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Attachment towards the Owner Is Associated with Spontaneous Sleep EEG Parameters in Family Dogs
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Drug-Dosing Adjustment in Dogs and Cats with Chronic Kidney Disease
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Environmental Enrichment for Rats and Mice Housed in Laboratories: A Metareview
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Pandemic Puppies: Demographic Characteristics, Health and Early Life Experiences of Puppies Acquired during the 2020 Phase of the COVID-19 Pandemic in the UK
Journal Description
Animals
Animals
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal devoted entirely to animals, including zoology and veterinary sciences, published semimonthly online by MDPI. The World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) and European College of Animal Welfare and Behavioural Medicine (ECAWBM) are affiliated with Animals and their members receive a discount on the article processing charges.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), PubMed, PMC, Embase, PubAg, AGRIS, Animal Science Database, CAB Abstracts, and many other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q1 (Veterinary Sciences) / CiteScore - Q1 (General Veterinary)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision provided to authors approximately 17.7 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.8 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2021).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
- Companion journals for Animals include: Birds, Ruminants and Zoonotic Diseases.
Impact Factor:
2.752 (2020)
;
5-Year Impact Factor:
2.942 (2020)
Latest Articles
Epidemiology, Diagnosis, and Prevention of Sparganosis in Asia
Animals 2022, 12(12), 1578; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12121578 - 18 Jun 2022
Abstract
Sparganosis is a zoonotic parasitic disease caused by the larvae (spargana) of the genus Spirometra, which is widely distributed globally and threatens human health. More than 60 species of Spirometra have already been identified, and over 2000 cases have been reported. This
[...] Read more.
Sparganosis is a zoonotic parasitic disease caused by the larvae (spargana) of the genus Spirometra, which is widely distributed globally and threatens human health. More than 60 species of Spirometra have already been identified, and over 2000 cases have been reported. This review summarizes the prevalence of humans, frogs, snakes, and other animals with spargana. Furthermore, the infection mode, distribution, and site are summarized and analyzed. We also describe the epidemiology, molecular diagnosis, and other aspects which are of considerable significance to preventing sparganum.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Parasite Epidemiology and Population Genetics)
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Biogenic Amines in Poultry Meat and Poultry Products: Formation, Appearance, and Methods of Reduction
Animals 2022, 12(12), 1577; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12121577 - 18 Jun 2022
Abstract
Poultry meat is a source of many important nutrients, micro- and macro-elements, and biologically active substances. During meat storage, many physicochemical changes take place, also affecting the content of biologically active substances, including biogenic amines.They are formed as a result of three processes:
[...] Read more.
Poultry meat is a source of many important nutrients, micro- and macro-elements, and biologically active substances. During meat storage, many physicochemical changes take place, also affecting the content of biologically active substances, including biogenic amines.They are formed as a result of three processes: decarboxylation of amino acids by microorganisms, reductive amination, and transamination of aldehydes and ketones, and as a result of activity of body tissues. Excessive consumption of biogenic amines shows toxic properties. The increasing consumption of poultry meat and the lack of established limits for biogenic amine content is a major challenge for scientists, producers, and consumer organisations, which have not yet established limits for biogenic amine content in meat (including poultry meat). Analyses of biogenic amine content in meat account for less than 10% of scientific papers, which raises the scope of the problem of limiting biogenic amines in meat. Among the methods of amine reduction are methods of destroying or reducing microorganisms’ high hydrostatic pressure (HHP), ozonisation, radiation, or the use of essential oils.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research Progress in Poultry Production, Intestinal Health, and Product Quality)
Open AccessArticle
The Use of Live Action, Animation, and Computer-Generated Imagery in the Depiction of Non-Human Primates in Film
Animals 2022, 12(12), 1576; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12121576 - 18 Jun 2022
Abstract
For over 100 years, non-human primates (primates) have been a part of the now hundred-billion-dollar global film industry in a variety of capacities. Their use in the film industry is of concern due to the negative welfare effects on individuals, the potential for
[...] Read more.
