Animals

12 pages, 611 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Cutaneous Allodynia of the Withers in Cattle: An Experimental In Vivo Neuroanatomical Preliminary Investigation of the Dichotomizing Sensory Neurons Projecting into the Reticulum and Skin of the Withers—A Case Study on Two Calves

by Roberto Chiocchetti, Luciano Pisoni, Monika Joechler, Adele Cancellieri, Fiorella Giancola, Giorgia Galiazzo, Giulia Salamanca, Rodrigo Zamith Cunha and Arcangelo Gentile

Animals 2025, 15(12), 1689; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15121689 - 6 Jun 2025

Abstract

The presence of dichotomizing neurons in the dorsal root ganglia (DRG) of cattle, innervating both the reticulum and the withers, may indicate a pre-spinal convergence of visceral and cutaneous sensory information, i.e., that the DRG primary sensory neurons may elaborate the sensory information [...] Read more.

The presence of dichotomizing neurons in the dorsal root ganglia (DRG) of cattle, innervating both the reticulum and the withers, may indicate a pre-spinal convergence of visceral and cutaneous sensory information, i.e., that the DRG primary sensory neurons may elaborate the sensory information coming from two different anatomical areas before reaching the secondary sensory neurons within the spinal cord. This anatomical feature could be the underlying basis for the cutaneous allodynia observed in traumatic reticuloperitonitis, also known as the “Kalchschmidt pain test”. The aim of the study was to identify the DRG primary sensory neurons innervating the reticulum and the withers by using two different retrograde fluorescent tracers, Fast Blue (FB, affinity for cytoplasm) and Diamidino Yellow (DY, affinity for nucleus). In two anesthetized calves, FB and DY were injected into the reticulum and skin of the withers, respectively. At the end of the experimental period, the calves were deeply anesthetized and then euthanatized. The thoracic (T1–T8) DRG were collected and processed to obtain cryosections which were examined on a fluorescent microscope. A large number of neurons localized, especially in the T7 DRG, presented nuclei labeled with DY. On the contrary, only a few neurons localized exclusively in T6 and T7 DRG presented the cytoplasm labeled with FB. No neurons displayed FB and DY simultaneously within the cytoplasm and nucleus, respectively. The absence of double-labeled DRG neurons suggests that the convergence of visceral and somatic sensory inputs underlying the Kalchschmidt pain response likely does not occur at the level of individual DRG neurons. Rather, it may involve higher-order integrative centers, possibly including vagal pathways and brainstem nuclei which integrate the afferent information to coordinate respiratory movements of the diaphragm, intercostal muscles, and larynx. Although limited by the sample size, this case study provides a neuroanatomical basis for further investigation into central mechanisms of referred visceral pain in cattle. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Cattle)

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12 pages, 731 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Heat Stress on Estrus Expression and Pregnancy in Dairy Cows

by Szilvia Szalai, Ákos Bodnár, Hedvig Fébel, Mikolt Bakony and Viktor Jurkovich

Animals 2025, 15(12), 1688; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15121688 - 6 Jun 2025

Abstract

This study investigated how environmental temperature affects estrus behavior and pregnancy rates in lactating dairy cows during induced estrus. We hypothesized that higher temperatures reduce estrus expression and pregnancy rates and influence hormone levels. Fifty-eight healthy, multiparous, ovulation-synchronized cows were studied under heat [...] Read more.

