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Animal Perinatology: Behavior and Health of the Dam and Her...
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Animal Perinatology: Behavior and Health of the Dam and Her Offspring

A special issue of Animals (ISSN 2076-2615). This special issue belongs to the section "Animal Reproduction".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 December 2022) | Viewed by 73138

Printed Edition Available!
A printed edition of this Special Issue is available here.

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Daniel Mota-Rojas

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Neurophysiology, Behavior and Animal Welfare Assessment, DPAA, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana, Xochimilco Campus, Mexico City 04960, Mexico
Interests: animal welfare; thermoregulation
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Julio Martínez-Burnes

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Animal Health Group, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Tamaulipas, Ciudad Victoria, Tamaulipas, Mexico
Interests: Meconium Aspiration Syndrome; veterinary perinatology; respiratory pathology; asphyxia; stillbirths; neonatal infectious diseases; Apgar scores; hypothermia; hypoxia; pain
Dr. Agustín Orihuela

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Morelos, Cuernavaca, Morelos, México
Interests: Animal welfare; maternal behavior; suckling motivation; cross-suckling; allo-suckling; behavior; weaning

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The health and behavior of females during the birthing process in both altricial and precocial species, together with the survival of the newborn of domestic animals and those that live freely in the wild or captivity, are important topics in this Special Issue entitled “Animal Perinatology: Behavior and Health of the Dam and Her Offspring”. Experimental and review articles in the mothers will be of enormous interest due to the importance of the mother’s health in the perinatal stage, which spans the final phase of gestation, parturition, and lactation period. Themes analyzed in these papers should include obstetric processes, premature births, gynecologic and obstetric pathology, fetal and uterine electronic monitoring, parturition in mammals in wild or captivity (delivery in companion, farm or laboratory animals), pain management during labor, the use of labor stimulators or accelerators, maternal ability, understanding the mechanism of placentophagia, mother–young bonding, imprinting neurophysiological mechanisms, neurotransmitters involved in imprinting, strategies of maternal care (allo-suckling and communal rearing), and the adverse effects of dystocia on the health of the mother and milk production.

In the case of neonates and infants, articles can focus on subjects such as reduced vitality, factors predisposing to stillbirths, colostrum consumption, neonatal respiratory disorders, causes of perinatal death, suckling motivation, and abnormal or redirected behaviors, all of which are extremely significant in today’s scientific community. Examples of conditions that can be analyzed include the physiopathology of intrauterine asphyxia, meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS), low birth weight, hypothermia, neonatal thermoregulation mechanisms, and natural suckling behavior of the offspring.

Studies based on animal models are essential for understanding the physiopathology of the various respiratory alterations that can affect newborns, predictors of mortality in neonates, neonatal infectious diseases, and the implementation of several vitality scales applied to evaluate neonatal neurological responses in domestic and wild mammals. Also of interest are infrared thermographic studies of the thermoregulating mechanisms and dermal (cutaneous) microcirculation changes that allow newborns to regulate their body temperature, and behavioral problems associated with the peripartum, as well as studies about animal welfare in mother and offspring around this period.

We send our best wishes as we look forward to receiving your proposals.

Dr. Daniel Mota-Rojas
Dr. Julio Martínez-Burnes
Dr. Agustín Orihuela
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Animals is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • veterinary perinatology
  • parturition in mammals in wild or captivity (delivery in companion, farm or laboratory animals)
  • gynecologic and obstetric pathology
  • dystocia and reproductive disorders
  • pain at delivery and analgesia in obstetrics
  • fetal distress and electronic monitoring
  • stillbirths and Apgar scores
  • hypothermia; hypoxia and vitality
  • mother-young bonding and imprinting neurophysiological mechanisms
  • allo-suckling and redirected behaviors
  • animal welfare in mother and offspring

Published Papers (21 papers)

