Animals

8 pages, 1646 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Maneuverability of the Scope and Instruments within Three Different Single-Incision Laparoscopic Ports: An Experimental Pilot Study

by Georg Haider, Ursula Schulz, Nikola Katic, Christian Peham and Gilles Dupré

Animals 2021, 11(5), 1242; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11051242 - 26 Apr 2021

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2757

Abstract

Single-port access systems (SPASs) are currently used in human and veterinary surgeries. However, they pose technical challenges, such as instrument crowding, intra- and extracorporeal instrument collision, and reduced maneuverability. Studies comparing the maneuverability of the scopes and instruments in different SPASs are lacking. [...] Read more.

Single-port access systems (SPASs) are currently used in human and veterinary surgeries. However, they pose technical challenges, such as instrument crowding, intra- and extracorporeal instrument collision, and reduced maneuverability. Studies comparing the maneuverability of the scopes and instruments in different SPASs are lacking. This study aimed to compare the maneuverability of three different SPASs: the Covidien SILS-port, Storz Endocone, and glove port. A clear acrylic box with artificial skin placed at the bottom was used to mimic the abdominal wall and cavity. The three SPASs were placed from below, and a 10-mm endoscope and 5-mm instrument were introduced. A motion analysis system consisting of 18 cameras and motion analysis software were used to track the movement of the endoscope and instrument, to determine the volume of the cone-shaped, three-dimensional figures over which movement was possible, with higher values indicating greater maneuverability. The Mann–Whitney U test was used for the analysis. The maneuverability of the endoscope alone was significantly higher in the glove port system than in the other two SPASs. When inserting an additional instrument, the maneuverability significantly decreased in the SILS-port and Endocone, but not in the glove port. The highest maneuverability overall was found in the glove port. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Veterinary Minimally Invasive Surgery)

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13 pages, 608 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Economic Feasibility of Mixed-Species Grazing to Improve Rangeland Productivity

by Kayla Hintze, Courtney Bir and Derrell Peel

Animals 2021, 11(5), 1226; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11051226 - 23 Apr 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3974

Abstract

Pasture and grazing land in the southern and central Great Plains is being invaded by woody species, especially eastern redcedar. As a result of woody plant encroachment, cattle production on native rangeland is becoming less profitable because stocking rates must be decreased. Eastern [...] Read more.

Pasture and grazing land in the southern and central Great Plains is being invaded by woody species, especially eastern redcedar. As a result of woody plant encroachment, cattle production on native rangeland is becoming less profitable because stocking rates must be decreased. Eastern redcedar encroachment can be controlled by grazing management, herbicide use, prescribed fire, mechanical control and mixed species grazing. This study utilizes traditional management practices, prescribed fire and three types of mixed species grazing operations to determine the most economically feasible way to manage redcedar encroachment on rangeland. The cost-benefit analysis in this study found that the source of redcedar management on rangeland with the highest net present value was the use of a breeding goat operation in which goats were grazed alongside cattle with the use of prescribed fire. This suggests that producers who are fighting redcedar encroachment will likely be able to implement a mixed species grazing operation with breeding goats to better manage their land and increase returns. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Data-Driven Decision Making in Animal Industries)

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21 pages, 4279 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Challenges and Tendencies of Automatic Milking Systems (AMS): A 20-Years Systematic Review of Literature and Patents

by Alessia Cogato, Marta Brščić, Hao Guo, Francesco Marinello and Andrea Pezzuolo

Animals 2021, 11(2), 356; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11020356 - 31 Jan 2021

Cited by 54 | Viewed by 7927

Abstract

Over the last two decades, the dairy industry has adopted the use of Automatic Milking Systems (AMS). AMS have the potential to increase the effectiveness of the milking process and sustain animal welfare. This study assessed the state of the art of research [...] Read more.

