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Animals, Volume 14, Issue 21 (November-1 2024) – 119 articles

Cover Story (view full-size image): The poultry industry, vital for global protein production, faces challenges on a constant basis from infectious diseases. Pathogens like Salmonella, Escherichia coli, Clostridium perfringens, and Campylobacter can spread quickly within flocks and are easily disseminated along the poultry value chain. Poor biosecurity and hygiene measures lead to the contamination of meat and eggs with Salmonella and Campylobacter, which are a source of foodborne illness for humans. Rapid detection is crucial to minimize these risks. Biosensors offer a solution, with smart sensors used for monitoring poultry health indicators in real time. This review examines recent advances in biosensors for poultry disease management, focusing on their role in enabling early detection, faster response, and supporting sustainable and safer poultry production practices. View this paper
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17 pages, 4627 KiB  
Article
Evaluation of the Accuracy of 3D Printed Patient-Specific Brain Biopsy Guide Using 3D Volume Rendering Technique in Canine Cadavers
by Minseung Jeong, Jongchan Ko, Yong Yu and Suyoung Heo
Animals 2024, 14(21), 3163; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14213163 - 4 Nov 2024
Viewed by 616
Abstract
The objective of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of a CT-based, 3D-printed, patient-specific brain biopsy guide (3D-psBBG) through the application of a transfrontal approach in canine cadavers. A total of ten canine cadavers, with weights ranging from 4.36 to 14.4 kg, [...] Read more.
The objective of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of a CT-based, 3D-printed, patient-specific brain biopsy guide (3D-psBBG) through the application of a transfrontal approach in canine cadavers. A total of ten canine cadavers, with weights ranging from 4.36 to 14.4 kg, were subjected to preoperative CT scans to generate 3D skull models. Customized biopsy guides were created based on these models and manufactured using 3D printing technology. Twenty spinal needle insertions were performed, and the accuracy of needle placement was evaluated through both CT and 3D volume-rendering techniques. The mean needle placement error was 2.1 mm, with no significant differences observed between insertions targeting the fronto-olfactory and piriform lobes. The 3D volume-rendering method demonstrated superior accuracy compared to the CT method, with statistically significant differences in placement errors for both targets. The average time required for the design and manufacture of the guides was 249 min. These findings indicate the high accuracy and potential clinical application of CT-based 3D-psBBG for improving diagnostic outcomes in veterinary neurology. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Companion Animals)
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22 pages, 5370 KiB  
Article
Spatiotemporal Ultrastructural, Histological, and Morphometric Changes in the Buccal Cavity of Grass Carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) During Fingerling, Yearling, and Adult Stages
by Ahmed M. Abdellatif, Ahmed I. Ateya, Khadiga A. Hasan, Mansour A. Alghamdi and Fatma A. Madkour
Animals 2024, 14(21), 3162; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14213162 - 4 Nov 2024
Viewed by 526
Abstract
Grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) is a Cyprinid fish of aquacultural and research importance. The buccal cavity represents the gateway of the digestive tract. The present study investigated the adaptational changes involving various components of the buccal cavity of fingerling (three months [...] Read more.
Grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) is a Cyprinid fish of aquacultural and research importance. The buccal cavity represents the gateway of the digestive tract. The present study investigated the adaptational changes involving various components of the buccal cavity of fingerling (three months posthatching, mph), yearling (12 mph), and adult (48 mph) C. idella using scanning electron microscopy, histology, and morphometry. The upper and lower lips appeared uninterrupted at the three studied stages and were limited caudally by the upper and lower jaws. The jaw epithelium was the thickest part of the buccal epithelium; ultrastructurally, it appeared smooth with ridge-like borders in fingerlings that transformed into microgrooves in yearlings. In adult C. idella, the jaw mucosa was organized into dome-shaped masses separated from each other by tight furrows. Each mass was formed from several keratinocytes with corrugated surfaces that featured numerous microdepressions. Except for the jaws, taste buds, mainly of type I, and acidic and neutral goblet cells were observed throughout the mucosa of the buccal cavity, and their densities were highest along the mucosal folds of the palate and oral floor, suggesting a principal role for these parts in both gustation and food lubrication. This study is the first to report age-associated spatiotemporal changes in the buccal cavity of grass carp and will serve as a fundamental reference during the interpretation of various types of oral pathologies in teleost. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Early Development and Growth of Fishes: 2nd Edition)
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16 pages, 8389 KiB  
Article
A Chromosome-Level Genome Assembly of Chiton Acanthochiton rubrolineatus (Chitonida, Polyplacophora, Mollusca)
by Jiangyong Qu, Xiaofei Lu, Chenen Tu, Fuyang He, Sutao Li, Dongyue Gu, Shuang Wang, Zhikai Xing, Li Zheng, Xumin Wang and Lijun Wang
Animals 2024, 14(21), 3161; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14213161 - 4 Nov 2024
Viewed by 780
Abstract
(1) Background: Chitons (Mollusca, Polyplacophora) are relatively primitive species in Mollusca that allow the study of biomineralization. Although mitochondrial genomes have been isolated from Polyplacophora, there is no genomic information at the chromosomal level; (2) Methods: Here we report a chromosome-level genome assembly [...] Read more.
(1) Background: Chitons (Mollusca, Polyplacophora) are relatively primitive species in Mollusca that allow the study of biomineralization. Although mitochondrial genomes have been isolated from Polyplacophora, there is no genomic information at the chromosomal level; (2) Methods: Here we report a chromosome-level genome assembly for Acanthochiton rubrolineatus using PacBio (Pacific Biosciences, United States) reads and high-throughput chromosome conformation capture (Hi-C) data; (3) Results: The assembly spans 1.08 Gb with a contig N50 of 3.63 Mb and 99.97% of the genome assigned to eight chromosomes. Among the 32,291 predicted genes, 76.32% had functional predictions. The divergence time of Brachiopoda and Mollusca was ~550.8 Mya (million years ago), and that of A. rubrolineatus and other mollusks was ~548.5 Mya; (4) Conclusions: This study not only offers high-quality reference sequences for the Acanthochiton rubrolineatus genome, but also establishes groundwork for investigating the mechanisms of Polyplacophora biomineralization and its evolutionary history. This research will aid in uncovering the genetic foundations of molluscan adaptations across diverse environments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Aquatic Animals)
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18 pages, 15279 KiB  
Article
Pathological Changes and CYP1A1 Expression as Biomarkers of Pollution in Sarpa Salpa and Diplodus Sargus
by Maria Dimatteo, Evaristo Di Napoli, Orlando Paciello, Ilaria d’Aquino, Doriana Iaccarino, Marianna D’amore, Mariangela Guida, Luciana Cozzolino, Francesco Paolo Serpe, Giovanna Fusco, Esterina De Carlo and Barbara degli Uberti
Animals 2024, 14(21), 3160; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14213160 - 4 Nov 2024
Viewed by 631
Abstract
In a marine ecosystem, the most sensitive organisms to environmental changes, mainly to anthropic pressures, are fishes and invertebrates. Therefore, they are considered the ideal targets to indirectly evaluate the health of an entire ecosystem. Teleost fishes, particularly those that occupy the highest [...] Read more.
