB  
Article
Minimally Invasive Plate Osteosynthesis (MIPO) of Comminuted Radial Fractures Using a Locking Plate Contoured on a 3D-Printed Model of the Feline Antebrachium: A Cadaveric Study
by Piotr Trębacz, Jan Frymus, Mateusz Pawlik, Anna Barteczko, Aleksandra Kurkowska and Michał Czopowicz
Animals 2024, 14(9), 1381; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14091381 - 4 May 2024
Viewed by 1691
Abstract
(1) Background: Due to the unique structural and functional characteristics of the forelimb in cats, fractures of the radius and ulna are best repaired using internal fixation and stabilization in accordance with AO principles. This study presents the results of reduction of 42 [...] Read more.
(1) Background: Due to the unique structural and functional characteristics of the forelimb in cats, fractures of the radius and ulna are best repaired using internal fixation and stabilization in accordance with AO principles. This study presents the results of reduction of 42 cadaveric comminuted feline radial fractures reduced by minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO). (2) Methods: Radius fractures were created on 21 pairs of forelimbs with intact bones. MIPO was then performed using two locking bone plates pre-contoured on 3D-printed bone models of the antebrachium of a male and a female cat. Pre- and postoperative radiographs were taken, and radius length and anatomical lateral distal radial angle (aLDRA) were measured. (3) Results: All fractures were classified as complex diaphyseal fractures of the radius. The radial bone length did not change significantly after surgery (F1,18 = 0.01, p = 0.933). However, the aLDRA was modified after surgery (F1,18 = 7.51, p = 0.013), but this change was only observed in females, in whom the aLDRA was significantly reduced (p = 0.035) compared to the value determined by the shape of the plate. In males, the pre- and postoperative aLDRA values were similar (p = 0.824). In 40 cases, alignment, adjacency of bone fragments, and apparatus were judged to be satisfactory. In two cases, the plate was fixed to the proximal radius and distal ulna due to misidentification of the distal radius. In both cases, revision surgery and correct fixation of the radius gave proper alignment, adjacency, and apparatus. (4) Conclusion: A pre-contoured plate on a 3D-printed model of the male and female domestic cat antebrachium was suitable for the reduction and stabilization of comminuted radial fractures in a cohort of domestic cat cadavers without the need to print individual antebrachial bone models for each patient. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Small Animal Surgery Focus on Soft Tissue and Orthopedic Minimally Invasive Surgery)
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13 pages, 275 KiB  
Article
Chemical Composition of Newborn Piglets with Different Weights at Birth in Sows with a High Reproductive Performance
by Carina Antonczyk, Christine Ratert, Cornelia Schwennen, Josef Kamphues and Amr Abd El-Wahab
Animals 2024, 14(9), 1380; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14091380 - 4 May 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1118
Abstract
The present study aimed to quantify and update the data on the body composition (energy nutrients) of newborn piglets of different body weights at the time of birth, as well as of the placenta mass. Data were collected from newborn piglets (n [...] Read more.
The present study aimed to quantify and update the data on the body composition (energy nutrients) of newborn piglets of different body weights at the time of birth, as well as of the placenta mass. Data were collected from newborn piglets (n = 25) from modern genetic lines which were stillborn or died within the first 24 h of life after being crushed to death with various body weights at birth (<0.8 kg (n = 5); 0.8–1.2 kg (n = 5); >1.2–1.6 kg (common birth weight, n = 10) and >1.6 kg (n = 5)). The placenta (n = 20) of sows from a conventional breeding farm were collected, too. The body composition of newborns of “normal” (>1.2–1.6 kg) and even lighter (0.8–1.2) weights still indicated a “normal” composition. In the case of a lower body weight of piglets <0.8 kg at birth, the crude ash (24.1%) and crude protein (8.21%) contents were higher, but the crude fat (16.1%), carbohydrate (57.4%), and gross energy (3.60%) contents were lower. The placental composition in comparison to the piglet body composition was characterized by higher crude protein contents (24.3%) and lower crude ash (31.6%), crude fat (9.08%), and carbohydrate (55.6%) contents. In conclusion, the energy and protein accumulation in the total mass of fetuses and placentas increased by 75% and 64%, respectively, in comparison to times in which the litter size varied around 10–12 piglets, essentially as a result of the larger fetal mass and not of a different body composition. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Impact of Genetics and Feeding on Growth Performance of Pigs)
11 pages, 244 KiB  
Article
Effect of Butorphanol-Medetomidine and Butorphanol-Dexmedetomidine on Echocardiographic Parameters during Propofol Anaesthesia in Dogs
by Andrej Bočkay, Carlos Fernando Agudelo, Mária Figurová, Nela Vargová and Alexandra Trbolová
Animals 2024, 14(9), 1379; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14091379 - 3 May 2024
Viewed by 1716
Abstract
This study compared the effects of butorphanol-medetomidine and butorphanol-dexmedetomidine combinations on echocardiographic parameters during propofol anaesthesia in dogs. The dogs were randomly divided into two groups. In the butorphanol-medetomidine (BM) group, butorphanol (0.2 mg/kg) and medetomidine (15 μg/kg) were intravenously administered; in the [...] Read more.