Over the last two decades, the dairy industry has adopted the use of Automatic Milking Systems (AMS). AMS have the potential to increase the effectiveness of the milking process and sustain animal welfare. This study assessed the state of the art of research activities on AMS through a systematic review of scientific and industrial research. The papers and patents of the last 20 years (2000–2019) were analysed to assess the research tendencies. The words appearing in title, abstract and keywords of a total of 802 documents were processed with the text mining tool. Four clusters were identified (Components, Technology, Process and Animal). For each cluster, the words frequency analysis enabled us to identify the research tendencies and gaps. The results showed that focuses of the scientific and industrial research areas complementary, with scientific papers mainly dealing with topics related to animal and process, and patents giving priority to technology and components. Both scientific and industrial research converged on some crucial objectives, such as animal welfare, process sustainability and technological development. Despite the increasing interest in animal welfare, this review highlighted that further progress is needed to meet the consumers’ demand. Moreover, milk yield is still regarded as more valuable compared to milk quality. Therefore, additional effort is necessary on the latter. At the process level, some gaps have been found related to cleaning operations, necessary to improve milk quality and animal health. The use of farm data and their incorporation on herd decision support systems (DSS) appeared optimal. The results presented in this review may be used as an overall assessment useful to address future research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovations in Livestock Farms)

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27 pages, 3344 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

A Review on Mitigating Fear and Aggression in Dogs and Cats in a Veterinary Setting

by Stefanie Riemer, Carmen Heritier, Ines Windschnurer, Lydia Pratsch, Christine Arhant and Nadja Affenzeller

Animals 2021, 11(1), 158; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11010158 - 12 Jan 2021

Cited by 94 | Viewed by 38082

Abstract

A high proportion of dogs and cats are fearful during veterinary visits, which in some cases may escalate into aggression. Here, we discuss factors that contribute to negative emotions in a veterinary setting and how these can be addressed. We briefly summarise the [...] Read more.

A high proportion of dogs and cats are fearful during veterinary visits, which in some cases may escalate into aggression. Here, we discuss factors that contribute to negative emotions in a veterinary setting and how these can be addressed. We briefly summarise the available evidence for the interventions discussed. The set-up of the waiting area (e.g., spatial dividers; elevated places for cat carriers), tailoring the examination and the treatment to the individual, considerate handling (minimal restraint when possible, avoiding leaning over or cornering animals) and offering high-value food or toys throughout the visit can promote security and, ideally, positive associations. Desensitisation and counterconditioning are highly recommended, both to prevent and address existing negative emotions. Short-term pain from injections can be minimised by using tactile and cognitive distractions and topical analgesics, which are also indicated for painful procedures such as ear cleanings. Recommendations for handling fearful animals to minimise aggressive responses are discussed. However, anxiolytics or sedation should be used whenever there is a risk of traumatising an animal or for safety reasons. Stress-reducing measures can decrease fear and stress in patients and consequently their owners, thus strengthening the relationship with the clients as well as increasing the professional satisfaction of veterinary staff. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Animal Welfare)

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16 pages, 866 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

SARS-CoV-2 in Danish Mink Farms: Course of the Epidemic and a Descriptive Analysis of the Outbreaks in 2020

by Anette Boklund, Anne Sofie Hammer, Michelle Lauge Quaade, Thomas Bruun Rasmussen, Louise Lohse, Bertel Strandbygaard, Charlotte Sværke Jørgensen, Ann Sofie Olesen, Freja Broe Hjerpe, Heidi Huus Petersen, Tim Kåre Jensen, Sten Mortensen, Francisco F. Calvo-Artavia, Stine Kjær Lefèvre, Søren Saxmose Nielsen, Tariq Halasa, Graham J. Belsham and Anette Bøtner

Animals 2021, 11(1), 164; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11010164 - 12 Jan 2021

Cited by 86 | Viewed by 9358

Abstract

SARS-CoV-2 infection is the cause of COVID-19 in humans. In April 2020, SARS-CoV-2 infection in farmed mink (Neovision vision) occurred in the Netherlands. The first outbreaks in Denmark were detected in June 2020 in three farms. A steep increase in the [...] Read more.

SARS-CoV-2 infection is the cause of COVID-19 in humans. In April 2020, SARS-CoV-2 infection in farmed mink (Neovision vision) occurred in the Netherlands. The first outbreaks in Denmark were detected in June 2020 in three farms. A steep increase in the number of infected farms occurred from September and onwards. Here, we describe prevalence data collected from 215 infected mink farms to characterize spread and impact of disease in infected farms. In one third of the farms, no clinical signs were observed. In farms with clinical signs, decreased feed intake, increased mortality and respiratory symptoms were most frequently observed, during a limited time period (median of 11 days). In 65% and 69% of farms, virus and sero-conversion, respectively, were detected in 100% of sampled animals at the first sampling. SARS-CoV-2 was detected, at low levels, in air samples collected close to the mink, on mink fur, on flies, on the foot of a seagull, and in gutter water, but not in feed. Some dogs and cats from infected farms tested positive for the virus. Chickens, rabbits, and horses sampled on a few farms, and wildlife sampled in the vicinity of the infected farms did not test positive for SARS-CoV-2. Thus, mink are highly susceptible to infection by SARS-CoV-2, but routes of transmission between farms, other than by direct human contact, are unclear. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Veterinary Clinical Studies)