In a marine ecosystem, the most sensitive organisms to environmental changes, mainly to anthropic pressures, are fishes and invertebrates. Therefore, they are considered the ideal targets to indirectly evaluate the health of an entire ecosystem. Teleost fishes, particularly those that occupy the highest trophic levels, can accumulate toxic substances through their diet. In this study, we used two fish species with sedentary behavior and trophic habits, Diplodus sargus and Sarpa salpa, caught in two areas at different anthropic pressures divided into the Gulf of Naples (Na) and the Gulf of Salerno (Sa). This study aimed to correlate the pathological alterations in target organs in both species with known concentrations of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and heavy metals (lead and cadmium) to the expression of CYP1A1. Histological examination took into consideration circulatory disorders, increase in melanomacrophages (MMs) number, inflammation in kidney and hepatopancreas and gonadal stage maturation. Next, the pathological and morphological changes found were compared to immunohistochemical expression of CYP1A1 in the same samples. Chemical analysis of PCBs, based on 28, 52, 101, 138, 153, and 180 congeners, and heavy metals, were performed on hepatopancreas and muscle samples. Higher median values of PCBs concentration were detected in both species in the Salerno area (8.1 ng/g in Diplodus sargus muscles and 51.1 ng/g in Sarpa salpa hepatopancreas, respectively), although the values were consistently below the legal limits. No critical values were found for lead and cadmium. Therefore, we hypothesized that CYP1A1 and pathological alterations were more expressed in fish from Salerno area. The pathological changes showed a statistically significant difference in inflammation of the kidneys (p < 0.0001) between S. salpa of both Gulfs. In addition, we found a statistically significant difference in the assessment of the increase in MMs/MMCs (p = 0.0384) and circulation disorders (p = 0.0325) of hepatopancreas in D. sargus of both Gulfs. As not all the variables considered showed statistical significance, the analysis of the results does not fully support the correlation between the highest levels of contaminants found in the Salerno area and the expression of CYP1A1. Our data could be a starting point for future studies to better correlate the role of CYP1A1 to pollutants, considering this is the first study involving two of the most common species in the Mediterranean Sea. Thus, future studies could include other species to improve and increase records. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Aquatic Animals)
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14 pages, 6602 KiB  
Article
Genomic Insights into Pig Domestication and Adaptation: An Integrated Approach Using Genome-Wide Selection Analysis and Multiple Public Datasets
by Haoyuan Zhang, Pengcheng Ruan, He Cong, Lu Xu, Baigao Yang, Tao Ren, Dongjie Zhang, Hongyue Chen, Pengfei Hu, Zhen Wang, Hongmei Pan, Xiuqin Yang, Yanguo Han, Yan Zeng, Yongju Zhao, Di Liu, Simone Ceccobelli and Guangxin E
Animals 2024, 14(21), 3159; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14213159 - 4 Nov 2024
Viewed by 897
Abstract
As a global focus of animal husbandry, pigs provide essential meat resources for humans. Therefore, analyzing the genetic basis of adaptability, domestication, and artificial selection in pigs will contribute to further breeding. This study performed a genome-wide selection sweep analysis to identify candidate [...] Read more.
As a global focus of animal husbandry, pigs provide essential meat resources for humans. Therefore, analyzing the genetic basis of adaptability, domestication, and artificial selection in pigs will contribute to further breeding. This study performed a genome-wide selection sweep analysis to identify candidate genes related to domestication and adaptive selection via data from 2413 public genotypes. Two complementary statistical analyses, FST (fixation index) and XP–EHH (cross–population extended haplotype homozygosity) were applied. The results revealed that numerous candidate genes were associated with high-altitude adaptability (e.g., SIRPA, FRS2, and GRIN2B) and habitat temperature adaptability (e.g., MITF, PI3KC2A, and FRS2). In addition, candidate genes related to the domestic genetic imprint of indigenous pigs (e.g., TNR, NOCT, and SPATA5) and strong artificial selection pressure in commercial breeds (e.g., ITPR2, HSD17B12, and UGP2) were identified in this study. Specifically, some MHC–related genes (e.g., ZRTB12, TRIM26, and C7H6orf15) were also under selection during domestication and artificial selection. Additionally, a phylogenetic comparative analysis revealed that the genetic divergence between populations does not fully follow the geographical distribution and management history in the major histocompatibility complex region/major histocompatibility complex II haplotypes, unlike that of the genome-wide genotypes. Furthermore, the higher heterozygosity and haplotype alleles of MHC reduce the differences between populations. Briefly, this study not only helps promote the relative theoretical understanding of environmental adaptive selection and domestication but also provides a theoretical reference for disease-resistant breeding in pigs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Animal Genetics and Genomics)
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24 pages, 6536 KiB  
Review
Enteric Methane Emission in Livestock Sector: Bibliometric Research from 1986 to 2024 with Text Mining and Topic Analysis Approach by Machine Learning Algorithms
by Chiara Evangelista, Marco Milanesi, Daniele Pietrucci, Giovanni Chillemi and Umberto Bernabucci
Animals 2024, 14(21), 3158; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14213158 - 4 Nov 2024
Viewed by 1258
Abstract
Methane (CH4) from livestock, particularly enteric CH4 emission (EME), is one contributor to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change. This review analyzed 1294 scientific abstracts on EME in ruminants from 1986 to May 2024, using Scopus® data. Descriptive statistics, [...] Read more.
Methane (CH4) from livestock, particularly enteric CH4 emission (EME), is one contributor to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change. This review analyzed 1294 scientific abstracts on EME in ruminants from 1986 to May 2024, using Scopus® data. Descriptive statistics, text mining, and topic analysis were performed. Publications on EME have risen significantly since 2005, with the Journal of Dairy Science being the most frequent publisher. Most studies (82.1%) were original research, with Northern Hemisphere countries leading in publication numbers. The most frequent terms were “milk”, “cow”, and “diet”, while key research topics included greenhouse gas emissions from livestock, diet composition, and prediction models. Despite progress, some areas like CH4 emission from animals need further investigation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Animal System and Management)
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11 pages, 1051 KiB  
Communication
A Retrospective Report of Carprofen Administration as Post-Operative Analgesia Reveals Negative Effects of Recommended Doses
by Zoë Jäckel, Ahmed Adžemović, Benedikt Kloos, Stefanie Hardung, Rita Sanchez-Brandelik, Philippe Coulon and Ilka Diester
Animals 2024, 14(21), 3157; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14213157 - 4 Nov 2024
Viewed by 992
Abstract
Effective pain management in laboratory animals is crucial for both animal welfare and the reliability of scientific research. We retrospectively examined the effects of carprofen as post-operative analgesia in Sprague Dawley rats following stereotactic surgery. Our data indicate that administering carprofen twice daily [...] Read more.
Effective pain management in laboratory animals is crucial for both animal welfare and the reliability of scientific research. We retrospectively examined the effects of carprofen as post-operative analgesia in Sprague Dawley rats following stereotactic surgery. Our data indicate that administering carprofen twice daily (5 mg/kg), as currently recommended by Die Gesellschaft für Versuchstierkunde/Society for Laboratory Animal Science (GV-SOLAS), led to adverse effects such as reduced food and water intake, disrupted fecal excretion, and abdominal bloating consistent with peritonitis. Continued administration exacerbated these symptoms, with post-mortem findings of intestinal obstructions and ulcers. However, when the frequency was reduced to once daily, such adverse symptoms were not observed. These results are based on incidental data collected from various neuroscientific experiments, resulting in small and uneven sample groups across various experimental cohorts. The inherent imbalances in these groups present challenges for statistical interpretation. While the findings suggest that less frequent carprofen use may reduce adverse effects, the surgical interventions and concurrent use of other drugs in these experiments likely exacerbated these outcomes. Further investigation into the interactions between carprofen, surgical stress, and other perioperative factors is needed to refine analgesia protocols in laboratory animals. Despite these limitations, these observations contribute to understanding analgesia protocols and may assist in improving animal welfare practices. Full article
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14 pages, 3513 KiB  
Article
Digital Holographic Microscopy in Veterinary Medicine—A Feasibility Study to Analyze Label-Free Leukocytes in Blood and Milk of Dairy Cows
by Sabine Farschtschi, Manuel Lengl, Stefan Röhrl, Christian Klenk, Oliver Hayden, Klaus Diepold and Michael W. Pfaffl
Animals 2024, 14(21), 3156; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14213156 - 3 Nov 2024
Viewed by 999
Abstract
For several years, the determination of a differential cell count of a raw milk sample has been proposed as a more accurate tool for monitoring the udder health of dairy cows compared with using the absolute somatic cell count. However, the required sample [...] Read more.