This study compared the effects of butorphanol-medetomidine and butorphanol-dexmedetomidine combinations on echocardiographic parameters during propofol anaesthesia in dogs. The dogs were randomly divided into two groups. In the butorphanol-medetomidine (BM) group, butorphanol (0.2 mg/kg) and medetomidine (15 μg/kg) were intravenously administered; in the butorphanol-dexmedetomidine (BD) group, butorphanol (0.2 mg/kg) and dexmedetomidine (7.5 μg/kg) was used. Anaesthesia was induced with propofol and maintained with a constant-rate infusion of propofol (0.2 mg/kg/min). The echocardiographic parameters were assessed in conscious dogs (T0). Echocardiography was conducted again at 10 min post premedication (T1), followed by assessments at 30 (T2), 60 (T3), and 90 (T4) mins. The dogs were subjected to diagnostic procedures (radiography, computed tomography) under anaesthesia. A significant reduction in heart rate and cardiac output was noted in both groups at T1. There was no significant difference in the stroke volume between the BM and BD groups. The application of butorphanol-dexmedetomidine caused a significant increase in the left ventricular internal diameter in diastole and the diameter of the left atrium compared to that caused by butorphanol-medetomidine. This study documented that butorphanol-medetomidine and butorphanol-dexmedetomidine combinations caused similar reductions in heart rate and cardiac output in both groups. ‘New´ valvular regurgitation occurred following their administration. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Anaesthesia and Analgesia in Companion Animals)
11 pages, 1168 KiB  
Article
Where Do They Come From and Where Do They Go? Socioeconomic Patterns in Dog Acquisition and Rehoming
by Tom Kremer and Sue M. Neal
Animals 2024, 14(9), 1378; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14091378 - 3 May 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1641
Abstract
This research examines the ways people acquire dogs in the US as well as the ways the dogs leave the household and the way these differ by income level in seven geographically diverse study communities. A web-based panel survey was distributed and received [...] Read more.
This research examines the ways people acquire dogs in the US as well as the ways the dogs leave the household and the way these differ by income level in seven geographically diverse study communities. A web-based panel survey was distributed and received 6318 responses. Individuals were asked a series of demographic and socioeconomic questions as well as how they acquired their current dogs, how previous dogs left their household, and where they left to. The results indicate that the likelihood of acquiring a dog through friends and family decreased monotonically as income increased, while the opposite was observed for adopting and purchasing a dog. The likelihood of giving a dog away to a friend or family member also decreased as income increased, as opposed to shelter surrender—a person earning over USD 100,000 annually was more than four times likelier to surrender to a shelter than a person earning under USD 15,000. The results suggest a stronger reliance on informal social networks in lower-income communities for both obtaining and placing dogs. As these dogs would otherwise end up in the shelter system, animal shelters may support low-income pet owners to help keep their dogs within their community of care. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Complexity of the Human–Companion Animal Bond)
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18 pages, 2079 KiB  
Article
Validating a Non-Invasive Method for Assessing Cortisol Concentrations in Scraped Epidermal Skin from Common Bottlenose Dolphins and Belugas
by Clara Agustí, Xavier Manteca, Daniel García-Párraga and Oriol Tallo-Parra
Animals 2024, 14(9), 1377; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14091377 - 3 May 2024
Viewed by 2115
Abstract
Society is showing a growing concern about the welfare of cetaceans in captivity as well as cetaceans in the wild threatened by anthropogenic disturbances. The study of the physiological stress response is increasingly being used to address cetacean conservation and welfare issues. Within [...] Read more.
Society is showing a growing concern about the welfare of cetaceans in captivity as well as cetaceans in the wild threatened by anthropogenic disturbances. The study of the physiological stress response is increasingly being used to address cetacean conservation and welfare issues. Within it, a newly described technique of extracting cortisol from epidermal desquamation may serve as a non-invasive, more integrated measure of a cetacean’s stress response and welfare. However, confounding factors are common when measuring glucocorticoid hormones. In this study, we validated a steroid hormone extraction protocol and the use of a commercial enzyme immunoassay (EIA) test to measure cortisol concentrations in common bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) and beluga (Delphinapterus leucas) epidermal samples. Moreover, we examined the effect of sample mass and body location on cortisol concentrations. Validation tests (i.e., assay specificity, accuracy, precision, and sensitivity) suggested that the method was suitable for the quantification of cortisol concentrations. Cortisol was extracted from small samples (0.01 g), but the amount of cortisol detected and the variability between duplicate extractions increased as the sample mass decreased. In common bottlenose dolphins, epidermal skin cortisol concentrations did not vary significantly across body locations while there was a significant effect of the individual. Overall, we present a contribution towards advancing and standardizing epidermis hormone assessments in cetaceans. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Zoo Animals: How Actual Zoological Institutions Assess, Ensure, and Promote Their Animals’ Welfare?)