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17 pages, 1098 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

The Educational Efficacy of Humane Teaching Methods: A Systematic Review of the Evidence

by Miriam A. Zemanova and Andrew Knight

Animals 2021, 11(1), 114; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11010114 - 7 Jan 2021

Cited by 28 | Viewed by 8716

Abstract

Humane alternatives to harmful educational animal use include ethically-sourced cadavers, models, mannequins, mechanical simulators, videos, computer and virtual reality simulations, and supervised clinical and surgical experiences. In many life and health sciences courses, however, traditional animal use persists, often due to uncertainty about [...] Read more.

Humane alternatives to harmful educational animal use include ethically-sourced cadavers, models, mannequins, mechanical simulators, videos, computer and virtual reality simulations, and supervised clinical and surgical experiences. In many life and health sciences courses, however, traditional animal use persists, often due to uncertainty about the educational efficacy of humane alternatives. The most recent comprehensive reviews assessing learning outcomes of humane teaching methods, in comparison to harmful animal use, were published more than 10 years ago. Therefore, we aimed to collate and analyse the combined evidence from recent and older studies about the efficacy of humane teaching methods. Using specific search terms, we systematically searched the Web of Science, SCOPUS, and EMBASE databases for relevant educational studies. We extracted information on publication years, the country in which the study was conducted, field, humane teaching methods, form of learning outcome assessment, and the learning outcome of the humane teaching methods, in comparison with harmful animal use. We found 50 relevant studies published from 1968–2020, primarily stemming from the USA, UK, and Canada. Humane teaching methods produced learning outcomes superior (30%), equivalent (60%), or inferior (10%) to those produced by traditional harmful animal use. In conclusion, a wide-spread implementation of humane teaching methods would not only preserve learning outcomes, but may in fact be beneficial for animals, students, educators, and institutions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Animal Welfare)

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12 pages, 1234 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Increasing Hepatitis E Virus Seroprevalence in Domestic Pigs and Wild Boar in Bulgaria

by Katerina Takova, Tsvetoslav Koynarski, Ivan Minkov, Zdravka Ivanova, Valentina Toneva and Gergana Zahmanova

Animals 2020, 10(9), 1521; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani10091521 - 28 Aug 2020

Cited by 25 | Viewed by 5473

Abstract

(1) Background: Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a causative agent of acute viral hepatitis, predominantly transmitted by the fecal–oral route. In developed countries, HEV is considered to be an emerging pathogen since the number of autochthonous cases is rising. Hepatitis E is a [...] Read more.

(1) Background: Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a causative agent of acute viral hepatitis, predominantly transmitted by the fecal–oral route. In developed countries, HEV is considered to be an emerging pathogen since the number of autochthonous cases is rising. Hepatitis E is a viral disease with a proven zoonotic potential for some of its genotypes. The main viral reservoirs are domestic pigs and wild boar. Consumption of undercooked meat, as well as occupational exposure, are key factors for the spread of HEV. In order to evaluate the risks of future viral evolution, a detailed examination of the ecology and distribution of the virus is needed. The aim of the present study is to investigate the prevalence of anti-HEV IgG Ab in domestic pigs and wild boar in Bulgaria; (2) Methods: In this study, during the period of three years between 2017 and 2019, 433 serum samples from 19 different pig farms and 1 slaughterhouse were collected and analyzed. In addition, 32 samples from wild boar were also collected and analyzed during the 2018–2019 hunting season. All samples were analyzed by commercial indirect ELISA; (3) Results: Overall, HEV seroprevalence was 60% (95% CI 42.7–77.1) in domestic pigs and 12.5% (4/32) in wild boar. The observed seroprevalence of the slaughter-aged pigs was 73.65% (95% Cl 58.7–87.3). Prevalence in domestic pigs was significantly higher in the samples collected during 2019 (98% (95% Cl 96.1–99.9)) compared to those collected during 2017 (45.33% (95% CI 2.7–87.3)) and 2018 (38.46% (95% CI 29.1–49.7.); (4) Conclusions: Our findings suggest that domesticated pigs and wild boar might be the reason for the increased HEV transmission across Bulgaria. The genotypic characterization of HEV found in pigs, wild boar and humans will give a more accurate view of the zoonotic transmission of this virus. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Zoonoses: Wild and Domestic Animal Interaction)