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Research

Jump to: Review

15 pages, 1375 KiB  
Article
Placental Development and Physiological Changes in Pregnant Ewes in Silvopastoral and Open Pasture Systems during the Summer
by Julia Morgana Vieira Dada, Matheus Luquirini Penteado dos Santos, Ana Paula Schneiders Dani, Cecília Paulina Johann Dammann, Letícia Pinto, Frederico Márcio Corrêa Vieira and Flávia Regina Oliveira de Barros
Animals 2023, 13(3), 478; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13030478 - 30 Jan 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1438
Abstract
This study aimed to analyze the reproductive and physiological changes in ewes subjected to heat stress during pregnancy at UTFPR-Brazil. Twenty-four pregnant crossbred ewes were kept in a silvopastoral system (SP) or an open pasture system (OP) throughout the final trimester of pregnancy. [...] Read more.
This study aimed to analyze the reproductive and physiological changes in ewes subjected to heat stress during pregnancy at UTFPR-Brazil. Twenty-four pregnant crossbred ewes were kept in a silvopastoral system (SP) or an open pasture system (OP) throughout the final trimester of pregnancy. Both systems were stressful, but the SP system had lower air temperature than the OP system (26.0 ± 0.38 and 26.9 ± 0.41 °C, respectively; p = 0.0288). Moreover, the radiant thermal load of the two groups presented a difference of 34 Wm−2 (p = 0.0288), and the grass temperature was also lower in the SP system compared to that in the OP system (23.4 ± 0.37 and 25.6 ± 0.44 °C, respectively; p = 0.0043). The respiratory and heart rates of animals from the OP group were higher than those from the SP group (p < 0.001), but no difference was observed in the mobilization of white blood cells (p = 0.4777), and the neutrophil count was only affected by time (p < 0.0001). As regards placental biometry, placentas in twin pregnancies had a greater membrane area (p = 0.0223), but no differences between the systems were observed in placental weight (p = 0.1522) and the number of cotyledons (p = 0.5457). We concluded that the type of rearing system used affects the thermal comfort of pregnant ewes, and that an SP system can offer more amenable microclimatic conditions, which result in greater comfort for the ewes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Perinatology: Behavior and Health of the Dam and Her Offspring)
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8 pages, 375 KiB  
Article
Effects of Caffeine and Glucose Supplementation at Birth on Piglet Pre-Weaning Growth, Thermoregulation, and Survival
by Lillie Jarratt, Sarah E. James, Roy N. Kirkwood and Tanya L. Nowland
Animals 2023, 13(3), 435; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13030435 - 27 Jan 2023
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 1610
Abstract
Piglet pre-weaning mortality of approximately 15% represents a major economic and welfare concern to the pork industry. Supplementing neonatal piglets with glucose and/or caffeine has the potential to counteract hypoxic stress experienced during parturition and provide an energy substrate, which may improve survival [...] Read more.
Piglet pre-weaning mortality of approximately 15% represents a major economic and welfare concern to the pork industry. Supplementing neonatal piglets with glucose and/or caffeine has the potential to counteract hypoxic stress experienced during parturition and provide an energy substrate, which may improve survival to weaning. This study investigated the effects of caffeine and glucose supplementation at birth, in combination or separately, on piglet growth, thermoregulatory ability, and pre-weaning survival. At birth, 398 piglets were assigned to one of four oral treatments: saline, glucose (300 mg), caffeine (30 mg), or caffeine and glucose combined (30 mg caffeine and 300 mg glucose), dissolved in 6 mL saline. Piglets were tagged at birth, and time taken to reach the udder was recorded. Rectal temperatures were recorded at 4 h and 24 h post-partum, and body weights recorded at birth and 1, 3, and 18 days of age. Colostrum intake was estimated using birth and day 1 weights, and all pre-weaning mortalities were recorded. Treatments did not affect rectal temperature, colostrum intake, or pre-weaning mortality (p > 0.05). Low birth weight piglets (<0.9 kg) treated with caffeine and glucose had increased growth between 1 and 3 days of age (p < 0.05) compared to low birth weight piglets of other treatment groups. Caffeine supplementation alone reduced overall pre-weaning growth in low birth weight piglets compared to all other treatments (p = 0.05). Oral caffeine and glucose had no significant effect on piglet performance except in low birthweight piglets, where it improved growth in the first 3 days of life. Caffeine and glucose supplementation in combination may be beneficial for low birth weight piglets. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Perinatology: Behavior and Health of the Dam and Her Offspring)
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17 pages, 1239 KiB  
Article
Pen Versus Crate: A Comparative Study on the Effects of Different Farrowing Systems on Farrowing Performance, Colostrum Yield and Piglet Preweaning Mortality in Sows under Tropical Conditions
by Natchanon Dumniem, Rafa Boonprakob, Thomas D. Parsons and Padet Tummaruk
Animals 2023, 13(2), 233; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13020233 - 08 Jan 2023
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 5240
Abstract
The present study was performed to determine the farrowing performance of sows, newborn piglet characteristics, colostrum yield, milk yield and piglet preweaning mortality in a free-farrowing pen compared to a conventional farrowing crate system in a tropical environment. A total of 92 sows [...] Read more.
The present study was performed to determine the farrowing performance of sows, newborn piglet characteristics, colostrum yield, milk yield and piglet preweaning mortality in a free-farrowing pen compared to a conventional farrowing crate system in a tropical environment. A total of 92 sows and 1344 piglets were included in the study. The sows were allocated by parity into two farrowing systems, either a free-farrowing pen (n = 54 sows and 805 piglets) or a crate (n = 38 sows and 539 piglets). Backfat thickness and loin muscle depth of sows at 109.0 ± 3.0 days of gestation were measured. Reproductive performance data including total number of piglets born (TB), number of piglets born alive (BA), percentage of stillborn piglets (SB) and percentage of mummified foetuses (MF) per litter, farrowing duration, piglet expulsion interval, time from onset of farrowing to the last placental expulsion, piglet preweaning mortality rate, percentage of piglets crushed by sows and number of piglets at weaning were analysed. In addition, piglet colostrum intake, colostrum yield, Brix index and milk yield of sows were evaluated. On average, TB, BA, farrowing duration, colostrum yield and milk yield during 3 to 10 and 10 to 17 days of lactation were 14.7 ± 2.8, 12.8 ± 3.1, 213.2 ± 142.2 min, 5.3 ± 1.4 kg, 8.6 ± 