This study investigated how environmental temperature affects estrus behavior and pregnancy rates in lactating dairy cows during induced estrus. We hypothesized that higher temperatures reduce estrus expression and pregnancy rates and influence hormone levels. Fifty-eight healthy, multiparous, ovulation-synchronized cows were studied under heat stress (summer) and non-stress (winter) conditions. Cows were assigned to G7G or OvSynch (OVS) hormone protocols. Blood samples collected on insemination day measured estradiol, LH, prolactin, insulin, and IGF-1 concentrations. Estrus signs and behaviors were also recorded. We found that during summer, daily maximum temperature–humidity Index (THI) values mostly exceeded 68, confirming the presence of heat stress. Estrus behaviors—especially standing and mounting—were significantly reduced under heat stress, occurring five to seven times more frequently in winter than in summer. Estrus detection rate was 86% in winter and 53% in summer. Pregnancy rates also declined sharply in summer (10%) compared to winter (39%), with all summer pregnancies in the G7G group. Hormonal analysis showed that estradiol levels remained consistent in the G7G group, while in the OVS group, it was significantly higher in winter than in summer. No significant seasonal differences were observed in the other hormones. Our findings indicate that heat stress impairs estrus expression and pregnancy rates in dairy cows. However, we conclude that the choice of hormone synchronization protocol (G7G) and the use of an automated estrus detection system may help to improve reproductive performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Heat Stress and Livestock: Effects on the Physiology)

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14 pages, 594 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Establishment and Validation of Sensitive Liquid Chromatography–Tandem Mass Spectrometry Method for Aldosterone Quantification in Feline Serum with Reference Interval Determination

by Tommaso Furlanello, Francesca Maria Bertolini, Andrea Zoia, Jose Sanchez del Pulgar and Riccardo Masti

Animals 2025, 15(12), 1687; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15121687 - 6 Jun 2025

Abstract

Aldosterone, a mineralocorticoid hormone synthesised in the adrenal cortex, is essential for maintaining electrolyte balance and fluid homeostasis. Its role in feline physiology remains underexplored, despite its importance in regulating sodium reabsorption and potassium excretion via mineralocorticoid receptors in renal tubules. This study [...] Read more.

Aldosterone, a mineralocorticoid hormone synthesised in the adrenal cortex, is essential for maintaining electrolyte balance and fluid homeostasis. Its role in feline physiology remains underexplored, despite its importance in regulating sodium reabsorption and potassium excretion via mineralocorticoid receptors in renal tubules. This study is warranted given aldosterone’s importance in cats, particularly in light of their unique physiological traits, including highly concentrated urine and sensitivity to hydration status. Primary hyperaldosteronism, the most common feline adrenocortical disorder, contributes to arterial hypertension and chronic kidney disease, yet often remains underdiagnosed due to overlapping symptoms like hypokalaemia and hypertension. This research aimed to validate a liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method to measure serum aldosterone and to establish a reference interval in a population of healthy cats across a broad age range. The method demonstrated high precision and accuracy, with inter-assay coefficients of variation under 15%. Analysis of 49 healthy cats (40 young, 9 old) revealed a reference interval of 5.0–78.4 pg/mL (13.8–217.2 pmol/L). These findings provide a robust framework for diagnosing aldosterone-related disorders in cats and underscore the need for species-specific diagnostic tools. Improved understanding of aldosterone’s role could refine treatment strategies and enhance outcomes for affected feline patients. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Canine and Feline Endocrinology: Research Progress and Challenges)

16 pages, 1429 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Bioactive Element Biodistribution of Different Biological Substrates in Sheep and Goats

by Vincenzo Nava, Francesca Aragona, Angela Giorgia Potortì, Salvatore De Caro, Beatrice Di Bella, Federica Litrenta and Francesco Fazio

Animals 2025, 15(12), 1686; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15121686 - 6 Jun 2025

Abstract

The production and reproduction of small ruminants, such as sheep and goats, living under extensive range-grazing conditions may be influenced by the availability of nutrients and the mineral content of forage. This study evaluated the biodistribution of calcium (Ca), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), [...] Read more.