For over 100 years, non-human primates (primates) have been a part of the now hundred-billion-dollar global film industry in a variety of capacities. Their use in the film industry is of concern due to the negative welfare effects on individuals, the potential for increased pet trade, and the conservation impacts of public perception. While the effects on human perception of using live primates in film have been studied, little research has been performed on their appearance in animation and none in computer-generated imagery (CGI). We aimed to investigate how the portrayal of primates varied between depiction medium types and how this related to the films’ performance with critics and in the box office. We observed 151 primates in 101 different English-speaking films that debuted between 2000 and 2019. For each appearance we recorded aspects of primate portrayals based on accuracy, anthropomorphism, environment, and agency displayed, along with the depiction medium. We used structural equation models to depict the highest likelihood of the portrayal aspects on the medium’s relationship to the films gross profit worldwide and film critic consensus scores. We found that over the 20-year time frame, use of live primates has decreased, CGI has increased, and animations have remained relatively steady. While animation had no significant relationship to gross profit or critic consensus, both were significantly lower for films that used live primates and were significantly higher for films that used CGI primates. Due to the steady increase in the use of the CGI medium and its positive relationship with gross profit and critic consensus, it could have great effects on people’s perceptions of primates and implications for conservation efforts.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Animal Welfare)
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Urinary Protein/Creatinine Ratio in Feline Medicine: Reasons to Perform It and Its Role in Clinical Practice—A Retrospective Study
Animals 2022, 12(12), 1575; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12121575 - 18 Jun 2022
Abstract
This study aimed at understanding the reasons veterinarians conduct a urinary protein/creatinine ratio (UPCR) in cats, correlating it with signalment, dipstick proteinuria tests, and urine specific gravity (USG) and assessing its role in chronic kidney disease (CKD) diagnosis and monitoring. A retrospective study
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This study aimed at understanding the reasons veterinarians conduct a urinary protein/creatinine ratio (UPCR) in cats, correlating it with signalment, dipstick proteinuria tests, and urine specific gravity (USG) and assessing its role in chronic kidney disease (CKD) diagnosis and monitoring. A retrospective study was conducted, including medical data from cats consulted between 2016 and 2018 in a veterinary teaching hospital and submitted to at least one UPCR measurement. A total of 140 cats were included: 35% non-proteinuric (UPCR < 0.2), 25% borderline proteinuric (0.2 < UPCR < 0.4), and 40% overtly proteinuric (UPCR > 0.4). In contrast to other studies, there was no association between UPCR and male reproductive status. UPCR was mainly requested for CKD diagnosis and monitoring. Correlation between UPCR and combined results from dipstick tests and USG was low and inconsistent. Proteinuric CKD cats had a worse outcome at both 6 (odds ratio (OR 4.04) and 12 months (OR 4.36)), and this finding was more pronounced for severely proteinuric cases in which the OR for death was 4.36 and 6.00 at 6 and at 12 months, respectively. In addition to reinforcing the negative prognostic value of proteinuria, this study stresses the low and the inconsistent agreement between UPCR and the combined results of dipstick tests and USG in cats.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Canine and Feline Nephropathies)
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Open AccessArticle
Pet dogs’ Behavioural Reaction to Their Caregiver’s Interactions with a Third Party: Join in or Interrupt?
Animals 2022, 12(12), 1574; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12121574 - 18 Jun 2022
Abstract
Pet dogs are promising candidates to study attachment-related and potentially jealousy-like behaviours in non-human animals, as they form a strong and stable bond with their human caregivers who often engage in affiliative interactions with diverse social partners. Nevertheless, it is still debated whether
[...] Read more.
Pet dogs are promising candidates to study attachment-related and potentially jealousy-like behaviours in non-human animals, as they form a strong and stable bond with their human caregivers who often engage in affiliative interactions with diverse social partners. Nevertheless, it is still debated whether non-human animals are capable of experiencing such complex emotions. Even though caregivers frequently report observations of jealousy-like behaviours in dogs, behavioural studies in dogs have thus far led to contradictory results. Adding to this complexity, dogs appear extraordinarily skilled in understanding humans’ communicative behaviour and can flexibly and diversely interact with them in social contexts. Here, we aimed at investigating (1) whether dogs indeed respond in a jealousy-consistent manner when seeing their caregiver interact in an affiliative way with a remotely controlled, realistic-looking fake dog, or (2) whether they would rather synchronize their reaction to the fake dog with the caregiver’s behaviour, or (3) whether they respond directly to the caregiver without paying much attention to the third party. To address what drives the dogs’ behaviours in this triadic situation, we compared four groups of dogs who first observed and then joined the interaction of either the caregiver or a stranger greeting or medically examining the fake dog. We found that the dogs initially responded negatively or neutrally when the fake dog entered the room but changed to more positive reactions when the caregiver approached the fake dog, especially if initiating a positive interaction. When being released, more dogs showed friendly behaviours towards the fake dog when the caregiver—rather than the stranger—was interacting with it. At the same time, however, the dogs tried to block the interaction of the caregiver with the fake dog more often than the one of the stranger. In conclusion, we did not find clear evidence for jealousy-like behaviours in dogs during the human–fake dog interactions, but we observed indicators of behavioural synchronization with the caregivers, suggesting that the caregivers’ affiliative behaviours directed at a third party may more often facilitate positive than negative interactions in dogs.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Approaches to Comparative Study of Human and Animal Emotions)
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Anatomy of the Palmar Region of the Carpus of the Dog
Animals 2022, 12(12), 1573; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12121573 - 18 Jun 2022
Abstract
The palmar region of the canine carpus is anatomically complex, and the information found in the literature about its anatomy is inconsistent. The aims of this prospective, descriptive, anatomic study were (1) the clarification and (2) the description of the precise anatomic composition
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The palmar region of the canine carpus is anatomically complex, and the information found in the literature about its anatomy is inconsistent. The aims of this prospective, descriptive, anatomic study were (1) the clarification and (2) the description of the precise anatomic composition of the palmar region of the canine carpus, with special reference to the canalis carpi. For this study, 92 cadaveric specimens were obtained from 46 dogs that had died for reasons unrelated to this study. Of these, 43 medium-to-large-breed dogs were randomly selected for the dissection of transverse slices of the carpus. Samples of the flexor retinaculum and flexor carpi radialis tendon and surrounding tissues were taken for complementary histology. For additional histology of the palmar structures in their anatomical position, three small breed dogs were randomly selected for obtaining transverse slices. The anatomic characteristics of the components of the palmar region of the canine carpus were qualitatively described, with special attention to the following structures: flexor retinaculum, flexor carpi radialis muscle, arteria and vena mediana, nervus medianus, interflexorius muscle, flexor digitorum profundus muscle, canalis carpi, and arteria and nervus ulnaris. The findings from this study provide reference information about the anatomy of the palmar region of the canine carpus.