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11 pages, 1991 KiB  
Communication
Sequencing of the Complete Mitochondrial Genome of the Big Brown Mactra Clam, Mactra grandis (Venerida: Mactridae)
by Peizhen Ma, Zhihong Liu, Zhuanzhuan Li, Xiujun Sun, Liqing Zhou, Xiangyu Wu and Biao Wu
Animals 2024, 14(9), 1376; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14091376 - 3 May 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1113
Abstract
Mitochondrial genomes are playing an increasingly important role in molluscan taxonomy, germplasm, and evolution studies. The first complete mitochondrial genome of the commercial big brown mactra clam, Mactra grandis, was characterized using Illumina next-generation sequencing in this study. The 17,289 bp circular [...] Read more.
Mitochondrial genomes are playing an increasingly important role in molluscan taxonomy, germplasm, and evolution studies. The first complete mitochondrial genome of the commercial big brown mactra clam, Mactra grandis, was characterized using Illumina next-generation sequencing in this study. The 17,289 bp circular genome has a typical gene organization of 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 2 rRNAs, and 22 tRNAs, with an obvious (A + T)-bias of 64.54%. All PCGs exhibited a homogeneous bias in nucleotide composition with a (A + T)-bias, a positive GC skew, and a negative AT skew. Results of phylogenetic analysis showed that Mactra grandis was most closely related to Mactra cygnus. The functional gene arrangement of the two species was identical but different from other Mactra species. The congeneric relationships among Mactra species were demonstrated by genetic distance analysis. Additionally, the selective pressure analysis suggested that cox1 was highly efficient for discriminating closely related species in genus Mactra, while nad2 was the most appropriate marker for population genetic analysis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Animal Genetics and Genomics)
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10 pages, 1338 KiB  
Article
Which Factors Influence the Consumption of Antibiotics in Q-Fever-Positive Dairy Farms in Northern Germany?
by Niclas Huber, Natascha Gundling, Maria Thurow, Uwe Ligges and Martina Hoedemaker
Animals 2024, 14(9), 1375; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14091375 - 3 May 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1258
Abstract
It was the aim of this study to examine whether the usage of the vaccine COXEVAC® (Ceva Santé Animale) could reduce the consumption of antibiotics in Q-fever-positive dairy farms. Additionally, the effects of other herd-level factors on the consumption of antibiotics were [...] Read more.
It was the aim of this study to examine whether the usage of the vaccine COXEVAC® (Ceva Santé Animale) could reduce the consumption of antibiotics in Q-fever-positive dairy farms. Additionally, the effects of other herd-level factors on the consumption of antibiotics were investigated. A total of 36 farms with vaccination and 13 farms without vaccination participated in this longitudinal cohort study. In all herds, Coxiella burnetii had been directly or indirectly diagnosed. To compare the treatment frequency of antibiotics between the vaccinated group and the non-vaccinated group, the consumption of antibiotics for each farm was collected using the veterinary documents about the application and delivery of antibiotics. To gather detailed information about herd data, nutrition, milking management, housing, and animal health, the farmers were interviewed with the help of a questionnaire. The results thereof suggest that there might be an association between the vaccination against Q fever and a reduced consumption of antibiotics. Neither herd size nor milk yield level influenced the consumption of antibiotics in the study herds. Type of flooring and udder-cluster disinfection while milking were associated with a lower and higher therapy frequency, respectively. Further studies are necessary to elucidate the cause–effect relationship between vaccination and the consumption of antibiotics. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Coxiella burnetii and Its Impact on Cattle Reproductive System)
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11 pages, 1119 KiB  
Article
Population Abundance and Density Estimates of Poorly Documented Near-Threatened Calabar Angwantibo (Arctocebus calabarensis) in Oban Hills Region
by James Kehinde Omifolaji, Sunday Opeyemi Adedoyin, Emmanuel Tersea Ikyaagba, Tauheed Ullah Khan, Victor Abiodun Ojo, Yiming Hu, Abideen Abiodun Alarape, Saka Oladunni Jimoh and Huijian Hu
Animals 2024, 14(9), 1374; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14091374 - 2 May 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1345
Abstract
Population abundance and density estimates play important roles in biodiversity conservation assessment and can lead to prioritization of conservation efforts, strategies, and management. The Calabar angwantibo (Arctocebus calabarensis) is a poorly studied, Near-Threatened nocturnal, arboreal mammal species occurring only in the [...] Read more.