For several years, the determination of a differential cell count of a raw milk sample has been proposed as a more accurate tool for monitoring the udder health of dairy cows compared with using the absolute somatic cell count. However, the required sample preparation and staining process can be labor- and cost-intensive. Therefore, the aim of our study was to demonstrate the feasibility of analyzing unlabeled blood and milk leukocytes from dairy cows by means of digital holographic microscopy (DHM). For this, we trained three different machine learning methods, i.e., k-Nearest Neighbor, Random Forests, and Support Vector Machine, on sorted leukocyte populations (granulocytes, lymphocytes, and monocytes/macrophages) isolated from blood and milk samples of three dairy cows by using fluorescence-activated cell sorting. Afterward, those classifiers were applied to differentiate unlabeled blood and milk samples analyzed by DHM. A total of 70 blood and 70 milk samples were used. Those samples were collected from five clinically healthy cows at 14-time points within a study period of 26 days. The outcome was compared with the results of the same samples analyzed by flow cytometry and (in the case of blood samples) also to routine analysis in an external laboratory. Moreover, a standard vaccination was used as an immune stimulus during the study to check for changes in cell morphology or cell counts. When applied to isolated leukocytes, Random Forests performed best, with a specificity of 0.93 for blood and 0.84 for milk cells and a sensitivity of 0.90 and 0.81, respectively. Although the results of the three analytical methods differed, it could be demonstrated that a DHM analysis is applicable for blood and milk leukocyte samples with high reliability. Compared with the flow cytometric results, Random Forests showed an MAE of 0.11 (SD = 0.04), an RMSE of 0.13 (SD = 0.14), and an MRE of 1.00 (SD = 1.11) for all blood leukocyte counts and an MAE of 0.20 (SD = 0.11), an RMSE of 0.21 (SD = 0.11) and an MRE of 1.95 (SD = 2.17) for all milk cell populations. Further studies with larger sample sizes and varying immune cell compositions are required to establish method-specific reference ranges. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cattle)
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26 pages, 838 KiB  
Article
Husbandry Conditions and Welfare State of Pet Chinchillas (Chinchilla lanigera) and Caretakers’ Perceptions of Stress and Emotional Closeness to Their Animals
by Elisabeth M. Gilhofer, Denise V. Hebesberger, Susanne Waiblinger, Frank Künzel, Cornelia Rouha-Mülleder, Chiara Mariti and Ines Windschnurer
Animals 2024, 14(21), 3155; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14213155 - 3 Nov 2024
Viewed by 1278
Abstract
For pet chinchillas, limited data are available on husbandry and the human–animal relationship despite their impact on health, behavior, and welfare. We conducted an online survey with pet chinchilla caretakers (n = 336), targeting husbandry practices, health, behavioral indicators of welfare, and [...] Read more.
For pet chinchillas, limited data are available on husbandry and the human–animal relationship despite their impact on health, behavior, and welfare. We conducted an online survey with pet chinchilla caretakers (n = 336), targeting husbandry practices, health, behavioral indicators of welfare, and human–chinchilla relationships. We further investigated associations between caretakers’ perceptions of stress in their chinchillas and emotional closeness to their animals. Basic needs such as keeping with conspecifics, constant access to water and hay, or offering dust baths were mostly fulfilled. Potential welfare issues included individual keeping (14.3%), undersized cages/enclosures (reported by 27.6% of the Austrian respondents), and suffering from a disease (14.7%). Behavioral indicators of good welfare, such as playing and cuddling with conspecifics, were observed several times per day by 40.9% and 87.9% of the respondents, respectively. Repetitive and unwanted behaviors were less common (fur biting, for instance, occurred ‘never’ in 82.9%). Caretakers rated their animals as generally more stressed if the animal was ill and more often showed fearful behavior toward them. Caretakers feeling closer to their animals spent more time engaging with them. Correct identification of this kind of association could be used as guidance for recommendations to improve chinchilla welfare at home and in the veterinary setting. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Animal Welfare)
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16 pages, 4031 KiB  
Article
Genetic Diversity and Selection Signatures of Lvliang Black Goat Using Genome-Wide SNP Data
by Ke Cai, Wannian Wang, Xu Wang, Zhixu Pang, Zhenqi Zhou, Lifen Cheng, Liying Qiao, Qiaoxia Liu, Yangyang Pan, Kaijie Yang, Wenzhong Liu and Jianhua Liu
Animals 2024, 14(21), 3154; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14213154 - 3 Nov 2024
Viewed by 790
Abstract
Lvliang black goat (LBG) is an excellent local breed resource in China that is known for its black fur, excellent meat quality, and strong adaptability. Studying the genetic mechanism and germplasm characteristics of LBG can provide theoretical and practical basis for the protection [...] Read more.
Lvliang black goat (LBG) is an excellent local breed resource in China that is known for its black fur, excellent meat quality, and strong adaptability. Studying the genetic mechanism and germplasm characteristics of LBG can provide theoretical and practical basis for the protection of the genetic resources of this breed and help implement conservation and breeding. In this study, the genetic diversity of the LBG population was evaluated using whole-genome SNP data. It was found that the LBG population had a high genetic diversity and a low degree of inbreeding. According to the clustering results of male goats and the relationship between individuals, the LBG population was divided into 13 families. Then, through population structure analysis, it was found that LBG had a close genetic relationship with the Nanjiang goat and Qinggoda goat populations, and they may have the same ancestors. The LBG population has retained some ancient genetic characteristics and is a special population that integrates local genetic characteristics and foreign gene flow. Through four selection signal analyses, we detected multiple candidate genes related to economic traits (CFL2, SCD, NLRP14, etc.) and adaptability (C4BPA, FUT8, PRNP, etc.) in the LBG population. In addition, in a comparative analysis with three commercial breeds (Saanen goat, Boer goat and Angora goat) we also found multiple genes related to physical characteristics (ERG, NRG3, EDN3, etc.). Finally, we performed functional enrichment analysis on these genes and explored their genetic mechanisms. This study provides important data support for the protection and breeding of LBG and provides a new perspective for enriching the genetic diversity of goat populations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Small Ruminant Genetics and Breeding)
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4 pages, 163 KiB  
Editorial
Nutritional Value Evaluation and Processing Technology of Feed and Nutrition Regulation Measures for Ruminants
by Dingfu Xiao and Tiantian Meng
Animals 2024, 14(21), 3153; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14213153 - 2 Nov 2024
Viewed by 1254
Abstract
In the context of modern livestock farming, particularly in the ruminant industry, feed is a crucial factor that affects both the efficiency of production and animal health [...] Full article
14 pages, 1421 KiB  
Article
Genetic Evaluation of Monthly Test-Day Milk Yields of Jersey Crossbred Cattle Under Farmers’ Production System in Tamil Nadu, India
by Dhanukodialagar Kasiviswanathan, Palaniappan Devendran, Ragothaman Venkataramanan, Subramanian Meenakshisundaram, Ganesamoorthy Senthilkumar and Sunday O. Peters
Animals 2024, 14(21), 3152; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14213152 - 2 Nov 2024
Viewed by 767
Abstract
Tamil Nadu, a state in southern India, is bereft of any native dairy or dual-purpose cattle breeds, and the state depends chiefly on crossbred cattle for milk production. Jersey crossbred cattle account for 90% of the state’s milk production. This genetic evaluation study [...] Read more.