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(This article belongs to the Section Companion Animals)
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Investigation of Bacterial Isolations and Antimicrobial Susceptibility of Chronic Rhinitis in Cats
Animals 2022, 12(12), 1572; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12121572 - 17 Jun 2022
Abstract
Chronic rhinitis is a quite common upper respiratory tract (URT) disease in cats. As a result of unclear etiology, frequently, multidrug-resistant bacteria are identified. This study investigated bacterial isolations and an antimicrobial susceptibility test (AST) in chronic rhinitis in cats. The medical records
[...] Read more.
Chronic rhinitis is a quite common upper respiratory tract (URT) disease in cats. As a result of unclear etiology, frequently, multidrug-resistant bacteria are identified. This study investigated bacterial isolations and an antimicrobial susceptibility test (AST) in chronic rhinitis in cats. The medical records of 395 cats with chronic URT signs were reviewed at the Kasetsart University Veterinary Teaching Hospital (KUVTH) between 2016 and 2021 to survey the underlying causes of URT. Then, apart from rhinitis, other causes were excluded to identify the bacterial species and antimicrobial susceptibility. The results indicated that the most frequent finding was neoplasia, followed by rhinitis and anatomical defects. Furthermore, the only significant association was between the age range and disease group, with gender, FIV, or FeLV infection not being significant. Rhinitis was 4.7 times more likely to occur than neoplasia in younger and young adult cats in the age range < 1–3 years compared to the group > 10 years. The main bacterial species was the Pseudomonas species. Antimicrobials with a susceptibility rate of more than 90% were amikacin, gentamicin, ciprofloxacin, norfloxacin, marbofloxacin, imipenem, and meropenem. In conclusion, rhinitis was the second most common chronic URT disease in cats and was more common in younger and young adult cats. The predominant bacteria with AST in this study reflect the antimicrobial resistance situation. Thus, antimicrobial usage should follow antimicrobial use guidelines first.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Small Companion Animal Impact on the Human Welfare: a 360° Health Approach)
Open AccessCommunication
The Mitochondrial Genome of Cylicocyclus elongatus (Strongylida: Strongylidae) and Its Comparative Analysis with Other Cylicocyclus Species
Animals 2022, 12(12), 1571; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12121571 - 17 Jun 2022
Abstract
Cylicocyclus elongatus (Cc. elongatus) is one of the species in Cylicocyclus, subfamily Cyathostominae, but its taxonomic status in Cylicocyclus is controversial. Mitochondrial (mt) genome is an excellent gene marker which could be used to address the taxonomy controversy. In the
[...] Read more.
