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), European College of Animal Welfare and Behavioural Medicine (ECAWBM), and Federation of European Laboratory Animal Science Associations (FELASA) 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 other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q1 (Veterinary Sciences) / CiteScore - Q1 (General Veterinary )
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 16.1 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.6 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the first half of 2024).
- 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:
2.7 (2023);
5-Year Impact Factor:
3.0 (2023)
Latest Articles
Does Exposure to Summer Season at Different Stages of Intrauterine Development and Maternal Parity Affect Health and First-Lactation Milk Production of Female Offspring of Holstein Cows?
Animals 2024, 14(20), 3040; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14203040 (registering DOI) - 21 Oct 2024
Abstract
A suboptimal intrauterine environment during gestation may result in the programming of long-lasting structural and physiological alterations in the developing fetus, leading to health and production complications in adulthood. This observational study aimed to identify the impact of exposure to the summer season
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A suboptimal intrauterine environment during gestation may result in the programming of long-lasting structural and physiological alterations in the developing fetus, leading to health and production complications in adulthood. This observational study aimed to identify the impact of exposure to the summer season at different trimesters of gestation, dam parity, and their interaction on the postpartum disease incidence, first-lactation milk production, and herd lifespan of the offspring (F1 generation). Using a dataset collected from two commercial herds, the female offspring were categorized into three groups based on the trimester their dams experienced summer season during pregnancy: (1) first trimester (n = 2345), (2) second trimester (n = 3513), and (3) final trimester (n = 4988). The estimated 305-day milk production was lower in daughters (as a first-lactation cow) born to dams exposed to summer season during the first vs. third trimester. Summer season exposure during the first vs. third trimester resulted in the offspring that were less likely to remain in the herd (hazard ratio = 0.90; 95% CI = 0.84–0.95). Daughters of parous vs. nulliparous dams were more likely to experience dystocia and metritis but less likely to experience retained placenta. The risk of culling was higher in daughters of parous vs. nulliparous dams. Our preliminary findings suggest that the first trimester is a critical determinant of the female progeny’s future productive performance and survivability. Dam parity was also identified as an influential factor affecting offspring health, as dystocia and metritis were more prevalent, and the culling risk was greater in daughters born to parous dams.
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(This article belongs to the Section Animal System and Management)
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Open AccessFeature PaperArticle
Effects of Substituting Fishmeal with Soy Protein Concentrate Supplemented with Essential Amino Acids in the Olive Flounder (Paralichthys olivaceus) Diet on the Expression of Genes Related to Growth, Stress, Immunity, and Digestive Enzyme
by
Sang Hyun Lee, Jong-Won Park, Minhwan Jeong, Dain Lee, Julan Kim and Hyun-Chul Kim
Animals 2024, 14(20), 3039; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14203039 (registering DOI) - 21 Oct 2024
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This study identified the effects of substituting fishmeal (FM) with soy protein concentrate (SPC) supplemented with lysine and methionine in the olive flounder (Paralichthys olivaceus) diet on the expression of genes related to growth, stress, immunity, and digestion. Three experimental diets were
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This study identified the effects of substituting fishmeal (FM) with soy protein concentrate (SPC) supplemented with lysine and methionine in the olive flounder (Paralichthys olivaceus) diet on the expression of genes related to growth, stress, immunity, and digestion. Three experimental diets were prepared; the control diet (Con) contained 60% FM, and the experimental diets contained 25% (SPC25) and 50% (SPC50) FM replaced by SPC. After the 140-day feeding period, weight gain, specific growth rate, feed availability, biological indices, and chemical composition of the muscle were not significantly affected by the dietary treatments. The gene expression levels of growth-related genes (IGF, GFB-3), immune-related genes (IL-8 and caspase), and stress-related genes (SOD, GPX, PRX, TRX) were higher in Con fish than in those fed the SPC25 and SPC50 diets. Chymo-TRY2, TRY2, and TRY3 in the stomach of fish fed the SPC25 diet were higher than fish fed the Con or SPC50 diets. TRY2 and lipase of fish fed the SPC25 diet were higher than those of fish fed the other diets but TRY3 was not significantly affected by the treatments in the intestine. In conclusion, substituting 25% FM with SPC was the most effective diet for the expression of growth, immune, stress, and digestive enzyme genes.