1.5 kg, and 10.4 ± 2.2 kg, respectively. Sows kept in the free-farrowing pen tended to produce more colostrum than crated sows (5.5 ± 0.2 vs. 4.9 ± 0.2 kg, p = 0.080). Piglets born in the free-farrowing pen had a higher colostrum intake than those in the crate system (437.0 ± 6.9 and 411.7 ± 8.3 g, p = 0.019). However, the piglet preweaning mortality rate (26.8 ± 2.9 vs. 17.0 ± 3.8, p = 0.045) and the proportion of piglets crushed by sows (13.1 ± 2.1 vs. 5.8 ± 2.7, p = 0.037) in the free-farrowing pen were higher than those in the crate system. Interestingly, in the free-farrowing pen, piglet preweaning mortality rate in sows with high backfat thickness was higher than that in sows with moderate (37.8 ± 5.1% vs. 21.6 ± 3.6%, p = 0.011) and low (21.0 ± 6.2%, p = 0.038) backfat thickness. Moreover, the incidence of crushing in sows with high backfat thickness was higher in the free-farrowing pen than in the crate system (17.6 ± 3.6 vs. 4.0 ± 5.7, p = 0.049), but this difference was not detected for sows with moderate and low backfat thickness (p > 0.05). Milk yield of sows during 3 to 10 days (8.6 ± 0.2 vs. 8.6 ± 2.3, p > 0.05) and 10 to 17 days (10.2 ± 0.3 vs. 10.4 ± 0.4, p > 0.05) did not differ between the two farrowing systems. In conclusion, piglets born in the free-farrowing pen had a higher colostrum intake than those in the crate system. However, the piglet preweaning mortality rate and the proportion of piglets crushed by sows in the free-farrowing pen were higher than in the crate system. Interestingly, a high proportion of piglet preweaning mortality in the free-farrowing system was detected only in sows with high backfat thickness before farrowing but not in those with low and moderate backfat thickness. Therefore, additional management in sows with high backfat thickness (>24 mm) before farrowing should be considered to avoid the crushing of piglets by sows. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Perinatology: Behavior and Health of the Dam and Her Offspring)
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14 pages, 1445 KiB  
Article
Factors Associated with Farrowing Duration in Hyperprolific Sows in a Free Farrowing System under Tropical Conditions
by Yosua Kristian Adi, Rafa Boonprakob, Roy N. Kirkwood and Padet Tummaruk
Animals 2022, 12(21), 2943; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12212943 - 26 Oct 2022
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 2079
Abstract
The ongoing selection for increased litter size has had significant impacts on sow husbandry practice. The present study investigated factors associated with farrowing duration and the proportion of sows that had prolonged farrowing in modern hyperprolific sows kept in a free farrowing system [...] Read more.
The ongoing selection for increased litter size has had significant impacts on sow husbandry practice. The present study investigated factors associated with farrowing duration and the proportion of sows that had prolonged farrowing in modern hyperprolific sows kept in a free farrowing system in a tropical environment. Farrowing data from 2493 Landrace x Yorkshire cross-bred sows in a commercial swine herd in Thailand were included in the study. The time of farrowing, parity number, litter size, and the birth status of each piglet were recorded. Farrowing duration was analysed using multiple analyses of variance. Total number of piglets born per litter (TB), parity, and time onset of farrowing were included in the statistical models. On average, TB, piglets born alive, and farrowing duration were 13.7, 12.1, and 221.0 min, respectively. Of these sows, 26.4% had TB ≥ 16 and 21.7% had a prolonged farrowing duration (≥300 min). Farrowing duration was positively correlated with TB (r = 0.141, p < 0.001), percentage of stillborn (SB) piglets per litter (r = 0.259, p < 0.001), percentage of mummified foetuses (MF) per litter (r = 0.049, p = 0.015), piglet birth weight (r = 0.068, p < 0.001), and litter birth weight (r = 0.041, p = 0.043). The proportion of SB per litter was higher and piglet birth weight lower in litters that had ≥16 TB than those with 8–12 TB (p < 0.05). The farrowing duration of sows with parity numbers 5–7 (247.7 ± 5.1 min) and 8–10 (237.1 ± 5.1 min) was longer than that of sows with parity numbers 1 (188.3 ± 5.2 min) and 2–4 (214.3 ± 3.9 min) (p < 0.05). Sows that had started farrowing during working hours had longer farrowing durations (229.3 ± 3.6 min) than those that had started farrowing during non-working hours (217.6 ± 3.4 min, p = 0.017). In multiparous sows, the duration of farrowing was positively correlated with the maximum temperature (r = 0.056, p = 0.012) and the maximum temperature–humidity index (r = 0.059, p = 0.008) in the 7 days before farrowing. The present data confirm that TB, sow parity, and time of onset of farrowing are significant risk factors for a prolonged farrowing. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Perinatology: Behavior and Health of the Dam and Her Offspring)
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10 pages, 291 KiB  
Article
Changes of Acid-Base Variables in Dairy Cows with Chronically Implanted Fetal and Maternal Catheters during Late Gestation and Calving
by Ottó Szenci, Gijsbert Cornelis Van Der Weyden, Lea Lénárt and Marcel Antoine Marie Taverne
Animals 2022, 12(18), 2448; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12182448 - 16 Sep 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1157
Abstract
The objective of the present study was to evaluate the changes in maternal and fetal arterial acid-base variables withdrawn from catheterized dams and fetuses during the last days before and during calving. The average gestation length in nine cows with chronically catheterized fetuses [...] Read more.
The objective of the present study was to evaluate the changes in maternal and fetal arterial acid-base variables withdrawn from catheterized dams and fetuses during the last days before and during calving. The average gestation length in nine cows with chronically catheterized fetuses was 285 ± 10 (SD) days. The arterial acid-base variables of a catheterized dam and fetus were very stable during late gestation. Four newborn calves showed small differences between prenatal and postnatal pH values (−0.035). At the same time, pCO2 values started to increase significantly (p = 0.02), indicating a shift towards physiological respiratory acidosis during calving. The partial pressure of oxygen and oxygen saturation values showed some non-significant improvements immediately after birth, while the other acid-base parameters did not differ. The remaining five newborn calves showed a significant decrease in arterial blood pH (p < 0.01) and BE (p = 0.01), while pCO2 tended to be higher (p = 0.06), indicating a shift towards physiological respiratory and metabolic acidosis, while the other acid-base parameters hardly differed. It is essential to mention that physiological (n = 2) and mild metabolic acidosis (n = 2) developed gradually in four newborn calves during the second stage of calving, lasting about ≤ 2 h. In contrast, in the remaining newborn calf the physiological metabolic acidosis developed during the last 3 min of birth because immediately before birth, the BE value was 0.4 mmol/L. After birth, it was −5.4 mmol/L. The results indicate that the acid-base variables may start to move gradually in the direction of expressed respiratory and metabolic acidosis only after appearing the amniotic sac and fetal feet in the vulva during the second stage of labor; therefore, it is essential to complete obstetrical assistance in time. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Perinatology: Behavior and Health of the Dam and Her Offspring)