Population abundance and density estimates play important roles in biodiversity conservation assessment and can lead to prioritization of conservation efforts, strategies, and management. The Calabar angwantibo (Arctocebus calabarensis) is a poorly studied, Near-Threatened nocturnal, arboreal mammal species occurring only in the lowland moist tropical rainforest blocks of southeastern Nigeria and southwestern Cameroon. Like other arboreal nocturnal mammals, there are gaps in knowledge of the distribution and abundance of this species, which may be facing population declines due to habitat loss and hunting. In this study, we investigated the abundance and density of A. calabarensis in the Oban Hills Region of Nigeria. We conducted systematic distance sampling survey along 32 transects in different habitats in a 1227 km of survey efforts. A total of 41 sightings of A. calabarensis were detected, resulting in an abundance of 7345 individuals (95% CI = 1.51–4.37) with an estimated density of 2.57 animals/km2. The estimated population abundance is 6515 individuals in closed-canopy forests and 830 individuals in secondary forests, with encounter rates of 0.52 individual/km2 and 0.60 individuals/km2 in the closed canopy and secondary forest habitats. The global estimates encounter rate of A. calabarensis across the habitat types is 0.33 individuals/km2 and population abundance of 4456 individuals. Our findings indicate that the A. calabarensis populations can adapt to low changes in forest habitat modifications resulting from increasing and widespread forest disturbance by human-dominated activity, which is giving way to forest clearance for agriculture cultivation and infrastructural development. Our findings help to fill a knowledge gap regarding this species and may help establish a baseline for future management, population monitoring, and conservation of the cryptic population of A. calabarensis in Cross-Sanaga Forests. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Surviving in the Dark: The Complexities of Nocturnal Animal Behavior and Adaptation)
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22 pages, 1030 KiB  
Article
Combined Supplementation of Two Selenium Forms (Organic and Inorganic) and Iodine in Dairy Cows’ Diet to Obtain Enriched Milk, Cheese, and Yogurt
by Irene Azorín, Josefa Madrid, Silvia Martínez-Miró, Marina López, María Belén López, Miguel José López and Fuensanta Hernández
Animals 2024, 14(9), 1373; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14091373 - 2 May 2024
Viewed by 1359
Abstract
This study evaluated the effects of dietary supplementation in dairy cows with two Se forms (organic and inorganic) and I at the maximum levels permitted in the European Union, with the aim to obtain naturally enriched milk and derived products. A total of [...] Read more.
This study evaluated the effects of dietary supplementation in dairy cows with two Se forms (organic and inorganic) and I at the maximum levels permitted in the European Union, with the aim to obtain naturally enriched milk and derived products. A total of 20 Holstein Friesian cows in lactation were fed 2 diets for 64 days: a control diet with a supply of 0.57 mg of inorganic Se and 0.57 mg of I per kg of ration in dry matter (DM), and an experimental diet (SeI) with a supply of 0.34 mg of inorganic Se, 0.23 mg of organic Se, and 5.68 mg of I per kg of ration in DM. The SeI diet did not modify the performance or, in general, the metabolic profile of cows. Se and I levels in milk were affected by diet type and time of measurement (p < 0.01). Thus, a marked increase of both microminerals was evident between the beginning and the end of the test, when the SeI diet was administered. For Se, this increase ranged from 1.95 to 3.29 μg/100 g of milk; and for I, from 19.69 to 110.06 μg/100 g of milk. The SeI diet increased (p < 0.01) the Se and I content in the cheese, reaching levels of 16.4 μg/100 g for Se and 269.7 μg/100 g for I. An increase in I was observed in yogurt from the SeI diet (p < 0.001). The supplementation of two forms of Se and I in the cows’ ration, at the levels evaluated, produced milk and dairy products enriched in these microelements without altering their quality parameters. However, a responsible intake of these products is necessary to avoid risks of deficiencies or excesses that could negatively affect the health of consumers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Animal Nutrition)
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34 pages, 813 KiB  
Review
Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5 Clade 2.3.4.4b Virus Infection in Birds and Mammals
by Giulia Graziosi, Caterina Lupini, Elena Catelli and Silvia Carnaccini
Animals 2024, 14(9), 1372; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14091372 - 2 May 2024
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 4526
Abstract
Avian influenza viruses (AIVs) are highly contagious respiratory viruses of birds, leading to significant morbidity and mortality globally and causing substantial economic losses to the poultry industry and agriculture. Since their first isolation in 2013–2014, the Asian-origin H5 highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses [...] Read more.