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10 pages, 1266 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Behavioural Evaluation of a Leash Tension Meter Which Measures Pull Direction and Force during Human–Dog On-Leash Walks

by Hao-Yu Shih, Fillipe Georgiou, Robert A. Curtis, Mandy B. A. Paterson and Clive J. C. Phillips

Animals 2020, 10(8), 1382; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani10081382 - 10 Aug 2020

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 11190

Abstract

Leash tension forces exerted by dog and handler during walks affect their welfare. We developed a novel ambulatory measurement device using a load cell and a tri-axial accelerometer to record both the tension and direction of forces exerted on the leashes. Data were [...] Read more.

Leash tension forces exerted by dog and handler during walks affect their welfare. We developed a novel ambulatory measurement device using a load cell and a tri-axial accelerometer to record both the tension and direction of forces exerted on the leashes. Data were relayed telemetrically to a laptop for real time viewing and recording. Larger and heavier dogs exerted higher leash tension but had a lower pulling frequency than their smaller and lighter conspecifics. This pattern was observed in the reactional forces of handlers. Young dogs pulled more frequently during walks, which was also mirrored in handlers’ pulling. Well-behaved dogs created lower leash tension, but handlers did not respond with lower forces. This novel method of recording leash tension will facilitate real-time monitoring of the behaviour of dogs and their handlers during walks. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Companion Animal Cognition, Communication, and Behavior)

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21 pages, 1037 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Dogs Don’t Die Just in Hot Cars—Exertional Heat-Related Illness (Heatstroke) Is a Greater Threat to UK Dogs

by Emily J. Hall, Anne J. Carter and Dan G. O’Neill

Animals 2020, 10(8), 1324; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani10081324 - 31 Jul 2020

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 22475

Abstract

Heat-related illness will affect increasing numbers of dogs as global temperatures rise unless effective mitigation strategies are implemented. This study aimed to identify the key triggers of heat-related illness in dogs and investigate canine risk factors for the most common triggers in UK [...] Read more.

Heat-related illness will affect increasing numbers of dogs as global temperatures rise unless effective mitigation strategies are implemented. This study aimed to identify the key triggers of heat-related illness in dogs and investigate canine risk factors for the most common triggers in UK dogs. Using the VetCompass^TM programme, de-identified electronic patient records of 905,543 dogs under primary veterinary care in 2016 were reviewed to identify 1259 heat-related illness events from 1222 dogs. Exertional heat-related illness was the predominant trigger (74.2% of events), followed by environmental (12.9%) and vehicular confinement (5.2%). Canine and human risk factors appear similar; young male dogs had greater odds of exertional heat-related illness, older dogs and dogs with respiratory compromise had the greatest odds of environmental heat-related illness. Brachycephalic dogs had greater odds of all three types of heat-related illness compared with mesocephalic dogs. The odds of death following vehicular heat-related illness (OR 1.47, p = 0.492) was similar to that of exertional heat-related illness. In the UK, exertional heat-related illness affects more dogs, and kills more dogs, than confinement in a hot vehicle. Campaigns to raise public awareness about heat-related illness in dogs need to highlight that dogs don’t die just in hot cars. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Companion Animals)

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16 pages, 307 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Potential of Recycling Cauliflower and Romanesco Wastes in Ruminant Feeding: In Vitro Studies

by Trinidad de Evan, Andrea Vintimilla, Eduarda Molina-Alcaide, María José Ranilla and María Dolores Carro

Animals 2020, 10(8), 1247; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani10081247 - 22 Jul 2020

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 4198

Abstract

The nutritive values for ruminants of cauliflower (CAU) and Romanesco (ROM) wastes (leaves, stems and sprouts) were assessed by analyzing their chemical composition, in vitro ruminal fermentation, and in vitro intestinal digestibility. In addition, the in vitro ruminal fermentation of diets containing increasing [...] Read more.