Tamil Nadu, a state in southern India, is bereft of any native dairy or dual-purpose cattle breeds, and the state depends chiefly on crossbred cattle for milk production. Jersey crossbred cattle account for 90% of the state’s milk production. This genetic evaluation study aimed to assess milk production traits, including test-day milk yields (TDMYs), total lactation milk yield (TMY), and 305-day milk yield (305MY), in these cattle reared under farmers’ conditions. Data on monthly TDMYs (TDMY1 to TDMY10) of Jersey crossbred cows (n = 75,627) reared by the farmers over 11 years (2012–2022) were collected for evaluation. The influence of non-genetic factors viz., location (agroclimatic zones), period and season of calving, and parity on TDMYs, TMY and 305MY were assessed, and the variance and covariance components for genetic parameters (heritability and genetic correlation) of the traits were estimated by the method of restricted maximum likelihood (REML) under a multivariate animal model and by a random regression model (RRM). The overall means of various TDMYs ranged from 4.98 (TDMY10) to 9.95 kg (TDMY2), and for TMY and 305MY, the means were 2480.33 and 2393.71 kg, respectively. The heritabilities estimated by the multivariate animal model for TDMYs were moderate and ranged from 0.26 ± 0.02 to 0.37 ± 0.02 and the estimates were less variable throughout lactation, while the estimates obtained by RRM were medium to high and ranged between 0.29 ± 0.01 and 0.67 ± 0.02 for milk yield on day 5 to 305 (DIM 5–DIM 305). The heritabilities estimated for TMY and 305MY were 0.43 ± 0.02 and 0.43 ± 0.02, respectively. The estimates of heritability for mid-lactation yields were comparatively less than those at the beginning and the end of lactation. The moderate to high estimates of heritabilities for TDMYs, TMY, and 305MY obtained in the present study offer ample scope for improving milk production through selective breeding. Genetic correlations between TDMYs estimated by the multivariate animal model were positive and high, with a range between 0.75 ± 0.03 and 0.99 ± 0.00. Considerably higher estimates (0.98–0.99) were observed between adjacent TDMYs showing strong genetic associations. By RRM, genetic correlations estimated between DIMs were positive (except for DIM 5 with DIM 125 to DIM 185 and DIM 125 with DIM 305), and the magnitude of genetic correlation decreased with an increase in the interval between the DIMs. The high genetic correlation observed between the TDMYs (in the early stage of lactation) and total lactation milk yield suggested that these test-day yields could be used favorably for the early selection of cows for milk production, which facilitates reduction in the generation interval and consequently increases the annual genetic gain for the milk production traits. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genetic Analysis of Important Traits in Domestic Animals)
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14 pages, 1580 KiB  
Article
Dentex maroccanus Valenciennes, 1830 Otolith Morphology, Age, and Growth in the Aegean Sea (E. Mediterranean)
by Aglaia Legaki, Isabella Leonhard, Chryssi Mytilineou and Aikaterini Anastasopoulou
Animals 2024, 14(21), 3151; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14213151 - 2 Nov 2024
Viewed by 649
Abstract
Otoliths are important structures for balance and hearing of fish and constitute a useful tool in fisheries science. This study provides, for the first time in the Mediterranean, information on the otolith morphometrics of Dentex maroccanus, collected from the South Aegean Sea, [...] Read more.
Otoliths are important structures for balance and hearing of fish and constitute a useful tool in fisheries science. This study provides, for the first time in the Mediterranean, information on the otolith morphometrics of Dentex maroccanus, collected from the South Aegean Sea, and enriches the existing information on its age and growth by sex. The otolith shape variables examined showed a more circular to square otolith shape, related to the body size. Significant differences between sexes were detected for the otolith Area, Diameter, Perimeter, and Radius. Exponential regressions were used to examine the relationship of the otolith variables with total body length, from which five showed a strong correlation (Diameter, Width, Radius, Area, and Perimeter). The eviscerated weight–length relationship exhibited an isometric growth for both sexes, whereas when total weight was applied, a positive allometric growth was found for females. Sagittal otolith readings revealed four age groups for females and five for males. A Bhattacharya method was used for age validation. Von Bertalanffy growth parameters were as follows: L∞ = 23.08, k = 0.27, t0 = −1.93 for females and L∞ = 24.07, k = 0.24, t0 = −2.26 for males. This research offers valuable biological information for Dentex maroccanus useful in fisheries science. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Aquatic Animals)
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10 pages, 647 KiB  
Article
The Efficacy of a Ferric Sillen Core-Linked Polymer in Suppressing the Pathogenicity of Campylobacter jejuni
by Seán Christanseen, Dermot Walls, Blánaid White, Richard Murphy and Karina Horgan
Animals 2024, 14(21), 3150; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14213150 - 2 Nov 2024
Viewed by 700
Abstract
Campylobacter spp. are considered the leading bacterial cause of human gastroenteritis in the world. The development of effective intervention strategies aimed at limiting C. jejuni infections has encountered various challenges, including a lack of an appropriate animal model. Nevertheless, recent advancements in research [...] Read more.
Campylobacter spp. are considered the leading bacterial cause of human gastroenteritis in the world. The development of effective intervention strategies aimed at limiting C. jejuni infections has encountered various challenges, including a lack of an appropriate animal model. Nevertheless, recent advancements in research have clarified the molecular mechanisms underlying C. jejuni’s pathogenicity, potentially opening new avenues for targeted interventions. This study evaluated the efficacy of a ferric sillen core-linked polymer (FSCLP) in lowering the proliferation and gene expression of C. jejuni virulence factors in vitro. Furthermore, this study sought to examine the impact of this FSCLP in an ex vivo environment by investigating its ability to influence the attachment to and invasion of porcine jejunal epithelial (IPEC-J2) cells by C. jejuni. Findings show that the FSCLP exhibits significant inhibitory effects on the growth of C. jejuni (p < 0.001) and decreases gene expression related to both virulence and colonisation in C. jejuni. Moreover, supplementation with the FSCLP significantly reduced the attachment of C. jejuni to IPEC-J2 cells (p < 0.01) when compared to the control. Thus, this water-soluble product presents a potential management strategy for Campylobacter infections in poultry, potentially impeding colonisation, reducing transmission, and ultimately mitigating the incidence of human campylobacteriosis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feed Ingredients and Additives for Swine and Poultry)
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14 pages, 426 KiB  
Article
Effects of Replacing Fish Meal with Rubber Seed Cake on Growth, Digestive, Antioxidant and Protein Metabolism of Juvenile Asian Red-Tailed Catfish (Hemibagrus wyckioides)
by Tao Cheng, Han Huang, Haifeng Mi, Lu Zhang, Junming Deng, Shuang Zhang, Xiaohui Dong, Shuyan Chi, Qihui Yang, Hongyu Liu, Shiwei Xie, Wei Zhang and Beiping Tan
Animals 2024, 14(21), 3149; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14213149 - 2 Nov 2024
Viewed by 835
Abstract
An 8-week feeding trial was conducted to assess the impact of replacing fish meal (FM) with rubber seed cake (RSC) on growth performance, digestive enzyme activity of the gut, antioxidant capacity and protein metabolism-related parameters of plasma and liver in juvenile Asian red-tailed [...] Read more.