Cylicocyclus elongatus (Cc. elongatus) is one of the species in Cylicocyclus, subfamily Cyathostominae, but its taxonomic status in Cylicocyclus is controversial. Mitochondrial (mt) genome is an excellent gene marker which could be used to address the taxonomy controversy. In the present study, the complete mt genome of Cc. elongatus was determined, and sequence and phylogenetic analyses were performed based on mtDNA data to determine the classification of Cc. elongatus. The circular complete mt genome of Cc. elongatus was 13875 bp in size, containing 12 protein-coding genes (12 PCGs), 22 transfer RNA (tRNA) genes, 2 ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes, and 2 non-coding regions (NCRs). The A + T content of Cc. elongatus complete mt genome was 76.64%. There were 19 intergenic spacers with lengths of 2–53 bp and 2 overlaps with lengths of 1–2 bp in the impact complete mt genome. ATT and TAA were the most common start and termination codons of 12 PCGs, respectively. Comparative analyses of mt genomes nucleotide sequence and amino acid sequence showed that there were higher identities between Cc. elongatus and five other Cylicocyclus, rather than with P. imparidentatum. Phylogenetic analyses based on concatenated nucleotide sequences of 12 PCGs of 23 species in the family Strongylidae showed that Cc. elongatus was closely related to Cylicocyclus species, rather than P. imparidentatum. We concluded that Cc. elongatus was a member in Cylicocyclus based on comparative and phylogenetic analyses of mt genome sequences. The data of the complete mt genome sequence of Cc. elongatus provide a new and useful genetic marker for further research on Cyathostominae nematodes.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Parasite Epidemiology and Population Genetics)
Open AccessArticle
Serum Insulin−like Growth Factor−1 Is a Biomarker of Testosterone Production and Intact Acrosome in Asian Elephants (Elephas maximus)
Animals 2022, 12(12), 1570; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12121570 - 17 Jun 2022
Abstract
The objective of this study was to find relationships among serum IGF−1, serum testosterone, seminal plasma IGF−1 concentrations and semen parameters in Asian elephants (Elephas maximus). A total of 17 ejaculates (one to three ejaculates/bull) were collected from seven captive elephant bulls by
[...] Read more.
The objective of this study was to find relationships among serum IGF−1, serum testosterone, seminal plasma IGF−1 concentrations and semen parameters in Asian elephants (Elephas maximus). A total of 17 ejaculates (one to three ejaculates/bull) were collected from seven captive elephant bulls by performing rectal massage. Before each ejaculation, blood samples were obtained for serum IGF−1 and testosterone assays. Subsequently, the semen characteristics of each ejaculate were evaluated. Mean serum IGF−1 concentration of elephant bulls was estimated as 326.3 ± 114.6 ng/mL (median, 286.2 ng/mL; range, 167.4–542.7 ng/mL). An increase in serum IGF−1 concentration was found to correlate with the percentage of spermatozoa with intact acrosomes. In addition, IGF−1 concentration was positively correlated with testosterone level. However, seminal IGF−1 concentrations could not be detected. In conclusion, our findings suggest that serum IGF−1 concentration is likely a biomarker of normal testicular functions, particularly spermatogenesis in elephants. Moreover, this commercial IGF−1 ELISA is eligible for analyzing serum IGF−1 concentration in Asian elephants.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Animal Reproduction)
Open AccessArticle
Tracing the Fate of the Northern Bald Ibis Over Five Millennia: An Interdisciplinary Approach to the Extinction and Recovery of an Iconic Bird Species
by
and
Animals 2022, 12(12), 1569; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12121569 - 17 Jun 2022
Abstract
We trace the history of the endangered Northern Bald Ibis through different epochs to the present. A particular focus is placed on its life in and disappearance from ancient Egypt, where the bird attained great cultural and religious significance, and on the modern
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We trace the history of the endangered Northern Bald Ibis through different epochs to the present. A particular focus is placed on its life in and disappearance from ancient Egypt, where the bird attained great cultural and religious significance, and on the modern endeavour to re-wild the species. Due to the characteristic appearance, behaviour and habitat of the species as well as its need for open foraging areas, a close mutualistic relationship between humans and the birds was formed in ancient Egypt, as in other cultures. A clear benefit for the Northern Bald Ibis was the availability of feeding habitats, which were cleared by humans for farming or grazing. The benefit to people was rather cultural because the bird attracted religious veneration or symbolic meanings from ancient Egypt to medieval Europe. The proximity to humans, however, carried a high risk as well. We discuss various types of impact (including human impacts as well as climate change) as triggers for the extinction of the species. The evidence for a triple disappearance of the Northern Bald Ibis (around 2000 BCE, around 1600 CE and in modern time) represents a unique basis for studying both the bird’s habitat preferences and its vulnerability. This is because different, mainly anthropogenic, causes stood behind these three historical disappearances, although the disappearances in all three epochs occurred during a period of climate change.
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(This article belongs to the Section Birds)
Open AccessArticle
Iturin A Rescued STb-R-Induced Pork Skeletal Muscle Growth Restriction through the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-mTORC1 Growth Axis
Animals 2022, 12(12), 1568; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12121568 - 17 Jun 2022
Abstract
The engineered STb-Rosetta Escherichia coli (STb-R) was designed to investigate the effects of Iturin A on the skeletal muscle growth of weaned piglets. A total of 28 piglets were randomly divided into 4 groups (7 piglets per group): the control group (100 mL
[...] Read more.