The nutritive values for ruminants of cauliflower (CAU) and Romanesco (ROM) wastes (leaves, stems and sprouts) were assessed by analyzing their chemical composition, in vitro ruminal fermentation, and in vitro intestinal digestibility. In addition, the in vitro ruminal fermentation of diets containing increasing amounts of CAU was studied. The dry matter (DM) content of leaves, stems and sprouts of both vegetables was lower than 10%, but they contained high crude protein (CP; 19.9 to 33.0%) and sugar (16.3 to 28.7%) levels, and low neutral detergent fiber (21.6 to 32.3%). Stems and sprouts were more rapidly and extensively fermented in the rumen than leaves, but there were only minor differences the fermentation profiles of both vegetables. The estimated metabolizable energy content ranged from 9.3 (leaves) to 10.8 (sprouts) MJ/kg DM. The CP rumen degradability (12-h in situ incubations) was greater than 80.0% for all fractions, and the in vitro intestinal digestibility of CP ranged from 85.7 to 93.2%. The inclusion of up to 24% of dried CAU in the concentrate of a mixed diet (40:60 alfalfa hay:concentrate) increased the in vitro rumen fermentation of the CAU diet, but did not affect methane (CH₄) production, indicating the lack of antimethanogenic compounds in CAU. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Animal Nutrition)

10 pages, 415 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Effects of Dietary β-Mannanase Supplementation on Growth Performance, Apparent Total Tract Digestibility, Intestinal Integrity, and Immune Responses in Weaning Pigs

by Jae-Cheol Jang, Kwang Ho Kim, Young Dal Jang and Yoo Yong Kim

Animals 2020, 10(4), 703; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani10040703 - 17 Apr 2020

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 4093

Abstract

The experiment aimed to investigate the effects of dietary β-mannanase supplementation on growth performance, apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of nutrients, intestinal integrity, and the immunological and oxidative stress parameters in weaning pigs. A total of 64 newly weaning pigs (initial body weight: [...] Read more.

The experiment aimed to investigate the effects of dietary β-mannanase supplementation on growth performance, apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of nutrients, intestinal integrity, and the immunological and oxidative stress parameters in weaning pigs. A total of 64 newly weaning pigs (initial body weight: 6.96 ± 0.70 kg) were allotted to two dietary treatments in eight replicates per treatment with four pigs per pen based on body weight and sex. Dietary treatments were 1.) CON (control: corn-soybean meal based basal diet) and 2.) β-mannanase (basal diet +0.06% β-mannanase). The β-mannanase supplementation did not affect growth performance, concentrations of acute phase protein, superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase. However, the pigs fed the β-mannanase-supplemented diet had greater ATTD of ether extract, jejunum villus height, and villus height-to-crypt depth ratio, and lower crypt depth compared with those fed the CON diet (p < 0.05). The pigs fed the β-mannanase-supplemented diet tended to have the lower count of E. coli in cecum than those fed the CON diet (p = 0.08). In conclusion, dietary β-mannanase supplementation did not affect growth performance, immune response and oxidative stress of weaning pigs, whereas it increased fat digestibility and had positive effects on intestinal integrity and cecum microflora by reducing the count of E.coli. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Animal Nutrition)

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12 pages, 1075 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Picture Perfect Pups: How Do Attributes of Photographs of Dogs in Online Rescue Profiles Affect Adoption Speed?

by Mizuho Nakamura, Navneet Dhand, Bethany J. Wilson, Melissa J. Starling and Paul D. McGreevy

Animals 2020, 10(1), 152; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani10010152 - 16 Jan 2020

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 8861

Abstract

To increase the public’s awareness of and exposure to animals needing homes, PetRescue, Australia’s largest online directory of animals in need of adoption, lists all currently available animals from rescue and welfare shelters nationwide. The current study examined the photographs in the PetRescue [...] Read more.

To increase the public’s awareness of and exposure to animals needing homes, PetRescue, Australia’s largest online directory of animals in need of adoption, lists all currently available animals from rescue and welfare shelters nationwide. The current study examined the photographs in the PetRescue online profiles of the three most common breeds within these data, namely, Staffordshire bull terriers (n = 3988), Labrador retrievers (n = 2246), and Jack Russell terriers (n = 2088), to identify the inferred preferences of potential adopters. By investigating the attributes of these photographs, we were able to identify visual risk factors associated with protracted lengths of stay (LOS). The longest stays were associated with dogs with erect ears and those photographed in a natural environment, i.e., 18.32 days and 19.57 days, respectively. Dogs photographed in a kennel and with mouths closed had the shortest LOS, i.e., 11.54 d and 14.44 d, respectively. Heightened awareness of the roles of photographic attributes in generating interest among potential adopters may increase the speed of adoption by guiding the creation of online profiles and selection of photos to optimise the promotion of dogs at risk of long stays. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Companion Animals)