An 8-week feeding trial was conducted to assess the impact of replacing fish meal (FM) with rubber seed cake (RSC) on growth performance, digestive enzyme activity of the gut, antioxidant capacity and protein metabolism-related parameters of plasma and liver in juvenile Asian red-tailed catfish (Hemibagrus wyckioides) with an average body weight of 3.21 g. Four isonitrogenous (41.08 ± 0.17) and isolipidic (10.07 ± 0.11) diets were formulated, incorporating RSC at a level of 0%, 15%, 30%, and 45% (w/w) to progressively replace FM. Dietary inclusion of 15–30% RSC did not significantly affect growth performance (p > 0.05). However, the replacement of FM with RSC resulted in linear reductions in intestinal trypsin and amylase activities, with a significant reduction in intestinal amylase activity observed at the 45% RSC inclusion level. Dietary inclusion of 30–45% RSC decreased plasma glutamate dehydrogenase and aspartate aminotransferase activities, but increased plasma adenosine monophosphate deaminase and hepatic γ-glutamyltransferase activities. This may indicate that the high substitution of FM by RSC may affect the homeostasis of amino acid metabolism. Dietary inclusion of 15% RSC did not affect serum and hepatic antioxidant enzyme activities; however, dietary inclusion of 45% RSC significantly increased plasma malondialdehyde level, but decreased catalase activity. Furthermore, dietary inclusion of 30–45% RSC significantly increased hepatic lactate dehydrogenase activity. These results demonstrated that replacing a portion of FM with RSC is feasible, and dietary inclusion of 15% RSC did not have significant adverse effects on growth performance, digestive function and antioxidant capacity of H. wyckioides. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Aquaculture Nutrition for Sustainable Health Management)
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17 pages, 2185 KiB  
Article
Assessing the Risk of Spreading Clostridioides difficile and Its Toxins Within the Dairy Farm
by Valentina A. Filippova, Larisa A. Ilina, Elena A. Yildirim, Ekaterina S. Ponomareva, Irina A. Kluchnikova, Andrey V. Dubrovin, Ksenia A. Kalitkina, Vasiliy A. Zaikin and Georgy Y. Laptev
Animals 2024, 14(21), 3148; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14213148 - 2 Nov 2024
Viewed by 906
Abstract
Clostridioides difficile currently constitutes a major pathogen of the gastrointestinal tract, which poses a significant growing burden on medicine and veterinary medicine in many regions. A farm was assessed (feed table, silage pit, and feces (healthy animals, emaciated animals, and animals with mastitis)) for [...] Read more.
Clostridioides difficile currently constitutes a major pathogen of the gastrointestinal tract, which poses a significant growing burden on medicine and veterinary medicine in many regions. A farm was assessed (feed table, silage pit, and feces (healthy animals, emaciated animals, and animals with mastitis)) for the presence of C. difficile toxins using the PCR method and for the microbiome in cow feed and feces using NGS technology, one month apart. C. difficile toxin A and binary toxin were detected in feed samples. C. difficile toxin genes were found in the feces of sick animals two to three times more often than in healthy animals. Analysis of the microbial community of cow feces revealed that, during the month, the animals experienced major changes in the community structure associated with the accumulation of pathogenic bacteria, in particular Paeniclostridium sp., as well as with the development of methanogenic archaea of the Methanobacteriaceae and associated microorganisms (Lachnospiraceae and Anaerovoracaceae), which may speak of a decrease in feed efficiency and, subsequently, animal productivity. Thus, it seems likely that C. difficile enters the gastrointestinal tract of animals through feed, while animals weakened by diseases are more sensitive to the reproduction of pathogens in the GIT due to a weakened organism. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cattle)
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11 pages, 2800 KiB  
Article
Lidocaine’s Ineffectiveness in Mitigating Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Pain and Peristaltic Effects in Horses
by Lara Nunes Sousa, Isabella Caixeta Winter, Diego Duarte Varela, Eduarda Zancanaro Luvison, Juan Felipe Colmenares Guzmán, Ana Moutinho Vilella Machado, Renata Diniz Vilela Figueiredo, Gabriel Tavares Pena, Ana Clara Silva dos Santos, Rafael Resende Faleiros and Armando de Mattos Carvalho
Animals 2024, 14(21), 3147; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14213147 - 2 Nov 2024
Viewed by 858
Abstract
The present study involved seven horses in a randomized crossover clinical trial to evaluate the effect of lidocaine on horses with induced endotoxemia. Horses received intravenous lidocaine (1.5 mg/kg bolus, followed by 0.05 mg/kg bwt/min) or placebo (0.9% sodium chloride at the same [...] Read more.
The present study involved seven horses in a randomized crossover clinical trial to evaluate the effect of lidocaine on horses with induced endotoxemia. Horses received intravenous lidocaine (1.5 mg/kg bolus, followed by 0.05 mg/kg bwt/min) or placebo (0.9% sodium chloride at the same manner) one hour before LPS administration (0.03 μg/kg, IV infusion over 30 min). We monitored clinic and hematologic parameters, abdominal auscultation, ultrasound, and pain over time. No relevant clinical differences existed between treatments regarding peristalsis, abdominal pain, or any other parameters before and after endotoxemia induction. These findings do not support the clinical use of lidocaine to mitigate abdominal pain and intestinal hypomotility promoted by endotoxemia in horses. Full article
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16 pages, 3141 KiB  
Article
Isoleucine Enhanced the Function of the Small Intestinal Mucosal Barrier in Weaned Piglets to Alleviate Rotavirus Infection
by Rongkun Zhao, Changsheng Jiang, Yuchen Yuan, Shen Zhang, Ahmed H. Ghonaim, Chuanyan Che, Xiaojin Li, Mengmeng Jin, Erhui Jin, Xiangfang Zeng, Shenghe Li and Man Ren
Animals 2024, 14(21), 3146; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14213146 - 2 Nov 2024
Viewed by 874
Abstract
Background: Rotavirus (RV) is a major cause of diarrhea in young children and animals, especially piglets, leading to substantial economic losses in the global pig industry. Isoleucine (Ile), a branched-chain amino acid, plays an important role in regulating nutrient metabolism and has been [...] Read more.
Background: Rotavirus (RV) is a major cause of diarrhea in young children and animals, especially piglets, leading to substantial economic losses in the global pig industry. Isoleucine (Ile), a branched-chain amino acid, plays an important role in regulating nutrient metabolism and has been shown to improve diarrhea. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of Ile supplementation on the mucosal immune barrier of the small intestine in RV-infected weaned piglets. Methods: Forty-eight 21-day-old weaned piglets were randomly divided into three dietary treatments (each treatment was subdivided into two groups, eight replicates per group), with 0%, 0.5%, or 1% Ile added for 15 days, and then, one group from each treatment was challenged with RV. Results: The results showed that 1% Ile added to the diet promoted the healthy development of the intestinal mucosa. Ile could restore the reduced villus height in the ileum and the goblet cell number in the duodenum and ileum to normal levels, improving the intestinal epithelial tight junctions in RV-infected piglets. Additionally, Ile increased the activity of lipase, amylase, and sucrase, as well as superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione (GSH), along with the expression of SIgA, DEFβ1, and DEFβ2 in parts of the small intestine. Conclusions: The addition of Ile to the diet mitigated the effects of RV infection on intestinal morphology and mucosal barrier function, as well as the physiological functions of weaned piglets, and improved the antioxidant and immune functions of the piglets to some extent. These findings offer valuable insights, contributing to a deeper understanding of the role of Ile in supporting intestinal health. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Animal Nutrition)
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16 pages, 885 KiB  
Article
Evaluation of Four Different Automated Activity Monitoring Systems to Identify Anovulatory Cows in Early Lactation
by Lukas Frieder Bretzinger, Marvin Hölper, Christie Marie Tippenhauer, Jan-Lukas Plenio, Augusto Madureira, Wolfgang Heuwieser and Stefan Borchardt
Animals 2024, 14(21), 3145; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14213145 - 2 Nov 2024
Viewed by 817
Abstract
The objective of this study was to evaluate four different automated activity monitoring (AAM) systems to identify anovulatory cows in early lactation. A total of 852 lactating Holstein cows (221 primiparous and 631 multiparous cows) from four commercial dairy herds were enrolled. On [...] Read more.