The production and reproduction of small ruminants, such as sheep and goats, living under extensive range-grazing conditions may be influenced by the availability of nutrients and the mineral content of forage. This study evaluated the biodistribution of calcium (Ca), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), magnesium (Mg), manganese (Mn), sodium (Na) and zinc (Zn) in whole blood, serum, blood clots, plasma, plasma sediments and hair in sheep and goats. Forty clinically healthy, nonpregnant female sheep and goats were enrolled in the study. Hair and blood samples were performed in duplicate to assess mineral concentration in biological substrates using a Thermo Scientific iCAP- Q ICP-MS spectrometer (Omaha, Ne, USA). Higher levels of Ca, Cu, Fe, Mg, and Na were observed in blood and blood clots than in serum, plasma, plasma sediments and hair in sheep and goats. A significant effect of species was observed for all the bioactive element concentrations in the investigated substrates (p < 0.05). The results revealed positive correlations between serum and plasma for all investigated elements in sheep (p < 0.0001) and for Mn and Na in goats (p < 0.001), as well as between serum and blood for Ca, Fe, Mg and Mn in sheep (p < 0.0001) and for Ca and Mn in goats (p < 0.001). Plasma and blood showed a positive correlation for Ca, Fe, and Mn (p < 0.001) in sheep, and for Fe, Mn, Na, and Zn (p < 0.0001) in goats. These findings elucidate differences in biodistribution between sheep and goats, offering valuable insights for livestock production. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Small Ruminants)

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10 pages, 455 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Molecular Prevalence and Genotyping of Toxoplasma gondii in Sheep Tissues Intended for Human Consumption in Shanxi Province, North China

by Xin-Sheng Lu, Jing Li, Chen Wang, Lu Wang, Xiao-Jing Wu, Xi-Long Yi, Ze-Xuan Wu, Wen-Bin Zheng and Xing-Quan Zhu

Animals 2025, 15(12), 1685; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15121685 - 6 Jun 2025

Abstract

Toxoplasma gondii is one of the most widely distributed intracellular parasites worldwide, which can infect humans and a wide range of warm-blooded animals including sheep, with felines serving as its definitive host. T. gondii infection in sheep can lead to premature births, abortions [...] Read more.

Toxoplasma gondii is one of the most widely distributed intracellular parasites worldwide, which can infect humans and a wide range of warm-blooded animals including sheep, with felines serving as its definitive host. T. gondii infection in sheep can lead to premature births, abortions and stillbirths, causing significant economic losses to the sheep industry. Sheep farming has become a key pillar of the agricultural economy in Shanxi Province, North China, but little is known about T. gondii infection in sheep in this province. In the present study, a total of 755 sheep tissue samples (682 muscle tissue samples and 73 lymphatic tissue samples) were collected from different markets in 10 different cities of Shanxi Province. The genomic DNA of all samples was extracted and the B1 gene of T. gondii was amplified by PCR. The B1 gene-positive samples were genotyped at 12 genetic markers employing the multilocus nested PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism (Mn-PCR-RFLP). The molecular prevalence of T. gondii infection in sheep tissues in Shanxi Province was 20.5% (155/755). The T. gondii genotype ToxoDB#9 was identified in one positive T. gondii sample, with complete genotyping at all 12 genetic markers based on Mn-PCR-RFLP. This is the first report of molecular prevalence and genotype of T. gondii infection in sheep in Shanxi Province. These results reveal the widespread distribution of T. gondii in sheep in Shanxi, which is of significant public health importance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Coccidian Parasites: Epidemiology, Control and Prevention Strategies)

21 pages, 1248 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Mannan-Rich Fraction Supplementation: A Promising Nutritional Strategy for Optimizing Growth and Health of Pre-Weaning Calves

by Shanshan Guo, Yanfei Feng, Jianhao Yang, Haomiao Zhao, Jiajun Ma, Yuan Zhang, Mengkun Sun, Yifan Li, Gang Lin, Pengfei Lin, Aihua Wang and Yaping Jin

Animals 2025, 15(12), 1684; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15121684 - 6 Jun 2025

Abstract

The early-stage feeding of calves significantly impacts their lifelong productive performance. During this period, the calves’ digestive tracts are in a dynamic state of development, making nutritional regulation a key factor in optimizing their growth potential. This research investigated the influence of mannan-rich [...] Read more.