Avian influenza viruses (AIVs) are highly contagious respiratory viruses of birds, leading to significant morbidity and mortality globally and causing substantial economic losses to the poultry industry and agriculture. Since their first isolation in 2013–2014, the Asian-origin H5 highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses (HPAI) of clade 2.3.4.4b have undergone unprecedented evolution and reassortment of internal gene segments. In just a few years, it supplanted other AIV clades, and now it is widespread in the wild migratory waterfowl, spreading to Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Americas. Wild waterfowl, the natural reservoir of LPAIVs and generally more resistant to the disease, also manifested high morbidity and mortality with HPAIV clade 2.3.4.4b. This clade also caused overt clinical signs and mass mortality in a variety of avian and mammalian species never reported before, such as raptors, seabirds, sealions, foxes, and others. Most notably, the recent outbreaks in dairy cattle were associated with the emergence of a few critical mutations related to mammalian adaptation, raising concerns about the possibility of jumping species and acquisition of sustained human-to-human transmission. The main clinical signs and anatomopathological findings associated with clade 2.3.4.4b virus infection in birds and non-human mammals are hereby summarized. Full article
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15 pages, 2877 KiB  
Article
Identification of Molecular Profile of Ear Fibroblasts Derived from Spindle-Transferred Holstein Cattle with Ooplasts from Taiwan Yellow Cattle under Heat Stress
by Yu-Ju Lee, Jai-Wei Lee, Chao-Wei Huang, Kuo-Tai Yang, Shao-Yu Peng, Chi Yu, Yen-Hua Lee, I-Ling Lai and Perng-Chih Shen
Animals 2024, 14(9), 1371; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14091371 - 2 May 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1087
Abstract
Global warming has a significant impact on the dairy farming industry, as heat stress causes reproductive endocrine imbalances and leads to substantial economic losses, particularly in tropical–subtropical regions. The Holstein breed, which is widely used for dairy production, is highly susceptible to heat [...] Read more.
Global warming has a significant impact on the dairy farming industry, as heat stress causes reproductive endocrine imbalances and leads to substantial economic losses, particularly in tropical–subtropical regions. The Holstein breed, which is widely used for dairy production, is highly susceptible to heat stress, resulting in a dramatic reduction in milk production during hot seasons. However, previous studies have shown that cells of cows produced from reconstructed embryos containing cytoplasm (o) from Taiwan yellow cattle (Y) have improved thermotolerance despite their nuclei (n) being derived from heat-sensitive Holstein cattle (H). Using spindle transfer (ST) technology, we successfully produced ST-Yo-Hn cattle and proved that the thermotolerance of their ear fibroblasts is similar to that of Y and significantly better than that of H (p < 0.05). Despite these findings, the genes and molecules responsible for the different sensitivities of cells derived from ST-Yo-Hn and H cattle have not been extensively investigated. In the present study, ear fibroblasts from ST-Yo-Hn and H cattle were isolated, and differentially expressed protein and gene profiles were compared with or without heat stress (hs) (42 °C for 12 h). The results revealed that the relative protein expression levels of pro-apoptotic factors, including Caspase-3, -8, and -9, in the ear fibroblasts from the ST-Yo-Hn-hs group were significantly lower (p < 0.05) than those from the H-hs group. Conversely, the relative expression levels of anti-apoptotic factors, including GNA14 protein and the CRELD2 and PRKCQ genes, were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in the ear fibroblasts from the ST-Yo-Hn-hs group compared to those from the H-hs group. Analysis of oxidative phosphorylation-related factors revealed that the relative expression levels of the GPX1 gene and Complex-I, Complex-IV, CAT, and PGLS proteins were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in the ear fibroblasts from the ST-Yo-Hn-hs group compared to those from the H-hs group. Taken together, these findings suggest that ear fibroblasts from ST-Yo-Hn cattle have superior thermotolerance compared to those from H cattle due to their lower expression of pro-apoptotic factors and higher expression of oxidative phosphorylation and antioxidant factors. Moreover, this improved thermotolerance is attributed, at least partially, to the cytoplasm derived from more heat-tolerant Y cattle. Hence, using ST technology to produce more heat-tolerant H cattle containing Y cytoplasm could be a feasible approach to alleviate the negative impacts of heat stress on dairy cattle in tropical–subtropical regions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Use of Innovative Technologies to Detect and Control the Impact of Heat Stress on Cows’ Health, Productivity, and Reproduction)
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15 pages, 5373 KiB  
Article
The Role of the MYL4 Gene in Porcine Muscle Development and Its Molecular Regulatory Mechanisms
by Yourong Ye, Guoxin Wu, Haoqi Wang, Mengqi Duan, Peng Shang and Yangzom Chamba
Animals 2024, 14(9), 1370; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14091370 - 2 May 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1219
Abstract
Muscle growth stands as a pivotal economic trait within pig production, governed by a complex interplay of multiple genes, each playing a role in its quantitative manifestation. Understanding the intricate regulatory mechanisms of porcine muscle development is crucial for enhancing both pork yield [...] Read more.