The objective of this study was to evaluate four different automated activity monitoring (AAM) systems to identify anovulatory cows in early lactation. A total of 852 lactating Holstein cows (221 primiparous and 631 multiparous cows) from four commercial dairy herds were enrolled. On each farm, cows were equipped with a respective AAM system (SB: Smartbow; HT: Heatime; DP: Delpro; and CM: CowManager). Each cow was sampled three times within the voluntary waiting period (VWP) in a two-week interval to detect the blood progesterone (P4) concentration. Cows were classified based on the concentration of P4 as follows: (1) none of the three blood P4 concentrations exceeded 1.0 ng/mL (anovulatory); (2) at least one of the three blood P4 concentrations was above 1.0 ng/mL (ovulatory). Cows were classified based on estrus alerts as follows: (1) no estrus alert was detected by an AAM system from 7 to 60 DIM (anestrus); (2) at least one estrus alert was detected by an AAM system from 7 to 60 DIM (estrus). Accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value were calculated for each AAM system for anovulatory cows [(SB: 77.6%; 26.8%; 89.3%; 36.7%; and 84.1%); (HT: 79.2%; 63.6%; 83.6%; 52.8%; and 88.9%); (DP: 47.2%; 78.8%; 41.5%; 19.5%; and 91.6%); (CM: 80.5%; 23.7%; 92.7%; 39.1%; and 85.3%)]. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Animal Reproduction)
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16 pages, 4483 KiB  
Article
Understanding the Impact of Extrusion Treatment on Cereals: Insights from Alterations in Starch Physicochemical Properties and In Vitro Digestion Kinetics
by Yufei Zhao, Xiuquan Dang, Honglin Du, Dapeng Wang, Jiaxuan Zhang, Rujie Liu, Zhenying Ge, Zewei Sun and Qingzhen Zhong
Animals 2024, 14(21), 3144; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14213144 - 2 Nov 2024
Viewed by 712
Abstract
In this study, three samples were randomly selected from corn, wheat, and broken rice before and after extrusion for electron microscope scanning, Fourier transform infrared spectral analysis, and in vitro digestion to investigate the impact of extrusion on physicochemical characteristics and starch digestion [...] Read more.
In this study, three samples were randomly selected from corn, wheat, and broken rice before and after extrusion for electron microscope scanning, Fourier transform infrared spectral analysis, and in vitro digestion to investigate the impact of extrusion on physicochemical characteristics and starch digestion kinetics of cereals. The cereals used for extrusion were sourced identically before and after the process, with each analysis conducted in triplicate. The results showed that the extrusion compromised the physical structure of cereal, resulting in loose structure arrangement, and the ratio of Fourier transform infrared spectral absorbance at wavelength 1047 cm−1 and 1022 cm−1, which characterized the short-range order of starch, was significantly reduced (p < 0.05). In addition, the proportion of rapidly digestible starch (RDS), the velocity parameter k of digestive kinetics and the predicted glycemic index of cereals were significantly increased by extrusion (p < 0.05). Digestibility kinetics showed a total increase of 10.7%, 7.3%, and 5.4% for cereals, along with a sharp rise in digestion rate within the first 15 minutes. The findings revealed that the compromising of starch’s structural integrity and the increase in proportion of RDS not only enhanced overall starch digestibility, but also significantly accelerated its digestion, particularly during the initial 15 min of intestinal digestion. Full article
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15 pages, 2175 KiB  
Article
The Multi-Loci Genotypes of the Myostatin Gene Associated with Growth Indicators of Intensively Fattened Lambs of Latvian Sheep
by Ilva Trapina, Daina Kairisa, Samanta Plavina, Nikole Krasnevska, Jegors Paramonovs, Liga Senfelde and Natalia Paramonova
Animals 2024, 14(21), 3143; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14213143 - 1 Nov 2024
Viewed by 748
Abstract
Myostatin (MSTN), a member of the TGFβ superfamily, negatively affects skeletal muscle growth and controls muscle development at stages of pre-natal muscle growth. Marker-assisted selection with molecular markers of the MSTN gene can be used in animal husbandry for higher-quality and more economically [...] Read more.
Myostatin (MSTN), a member of the TGFβ superfamily, negatively affects skeletal muscle growth and controls muscle development at stages of pre-natal muscle growth. Marker-assisted selection with molecular markers of the MSTN gene can be used in animal husbandry for higher-quality and more economically profitable lambs. The study aims to identify multi-locus genotypes within the MSTN gene regions as molecular markers for fattening, feed efficiency, and carcass traits in Latvian sheep. This analysis was conducted on 76 intensively fattened male lambs representing six breeds in Latvia. Nine genotypes were identified based on four SNPs in the promoter and exon 1 regions, while six and four SNPs in introns 1 and 2 led to the formation of 14 and 10 genotypes, respectively. Six genotypes identified in the 3′UTR were significantly linked to traits such as birth weight, slaughter yield, muscle development, fat depth, average daily gain, dry matter intake, and feed efficiency. Genotypes of intron 1 were associated with slaughter yield, while genotypes of intron 2 were linked to fat depth, dry matter intake, and residual weight gain. The study concludes that MSTN gene SNPs can be used in selection to enhance sheep breeds in Latvia and improve economic outcomes for breeders. Full article
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11 pages, 282 KiB  
Article
Nutritive Value of Some Concentrate Feedstuffs for Guinea Pigs (Cavia porcellus)
by Gilbert Alagón, Gardenia Tupayachi, Wagner Villacorta, Carla Taco, Moises Jancco, Eloy Zuniga, María del Carmen López-Luján, Luis Ródenas, Vicente Javier Moya, Eugenio Martínez-Paredes, Enrique Blas and Juan José Pascual
Animals 2024, 14(21), 3142; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14213142 - 1 Nov 2024
Viewed by 633
Abstract
The objective of this work was to ascertain the nutritive value of six concentrate feedstuffs commonly used in guinea pig feed manufacturing through the substitution method. Six test diets were obtained by replacing the corresponding basal mixture with 40% corn, 50% barley, 45% [...] Read more.