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11 pages, 1611 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Effect of Soybean Oil and Fish Oil on Lipid-Related Transcripts in Subcutaneous Adipose Tissue of Dairy Cows

by Einar Vargas-Bello-Pérez, Massimo Bionaz, Macarena Garrido-Sartore, Nathaly Cancino-Padilla, María Sol Morales, Jaime Romero, Heidi Leskinen, Philip C. Garnsworthy and Juan J. Loor

Animals 2020, 10(1), 54; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani10010054 - 26 Dec 2019

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3932

Abstract

The objective of this study was to determine the effect of long-term supplementation of unsaturated oil on lipid metabolism and transcription of genes involved in lipid metabolism in subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) of mid-lactating dairy cows. The objective was achieved by supplementing dairy [...] Read more.

The objective of this study was to determine the effect of long-term supplementation of unsaturated oil on lipid metabolism and transcription of genes involved in lipid metabolism in subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) of mid-lactating dairy cows. The objective was achieved by supplementing dairy cows with soybean oil (SO; high in linoleic acid) or fish oil (FO; high in EPA and DHA) for 63 days (nine weeks). Cows were fed a control diet with no added lipid, or diets containing SO or FO (n = 5 cows/group). At the onset of the experiment (day 0) and on days 21, 42, and 63 of supplementation, blood and SAT samples were collected from each animal. Oil supplementation increased cholesterol and NEFA in plasma, with a greater effect of SO compared to FO. Concentration of BUN was lower in SO compared to control and FO at the end of the trial. Transcription of few genes was affected by dietary lipids: FABP4 had lowest expression in FO followed by SO and control. ACACA and FASN had higher expression in FO. Transcription of SCAP was higher but expression of INSIG1 was lower in SO. Overall, results revealed that compared to control, SO and FO had lipogenic effect in SAT. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Animal Nutrition)

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8 pages, 226 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceCommentary

Consequences Matter: Compassion in Conservation Means Caring for Individuals, Populations and Species

by Paul J. Johnson, Vanessa M. Adams, Doug P. Armstrong, Sandra E. Baker, Duan Biggs, Luigi Boitani, Alayne Cotterill, Emma Dale, Holly O’Donnell, David J. T. Douglas, Egil Droge, John G. Ewen, Ruth E. Feber, Piero Genovesi, Clive Hambler, Bart J. Harmsen, Lauren A. Harrington, Amy Hinks, Joelene Hughes, Lydia Katsis, Andrew Loveridge, Axel Moehrenschlager, Christopher O’Kane, Meshach Pierre, Steve Redpath, Lovemore Sibanda, Pritpal Soorae, Mark Stanley Price, Peter Tyrrell, Alexandra Zimmermann and Amy Dickman Show full author list Hide full author list

Animals 2019, 9(12), 1115; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani9121115 - 11 Dec 2019

Cited by 29 | Viewed by 8874

Abstract

Human activity affecting the welfare of wild vertebrates, widely accepted to be sentient, and therefore deserving of moral concern, is widespread. A variety of motives lead to the killing of individual wild animals. These include to provide food, to protect stock and other [...] Read more.

Human activity affecting the welfare of wild vertebrates, widely accepted to be sentient, and therefore deserving of moral concern, is widespread. A variety of motives lead to the killing of individual wild animals. These include to provide food, to protect stock and other human interests, and also for sport. The acceptability of such killing is widely believed to vary with the motive and method. Individual vertebrates are also killed by conservationists. Whether securing conservation goals is an adequate reason for such killing has recently been challenged. Conventional conservation practice has tended to prioritise ecological collectives, such as populations and species, when their interests conflict with those of individuals. Supporters of the ‘Compassionate Conservation’ movement argue both that conservationists have neglected animal welfare when such conflicts arise and that no killing for conservation is justified. We counter that conservationists increasingly seek to adhere to high standards of welfare, and that the extreme position advocated by some supporters of ‘Compassionate Conservation’, rooted in virtue ethics, would, if widely accepted, lead to considerable negative effects for conservation. Conservation practice cannot afford to neglect consequences. Moreover, the do-no-harm maxim does not always lead to better outcomes for animal welfare. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Welfare of Wild Vertebrates)

19 pages, 286 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Improvement of Oxidative Status, Milk and Cheese Production, and Food Sustainability Indexes by Addition of Durum Wheat Bran to Dairy Cows’ Diet

by Adriana Bonanno, Antonino Di Grigoli, Massimo Todaro, Marco Alabiso, Francesca Vitale, Adriana Di Trana, Daniela Giorgio, Luca Settanni, Raimondo Gaglio, Barbara Laddomada and Giuseppe Di Miceli

Animals 2019, 9(9), 698; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani9090698 - 18 Sep 2019

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 5019

Abstract

Durum wheat bran (DWB) is a by-product mostly used in feeding ruminants, contributing to decrease in the utilization of feeds suitable as foods for human consumption, thus improving the sustainability of livestock production. However, the potential benefits of DWB, due to its content [...] Read more.