Muscle growth stands as a pivotal economic trait within pig production, governed by a complex interplay of multiple genes, each playing a role in its quantitative manifestation. Understanding the intricate regulatory mechanisms of porcine muscle development is crucial for enhancing both pork yield and quality. This study used the GSE99749 dataset downloaded from the GEO database, conducting a detailed analysis of the RNA-seq results from the longissimus dorsi muscle (LD) of Tibetan pigs (TP), Wujin pigs (WJ) and large white pigs (LW) at 60 days of gestation, representing diverse body sizes and growth rates. Comparative analyses between TPvsWJ and TPvsLW, along with differential gene expression (DEG) analysis, functional enrichment analysis, and protein–protein interaction (PPI) network analysis, revealed 1048 and 1157 significantly differentially expressed genes (p < 0.001) in TPvsWJ and TPvsLW, respectively. With stricter screening criteria, 37 DEGs were found to overlap between the 2 groups. PPI analysis identified MYL5, MYL4, and ACTC1 as the three core genes. This article focuses on exploring the MYL4 gene. Molecular-level experimental validation, through overexpression and interference of the MYL4 gene combined with EDU staining experiments, demonstrated that overexpression of MYL4 significantly promoted the proliferation of porcine skeletal muscle satellite cells (PSMSC), while interference with MYL4 inhibited their proliferation. Furthermore, by examining the effects of overexpressing and interfering with the MYL4 gene on the muscle hypertrophy marker Fst gene and the muscle degradation marker FOXO3 gene, the pivotal role of the MYL4 gene in promoting muscle growth and preventing muscle degradation was further confirmed. These findings offer a new perspective on the molecular mechanisms behind porcine muscle growth and development, furnishing valuable data and insights for muscle biology research. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biotechnology and Bioinformatics in Livestock)
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12 pages, 1326 KiB  
Article
Assessing the Impact of Spraying an Enterococcus faecium-Based Probiotic on Day-Old Broiler Chicks at Hatch on the Incidence of Bacterial Chondronecrosis with Osteomyelitis Lameness Using a Staphylococcus Challenge Model
by Anh Dang Trieu Do, Amanda Anthney, Khawla Alharbi, Andi Asnayanti, Antoine Meuter and Adnan Ali Khalaf Alrubaye
Animals 2024, 14(9), 1369; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14091369 - 2 May 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1526
Abstract
Bacterial chondronecrosis with osteomyelitis (BCO) lameness is a bone disease characterized by the translocation of bacteria from the gastrointestinal tract, which colonize microfractures in broiler leg bones caused by rapid animal growth rate and weight gain, resulting in lameness. As such, BCO lameness [...] Read more.
Bacterial chondronecrosis with osteomyelitis (BCO) lameness is a bone disease characterized by the translocation of bacteria from the gastrointestinal tract, which colonize microfractures in broiler leg bones caused by rapid animal growth rate and weight gain, resulting in lameness. As such, BCO lameness represents a significant challenge for the poultry industry. This study aims to evaluate the effect of spraying broiler chicks on d0 at hatch with an Enterococcus faecium probiotic on the incidence of BCO-induced lameness, utilizing a Staphylococcus aureus challenge model. There were four treatments: (1) negative control (no probiotic + no challenge, NC); (2) positive control (no probiotic + challenge, PC); (3) low dosage (4.0 × 108 CFU/chick + challenge, LOW); and (4) high dosage (2.0 × 109 CFU/chick + challenge, HIGH). On d5, groups two through four were challenged with Staphylococcus aureus through the drinking water at a concentration of 1.0 × 105 CFU/mL. Cumulative lameness incidence was determined through daily evaluations and necropsies conducted on lame birds starting from d22. Data were subjected to a binomial general regression analysis (significant p < 0.05). On d56, the PC group exhibited the highest cumulative lameness incidence (58.0%; p < 0.05), followed by LOW (36.0%), HIGH (28.7%), and NC groups (25.3%), respectively. These results suggest early probiotic application at day-of-hatch successfully reduced the incidence of lameness in challenged birds, thus contributing to understanding of efficient and sustainable broiler production. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Technology in Poultry Production and Nutrition: Role in Disease Prevention, Performance and Welfare Improvement and Sustainability)
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16 pages, 2959 KiB  
Article
A Novel Method for the Object Detection and Weight Prediction of Chinese Softshell Turtles Based on Computer Vision and Deep Learning
by Yangwen Jin, Xulin Xiao, Yaoqiang Pan, Xinzhao Zhou, Kewei Hu, Hongjun Wang and Xiangjun Zou
Animals 2024, 14(9), 1368; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14091368 - 1 May 2024
Viewed by 1096
Abstract
With the rapid development of the turtle breeding industry in China, the demand for automated turtle sorting is increasing. The automatic sorting of Chinese softshell turtles mainly consists of three parts: visual recognition, weight prediction, and individual sorting. This paper focuses on two [...] Read more.