The early-stage feeding of calves significantly impacts their lifelong productive performance. During this period, the calves’ digestive tracts are in a dynamic state of development, making nutritional regulation a key factor in optimizing their growth potential. This research investigated the influence of mannan-rich fraction (MRF) supplementation on pre-weaning calves. Sixty healthy Holstein calves were randomly divided into a control group and three MRF-supplemented groups (seven males and eight females per group) with low (L-MRF, 2.5 g/calf per day), medium (M-MRF, 5 g/calf per day), and high (H-MRF, 10 g/calf per day) doses. Growth performance, serum biochemical indicators, organ indices, intestinal morphology, and short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) concentrations were measured over a 42-day experiment. Compared with the control group, the M-MRF group had 4.9% higher overall body weight, body length, and starter intake, alongside a reduced diarrhea incidence by 4.6%. At day 14, MRF-supplemented groups exhibited significantly lower Interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) levels, along with significantly higher Interleukin-12 (IL-12), growth hormone (GH), and Immunoglobulin G (IgG) levels. By day 42, IL-6 and Interleukin-1β (IL-1β) levels were also significantly decreased. Additionally, the lung and liver indices were higher and villus height was greater in both the jejunum and colon with MRF supplementation. In terms of SCFAs, the acetate level in the jejunum and the butyrate level in the colon were significantly higher in the MRF-supplemented calves. Both acetate in the jejunum and butyrate in the colon showed a significantly positive correlation with growth performance. Taken together, these findings suggest that MRF supplementation (particularly at 5 g/day) supports calf growth, gut health, and immunity, making it a promising nutritional strategy for pre-weaning calves. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Cattle)

2 pages, 366 KiB

Open AccessCorrection

Correction: Luzardo et al. Integrating Conservation and Community Engagement in Free-Roaming Cat Management: A Case Study from a Natura 2000 Protected Area. Animals 2025, 15, 429

by Octavio P. Luzardo, Andrea Hansen, Beatriz Martín-Cruz, Ana Macías-Montes and María del Mar Travieso-Aja

Animals 2025, 15(12), 1683; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15121683 - 6 Jun 2025

Abstract

In the original publication [...] Full article

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13 pages, 1842 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Bright-Field Multiplex Immunohistochemistry in Swine PCV2 and PRRSV Lymphadenopathies

by Giulia D’Annunzio, Luisa Vera Muscatello, Chiara Tugnoli, Stefano Pesaro, Andrea Luppi, Michelangelo Fiorentino, Tania Franceschini, Alessia Grillini, Gianluca Rugna, Giuseppe Sarli and Luciana Mandrioli

Animals 2025, 15(12), 1682; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15121682 - 6 Jun 2025

Abstract

Multiplex immunostaining (mIHC) allows the simultaneous detection of multiple antigenic targets within the same tissue section, providing a deeper understanding of spatial variation in cellular distribution. The aim of the present study is to apply this technique to examine the spatial variation of [...] Read more.

Multiplex immunostaining (mIHC) allows the simultaneous detection of multiple antigenic targets within the same tissue section, providing a deeper understanding of spatial variation in cellular distribution. The aim of the present study is to apply this technique to examine the spatial variation of lymphocyte populations in swine lymph nodes during PCV2-SD and PRRSV lymphadenopathy compared with reactive lymphoid hyperplasia. A triple immunohistochemical stain with CD3, CD20 and IBA1 antibodies for the concurrent detection of T lymphocytes, B lymphocytes and macrophages, respectively, was performed. Multiplex immunohistochemistry (mIHC) revealed that, compared to reactive hyperplasia, the most significant changes in lymph node cell populations occurred in the follicles for both PCV2 and PRRSV infections. Additionally, in PCV2 cases, notable alterations were also observed in the interfollicular areas. In PCV2-affected lymph nodes, follicles not only significantly decreased in number but also showed a marked significant reduction in CD20⁺ and CD3⁺ cells. The interfollicular region in these cases also exhibited a significant reduction in CD3⁺ cells. In contrast, PRRSV-associated lymphadenopathy showed significantly increased CD20⁺ cells in the follicles, with a similar trend noted in the interfollicular region. mIHC provides more informative results on a single tissue section, thus preserving the topographical information of the tissue and allowing a comprehensive study of cellular composition, cellular functionality and cell–cell interactions, proving to be a valuable tool for studying and understanding disease dynamics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Veterinary Clinical Studies: From Current to Emerging Technologies and Innovative Approaches for the Future)