Durum wheat bran (DWB) is a by-product mostly used in feeding ruminants, contributing to decrease in the utilization of feeds suitable as foods for human consumption, thus improving the sustainability of livestock production. However, the potential benefits of DWB, due to its content in phenolic acids, mainly consisting of ferulic acid with antioxidant properties, have not been well clarified yet. Accordingly, in this experiment, 36 lactating cows divided into three groups received, over a period of 100 days, one of three concentrates including DWB at 0% (DWB0), 10% (DWB10), or 20% (DWB20). The concentrates were formulated to be isoproteic and isoenergetic and, to balance the higher fiber content of the concentrates with DWB, the hay in the diets was slightly reduced. During the trial, the group feed intake and the individual milk production were monitored, and cheese was made with bulk milk from each group. Milk yield and microbiological characteristics of milk and cheese were similar among groups, indicating no DWB effect on cows performance and fermentation process. Milk from DWB20 group resulted slightly higher in casein and curd firmness (a_2r). In cows fed DWB, the higher polyphenol intake was responsible for higher blood contents of these bioactive compounds, that seemed to have contributed in reducing the level of reactive oxygen metabolites (ROMs), which were higher in DWB0 cows. DWB20 cheeses showed a higher polyphenol content, lower number of peroxides, and higher antioxidant capacity than DWB0 cheeses. DWB20 and DWB10 diets resulted less expensive. In addition, the DWB20 group showed the best indexes heFCE (human edible feed conversion efficiency = milk/human edible feed) and NFP (net food production = milk − human edible food), expressed as crude protein or gross energy. In conclusion, the DWB fed to dairy cows at 12% of diet dry matter (DM) can lead to benefits, such as the improvement of oxidative status of cows, milk quality, shelf-life, and functional properties of cheese, and might contribute to reduce the feeding cost and limit the human-animal competition for feeding sources. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Use of Agricultural By-Products in Animal Feeding)

11 pages, 257 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Compatibility between Humans and Their Dogs: Benefits for Both

by Mónica Teresa González-Ramírez

Animals 2019, 9(9), 674; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani9090674 - 12 Sep 2019

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 14897

Abstract

Compatibility in activity preferences refers to the shared enjoyment of daily activities, such as walking and interacting with others, and it is an indicator of the behavioral dimension of compatibility, which mainly refers to exercise and play. It has been found that individuals [...] Read more.

Compatibility in activity preferences refers to the shared enjoyment of daily activities, such as walking and interacting with others, and it is an indicator of the behavioral dimension of compatibility, which mainly refers to exercise and play. It has been found that individuals who are more compatible with their dogs have a better relationship with them, which can explain some of the benefits of human-dog interaction. However, research to explain how and why human-animal relationships are potentially therapeutic is still needed. The objective of this quantitative study was to compare the benefits of human-dog interaction for both humans and dogs between people who were and were not compatible with their dogs. Ninety people with scores of 50% or less on the compatibility index and 110 people with 100% compatibility participated in the study. The groups were compared using the Mann-Whitney U test. The people in the group with greater compatibility reported more subjective happiness and less perceived stress, a stable dog-feeding routine, and more frequent daily walks and playing sessions; additionally, for their dogs, they reported a lower frequency of aggressive and fearful behaviors and higher trainability scores. In conclusion, compatibility in activity preferences helps explain the benefits of human–animal interaction. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue People and Their Companion Animals, Physical or Mental Health Benefits of Both)

17 pages, 668 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Evaluating Animal-Assisted Interventions: An Empirical Illustration of Differences between Outcome Measures

by Steffie van der Steen, Merel M.P. Heineman and Marloes J.A. Ernst

Animals 2019, 9(9), 645; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani9090645 - 3 Sep 2019

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 7026

Abstract

Multiple authors have called for strong empirical evaluations to strengthen the foundation of Animal-Assisted Interventions. Carefully choosing the outcome measures of these studies is important, as choosing the wrong outcomes may lead to a failure to detect effects. The current study therefore compares [...] Read more.