With the rapid development of the turtle breeding industry in China, the demand for automated turtle sorting is increasing. The automatic sorting of Chinese softshell turtles mainly consists of three parts: visual recognition, weight prediction, and individual sorting. This paper focuses on two aspects, i.e., visual recognition and weight prediction, and a novel method for the object detection and weight prediction of Chinese softshell turtles is proposed. In the individual sorting process, computer vision technology is used to estimate the weight of Chinese softshell turtles and classify them by weight. For the visual recognition of the body parts of Chinese softshell turtles, a color space model is proposed in this paper to separate the turtles from the background effectively. By applying multiple linear regression analysis for modeling, the relationship between the weight and morphological parameters of Chinese softshell turtles is obtained, which can be used to estimate the weight of turtles well. An improved deep learning object detection network is used to extract the features of the plastron and carapace of the Chinese softshell turtles, achieving excellent detection results. The mAP of the improved network reached 96.23%, which can meet the requirements for the accurate identification of the body parts of Chinese softshell turtles. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Aquatic Animals)
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14 pages, 2117 KiB  
Article
Craniometric Characteristics of Selected Carnivora Species Kept in Captivity in Relation to Bite Force and Bending Strength of the Upper Canines
by Katarzyna Różycka, Ewa Skibniewska, Łukasz Rajkowski and Michał Skibniewski
Animals 2024, 14(9), 1367; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14091367 - 1 May 2024
Viewed by 1559
Abstract
The aim of this study was to analyse the bite forces of seven species from three carnivore families: Canidae, Felidae, and Ursidae. The material consisted of complete, dry crania and mandibles. A total of 33 measurements were taken on each skull, mandible, temporomandibular [...] Read more.
The aim of this study was to analyse the bite forces of seven species from three carnivore families: Canidae, Felidae, and Ursidae. The material consisted of complete, dry crania and mandibles. A total of 33 measurements were taken on each skull, mandible, temporomandibular joint, and teeth. The area of the temporalis and masseter muscles was calculated, as was the length of the arms of the forces acting on them. Based on the results, the bite force was calculated using a mathematical lever model. This study compared the estimated areas of the masticatory muscles and the bending strength of the upper canines among seven species. A strong correlation was found between cranial size and bite force. The results confirmed the hypothesis that the weight of the animal and the size of the skull have a significant effect on the bite force. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Veterinary Clinical Studies)
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14 pages, 3921 KiB  
Review
Use of Infrared Thermography and Heart Rate Variability to Evaluate Autonomic Activity in Domestic Animals
by Marcelo Daniel Ghezzi, María Carolina Ceriani, Adriana Domínguez-Oliva, Pamela Anahí Lendez, Adriana Olmos-Hernández, Alejandro Casas-Alvarado and Ismael Hernández-Avalos
Animals 2024, 14(9), 1366; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14091366 - 1 May 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2403
Abstract
Most of the responses present in animals when exposed to stressors are mediated by the autonomic nervous system. The sympathetic nervous system, known as the one responsible for the “fight or flight” reaction, triggers cardiovascular changes such as tachycardia or vasomotor alterations to [...] Read more.
Most of the responses present in animals when exposed to stressors are mediated by the autonomic nervous system. The sympathetic nervous system, known as the one responsible for the “fight or flight” reaction, triggers cardiovascular changes such as tachycardia or vasomotor alterations to restore homeostasis. Increase in body temperature in stressed animals also activates peripheral compensatory mechanisms such as cutaneous vasodilation to increase heat exchange. Since changes in skin blood flow influence the amount of heat dissipation, infrared thermography is suggested as a tool that can detect said changes. The present review aims to analyze the application of infrared thermography as a method to assess stress-related autonomic activity, and their association with the cardiovascular and heart rate variability in domestic animals. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Infrared Thermography as a Tool for Assessing Animal Welfare and Its Usefulness in Veterinary Research)
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27 pages, 17083 KiB  
Article
Microbial Metagenomes and Host Transcriptomes Reveal the Dynamic Changes of Rumen Gene Expression, Microbial Colonization and Co-Regulation of Mineral Element Metabolism in Yaks from Birth to Adulthood
by Yili Liu, Liangliang Ma, Daojie Riqing, Jiu Qu, Jiyong Chen, Danzeng Zhandu, Biao Li and Mingfeng Jiang
Animals 2024, 14(9), 1365; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14091365 - 30 Apr 2024
Viewed by 1436
Abstract
Yaks are the main pillar of plateau animal husbandry and the material basis of local herdsmen’s survival. The level of mineral elements in the body is closely related to the production performance of yaks. In this study, we performed a comprehensive analysis of [...] Read more.