15 pages, 333 KiB  
Article
Early Blood Analysis and Gas Exchange Monitoring in the Canine Neonate: Effect of Dam’s Size and Birth Order
by Brenda Reyes-Sotelo, Asahi Ogi, Patricia Mora-Medina, Chiara Mariti, Adriana Olmos-Hernández, Ismael Hernández-Ávalos, Adriana Domínguez-Oliva, Marcelino Evodio Rosas, Antonio Verduzco-Mendoza and Angelo Gazzano
Animals 2022, 12(12), 1508; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12121508 - 09 Jun 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1713
Abstract
In canines, size at birth is determined by the dam’s weight, which would probably affect the newborn’s viability due to litter size and birth order. Fetal hypoxia causes distress and acidemia. Identifying physiological blood alterations in the puppy during the first minute of [...] Read more.
In canines, size at birth is determined by the dam’s weight, which would probably affect the newborn’s viability due to litter size and birth order. Fetal hypoxia causes distress and acidemia. Identifying physiological blood alterations in the puppy during the first minute of life through the blood gas exchange of the umbilical cord could determine the puppy’s risk of suffering asphyxiation during labor. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of the birth order and dam’s size during spontaneous labor and the alterations during the first minute of life. The results indicate that the dam’s size and the birth order have considerable physiological and metabolic effects in the puppies, mainly in birth order 1 (BO1) in small-size dogs, while in the medium size, the last puppy presented more alterations, probably because of a prolonged whelping which could have fostered hypoxic processes and death. Likewise, with large-size dogs, intrapartum asphyxiation processes were registered during the first minute of life in any birth order. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Perinatology: Behavior and Health of the Dam and Her Offspring)
15 pages, 1399 KiB  
Article
Time Spent in a Maternity Pen during Winter Influences Cow and Calf Behavior in Pasture-Based Dairy Systems
by Fabiola Matamala, Helen Martínez, Claudio Henríquez and Pilar Sepúlveda-Varas
Animals 2022, 12(12), 1506; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12121506 - 09 Jun 2022
Viewed by 1660
Abstract
Our study compared the behavior of prepartum dairy cows that either remained in an outdoor paddock until calving (OP) during winter or were moved to an indoor maternity pen either early (EM) or late (LM) relative to calving. Forty-two multiparous Holstein cows were [...] Read more.
Our study compared the behavior of prepartum dairy cows that either remained in an outdoor paddock until calving (OP) during winter or were moved to an indoor maternity pen either early (EM) or late (LM) relative to calving. Forty-two multiparous Holstein cows were divided into three treatments (OP, EM, or LM) and monitored from 3 weeks before to 1.5 h after calving. Cows in EM and LM were moved to a maternity pen starting at week three and week one before the expected calving date, respectively. We assessed the cleanliness of the cows at calving, immunoglobulin G concentration in colostrum, and the behavior and vitality of calves across treatments. Cows spent more time lying in EM compared to OP and LM during the weeks −3 and −2 relative to calving, but lying time was increased in LM cows compared with OP cows during the week −1 relative to calving. Prepartum rumination time was lowest in OP cows but not different between EM or LM. Calves from OP cows spent more time lying and had lower vitality after calving than those from LM and EM cows, respectively; calves from EM and LM cows were intermediate for lying and vitality, respectively, but did not differ from either group. The cleanliness was greatest in cows that calved indoors (EM or LM); nevertheless, precalving management did not affect the IgG concentration in colostrum. Our study demonstrates that, in comparison with OP, EM and LM have positive implications for the welfare of the dam and its newborn calf during winter. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Perinatology: Behavior and Health of the Dam and Her Offspring)
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19 pages, 1758 KiB  
Article
Canine Neonatal Assessment by Vitality Score, Amniotic Fluid, Urine, and Umbilical Cord Blood Analysis of Glucose, Lactate, and Cortisol: Possible Influence of Parturition Type?
by Tanja Plavec, Tanja Knific, Aleksandra Slapšak, Sara Raspor, Barbara Lukanc and Maja Zakošek Pipan
Animals 2022, 12(10), 1247; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12101247 - 12 May 2022
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2970
Abstract
The objective of this study was to investigate the impact of parturition type on vitality in newborn puppies, their weight gains, and survival in the first week postpartum. One hundred and twenty-three puppies were divided in three groups: vaginal parturition (VP), emergency (EM-CS), [...] Read more.
The objective of this study was to investigate the impact of parturition type on vitality in newborn puppies, their weight gains, and survival in the first week postpartum. One hundred and twenty-three puppies were divided in three groups: vaginal parturition (VP), emergency (EM-CS), and elective cesarean section (EL-CS). Apgar scores were assessed 5, 15, and 60 min postpartum. Lactate and glucose concentrations were measured in amniotic fluid and umbilical blood; cortisol concentrations were measured in amniotic fluid and puppy urine. Puppies’ weight gain was tracked daily for 7 days postpartum. Apgar score at 5 and 15 min was significantly better in the VP group. EL-CS puppies had significantly lower umbilical blood and amniotic fluid lactate concentrations compared to the VP group, which also had higher umbilical blood lactate concentration than EM-CS puppies. The cortisol concentration in the amniotic fluid and in urine differed significantly between the groups, with the highest concentration in the EM-CS, followed by the VP group. Glucose concentration in amniotic fluid was higher in the VP group than EM-CS group. The type of parturition had no impact on puppies’ weight gain or their survival at birth; however, supportive treatment was provided for non-vital puppies. Non-invasive analysis of puppies’ fluids could help in the assessment of the neonatal vitality. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Perinatology: Behavior and Health of the Dam and Her Offspring)
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Review