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Open AccessArticle
Conventionally Reared Wallon Meat Lambs Carry Transiently Multi-Drug-Resistant Escherichia coli with Reduced Sensitivity to Colistin Before Slaughter
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Delphine Dragon, Wiebke Jansen, Helene Dumont, Laetitia Wiggers, Damien Coupeau, Marc Saulmont, Bernard Taminiau, Benoit Muylkens and Georges Daube
Animals 2024, 14(20), 3038; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14203038 (registering DOI) - 21 Oct 2024
Abstract
Major efforts have been made to reduce the use of colistin in livestock since the discovery of the plasmid-borne mobile colistin resistance (mcr) gene in E. coli a decade ago, to curb the burden of its potential transmission to other bacterial
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Major efforts have been made to reduce the use of colistin in livestock since the discovery of the plasmid-borne mobile colistin resistance (mcr) gene in E. coli a decade ago, to curb the burden of its potential transmission to other bacterial species, spread between animals, humans and the environment. This study explored the longitudinal prevalence and characteristics of colistin-resistant and extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing (ESBL) E. coli via in vivo fecal and ex vivo carcass swabs from two batches of conventional indoor and organic outdoor Wallon meat sheep from birth to slaughter in 2020 and 2021. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing via broth microdilution revealed that n = 16/109 (15%) E. coli isolates from conventional meat lamb fecal samples had a reduced colistin sensitivity (MIC = 0.5 μg/mL) and thereof, n = 9/109 (8%) were multi-drug-resistant E. coli, while no resistant isolates were recovered from their carcasses. Sequencing revealed causative pmrB genes, indicating that the reduced sensitivity to colistin was not plasmid-borne. While the sample size was small (n = 32), no colistin-resistant and ESBL-producing E. coli were isolated from the organic meat sheep and their carcasses, potentially due to the different husbandry conditions. Prudent and judicious antimicrobial use and strict slaughter hygiene remain imperative for effective risk management to protect consumers in a sustainable One Health approach.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibiotic Use in Farms and Its Relation to Husbandry Practices and Animal Welfare)
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Open AccessCommunication
The Effect of Parasitization by Trichodinid Ciliates on the Mortality of Cultured Pacific Fat Sleeper larvae (Dormitator latifrons)
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Byron Manuel Reyes-Mero, Yanis Cruz-Quintana, Rossanna Rodríguez-Canul, Enric Gisbert and Ana María Santana-Piñeros
Animals 2024, 14(20), 3037; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14203037 (registering DOI) - 20 Oct 2024
Abstract
Trichodinidae, a prevalent group of protozoan ectoparasites in aquaculture, cause rapid mortality in fish hatcheries. Despite their significance, knowledge about these parasites in farmed fish in South America, especially in native species that are currently being domesticated for aquaculture, remains limited. This study
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Trichodinidae, a prevalent group of protozoan ectoparasites in aquaculture, cause rapid mortality in fish hatcheries. Despite their significance, knowledge about these parasites in farmed fish in South America, especially in native species that are currently being domesticated for aquaculture, remains limited. This study morphologically characterized the Trichodinid species that are infecting Pacific fat sleeper (Dormitator latifrons) larvae and evaluated their impact on larval rearing. Four pairs of broodstock were induced with GnRHA implants and placed in tanks containing 200 L of freshwater, with a water temperature of 28 ± 1.0 °C and a dissolved oxygen level of 4.00 ± 1.23 mg L−1, with partial water exchanges being performed daily. The larvae hatched 7 to 8 h after fertilization and were transferred to tanks containing water with the same quality parameters. Twelve hours post-hatching, the presence of Trichodina was observed. Every 24 h, 60 larvae per tank (n = 180 per treatment) were sedated, and larval wet mounts were prepared, air-dried at room temperature, and impregnated with silver nitrate. Infection parameters and daily mortality were calculated. Trichodina was observed to parasitize the pelvic fins, caudal fins, and heads of fish larvae, which showed lethargy and erratic swimming movements. The Trichodina species showed a daily increase in the infection parameters, and a 58% rate of larval mortality was observed at the fourth day post-hatching (dph) in the infected tanks. In captivity, D. latifrons larvae typically survive up to 7 days post-hatching (dph) before reaching their point of no return due to the lack of adequate diet and feeding regimes. However, our study indicates that Trichodina infestation accelerates mortality, causing infected larvae to die more quickly than uninfected ones.