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26 pages, 10731 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Lactobacillus Supplementation Modulates Rumen Microbiota and Metabolism in Yaks Under Fattening Feeding Conditions: A Comprehensive Multi-Omics Analysis

by Jianlei Jia, Pengjia Bao, Ning Li, Siyuan Kong, Min Chu, Qian Chen and Ping Yan

Animals 2025, 15(12), 1681; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15121681 - 6 Jun 2025

Abstract

The rumen is a critical organ that facilitates nutrient digestion in ruminant animals. However, the biological mechanisms by which rumen microbiota and its metabolites enable Lactobacillus to modulate rumen structure and maintain functional homeostasis under fattening feeding conditions remain poorly understood. In this [...] Read more.

The rumen is a critical organ that facilitates nutrient digestion in ruminant animals. However, the biological mechanisms by which rumen microbiota and its metabolites enable Lactobacillus to modulate rumen structure and maintain functional homeostasis under fattening feeding conditions remain poorly understood. In this study, 80 male Pamir yaks were selected, and a 170-day data collection phase was implemented. Correlation phenotypic data and multi-omics analyses (rumen microbial sequencing and rumen epithelial metabolomics) were conducted to investigate the regulatory effects of Lactobacillus supplementation on rumen microbiota and metabolic processes in a concentrate-based rearing yak model. The results demonstrated that feeding a high-energy diet may impair yak ruminal histomorphology, microbiota composition, and function while negatively modulating rumen microbiota–metabolic profiles associated with specific ruminal microbial communities and functions. Lactobacillus intervention treatment optimized the yak ruminal microbiome composition (mucous layer maturation was promoted, Prevotella and Ruminococcus abundance were reduced, and Fibrobacter and Muribaculaceae abundance were increased), thereby altering metabolite concentrations involved in various metabolic pathways under a high-energy feeding pattern (fatty acid metabolism pathways were upregulated). These alterations elucidated the beneficial impacts of the Lactobacillus supplementation strategy on yak ruminal health without compromising the high-energy intensive rearing pattern. Furthermore, the regulated ruminal microbiome metabolites may serve as potential biomarkers for future investigations into the functional impacts of Lactobacillus intervention treatment on healthy feeding strategies for yaks. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Animal Nutrition)

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17 pages, 1111 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Cryodiluent and Time of Glycerol Addition on Cryopreservation and In Vitro Fertilization of Domestic Cat Epididymal Spermatozoa

by Natalia Gañán, Raquel González, Ana Sanchez-Rodriguez and Eduardo R. S. Roldan

Animals 2025, 15(12), 1680; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15121680 - 6 Jun 2025

Abstract

Sperm cryopreservation and assisted reproduction are powerful tools for the conservation of endangered species. The domestic cat has been a useful model for studying wild felid reproductive biology due to the limited availability of endangered individuals for experimental research. Here, we investigate the [...] Read more.