The engineered STb-Rosetta Escherichia coli (STb-R) was designed to investigate the effects of Iturin A on the skeletal muscle growth of weaned piglets. A total of 28 piglets were randomly divided into 4 groups (7 piglets per group): the control group (100 mL PBS), the Iturin A group (100 mL 320 mg/kg body weight (BW) Iturin A), the STb-R group (100 mL 1 × 1010 CFU/mL STb-R), and the Iturin A + STb-R group (100 mL 320 mg/kg BW Iturin A + 1 × 1010 CFU/mL STb-R). Compared with the control, STb-R-reduced body weight gain were rescued by Iturin A. The semimembranosus muscle weight recovered to normal level in the Iturin A + STb-R group. The level of relevant genes of the growth axis were elevated by Iturin A, including GHRH in the hypothalamus, GHRHR and GH in the pituitary, and GHR, IGF-1 and IGF-1R in the semimembranosus muscle. Moreover, Iturin A increased the mean fiber area and the number of proliferating cells in the semimembranosus muscle, which were decreased by STb-R. Additionally, the mTORC1 pathway was reactivated by Iturin A to relieve the suppression of STb-R. Collectively, the hypothalamic-pituitary growth axis-mediated Iturin A reactivated the mTORC1 pathway to rescue STb-R-restricted pork skeletal muscle growth.
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(This article belongs to the Section Pigs)
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Open AccessArticle
Association of Serum Glucose, Serotonin, Aspartate Aminotransferase, and Calcium Levels with Meat Quality and Palatability Characteristics of Broiler Pectoralis Major Muscle
by
and
Animals 2022, 12(12), 1567; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12121567 - 17 Jun 2022
Abstract
This study investigated the correlations between apoptosis-related blood biochemical parameters measured at exsanguination and the meat and sensory quality characteristics of broiler pectoralis major muscle. The concentration of serotonin showed a positive correlation with aspartate aminotransferase (AST) activity (p < 0.001) and
[...] Read more.
This study investigated the correlations between apoptosis-related blood biochemical parameters measured at exsanguination and the meat and sensory quality characteristics of broiler pectoralis major muscle. The concentration of serotonin showed a positive correlation with aspartate aminotransferase (AST) activity (p < 0.001) and a negative correlation with calcium content (p < 0.01). All serum parameters showed relationships with muscle pH at 15 min and/or 24 h postmortem (p < 0.05). Serum AST activity, which had a negative correlation with calcium content (p < 0.01), was positively related with muscle pH and negatively correlated with Warner–Bratzler shear force values (WBS, p < 0.05). Principal component analysis results revealed the associations between AST activity and meat quality traits, including pH24h, lightness, and WBS. Furthermore, cooked breast with higher AST activity and lower calcium level tended to exhibit higher scores of tenderness and overall acceptability than that with lower AST activity and higher calcium level (p < 0.05).
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Meat Quality and Protein Expression in Livestock and Poultry)
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Molecular Characterization of Anaplasma spp. among Dairy, Cashmere, and Meat Goats in Shaanxi Province, Northwestern China
Animals 2022, 12(12), 1566; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12121566 - 17 Jun 2022
Abstract
Anaplasma spp. are important tick-borne pathogens endangering the health of humans and various animals. Although several studies have reported Anaplasma infection in livestock in China, little is known about the impact of production categories on the occurrence of Anaplasma species. In the present
[...] Read more.
Anaplasma spp. are important tick-borne pathogens endangering the health of humans and various animals. Although several studies have reported Anaplasma infection in livestock in China, little is known about the impact of production categories on the occurrence of Anaplasma species. In the present study, PCR tools targeting the 16S rRNA and msp4 genes were applied to investigate the prevalence of Anaplasma spp. in 509 blood samples of dairy (n = 249), cashmere (n = 139), and meat (n = 121) goats from Shaanxi province. The prevalence of Anaplasma spp. was 58.5% (298/509) in goats, and significant differences (p < 0.001) were identified in the prevalence among production categories, with the highest in meat goats (84.3%, 102/121), followed by cashmere goats (58.3%, 81/139) and dairy goats (46.2%, 115/249). Significant differences (p < 0.001) in prevalence were also found among sampling sites and age groups. Meanwhile, the prevalence was 36.9% (188/509) for A. phagocytophilum, 36.1% (184/509) for A. bovis, and 11.0% (56/509) for A. ovis, and significant differences (p < 0.001) in prevalence of A. phagocytophilum, A. bovis and A. ovis were recognized among production categories and sampling sites. A. phagocytophilum, A. bovis and A. ovis were dominant species in meat, dairy, and cashmere goats, respectively, and A. ovis was absent in meat goats. Co-infections were found in 124 (24.4%) investigated samples. Goats aged < 2, 3–6, and 7–12 months, and goats from Qingjian and Zhenba were risk factors associated with the occurrence of Anaplasma. Phylogenetic analysis indicated separate clades for the distribution of A. phagocytophilum from different ruminant, reflecting potential host adaption within this species. This study reported the colonization occurrence of Anaplasma spp. among production categories in goats in Shaanxi province and enriched our knowledge on the transmission of Anaplasma spp. in goats in China. Considering the existence of zoonotic A. phagocytophilum in goats in this study and previous reports, interventions based on One Health are needed to be developed to control the transmission of Anaplasma spp. between humans and animals.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Parasite Epidemiology and Population Genetics)
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The Alimentary Tract of African Bony-Tongue, Heterotis niloticus (Cuvier, 1829): Morphology Study