Yaks are the main pillar of plateau animal husbandry and the material basis of local herdsmen’s survival. The level of mineral elements in the body is closely related to the production performance of yaks. In this study, we performed a comprehensive analysis of rumen epithelial morphology, transcriptomics and metagenomics to explore the dynamics of rumen functions, microbial colonization and functional interactions in yaks from birth to adulthood. Bacteria, eukaryotes, archaea and viruses colonized the rumen of yaks from birth to adulthood, with bacteria being the majority. Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes were the dominant phyla in five developmental stages, and the abundance of genus Lactobacillus and Fusobacterium significantly decreased with age. Glycoside hydrolase (GH) genes were the most highly represented in five different developmental stages, followed by glycosyltransferases (GTs) and carbohydrate-binding modules (CBMs), where the proportion of genes coding for CBMs increased with age. Integrating host transcriptome and microbial metagenome revealed 30 gene modules related to age, muscle layer thickness, nipple length and width of yaks. Among these, the MEmagenta and MEturquoise were positively correlated with these phenotypic traits. Twenty-two host genes involved in transcriptional regulation related to metal ion binding (including potassium, sodium, calcium, zinc, iron) were positively correlated with a rumen bacterial cluster 1 composed of Alloprevotella, Paludibacter, Arcobacter, Lactobacillus, Bilophila, etc. Therefore, these studies help us to understand the interaction between rumen host and microorganisms in yaks at different ages, and further provide a reliable theoretical basis for the development of feed and mineral element supplementation for yaks at different ages. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Animal Genetics and Genomics)
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26 pages, 17764 KiB  
Article
The Detection of Thoracolumbar Spine Injuries in Horses with Chronic Laminitis Using a Novel Clinical-Assessment Protocol and Ultrasonographic Examination
by Julia R. B. Guedes, Cynthia P. Vendruscolo, Paula K. A. Tokawa, Armando M. Carvalho, Philip J. Johnson and Rafael R. Faleiros
Animals 2024, 14(9), 1364; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14091364 - 30 Apr 2024
Viewed by 1562
Abstract
Postural adaptation is a prominent feature in horses affected by laminitis. Laminitis induces intense pain, especially in the forelimbs, prompting affected horses to assume a caudally displaced trunk posture, resulting in the hyperflexion of the thoracolumbar spine. This study assessed the nature and [...] Read more.
Postural adaptation is a prominent feature in horses affected by laminitis. Laminitis induces intense pain, especially in the forelimbs, prompting affected horses to assume a caudally displaced trunk posture, resulting in the hyperflexion of the thoracolumbar spine. This study assessed the nature and prevalence of thoracolumbar injuries in horses with chronic laminitis compared to horses without it. Sixty horses were used (thirty laminitic and thirty non-laminitic) of different athletic purposes and ages (2–20 years). The experimental protocol entailed a single assessment of horses’ thoracolumbar spines, utilizing physical examination by MACCTORE, a scoring system developed specifically for this study. Additional evaluations included the Grimace Equine Pain Scale (HGS) and ultrasound exams. Statistical tests were used to compare values (Mann–Whitney or t-test) and lesions prevalences (Fisher) between groups (p < 0.05). The results showed a higher pain manifestation (HGS and heart rate, p < 0.0001) and thoracolumbar-spine-injury levels in chronic laminitis horses, both in MACCTORE clinical examinations (11.7 ± 4.8 vs. 4.2 ± 3.3, p < 0.0001) and general ultrasonographic indices (39.6 ± 12.0 vs. 20.7 ± 7.1, p < 0.0001), including specific examination approaches for various spinal elements. Horses with laminitis presented with a 14-fold higher prevalence of ultrasound-relevant lesions in the thoracolumbar spine (CI: 4.4 to 50.6, p < 0.0001) compared to controls. These findings constitute new evidence of an association between chronic laminitis and the presence of thoracolumbar spine injuries in horses, which may be confirmed by more sophisticated study designs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on the Factors Affecting the Performance of Sport Horses—Second Edition)
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Review
Current Advances in Mesenchymal Stem Cell Therapies Applied to Wounds and Skin, Eye, and Neuromuscular Diseases in Companion Animals
by Rosa Ana Picazo, Concepción Rojo, Jesus Rodriguez-Quiros and Alfredo González-Gil
Animals 2024, 14(9), 1363; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14091363 - 30 Apr 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1860
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are considered a very promising alternative tool in cell therapies and regenerative medicine due to their ease of obtaining from various tissues and their ability to differentiate into different cell types. This manuscript provides a review of current knowledge [...] Read more.
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are considered a very promising alternative tool in cell therapies and regenerative medicine due to their ease of obtaining from various tissues and their ability to differentiate into different cell types. This manuscript provides a review of current knowledge on the use of MSC-based therapies as an alternative for certain common pathologies in dogs and cats where conventional treatments are ineffective. The aim of this review is to assist clinical veterinarians in making decisions about the suitability of each protocol from a clinical perspective, rather than focusing solely on research. MSC-based therapies have shown promising results in certain pathologies, such as spinal cord injuries, wounds, and skin and eye diseases. However, the effectiveness of these cell therapies can be influenced by a wide array of factors, leading to varying outcomes. Future research will focus on designing protocols and methodologies that allow more precise and effective MSC treatments for each case. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diagnostic Research, Epidemiology and New Therapeutic Options in Companion and Wild Animals)
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