Jump to: Research

14 pages, 1389 KiB  
Review
Cardiorespiratory and Neuroprotective Effects of Caffeine in Neonate Animal Models
by Daniel Mota-Rojas, Dina Villanueva-García, Ismael Hernández-Ávalos, Alejandro Casas-Alvarado, Adriana Domínguez-Oliva, Karina Lezama-García, Agatha Miranda-Cortés and Julio Martínez-Burnes
Animals 2023, 13(11), 1769; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13111769 - 26 May 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1895
Abstract
Caffeine is widely used to improve neonatal health in animals with low vitality. Due to its pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, caffeine stimulates the cardiorespiratory system by antagonism of adenosine receptors and alteration in Ca+2 ion channel activity. Moreover, the availability of intracellular Ca [...] Read more.
Caffeine is widely used to improve neonatal health in animals with low vitality. Due to its pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, caffeine stimulates the cardiorespiratory system by antagonism of adenosine receptors and alteration in Ca+2 ion channel activity. Moreover, the availability of intracellular Ca+2 also has positive inotropic effects by increasing heart contractibility and by having a possible positive effect on neonate vitality. Nonetheless, since neonatal enzymatic and tissular systems are immature at birth, there is a controversy about whether caffeine is an effective therapy for newborns. This review aims to analyze the basic concepts of caffeine in neonatal animal models (rat and mouse pups, goat kids, lambs, and piglets), and it will discuss the neuroprotective effect and its physiological actions in reducing apnea in newborns. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Perinatology: Behavior and Health of the Dam and Her Offspring)
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28 pages, 8005 KiB  
Review
Vitality in Newborn Farm Animals: Adverse Factors, Physiological Responses, Pharmacological Therapies, and Physical Methods to Increase Neonate Vigor
by Cécile Bienboire-Frosini, Ramon Muns, Míriam Marcet-Rius, Angelo Gazzano, Dina Villanueva-García, Julio Martínez-Burnes, Adriana Domínguez-Oliva, Karina Lezama-García, Alejandro Casas-Alvarado and Daniel Mota-Rojas
Animals 2023, 13(9), 1542; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13091542 - 04 May 2023
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2694
Abstract
Vitality is the vigor newborn animals exhibit during the first hours of life. It can be assessed by a numerical score, in which variables, such as heart rate, respiratory rate, mucous membranes’ coloration, time the offspring took to stand up, and meconium staining, [...] Read more.
Vitality is the vigor newborn animals exhibit during the first hours of life. It can be assessed by a numerical score, in which variables, such as heart rate, respiratory rate, mucous membranes’ coloration, time the offspring took to stand up, and meconium staining, are monitored. Vitality can be affected by several factors, and therapies are used to increase it. This manuscript aims to review and analyze pharmacological and physical therapies used to increase vitality in newborn farm animals, as well as to understand the factors affecting this vitality, such as hypoxia, depletion of glycogen, birth weight, dystocia, neurodevelopment, hypothermia, and finally, the physiological mechanism to achieve thermostability. It has been concluded that assessing vitality immediately after birth is essential to determine the newborn’s health and identify those that need medical intervention to minimize the deleterious effect of intrapartum asphyxia. Vitality assessment should be conducted by trained personnel and adequate equipment. Evaluating vitality could reduce long-term neonatal morbidity and mortality in domestic animals, even if it is sometimes difficult with the current organization of some farms. This review highlights the importance of increasing the number of stock people during the expected days of parturitions to reduce long-term neonatal morbidity and mortality, and thus, improve the farm’s performance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Perinatology: Behavior and Health of the Dam and Her Offspring)
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20 pages, 2964 KiB  
Review
The Role of Oxytocin in Domestic Animal’s Maternal Care: Parturition, Bonding, and Lactation
by Daniel Mota-Rojas, Míriam Marcet-Rius, Adriana Domínguez-Oliva, Julio Martínez-Burnes, Karina Lezama-García, Ismael Hernández-Ávalos, Daniela Rodríguez-González and Cécile Bienboire-Frosini
Animals 2023, 13(7), 1207; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13071207 - 30 Mar 2023
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 4726
Abstract
Oxytocin (OXT) is one of the essential hormones in the birth process; however, estradiol, prolactin, cortisol, relaxin, connexin, and prostaglandin are also present. In addition to parturition, the functions in which OXT is also involved in mammals include the induction of maternal behavior, [...] Read more.
Oxytocin (OXT) is one of the essential hormones in the birth process; however, estradiol, prolactin, cortisol, relaxin, connexin, and prostaglandin are also present. In addition to parturition, the functions in which OXT is also involved in mammals include the induction of maternal behavior, including imprinting and maternal care, social cognition, and affiliative behavior, which can affect allo-parental care. The present article aimed to analyze the role of OXT and the neurophysiologic regulation of this hormone during parturition, how it can promote or impair maternal behavior and bonding, and its importance in lactation in domestic animals. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Perinatology: Behavior and Health of the Dam and Her Offspring)
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17 pages, 377 KiB  
Review
Importance of Monitoring Fetal and Neonatal Vitality in Bovine Practices
by Ottó Szenci
Animals 2023, 13(6), 1081; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13061081 - 17 Mar 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1241
Abstract
Prior to initiating any obstetrical intervention for anterior or posterior presentation, it is imperative to emphasize the need for a precise and accurate diagnosis of fetal viability and to select the most appropriate approach for assistance. In uncertain cases, diagnostic tools such as [...] Read more.