by
, , , , , , , , , , , , , and
Animals 2022, 12(12), 1565; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12121565 - 17 Jun 2022
Abstract
A morphological study of the alimentary tract, from the oropharyngeal cavity to the rectum, including the attached glands, of African bony-tongue, Heterotis niloticus (Cuvier, 1829) was carried out by gross anatomy, and light microscope analysis. This study aimed to give a deeper knowledge
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A morphological study of the alimentary tract, from the oropharyngeal cavity to the rectum, including the attached glands, of African bony-tongue, Heterotis niloticus (Cuvier, 1829) was carried out by gross anatomy, and light microscope analysis. This study aimed to give a deeper knowledge of the alimentary tract morphological features of this species of commercial interest. H. niloticus is distinguished by individual morphological characteristics showing a digestive tract similar to that of reptiles and birds. Within the oropharyngeal cavity, two tubular structures with digitiform ends are arranged on both lateral sides of the triangular tongue. The oropharyngeal cavity connects the stomach by a short esophagus. This latter is adapted to mechanical trituration, and it is divided into a pars glandularis and a thick-walled pars muscularis. The gizzard flows into the anterior intestine and two blind pyloric appendages, which exhibit specific functions, including immune defense for the presence of secondary lymphoid organs. The anterior intestine continues with the middle and posterior tracts up into the rectum. According to the histological observations, all regions of the alimentary tract have common structural features, typical of hollow organs, with differences in the mucosa structure that reflects the different functions of the apparatus, from mouth to anus. Within this study, we provided the first basis for future studies on optimizing rearing conditions, feed conversion ratio, and the digestive capacity, improving the growth performance of this species, and ensuring its conservation.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Morphology Study of the Alimentary Tract of Fish)
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Open AccessArticle
The Microbiota and Cytokines Correlation between the Jejunum and Colon in Altay Sheep
Animals 2022, 12(12), 1564; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12121564 - 17 Jun 2022
Abstract
Both the jejunum and colon release cytokines that interact with intestinal microbiota. However, it is largely unclear which cytokines and microbial populations are involved in the homeostasis of the intestinal ecosystem for sheep health. To address this, we collected contents for isolating microbiota
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Both the jejunum and colon release cytokines that interact with intestinal microbiota. However, it is largely unclear which cytokines and microbial populations are involved in the homeostasis of the intestinal ecosystem for sheep health. To address this, we collected contents for isolating microbiota and tissues for determining cytokines from the jejunum and colon of 7-month-old Altay sheep. We used the techniques of 16S rRNA sequencing and ELISA to detect microbial population and cytokine level, respectively. Correlations between microbial population and cytokines were analyzed by Spearman correlation coefficient. The correlation analysis revealed higher populations of Bacteroides, Fibrobacteres and Spirochetes in the colon than in the jejunum, and IL-6 and IL-12 levels were higher in the jejunum than in the colon. Association analysis further revealed a positive association between IL-10 level and both Ruminococcus_2 and norank_f_Bifidobacteriaceae population in the jejunum. The analysis also revealed positive associations between IL-6 level and Ruminococcaceae_UCG-014 and Ruminococcaceae_UCG-013 population, IL-10 and Prevotellaceae_UCG-004, as well as TNF-α and Prevotellaceae_UCG-003 in the colon. These results indicate a potential interaction between the intestinal microbiota and the host immune system that needs to be further clarified for considering dietary formulations to maintain animal health and disease prevention.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Rumen Fermentation, Microbial Population and Digestibility in Ruminants)
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Open AccessArticle
Upper and Lower Airways Evaluation and Its Relationship with Dynamic Upper Airway Obstruction in Racehorses
by
, , , , , and
Animals 2022, 12(12), 1563; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12121563 - 17 Jun 2022
Abstract
Dynamic upper airway obstructions (DUAO) are common in racehorses, but their pathogenetic mechanisms have not been completely clarified yet. Multiple studies suggest that alterations of the pharyngo-laryngeal region visible at resting endoscopy may be predictive of the onset of DUAO, and the development
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Dynamic upper airway obstructions (DUAO) are common in racehorses, but their pathogenetic mechanisms have not been completely clarified yet. Multiple studies suggest that alterations of the pharyngo-laryngeal region visible at resting endoscopy may be predictive of the onset of DUAO, and the development of DUAO may be associated with pharyngeal lymphoid hyperplasia (PLH), lower airway inflammation (LAI) and exercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhage (EIPH). The present study aims to investigate the possible relationship between the findings of a complete resting evaluation of the upper and lower airways and DUAO. In this retrospective study, 360 racehorses (Standardbreds and Thoroughbreds) referred for poor performance or abnormal respiratory noises were enrolled and underwent a diagnostic protocol including resting and high-speed treadmill endoscopy, cytological examination of the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and radiographic assessment of the epiglottis length. In this population, epiglottis flaccidity was associated with dorsal displacement of the soft palate, while no relationship was detected between DUAO and epiglottis length. No associations were detected between DUAO and PLH, LAI or EIPH. In conclusion, it is likely that epiglottis plays a role in upper airway stability, while airways inflammation does not seem to be involved in the pathogenesis of DUAO.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Equine Respiratory Medicine and Cardiology)