Multiple authors have called for strong empirical evaluations to strengthen the foundation of Animal-Assisted Interventions. Carefully choosing the outcome measures of these studies is important, as choosing the wrong outcomes may lead to a failure to detect effects. The current study therefore compares and contrasts the use of several outcome measures, to assess the effect of an equine-assisted intervention for a child with Autism Spectrum Disorder: (1) a semi-structured interview with both parents, specifically designed for children with cognitive disabilities, (2) a general screening instrument filled out by both parents separately, which can be used to assess children’s psycho-social problems, and (3) systematic observations of social and communication skills during the equine-assisted sessions. All instruments indicated an improvement in the participant’s social and communication skills. We found differences between the interview and questionnaires with regard to parents’ perception of aggression regulation and interacting with peers. Differences with regard to parental reports and observations were found for play development and anxiety. The observations provided a detailed view of the child’s development during the intervention, which yielded an interesting hypothesis in terms of the current dose–response discussion in AAI for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Assisted Therapies and Interventions 2019)

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13 pages, 1533 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Space Use and Movement of Urban Bobcats

by Julie K. Young, Julie Golla, John P. Draper, Derek Broman, Terry Blankenship and Richard Heilbrun

Animals 2019, 9(5), 275; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani9050275 - 24 May 2019

Cited by 25 | Viewed by 6140

Abstract

Global urbanization is rapidly changing the landscape for wildlife species that must learn to persist in declining wild spacing, adapt, or risk extinction. Many mesopredators have successfully exploited urban niches, and research on these species in an urban setting offers insights into the [...] Read more.

Global urbanization is rapidly changing the landscape for wildlife species that must learn to persist in declining wild spacing, adapt, or risk extinction. Many mesopredators have successfully exploited urban niches, and research on these species in an urban setting offers insights into the traits that facilitate their success. In this study, we examined space use and activity patterns from GPS-collared bobcats (Lynx rufus) in the Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex, Texas, USA. We found that bobcats select for natural/agricultural features, creeks, and water ways and there is greater home-range overlap in these habitats. They avoid roads and are less likely to have home-range overlap in habitats with more roads. Home-range size is relatively small and overlap relatively high, with older animals showing both greater home-range size and overlap. Simultaneous locations suggest bobcats are neither avoiding nor attracted to one another, despite the high overlap across home ranges. Finally, bobcats are active at all times of day and night. These results suggest that access to natural features and behavioral plasticity may enable bobcats to live in highly developed landscapes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Behaviour and Management of Urban Wildlife)

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19 pages, 2775 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Field Propagation Experiments of Male African Savanna Elephant Rumbles: A Focus on the Transmission of Formant Frequencies

by Anton Baotic, Maxime Garcia, Markus Boeckle and Angela Stoeger

Animals 2018, 8(10), 167; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani8100167 - 30 Sep 2018

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 5431

Abstract

African savanna elephants live in dynamic fission–fusion societies and exhibit a sophisticated vocal communication system. Their most frequent call-type is the ‘rumble’, with a fundamental frequency (which refers to the lowest vocal fold vibration rate when producing a vocalization) near or in the [...] Read more.

African savanna elephants live in dynamic fission–fusion societies and exhibit a sophisticated vocal communication system. Their most frequent call-type is the ‘rumble’, with a fundamental frequency (which refers to the lowest vocal fold vibration rate when producing a vocalization) near or in the infrasonic range. Rumbles are used in a wide variety of behavioral contexts, for short- and long-distance communication, and convey contextual and physical information. For example, maturity (age and size) is encoded in male rumbles by formant frequencies (the resonance frequencies of the vocal tract), having the most informative power. As sound propagates, however, its spectral and temporal structures degrade progressively. Our study used manipulated and resynthesized male social rumbles to simulate large and small individuals (based on different formant values) to quantify whether this phenotypic information efficiently transmits over long distances. To examine transmission efficiency and the potential influences of ecological factors, we broadcasted and re-recorded rumbles at distances of up to 1.5 km in two different habitats at the Addo Elephant National Park, South Africa. Our results show that rumbles were affected by spectral–temporal degradation over distance. Interestingly and unlike previous findings, the transmission of formants was better than that of the fundamental frequency. Our findings demonstrate the importance of formant frequencies for the efficiency of rumble propagation and the transmission of information content in a savanna elephant’s natural habitat. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Wildlife)

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