Prior to initiating any obstetrical intervention for anterior or posterior presentation, it is imperative to emphasize the need for a precise and accurate diagnosis of fetal viability and to select the most appropriate approach for assistance. In uncertain cases, diagnostic tools such as ultrasonography, pulse oximeter, or measurement of acid–base balance or lactate concentration may be employed to confirm the diagnosis. In situations of severe asphyxia, a cesarean section is preferred over traction, even if the duration of asphyxia is less than 60 s, to maximize the likelihood of the survival of the fetus. Postcalving, several vitality scores have been proposed to evaluate the vigor of the newborn calf. Originally, four different clinical signs were recommended for assessing the well-being of newborn calves. Subsequently, five or more different clinical signs were recommended to evaluate vitality. However, despite the efforts for devising a practical tool to assess newborn calf vitality; a user-friendly and highly accurate instrument that can be used on farms remains elusive. Measuring the acid–base balance or lactate concentration may increase the diagnostic accuracy. It is critical to emphasize the importance of reducing the incidence of dystocia to mitigate the occurrence of severe asphyxia. In instances where asphyxia is unavoidable, adequate treatments should be administered to minimize losses. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Perinatology: Behavior and Health of the Dam and Her Offspring)
17 pages, 1415 KiB  
Review
Clinical Experiences and Mechanism of Action with the Use of Oxytocin Injection at Parturition in Domestic Animals: Effect on the Myometrium and Fetuses
by Míriam Marcet-Rius, Cécile Bienboire-Frosini, Karina Lezama-García, Adriana Domínguez-Oliva, Adriana Olmos-Hernández, Patricia Mora-Medina, Ismael Hernández-Ávalos, Alejandro Casas-Alvarado and Angelo Gazzano
Animals 2023, 13(4), 768; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13040768 - 20 Feb 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 4374
Abstract
Oxytocin is a key hormone for parturition and maternal traits in animals. During the peripartum period, the levels of endogenous oxytocin dictate physiological events such as myometrial contractions, prostaglandin production with the subsequent increase in oxytocin receptors, and the promotion of lactation when [...] Read more.
Oxytocin is a key hormone for parturition and maternal traits in animals. During the peripartum period, the levels of endogenous oxytocin dictate physiological events such as myometrial contractions, prostaglandin production with the subsequent increase in oxytocin receptors, and the promotion of lactation when administered immediately after birth. While this hormone has some benefits regarding these aspects, the exogenous administration of oxytocin has been shown to have detrimental effects on the fetus, such as asphyxia, meconium staining, ruptured umbilical cords, and more dystocia cases in females. This review aims to analyze the main effects of oxytocin on myometrial activity during parturition, and its potential favorable and negative administration effects reflected in the fetus health of domestic animals. In conclusion, it is convenient to know oxytocin’s different effects as well as the adequate doses and the proper moment to administrate it, as it can reduce labor duration, but it can also increase dystocia. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Perinatology: Behavior and Health of the Dam and Her Offspring)
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25 pages, 2713 KiB  
Review
Mother–Young Bonding: Neurobiological Aspects and Maternal Biochemical Signaling in Altricial Domesticated Mammals
by Cécile Bienboire-Frosini, Míriam Marcet-Rius, Agustín Orihuela, Adriana Domínguez-Oliva, Patricia Mora-Medina, Adriana Olmos-Hernández, Alejandro Casas-Alvarado and Daniel Mota-Rojas
Animals 2023, 13(3), 532; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13030532 - 02 Feb 2023
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 5001
Abstract
Mother–young bonding is a type of early learning where the female and their newborn recognize each other through a series of neurobiological mechanisms and neurotransmitters that establish a behavioral preference for filial individuals. This process is essential to promote their welfare by providing [...] Read more.
Mother–young bonding is a type of early learning where the female and their newborn recognize each other through a series of neurobiological mechanisms and neurotransmitters that establish a behavioral preference for filial individuals. This process is essential to promote their welfare by providing maternal care, particularly in altricial species, animals that require extended parental care due to their limited neurodevelopment at birth. Olfactory, auditory, tactile, and visual stimuli trigger the neural integration of multimodal sensory and conditioned affective associations in mammals. This review aims to discuss the neurobiological aspects of bonding processes in altricial mammals, with a focus on the brain structures and neurotransmitters involved and how these influence the signaling during the first days of the life of newborns. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Perinatology: Behavior and Health of the Dam and Her Offspring)
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16 pages, 822 KiB  
Review
Neurobiology of Maternal Behavior in Nonhuman Mammals: Acceptance, Recognition, Motivation, and Rejection
by Genaro A. Coria-Avila, Deissy Herrera-Covarrubias, Luis I. García, Rebeca Toledo, María Elena Hernández, Pedro Paredes-Ramos, Aleph A. Corona-Morales and Jorge Manzo
Animals 2022, 12(24), 3589; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12243589 - 19 Dec 2022
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3236
Abstract
Among the different species of mammals, the expression of maternal behavior varies considerably, although the end points of nurturance and protection are the same. Females may display passive or active responses of acceptance, recognition, rejection/fear, or motivation to care for the offspring. Each [...] Read more.
Among the different species of mammals, the expression of maternal behavior varies considerably, although the end points of nurturance and protection are the same. Females may display passive or active responses of acceptance, recognition, rejection/fear, or motivation to care for the offspring. Each type of response may indicate different levels of neural activation. Different natural stimuli can trigger the expression of maternal and paternal behavior in both pregnant or virgin females and males, such as hormone priming during pregnancy, vagino-cervical stimulation during parturition, mating, exposure to pups, previous experience, or environmental enrichment. Herein, we discuss how the olfactory pathways and the interconnections of the medial preoptic area (mPOA) with structures such as nucleus accumbens, ventral tegmental area, amygdala, and bed nucleus of stria terminalis mediate maternal behavior. We also discuss how the triggering stimuli activate oxytocin, vasopressin, dopamine, galanin, and opioids in neurocircuitries that mediate acceptance, recognition, maternal motivation, and rejection/fear. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Perinatology: Behavior and Health of the Dam and Her Offspring)