Sperm cryopreservation and assisted reproduction are powerful tools for the conservation of endangered species. The domestic cat has been a useful model for studying wild felid reproductive biology due to the limited availability of endangered individuals for experimental research. Here, we investigate the effect of cryodiluents (TEST vs. Biladyl) and the timing of glycerol addition (before vs. after refrigeration, in one vs. three steps, respectively) on post-thaw sperm quality (motility, acrosome integrity) and their subsequent in vitro fertilization (IVF) ability with homologous oocytes. The results showed no statistically significant differences in sperm traits when samples were cryopreserved in TEST or Biladyl, or when glycerol was added in one or three steps. Motile sperm and intact acrosomes were significantly correlated before and after cryopreservation, indicating consistent relationships in fresh and thawed samples. The use of Biladyl significantly reduced IVF rates after cryopreservation compared to fresh sperm. Cryopreservation in TEST led to IVF rates that were not significantly different from those of fresh sperm. Using swim-up after thawing, or adding 1 mM pentoxifylline, did not enhance IVF results. Overall, a TEST cryodiluent with 4% glycerol added in one step is a reliable option for preserving epididymal cat spermatozoa. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Conservation and Sperm Quality in Domestic Animals)

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14 pages, 1632 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Innovation in the Processing of Native Round Fish: A Readjustment of the Processing Workflow for Salmonella spp. Control in a Fish Processing Plant in the State of Mato Grosso

by Jaqueline Oliveira Reis, Nathaly Barros Nunes, Yuri Duarte Porto, Adelino Cunha Neto, Sara Rodrigues de Souza, Washington da Guia Fonseca, Alexsandro Siqueira da Silva, Luciana Kimie Savay-da-Silva and Eduardo Eustáquio de Souza Figueiredo

Animals 2025, 15(12), 1679; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15121679 - 6 Jun 2025

Abstract

Salmonella spp. is a pathogen detected in fish, although it is not part of its microbiota; the production and processing environment is the main source of contamination. Brazilian legislation recommends 5 ppm of free residual chlorine for fish washing, but Salmonella can still [...] Read more.

Salmonella spp. is a pathogen detected in fish, although it is not part of its microbiota; the production and processing environment is the main source of contamination. Brazilian legislation recommends 5 ppm of free residual chlorine for fish washing, but Salmonella can still be present. The objective of this study was to evaluate flaws in the processing flowchart and propose adjustments to reduce Salmonella spp. on the fish surface. Ninety samples were analyzed in a fish processing plant in Mato Grosso, divided into three treatments: (1) conventional processing, (2) modified flowchart, and (3) modified flowchart adapted to the specific plant conditions. Treatment 2 completely eliminated Salmonella spp., while treatment 3 reduced contamination to 3.3%, compared to 56.7% in conventional processing. The success of the modified treatment was only possible due to the main changes implemented in the process, which included the separation of dirty areas (responsible for gill and scale removal) and clean areas (designated for the careful removal of viscera without rupture and for filleting). No statistical difference was found between treatments 2 and 3 (p = 1, CI 0.00000–39.00055), suggesting that the adjusted flowchart can be implemented on a large scale to ensure food safety (OR = ∞, CI = [7.655, ∞], p < 0.001). This study highlights the effectiveness of the adjusted flowchart in reducing Salmonella spp. contamination in fish, with treatment 2 resulting in a complete absence of contamination. Treatment 3 maintained low contamination levels, demonstrating practical applicability in meatpacking plants. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Animal Products)

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13 pages, 1825 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The First Report of Rhino DNA in Thailand: A Possible Extinct Indian Javan Subspecies, Rhinoceros sondaicus inermis

by Yada Katanyuphan, Pipad Krajaejun, Athiwat Wattanapituksakul and Wunrada Surat

Animals 2025, 15(12), 1678; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15121678 - 6 Jun 2025

Abstract

The Javan rhino is a critically endangered species that has become extinct in several Asian countries, including Thailand. There are three Javan rhino subspecies: Rhinoceros sondaicus sondaicus, R. s. annamiticus, and R. s. inermis, and the first two subspecies existed [...] Read more.