The objective of this work was to ascertain the nutritive value of six concentrate feedstuffs commonly used in guinea pig feed manufacturing through the substitution method. Six test diets were obtained by replacing the corresponding basal mixture with 40% corn, 50% barley, 45% wheat bran, 35% soybean meal, 30% pigeon pea, or 30% Leucaena leaf meal. Sixty-three guinea pigs were randomly assigned to one of the nine experimental diets (three basal diets and six test diets, with seven animals per diet). The animals were housed in individual cages and provided with feed and water ad libitum. Following a ten-day adaptation period, the feed intake and faeces excretion were monitored for a further five days. The digestible energy content, expressed as kcal/kg dry matter (±standard error), was 3857 ± 83 for corn, 3454 ± 68 for barley, 2911 ± 110 for wheat bran, 3855 ± 81 for soybean meal, 3105 ± 79 for pigeon pea, and 2972 ± 72 for Leucaena leaf meal. The apparent total tract digestibility of crude protein, expressed as % (±standard error) was 73.8 ± 4.9 for corn, 69.5 ± 4.6 for barley, 76.4 ± 3.6 for wheat bran, 88.4 ± 1.0 for soybean meal, 62.1 ± 1.9 for pigeon pea, and 68.0 ± 1.8 for Leucaena leaf meal. Further research is required to increase knowledge about these and other feedstuffs for guinea pigs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Animal Nutrition)
20 pages, 334 KiB  
Commentary
Commentary: A Comparison of the Methods of the Pre-Slaughter Stunning of Cattle in Australia—Mechanical, Electrical, and Diathermic Syncope
by Gabrielle C. Musk and Craig B. Johnson
Animals 2024, 14(21), 3141; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14213141 - 1 Nov 2024
Viewed by 981
Abstract
In adult cattle, there are various methods of pre-slaughter stunning, all requiring adequate restraint to ensure the accurate placement of a device to target the brain of the animal and create an unconscious state. For adult cattle, these methods include electrical stunning, mechanical [...] Read more.
In adult cattle, there are various methods of pre-slaughter stunning, all requiring adequate restraint to ensure the accurate placement of a device to target the brain of the animal and create an unconscious state. For adult cattle, these methods include electrical stunning, mechanical stunning, and a novel system called diathermic syncope (DTS). Peer-reviewed publications, industry reports, government documents, and unpublished reports were considered for inclusion in this review of the attributes of the electrical, mechanical, and diathermic syncope methods of stunning. The parameters for comparison of the methods included Australian approval status, religious compliance, reliability, reversibility, time to effect, duration of effect, carcase damage, cardiovascular effects, logistics, and welfare implications. The pre-slaughter stunning of cattle with DTS is reliable, reversible, non-concussive, non-penetrating, does not cause carcase damage, and has a body of evidence extensive enough to inform appropriate practices in cattle processing facilities. These attributes optimise animal welfare in this context, align with Australian legislative requirements, and suggest that DTS might be a suitable stunning technique for consideration by religious authorities in terms of both halal and kosher slaughter criteria. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Animal Welfare)
14 pages, 1902 KiB  
Article
Genomic Variants Associated with Haematological Parameters and T Lymphocyte Subpopulations in a Large White and Min Pig Intercross Population
by Naiqi Niu, Runze Zhao, Ming Tian, Wencheng Zong, Xinhua Hou, Xin Liu, Ligang Wang, Lixian Wang and Longchao Zhang
Animals 2024, 14(21), 3140; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14213140 - 1 Nov 2024
Viewed by 657
Abstract
The breeding of disease-resistant pigs has consistently been a topic of significant interest and concern within the pig farming industry. The study of pig blood indicators has the potential to confer economic benefits upon the pig farming industry, whilst simultaneously providing valuable insights [...] Read more.
The breeding of disease-resistant pigs has consistently been a topic of significant interest and concern within the pig farming industry. The study of pig blood indicators has the potential to confer economic benefits upon the pig farming industry, whilst simultaneously providing valuable insights that can inform the study of human diseases. In this study, an F2 resource population of 489 individuals was generated through the intercrossing of Large White boars and Min pig sows. A total of 17 haematological parameters and T lymphocyte subpopulations were measured, including white blood cell count (WBC), lymphocyte count (LYM), lymphocyte count percentage (LYM%), monocyte count (MID), monocyte count percentage (MID%), neutrophilic granulocyte count (GRN), percentage of neutrophils (GRN%), mean platelet volume (MPV), platelet distribution width (PDW), platelet count (PLT), CD4+/CD8+, CD4+CD8+CD3+, CD4+CD8−CD3+, CD4−CD8+CD3+, CD4−CD8−CD3+, and CD3+. The Illumina PorcineSNP60 Genotyping BeadChip was obtained for all of the F2 animals. Subsequently, a genome-wide association study (GWAS) was conducted using the TASSEL 5.0 software to identify associated variants and candidate genes for the 17 traits. Significant association signals were identified for PCT and PLT on SSC7, with 1 and 11 significant SNP loci, respectively. A single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) on SSC12 was identified as a significant predictor of the white blood cell (WBC) trait. Significant association signals were detected for the T lymphocyte subpopulations, namely CD4+/CD8+, CD4+CD8+CD3+, CD4+CD8−CD3+, and CD4−CD8+CD3+, with the majority of these signals observed on SSC7. The genes CLIC5, TRIM15, and SLC17A4 were identified as potential candidates for influencing CD4+/CD8+ and CD4−CD8+CD3+. A missense variant, c.2707 G>A, in the SLC17A4 gene has been demonstrated to be significantly associated with the CD4+/CD8+ and CD4-CD8+CD3+ traits. Three missense variants (c.425 A>C, c.500 C>T, and c.733 A>G) have been identified in the TRIM15 gene as being linked to the CD4+/CD8+ trait. Nevertheless, only c.425 A>C has been demonstrated to be significantly associated with CD4-CD8+CD3+. In the CLIC5 gene, one missense variant (c.957 T>C) has been identified as being associated with the CD4+/CD8+ and CD4-CD8+CD3+ traits. Additionally, significant association signals were observed for CD4+CD8+CD3+ and CD4+CD8−CD3+ on SSC2 and 5, respectively. Subsequently, a gene ontology (GO) enrichment analysis was conducted on all genes within the quantitative trait loci (QTL) intervals of platelet count, CD4+/CD8+, and CD4−CD8+CD3+. The MHC class II protein complex binding pathway was identified as the most significant pathway among the three immune traits. These results provide guidance for further research in the field of breeding disease-resistant pigs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Animal Genetics and Genomics)
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10 pages, 1264 KiB  
Article
Animal-Assisted Interventions: Factors Affecting Donkey Behaviours and Attitude Toward Humans
by Serenella d’Ingeo, Valeria Straziota, Marcello Siniscalchi, Onofrio Depalma, Sara Petrassi, Michela Romano and Angelo Quaranta
Animals 2024, 14(21), 3139; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14213139 - 1 Nov 2024
Viewed by 967
Abstract
The relationship between humans and donkeys has ancient origins. In recent years, donkeys’ involvement in Animal-Assisted Intervention (AAI) has grown, raising major concerns about their welfare during these activities. We investigated the factors affecting donkeys’ behaviour during an AAI programme for migrants. We [...] Read more.
The relationship between humans and donkeys has ancient origins. In recent years, donkeys’ involvement in Animal-Assisted Intervention (AAI) has grown, raising major concerns about their welfare during these activities. We investigated the factors affecting donkeys’ behaviour during an AAI programme for migrants. We observed an effect of human distance from the animal, the interaction mode, and food presence on the animals’ behaviours and attitudes toward humans. Moreover, we provide preliminary evidence of the effect of AAI on migrants’ welfare and prosocial behaviours and offer insights into the issues to address in future studies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights in Human-Animal Relationship: Emotions and Welfare)
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23 pages, 1181 KiB  
Review
Biosensors for Monitoring, Detecting, and Tracking Dissemination of Poultry-Borne Bacterial Pathogens Along the Poultry Value Chain: A Review
by Nitish Boodhoo, Janan Shoja Doost and Shayan Sharif
Animals 2024, 14(21), 3138; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14213138 - 1 Nov 2024
Viewed by 1577
Abstract
The poultry industry plays a crucial role in global food production, with chickens being the most widely consumed as a rich protein source. However, infectious diseases pose significant threats to poultry health, underscoring the need for rapid and accurate detection to enable timely [...] Read more.