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18 pages, 2904 KiB  
Review
Meconium Aspiration Syndrome in Animal Models: Inflammatory Process, Apoptosis, and Surfactant Inactivation
by Daniel Mota-Rojas, Dina Villanueva-García, Andrea Mota-Reyes, Agustín Orihuela, Ismael Hernández-Ávalos, Adriana Domínguez-Oliva, Alejandro Casas-Alvarado, Karla Flores-Padilla, Joseline Jacome-Romero and Julio Martínez-Burnes
Animals 2022, 12(23), 3310; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12233310 - 27 Nov 2022
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3195
Abstract
Meconium Aspiration Syndrome is a condition that causes respiratory distress in newborns due to occlusion and airway inflammation, and surfactant inactivation by meconium. This condition has been described in animal species such as canids, sheep, cattle, horses, pigs, and marine mammals. In its [...] Read more.
Meconium Aspiration Syndrome is a condition that causes respiratory distress in newborns due to occlusion and airway inflammation, and surfactant inactivation by meconium. This condition has been described in animal species such as canids, sheep, cattle, horses, pigs, and marine mammals. In its pathogenesis, the pulmonary epithelium activates a limited inflammatory response initiated by cytokines causing leukocyte chemotaxis, inhibition of phagocytosis, and pathogen destruction. Likewise, cytokines release participates in the apoptosis processes of pneumocytes due to the interaction of angiotensin with cytokines and the caspase pathway. Due to these reactions, the prevalent signs are lung injury, hypoxia, acidosis, and pneumonia with susceptibility to infection. Given the importance of the pathophysiological mechanism of meconium aspiration syndrome, this review aims to discuss the relevance of the syndrome in veterinary medicine. The inflammatory processes caused by meconium aspiration in animal models will be analyzed, and the cellular apoptosis and biochemical processes of pulmonary surfactant inactivation will be discussed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Perinatology: Behavior and Health of the Dam and Her Offspring)
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16 pages, 24641 KiB  
Review
Analgesia during Parturition in Domestic Animals: Perspectives and Controversies on Its Use
by Daniel Mota-Rojas, Antonio Velarde, Míriam Marcet-Rius, Agustín Orihuela, Andrea Bragaglio, Ismael Hernández-Ávalos, Alejandro Casas-Alvarado, Adriana Domínguez-Oliva and Alexandra L. Whittaker
Animals 2022, 12(19), 2686; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12192686 - 06 Oct 2022
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2872
Abstract
This article analyzes the physiological role of pain during parturition in domestic animals, discusses the controversies surrounding the use of opioids, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and local analgesics as treatments during labor, and presents the advantages and disadvantages for mother and offspring. Labor [...] Read more.
This article analyzes the physiological role of pain during parturition in domestic animals, discusses the controversies surrounding the use of opioids, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and local analgesics as treatments during labor, and presents the advantages and disadvantages for mother and offspring. Labor is a potentially stressful and painful event, due to the contractions that promote expulsion of the fetus. During labor, neurotransmitters such as the prostaglandins contribute to the sensitization of oxytocin receptors in the myometrium and the activation of nociceptive fibers, thus supporting the physiological role of pain. Endogenously, the body secretes opioid peptides that modulate harmful stimuli and, at the same time, can inhibit oxytocin’s action in the myometrium. Treating pain during the different stages of parturition is an option that can help prevent such consequences as tachycardia, changes in breathing patterns, and respiratory acidosis, all of which can harm the wellbeing of offspring. However, studies have found that some analgesics can promote myometrial contractility, increase expulsion time, affect fetal circulation, and alter mother–offspring recognition due to hypnotic effects. Other data, however, indicate that reducing the number of uterine contractions with analgesics increases their potency, thus improving maternal performance. Managing pain during labor requires understanding the tocolytic properties of analgesics and their advantages in preventing the consequences of pain. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Perinatology: Behavior and Health of the Dam and Her Offspring)
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26 pages, 443 KiB  
Review
Dead or Alive? A Review of Perinatal Factors That Determine Canine Neonatal Viability
by Oliwia Uchańska, Małgorzata Ochota, Maria Eberhardt and Wojciech Niżański
Animals 2022, 12(11), 1402; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12111402 - 30 May 2022
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 3867
Abstract
The perinatal period has a critical impact on viability of the newborns. The variety of factors that can potentially affect the health of a litter during pregnancy, birth, and the first weeks of life requires proper attention from both the breeder and the [...] Read more.
The perinatal period has a critical impact on viability of the newborns. The variety of factors that can potentially affect the health of a litter during pregnancy, birth, and the first weeks of life requires proper attention from both the breeder and the veterinarian. The health status of puppies can be influenced by various maternal factors, including breed characteristics, anatomy, quality of nutrition, delivery assistance, neonatal care, and environmental or infectious agents encountered during pregnancy. Regular examinations and pregnancy monitoring are key tools for early detection of signals that can indicate disorders even before clinical signs occur. Early detection significantly increases the chances of puppies’ survival and proper development. The purpose of the review was to summarize and discuss the complex interactions between all elements that, throughout pregnancy and the first days of life, have a tangible impact on the subsequent fate of the offspring. Many of these components continue to pose challenges in veterinary neonatology; thus, publications presenting the current state of knowledge in this field are in demand. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Perinatology: Behavior and Health of the Dam and Her Offspring)