The Javan rhino is a critically endangered species that has become extinct in several Asian countries, including Thailand. There are three Javan rhino subspecies: Rhinoceros sondaicus sondaicus, R. s. annamiticus, and R. s. inermis, and the first two subspecies existed in Thailand decades ago. However, no genetic study on Thai rhinos has been reported. In this study, we amplified a partial D-loop region of two ancient rhino specimens dated to approximately 100 years before present, from southwest Thailand. Then, we constructed phylogenetic trees and a haplotype network based on the D-loop sequences of the Thai rhinos and 39 Javan, Sumatran, and Indian rhinos from the GenBank database. The ancient Thai rhino DNA belonged to Javan rhinos and was clearly separated from R. s. annamiticus and R. s. sondaicus. The nucleotide differences among the ancient Thai, R. s. annamiticus, and R. s. sondaicus rhino DNA were 5.14–8.30%, similar to those between two white rhino subspecies. Moreover, species delimitation analyses confirmed that the ancient Thai rhinos should belong to another Javan rhino subspecies, possibly the extinct Indian Javan rhino. This is the first report of rhino DNA from Thailand and possibly the Indian Javan rhino DNA, which could be used for evolutionary studies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Mammals)

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19 pages, 2101 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Embryonic Thermal Manipulation Affects Body Performance Parameters and Cecum Microbiome in Broiler Chickens in Response to Post-Hatch Chronic Heat Stress Challenge

by Rahmeh Dahadha, Seif Hundam, Mohammad Borhan Al-Zghoul, Lo’ai Alanagreh, Mustafa Ababneh, Mohammad Mayyas, Daoud Alghizzawi, Minas A. Mustafa, David E. Gerrard and Rami A. Dalloul

Animals 2025, 15(12), 1677; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15121677 - 6 Jun 2025

Abstract

Rising global temperatures challenge poultry production by disrupting the cecal microbiota, which is essential for chicken health. Thermal manipulation (TM) during embryogenesis is a potential strategy to enhance thermotolerance in broilers. This study examined TM’s effects on the cecal microbiome, body weight (BW), [...] Read more.

Rising global temperatures challenge poultry production by disrupting the cecal microbiota, which is essential for chicken health. Thermal manipulation (TM) during embryogenesis is a potential strategy to enhance thermotolerance in broilers. This study examined TM’s effects on the cecal microbiome, body weight (BW), and body temperature (BT) under chronic heat stress (CHS). Fertile Indian River eggs (n = 800) were incubated under control (37.8 °C, 56% RH) or TM conditions (39 °C, 65% RH for 18 h per day from embryonic day 10 to 18). On post-hatch day 18, male chicks were assigned to either CHS (35 ± 0.5 °C for five days) or thermoneutral conditions (24 ± 0.5 °C). The CHS-TM group showed a significantly higher BW than the CHS-CON group (p < 0.05). Under thermoneutral conditions, TM chicks had a lower BT on day 1 (p < 0.05), while the CHS-TM group exhibited a non-significant BT reduction compared to the CHS-CON group under heat stress (p > 0.05). An analysis of the gut microbiome showed that the beta diversity analysis (PERMANOVA, p < 0.05) indicated distinct microbial shifts. Firmicutes and Bacteroidota dominated the phylum level, with CHS increased Bacilli and Lactobacillus while reducing Lachnospirales in the CHS-TM group. These findings suggest that TM modulates gut microbiota and mitigates BW loss, offering a potential strategy to enhance broilers’ resilience to heat stress. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Microbiota in the Poultry Gastrointestinal Tract: Implications for Health, Nutrition and Productivity)

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21 pages, 790 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of Capsaicin Supplementation on the Enhancement of Passive Immunity Transfer Through Modulation of Immunoglobulin Absorption in Neonatal Calves

by Ermes R. Rodas, Luis E. Ayala, Jorge B. Dután, Gissela E. Gañan, José L. Pesántez and Juan V. González-Martín

Animals 2025, 15(12), 1676; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15121676 - 6 Jun 2025

Abstract

In cattle, the transfer of passive immunity from mother to calf across the placenta is limited. Therefore, providing quality colostrum or supplementing with additives that enhance this attribute is crucial to optimise the transfer of passive immunity (TPI). The objective of the present [...] Read more.