The poultry industry plays a crucial role in global food production, with chickens being the most widely consumed as a rich protein source. However, infectious diseases pose significant threats to poultry health, underscoring the need for rapid and accurate detection to enable timely intervention. In recent years, biosensors have emerged as essential tools to facilitate routine surveillance on poultry farms and rapid screening at slaughterhouses. These devices provide producers and veterinarians with timely information, thereby promoting proactive disease management. Biosensors have been miniaturized, and portable platforms allow for on-site testing, thereby enhancing biosecurity measures and bolstering disease surveillance networks throughout the poultry supply chain. Consequently, biosensors represent a transformative advancement in poultry disease management, offering rapid and precise detection capabilities that are vital for safeguarding poultry health and ensuring sustainable production systems. This section offers an overview of biosensors and their applications in detecting poultry diseases, with a particular emphasis on enteric pathogens. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Common Infectious Diseases in Poultry)
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14 pages, 4367 KiB  
Article
Microbiological Characteristics of the Gastrointestinal Tracts of Jersey and Holstein Cows
by Lei Wang, Kai Wang, Lirong Hu, Hanpeng Luo, Shangzhen Huang, Hailiang Zhang, Yao Chang, Dengke Liu, Gang Guo, Xixia Huang, Qing Xu and Yachun Wang
Animals 2024, 14(21), 3137; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14213137 - 1 Nov 2024
Viewed by 777
Abstract
The gastrointestinal bacterial microbiota is essential for maintaining the health of dairy cows and ensuring their production potential, and it may also help explain the breed-related phenotypic differences. Therefore, investigating the differences in gastrointestinal bacterial microbiota between breeds is critical for deciphering the [...] Read more.
The gastrointestinal bacterial microbiota is essential for maintaining the health of dairy cows and ensuring their production potential, and it may also help explain the breed-related phenotypic differences. Therefore, investigating the differences in gastrointestinal bacterial microbiota between breeds is critical for deciphering the mechanisms behind these differences and exploring the potential for improving milk production by regulating the gastrointestinal bacterial microbiota. This study holistically examined the differences between rumen and hindgut bacterial microbiota in a large cohort of two breeds of dairy cows, comprising 184 Jersey cows and 165 Holstein cows. Significant distinctions were identified between the rumen and hindgut bacterial microbiota of dairy cows, with these differences being consistent across breeds. A total of 20 breed-differentiated microorganisms, comprising 14 rumen microorganisms and 6 hindgut microorganisms, were screened, which may be the primary drivers of the observed differences in lactation performance between Jersey and Holstein cows. The present study revealed the spatial heterogeneity of the gastrointestinal bacterial microbiota of Jersey and Holstein cows and identified microbial biomarkers of different breeds. These findings enhance our understanding of the differences in the gastrointestinal bacterial microbiota between Jersey and Holstein cows and may provide useful information for optimizing the composition of the intestinal bacterial microbiota of the two breeds of dairy cows. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rumen Microbiome and Metabolome in Dairy Cattle)
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16 pages, 1813 KiB  
Article
Changes in Erythrocytes in 88 Hyperthyroid Cats
by Olga Gójska-Zygner, Grzegorz Kotomski, Joanna Gajger, Luke J. Norbury and Wojciech Zygner
Animals 2024, 14(21), 3136; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14213136 - 31 Oct 2024
Viewed by 711
Abstract
Background: There is only a limited number of studies that show alterations in erythrocytes in feline hyperthyroidism. Discrepancies between the findings of these studies may be caused by the presence of concurrent diseases and the use of various haematological analysers. Methods: This study [...] Read more.
Background: There is only a limited number of studies that show alterations in erythrocytes in feline hyperthyroidism. Discrepancies between the findings of these studies may be caused by the presence of concurrent diseases and the use of various haematological analysers. Methods: This study analysed changes in red blood cells (RBCs) in 88 hyperthyroid cats without concurrent diseases, to identify associations between observed changes and to assess the influence of serum thyroxine (T4) concentration, cat age, and sex, on RBC changes. Results: Among the eighty-eight hyperthyroid cats, erythrocytosis was observed in twelve, anaemia in four, macrocytosis in two, and microcytosis in three. Three of the four cases of anaemia probably resulted from concurrent unrecognised disease. Interestingly, all cases of microcytosis were recognized in cats that had erythrocytosis. This study identified a moderate negative correlation between RBC count and mean corpuscular volume (MCV; r = −0.57, p < 0.001). Concluding, it appears that erythrocytosis may be a response to the development of microcytosis. The correlation between RBC count and MCV in hyperthyroid cats may result from the increased action of hepcidin and erythropoietin coupled with the decreased action of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Companion Animals)
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17 pages, 1902 KiB  
Review
Updating Research on Extracellular Vesicles of the Male Reproductive Tract in Farm Animals: A Systematic Review
by Pablo Martínez-Díaz, Ana Parra, Marina Montesdeoca, Isabel Barranco and Jordi Roca
Animals 2024, 14(21), 3135; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14213135 - 31 Oct 2024
Viewed by 611
Abstract
This systematic review examined research studies on extracellular vesicles (EVs) of the male reproductive tract in livestock species to summarize the research topics and methodologies used, key findings, and future directions. PubMed and Scopus were searched for time ranges up to 1 September [...] Read more.
This systematic review examined research studies on extracellular vesicles (EVs) of the male reproductive tract in livestock species to summarize the research topics and methodologies used, key findings, and future directions. PubMed and Scopus were searched for time ranges up to 1 September 2024, and 1383 articles were identified. The application of screening and eligibility criteria resulted in the selection of 79 articles focusing on male reproductive EVs in livestock. Porcine and bovine male reproductive EVs were the most studied. A variety of EV isolation techniques were used, with ultracentrifugation being the most common. Characterization of male reproductive EVs in livestock was a weak point, with only 24.05% of the articles characterizing EVs according to MISEV guidelines. Inadequate characterization of EVs compromises the reliability of results. The results of 19 articles that provided a good characterization of EVs showed that male reproductive EVs from livestock species are phenotypically and compositionally heterogeneous. These papers also showed that these EVs would be involved in the regulation of sperm functionality. Research on male reproductive EVs in livestock species remains scarce, and further research is needed, which should include appropriate characterization of EVs and aim to find efficient methods to isolate them and assess their involvement in the functionality of spermatozoa and the cells of the female genital tract. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Animal Reproduction)
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16 pages, 10249 KiB  
Article
Canine Distemper Virus in Sardinia, Italy: Detection and Phylogenetic Analysis in Foxes
by Elisabetta Coradduzza, Fiori Mariangela Stefania, Davide Pintus, Luca Ferretti, Alice Ledda, Gian Simone Chessa, Angela Maria Rocchigiani, Giada Lostia, Renata Rossi, Maria Giovanna Cancedda, Simona Macciocu, Marcella Cherchi, Daniele Denurra, Antonio Pintore, Roberto Bechere, Flavia Pudda, Marco Muzzeddu, Maria Antonietta Dettori, Angelo Ruiu, Paolo Briguglio, Ciriaco Ligios and Giantonella Puggioniadd Show full author list remove Hide full author list
Animals 2024, 14(21), 3134; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14213134 - 31 Oct 2024
Viewed by 562
Abstract
Canine distemper virus (CDV) is the etiological agent of a highly prevalent viral infectious disease of carnivores, which could seriously lead to a threat to the conservation of the affected species worldwide [...] Full article
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