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Open AccessArticle
Association between Head-to-Chest Circumference Ratio and Intrauterine Growth-Retardation Related Outcomes during Preweaning and Postweaning
Animals 2022, 12(12), 1562; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12121562 - 17 Jun 2022
Abstract
The objective of this study is to evaluate the association between the head-to-chest circumference ratio (HCR) and birth weight (BW), colostrum intake, and average daily weight gain (ADG) at preweaning and postweaning periods. Additionally, associations between HCR and PCV-2 serum antibody titers and
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The objective of this study is to evaluate the association between the head-to-chest circumference ratio (HCR) and birth weight (BW), colostrum intake, and average daily weight gain (ADG) at preweaning and postweaning periods. Additionally, associations between HCR and PCV-2 serum antibody titers and the PCV-2 seroconversion ratio (SCR) were assessed. Head and chest circumferences were measured at birth, and HCR was calculated from 110 piglets born from 8 pregnant sows randomly selected from maternity pens. Linear mixed models were used to test whether changes in HCR were associated with fluctuations of BW, colostrum intake, and ADG. In addition, HCR least-square means were compared between piglets classified as lower or greater BW, colostrum intake, and ADG. Finally, receiving operating characteristic curve analyses were performed to estimate HCR thresholds for discriminating between lower and greater performance piglets during preweaning and postweaning periods. Increments in HCR were associated with lower BW, colostrum intake, and ADG. An HCR threshold of 0.82 maximized sensibility and specificity for the classification of lower and greater performance piglets regarding BW, colostrum intake, and ADG during the periods of 0 to 7 and 0 to 69 days of life. When piglets were categorized into HCR ≤ 0.82 and HCR > 0.82 groups, piglets with HCR ≤ 0.82 had lower (log10) PCV-2 serum antibody titers at 26 days of life compared with piglets with HCR > 0.82 (3.30 ± 0.05 vs. 3.47 ± 0.05 g/dL). On the other hand, piglets that showed low SCR between 26 and 69 days of life had greater HCRs compared with piglets with high SCRs (0.83 ± 0.008 vs. 0.8 ± 0.008). The use of HCRs allowed us to identify piglets with lower performance and impaired immune response against PCV-2. The HCR indicator could be used as a selection criterion for preventive management for piglets showing delayed performance potentially associated with IUGR.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research in Intrauterine Growth-Restricted Pigs and Low Birth Weight Pigs)
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Open AccessArticle
Influence of Elective Cesarean Calving (with and without Dexamethasone Induction) on the Erythrogram and Iron Serum Profiles in Nellore Calves
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, , , , , , , , , , and
Animals 2022, 12(12), 1561; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12121561 - 17 Jun 2022
Abstract
The aim of the present study is to evaluate the erythrogram and iron serum profiles of neonatal calves born spontaneously or born by elective cesarean section with or without dexamethasone induction. The research was performed on 38 newborn Nellore calves. Three groups of
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The aim of the present study is to evaluate the erythrogram and iron serum profiles of neonatal calves born spontaneously or born by elective cesarean section with or without dexamethasone induction. The research was performed on 38 newborn Nellore calves. Three groups of calves were assigned according to the type of birth: calves born by spontaneous vaginal calving (n = 10), calves born by elective cesarean section without inducing labor (n = 14), and calves born by elective cesarean section with labor induction with dexamethasone (n = 14). Blood samples to assess red blood cell count (RBC), hemoglobin, hematocrit, mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), concentration of mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCHC), serum iron (SFe), total capacity to bind iron to transferrin (TIBIC), and transferrin saturation index (TSI) were performed at calving (0, 3, 6, and 12 h of life) and on 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 10, 15, and 30 days of life. Regardless of the experimental group (calves born spontaneously, or born by elective cesarean section with or without dexamethasone induction), in the first day of life there was a decrease in the number of red blood cells, hemoglobin rates, and values of the globular volume. In the period of the first 10 days of life, animals from spontaneous vaginal delivery quickly recovered values of erythrocytes, hemoglobin, and packed cell volume, whereas animals born by elective C-section (induced and uninduced) did not recover as quickly in their rates of hemoglobin and packed cell volume values. In calves born by elective C-section (induced and uninduced), it was observed in their period between 10 and 30 days of life that the MCV and MCH were reduced by passing the presenting microcytic hypochromic when compared with calves obtained by spontaneous vaginal delivery. In the period between 10 and 30 days of life, the levels of SFe and TSI in animals born by elective C-section (induced and uninduced) are significantly lower. The differences in the erythrogram values between Nellore calves born spontaneously and those by elective C-section with or without induction must be considered consequent to the process of neonatal adaptation to extrauterine life. Iron supplementation in the first month of life in calves from cesarean could be recommended to prevent anemia of this iron deficiency.