In cattle, the transfer of passive immunity from mother to calf across the placenta is limited. Therefore, providing quality colostrum or supplementing with additives that enhance this attribute is crucial to optimise the transfer of passive immunity (TPI). The objective of the present study was to investigate the effect of capsaicin on the absorption of immunoglobulins, metabolites, and enzymes to optimise TPI in neonatal calves, and to assess its impact on selected physiological parameters. Two experimental groups were established: a control group (CON; n = 8), which received colostrum in three feedings (at 1, 12, and 20 h after calving), and a capsaicin group (CAP; n = 8) which received 40 mg of capsaicin per kilogram of body weight added to the colostrum. Birth weight (CON = 36.7 ± 1.10 kg; CAP = 36.2 ± 2.64 kg) and weight at 48 h of age (CON = 38.5 ± 1.11 kg; CAP = 38.0 ± 2.82 kg) were similar between the two experimental groups. At 48 h post-colostrum feeding, the CAP group exhibited significantly higher serum concentrations of IgG, total protein, and albumin—up to 23.4 times greater than those observed in the CON group (p < 0.001). Moreover, levels of glucose, cholesterol, and triglycerides were significantly elevated in the CAP group compared to the CON group (p < 0.05). Similarly, higher concentrations of alkaline phosphatase, aspartate aminotransferase, and alanine aminotransferase were observed in the CAP group. These findings suggest that the inclusion of 40 mg of capsaicin per kilogram of body weight in colostrum is safe and contributes positively to improving TPI in crossbred Holstein calves raised at altitudes higher than 2500 m above sea level. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Cattle)

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15 pages, 1285 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Canine Transmissible Venereal Tumor: Anatomical Locations, Chemotherapy Response, and Epidemiological Aspects at a Veterinary Teaching Hospital, in Brazil (2012–2022)

by Pedro Antônio Bronhara Pimentel, Lorena Diniz Macedo Silva Maia, Isadora Maria Sátiro de Oliveira, Camila Stefanie Fonseca de Oliveira, Antonio Giuliano, Angel Almendros and Rodrigo dos Santos Horta

Animals 2025, 15(12), 1675; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15121675 - 6 Jun 2025

Abstract

Canine transmissible venereal tumor (CTVT) is a contagious neoplasm with low metastatic potential, primarily affecting free-roaming and stray dogs. Despite its global presence, epidemiological data from some regions remain limited. This study employed a retrospective observational design and analyzed 131 CTVT cases diagnosed [...] Read more.

Canine transmissible venereal tumor (CTVT) is a contagious neoplasm with low metastatic potential, primarily affecting free-roaming and stray dogs. Despite its global presence, epidemiological data from some regions remain limited. This study employed a retrospective observational design and analyzed 131 CTVT cases diagnosed via cytology or histopathology at a veterinary teaching hospital in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, aiming to describe the anatomical distribution, treatment outcomes, and epidemiological patterns. Most affected dogs were mixed-breed (70.2%) and female (61.1%), with a median age of 4.5 years. Genital involvement was most common (87.0%), followed by cutaneous (10.7%), nasal (6.1%), and oral (4.6%) tumors. Concurrent tumor locations included genital-cutaneous (5.3%) and oronasal (3.1%). Females had more genital cases, while males were more likely to present cutaneous and nasal CTVT, with 5.2 times greater odds for nasal tumors (OR = 5.2; 95% CI = 1.2–25.9). Purebred dogs also had increased odds of nasal involvement (OR = 8.2; 95% CI = 1.9–40.7). Vincristine chemotherapy was effective, and the number of sessions required for a complete response was not associated with clinical presentation, breed or size. These findings highlight the varied presentations of CTVT and reinforce the need for clinical awareness of non-genital forms. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Companion Animals)

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