12 pages, 1754 KiB  
Review
The Effect of Maternal Behavior around Calving on Reproduction and Wellbeing of Zebu Type Cows and Calves
by Agustín Orihuela and Carlos S. Galina
Animals 2021, 11(11), 3164; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11113164 - 05 Nov 2021
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 5776
Abstract
The behaviors associated with domestic cattle such as maternal care are quite similar to those behaviors observed in wild ungulates. These behaviors allow the cow to bond with her calf, protect and provide it with nourishment and ultimately reduce the bond at weaning. [...] Read more.
The behaviors associated with domestic cattle such as maternal care are quite similar to those behaviors observed in wild ungulates. These behaviors allow the cow to bond with her calf, protect and provide it with nourishment and ultimately reduce the bond at weaning. Although maternal behavior is an important factor influencing the survival and early development of the newborn calf, Zebu type cows around calving have not been studied extensively. Herein, we consider the four main aspects of maternal behavior in cattle and particularly Bos indicus cows and calves. Firstly, we provide a brief description of the behavior of cows around parturition and the behavior of the first stages of the calves’ lives. In the second part, the protective behavior of the mother is analyzed. Subsequently, examples of animal welfare implications followed by an analysis of some factors that affect calf survival, including mother experience and weather conditions, are discussed, and in the last part, reproduction along with some peculiarities of reproductive behavior, and the wellbeing of mother and calves are examined. We concluded that knowledge of maternal behavior of Zebu type cows around calving and interactions with calves might contribute to an enhanced reproductive efficiency of the mother and the welfare of the calf. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Perinatology: Behavior and Health of the Dam and Her Offspring)
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25 pages, 2952 KiB  
Review
Allonursing in Wild and Farm Animals: Biological and Physiological Foundations and Explanatory Hypotheses
by Daniel Mota-Rojas, Míriam Marcet-Rius, Aline Freitas-de-Melo, Ramon Muns, Patricia Mora-Medina, Adriana Domínguez-Oliva and Agustín Orihuela
Animals 2021, 11(11), 3092; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11113092 - 29 Oct 2021
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 4405
Abstract
The dams of gregarious animals must develop a close bond with their newborns to provide them with maternal care, including protection against predators, immunological transference, and nutrition. Even though lactation demands high energy expenditures, behaviors known as allonursing (the nursing of non-descendant infants) [...] Read more.
The dams of gregarious animals must develop a close bond with their newborns to provide them with maternal care, including protection against predators, immunological transference, and nutrition. Even though lactation demands high energy expenditures, behaviors known as allonursing (the nursing of non-descendant infants) and allosuckling (suckling from any female other than the mother) have been reported in various species of wild or domestic, and terrestrial or aquatic animals. These behaviors seem to be elements of a multifactorial strategy, since reports suggest that they depend on the following: species, living conditions, social stability, and kinship relations, among other group factors. Despite their potential benefits, allonursing and allosuckling can place the health and welfare of both non-filial dams and alien offspring at risk, as it augments the probability of pathogen transmission. This review aims to analyze the biological and physiological foundations and bioenergetic costs of these behaviors, analyzing the individual and collective advantages and disadvantages for the dams’ own offspring(s) and alien neonate(s). We also include information on the animal species in which these behaviors occur and their implications on animal welfare. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Perinatology: Behavior and Health of the Dam and Her Offspring)
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26 pages, 2676 KiB  
Review
Parturition in Mammals: Animal Models, Pain and Distress
by Julio Martínez-Burnes, Ramon Muns, Hugo Barrios-García, Dina Villanueva-García, Adriana Domínguez-Oliva and Daniel Mota-Rojas
Animals 2021, 11(10), 2960; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11102960 - 14 Oct 2021
Cited by 20 | Viewed by 8403
Abstract
Parturition is a complex physiological process and involves many hormonal, morphological, physiological, and behavioural changes. Labour is a crucial moment for numerous species and is usually the most painful experience in females. Contrary to the extensive research in humans, there are limited pain [...] Read more.
Parturition is a complex physiological process and involves many hormonal, morphological, physiological, and behavioural changes. Labour is a crucial moment for numerous species and is usually the most painful experience in females. Contrary to the extensive research in humans, there are limited pain studies associated with the birth process in domestic animals. Nonetheless, awareness of parturition has increased among the public, owners, and the scientific community during recent years. Dystocia is a significant factor that increases the level of parturition pain. It is considered less common in polytocous species because newborns’ number and small size might lead to the belief that the parturition process is less painful than in monotocous animal species and humans. This review aims to provide elements of the current knowledge about human labour pain (monotocous species), the relevant contribution of the rat model to human labour pain, and the current clinical and experimental knowledge of parturition pain mechanisms in domestic animals that support the fact that domestic polytocous species also experience pain. Moreover, both for women and domestic animal species, parturition’s pain represents a potential welfare concern, and information on pain indicators and the appropriate analgesic therapy are discussed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Perinatology: Behavior and Health of the Dam and Her Offspring)
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