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(This article belongs to the Topic Animal Diseases in Agricultural Production Systems)
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Open AccessArticle
Cross-Sectional Survey of Antibiotic Resistance in Extended Spectrum β-Lactamase-Producing Enterobacteriaceae Isolated from Pigs in Greece
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, , , , , , , , , , , , , and
Animals 2022, 12(12), 1560; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12121560 - 16 Jun 2022
Abstract
This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of extended-spectrum β-lactamase-producing (ESBL) bacteria in swine. Thus, 214 fecal samples were collected from suckling and weaned piglets from 34 farms in Greece (out of an overall population of about 14,300 sows). A subset of 78
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This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of extended-spectrum β-lactamase-producing (ESBL) bacteria in swine. Thus, 214 fecal samples were collected from suckling and weaned piglets from 34 farms in Greece (out of an overall population of about 14,300 sows). A subset of 78 (36.5%) ESBL producers were identified as E. coli (69/78, 88.5%), K. pneumoniae spp. pneumoniae (3.8%), P. mirabilis (5.1%), E. cloacae complex (1.3%) and S. enterica spp. diarizonae (1.3%). Resistance to at least one class of non-β-lactam antibiotics was detected in 78 isolates. Among the E. coli strains, resistance was identified with regard to aminoglycosides (n = 31), fluoroquinolones (n = 49), tetracycline (n = 26) and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (n = 46). Of the three K. pneumoniae spp. pneumoniae, two displayed resistances to aminoglycosides and all were resistant to fluoroquinolones, tetracyclines and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole. As for the four P. mirabilis isolates, three had a resistant phenotype for aminoglycosides and all were resistant to imipenem, fluoroquinolones, tetracyclines and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole. Molecular characterization of the isolates revealed the presence of CTX-M, SHV and TEM genes, as well as of genes conferring resistance to fluoroquinolones, aminoglycosides, sulfonamides, trimethoprim, macrolides and colistin. High levels of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) were demonstrated in Greek swine herds posing a concern for the efficacy of treatments at the farm level as well as for public health.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Porcine Herd Health Management)
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Open AccessArticle
Relationship between Plasma Pituitary Adenylate Cyclase-Activating Polypeptide (PACAP) Level and Proteome Profile of Cows
Animals 2022, 12(12), 1559; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12121559 - 16 Jun 2022
Abstract
Pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) is a pleiotropic and multifunctional neuropeptide; it takes part in the regulation of various physiological processes, such as feeding, reproduction, catecholamine synthesis, thermoregulation, motor activity, brain development and neuronal survival. Since PACAP plays important regulatory roles, we hypothesized
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Pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) is a pleiotropic and multifunctional neuropeptide; it takes part in the regulation of various physiological processes, such as feeding, reproduction, catecholamine synthesis, thermoregulation, motor activity, brain development and neuronal survival. Since PACAP plays important regulatory roles, we hypothesized that the level of PACAP in blood is associated with expression of other proteins, which are involved in different metabolic pathways. The objective of the present study was to compare plasma protein profiles of cows with high and low plasma PACAP levels. Differential proteome analyses were performed by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2D-PAGE) followed by tryptic digestion and protein identification by liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS). A total of 210 protein spots were detected, and 16 protein spots showed statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) in the expression levels between groups. Ten spots showed a higher intensity in the high-PACAP-concentration group, while six spots were more abundant in the low-PACAP-concentration group. The functions of the differentially expressed proteins indicate that the PACAP level of plasma is related to the lipid metabolism and immune status of cattle.
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(This article belongs to the Section Cattle)
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