Journal Description
Animals
Animals
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal devoted entirely to animals, including zoology and veterinary sciences, published semimonthly online by MDPI. The World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA), European College of Animal Welfare and Behavioural Medicine (ECAWBM), and Federation of European Laboratory Animal Science Associations (FELASA) are affiliated with Animals and their members receive a discount on the article processing charges.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), PubMed, PMC, Embase, PubAg, AGRIS, Animal Science Database, CAB Abstracts, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q1 (Veterinary Sciences) / CiteScore - Q1 (General Veterinary)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 18.1 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.5 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
- Companion journals for Animals include: Birds, Ruminants and Zoonotic Diseases.
Impact Factor:
3.0 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
3.2 (2022)
Latest Articles
Chemical Composition of Newborn Piglets with Different Weights at Birth in Sows with a High Reproductive Performance
Animals 2024, 14(9), 1380; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14091380 (registering DOI) - 04 May 2024
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
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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)
Open AccessArticle
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 - 03 May 2024
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
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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)
Open AccessArticle
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 - 03 May 2024
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
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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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Open AccessArticle
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 - 03 May 2024
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
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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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Open AccessCommunication
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 - 03 May 2024
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
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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.
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(This article belongs to the Section Animal Genetics and Genomics)
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Open AccessArticle
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 - 03 May 2024
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
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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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Open AccessArticle
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 - 02 May 2024
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
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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)
Open AccessArticle
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 - 02 May 2024
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
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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.
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(This article belongs to the Section Animal Nutrition)
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Open AccessFeature PaperReview
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 - 02 May 2024
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
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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
Open AccessArticle
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 - 02 May 2024
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
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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.
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(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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Open AccessArticle
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 - 02 May 2024
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
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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.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biotechnology and Bioinformatics in Livestock)
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Open AccessArticle
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 - 02 May 2024
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
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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.
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(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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Open AccessArticle
A Novel Method for the Object Detection and Weight Prediction of Chinese Softshell Turtles Based on Computer Vision and Deep Learning
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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 - 01 May 2024
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
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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.
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(This article belongs to the Section Aquatic Animals)
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Open AccessArticle
Craniometric Characteristics of Selected Carnivora Species Kept in Captivity in Relation to Bite Force and Bending Strength of the Upper Canines
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Katarzyna Różycka, Ewa Skibniewska, Łukasz Rajkowski and Michał Skibniewski
Animals 2024, 14(9), 1367; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14091367 - 01 May 2024
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
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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.
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(This article belongs to the Section Veterinary Clinical Studies)
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Open AccessReview
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 - 01 May 2024
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
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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.
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(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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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
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
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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.
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(This article belongs to the Section Animal Genetics and Genomics)
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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
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
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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.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on the Factors Affecting the Performance of Sport Horses—Second Edition)
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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
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
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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)
Open AccessArticle
Treatment of Donor Cells with Oxidative Phosphorylation Inhibitor CPI Enhances Porcine Cloned Embryo Development
by
Jinping Cao, Yazheng Dong, Zheng Li, Shunbo Wang, Zhenfang Wu, Enqin Zheng and Zicong Li
Animals 2024, 14(9), 1362; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14091362 - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
Somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) technology holds great promise for livestock industry, life science and human biomedicine. However, the development and application of this technology is limited by the low developmental potential of SCNT embryos. The developmental competence of cloned embryos is influenced
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Somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) technology holds great promise for livestock industry, life science and human biomedicine. However, the development and application of this technology is limited by the low developmental potential of SCNT embryos. The developmental competence of cloned embryos is influenced by the energy metabolic status of donor cells. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of CPI, an oxidative phosphorylation inhibitor, on the energy metabolism pathways of pig fibroblasts and the development of subsequent SCNT embryos. The results showed that treatment of porcine fibroblasts with CPI changed the cellular energy metabolic pathways from oxidative phosphorylation to glycolysis and enhanced the developmental ability of subsequent SCNT embryos. The present study establishes a simple, new way to improve pig cloning efficiency, helping to promote the development and application of pig SCNT technology.
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(This article belongs to the Section Animal Reproduction)
Open AccessArticle
Combined Use of Fatty Acid Profiles and Elemental Fingerprints to Trace the Geographic Origin of Live Baits for Sports Fishing: The Solitary Tube Worm (Diopatra neapolitana, Annelida, Onuphidae) as a Case Study
by
Fernando Ricardo, Marta Lobão Lopes, Renato Mamede, M. Rosário Domingues, Eduardo Ferreira da Silva, Carla Patinha and Ricardo Calado
Animals 2024, 14(9), 1361; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14091361 - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
Diopatra neapolitana Delle Chiaje, 1841 (Annelida, Onuphidae) is one of the most exploited polychaete species in European waters, particularly in Ria de Aveiro, a coastal lagoon in mainland Portugal, where the overexploitation of this resource has led to a generalized decline of local
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Diopatra neapolitana Delle Chiaje, 1841 (Annelida, Onuphidae) is one of the most exploited polychaete species in European waters, particularly in Ria de Aveiro, a coastal lagoon in mainland Portugal, where the overexploitation of this resource has led to a generalized decline of local populations. In an attempt to reduce the impact of harvesting, several management actions were implemented, but illegal poaching still fuels a parallel economy that threatens the sustainable use of this marine resource. The present study evaluated the combination of fatty acid profiles and elemental fingerprints of the whole body and jaws, respectively, of D. neapolitana collected from four harvesting locations within Ria de Aveiro in order to determine if their geographic origin could be correctly assigned post-harvesting. Results showed that both fatty acid profiles and elemental fingerprints differ significantly among locations, discriminating the geographic origin with higher accuracy when combining these two natural barcodes than when employing each individually. The present work can, therefore, contribute to the implementation of an effective management plan for the sustainable use of this marine resource, making it possible to detect if D. neapolitana was sourced from no-take zones and if it was collected from the place of origin claimed by live bait traders.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Ecology and Conservation)
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