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(This article belongs to the Section Aquatic Animals)
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Open AccessFeature PaperReview
Mechanisms of Social Attachment Between Children and Pet Dogs
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Olivia T. Reilly, Leah H. Somerville and Erin E. Hecht
Animals 2024, 14(20), 3036; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14203036 (registering DOI) - 20 Oct 2024
Abstract
An increasing body of evidence indicates that owning a pet dog is associated with improvements in child health and well-being. Importantly, the degree of the social bond between child and dog may mediate the beneficial outcomes of dog ownership. The formation of social
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An increasing body of evidence indicates that owning a pet dog is associated with improvements in child health and well-being. Importantly, the degree of the social bond between child and dog may mediate the beneficial outcomes of dog ownership. The formation of social bonds is an intrinsically dyadic, interactive process where each interactor’s behavior influences the other’s behavior. For this reason, it is critical to evaluate the biological mechanisms of attachment in both children and their pet dogs as a socially bonded pair. Here, we review the physical, mental, and emotional outcomes that are associated with pet dog ownership or interaction in children. We then discuss the evidence that suggests that the strength of a social bond between a child and their pet dog matters for maximizing the beneficial outcomes associated with pet dog ownership, such as possible stress-buffering effects. We review the existing literature on the neural and endocrinological mechanisms of social attachment for inter-species social bonds that form between human children and dogs, situating this emerging knowledge within the context of the mechanisms of intra-species bonds in mammals. Finally, we highlight the remaining open questions and point toward directions for future research.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Complexity of the Human–Companion Animal Bond)
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Open AccessArticle
A New Species of the Feather Mite Genus Grallolichus Gaud, 1960 (Acariformes: Pterolichidae): First Report of a Commensal Mite Specific to the Sungrebe (Heliornis fulica)
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Jacek Dabert
Animals 2024, 14(20), 3035; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14203035 (registering DOI) - 19 Oct 2024
Abstract
Feather mites of finfoots (Heliornithidae), a small gruiform family, are poorly and partly erroneously recognized. Grallolichus heliornisi sp. n. (Astigmata: Pterolichidae) is here described from the sungrebe Heliornis fulica as the first representative of the genus commonly found on close relatives of finfoots,
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Feather mites of finfoots (Heliornithidae), a small gruiform family, are poorly and partly erroneously recognized. Grallolichus heliornisi sp. n. (Astigmata: Pterolichidae) is here described from the sungrebe Heliornis fulica as the first representative of the genus commonly found on close relatives of finfoots, Rallidae and Sarothuridae. This species belongs to the species group having ornamented dorsal shields and is morphologically most close to G. proctogamus inhabiting Eurasian coot (Fulica atra). Males of the new species differ from G. proctogamus mainly by the shape of opisthosomal lobes (triangular vs. rounded) and the aedeagus form (parallel sided vs. tapering distally). Females differ mainly by the shape of supranal concavity (open anteriorly vs. closed) and location of setae h1 in relation to supranal concavity (lateral vs. anterior). A key to known species of the genus Grallolichus is provided. The morphological analysis and descriptive characterization of this species, like much of the approximately 2500 feather mite species described to date, were based on mummified mite material preserved in 19th-century old museum bird specimens. These often-forgotten collections are the only source for the analysis of the acarofauna of many rare, unavailable wild or even extinct bird taxa.
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(This article belongs to the Section Wildlife)
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Open AccessArticle
Molecular Diversity of the Casein Gene Cluster in Bovidae: Insights from SNP Microarray Analysis
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Tadeusz Malewski, Stanisław Kamiński, Jan Śmiełowski, Kamil Oleński and Wiesław Bogdanowicz
Animals 2024, 14(20), 3034; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14203034 (registering DOI) - 19 Oct 2024
Abstract
The casein gene cluster spans 250 to 350 kb across mammalian species and is flanked by non-coding DNA with largely unknown functions. These regions likely harbor elements regulating the expression of the 4 casein genes. In Bovidae, this cluster is well studied in
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The casein gene cluster spans 250 to 350 kb across mammalian species and is flanked by non-coding DNA with largely unknown functions. These regions likely harbor elements regulating the expression of the 4 casein genes. In Bovidae, this cluster is well studied in domestic cattle and to a lesser extent in zebu and water buffalo. This study used a cattle-specific SNP microarray to analyze 12 Bovidae taxa and estimate casein gene cluster variability across 5 bovid subfamilies. Genotyping identified 126 SNPs covering the entire casein gene cluster and 2 Mb of upstream and downstream regions. Dairy cattle, watusi, and zebu showed the highest polymorphism: 63.7–68.2% in the 5′-upstream region, 35.6–40.0% in the casein cluster, and 40.4–89.4% in the 3′-downstream region. Among wild bovids, only a ‘semi-aquatic’ lechwe revealed high polymorphism similar to cattle. Other species exhibited lower variability, ranging from 9.1–27.3% in the 5′-upstream, 8.9–20.0% in the casein, and 4.2–10.6% in the 3′-downstream regions. For the first time, genome variability data were obtained for impala, waterbuck, and lechwe. It appears that higher variability in cattle’s casein gene cluster may relate to its intense expression. This study confirms the effectiveness of cattle-derived microarrays for genotyping Bovidae.
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(This article belongs to the Section Animal Genetics and Genomics)
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Open AccessArticle
CAMLLA-YOLOv8n: Cow Behavior Recognition Based on Improved YOLOv8n
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Qingxiang Jia, Jucheng Yang, Shujie Han, Zihan Du and Jianzheng Liu
Animals 2024, 14(20), 3033; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14203033 (registering DOI) - 19 Oct 2024
Abstract
Cow behavior carries important health information. The timely and accurate detection of standing, grazing, lying, estrus, licking, fighting, and other behaviors is crucial for individual cow monitoring and understanding of their health status. In this study, a model called CAMLLA-YOLOv8n is proposed for
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Cow behavior carries important health information. The timely and accurate detection of standing, grazing, lying, estrus, licking, fighting, and other behaviors is crucial for individual cow monitoring and understanding of their health status. In this study, a model called CAMLLA-YOLOv8n is proposed for Holstein cow behavior recognition. We use a hybrid data augmentation method to provide the model with rich Holstein cow behavior features and improve the YOLOV8n model to optimize the Holstein cow behavior detection results under challenging conditions. Specifically, we integrate the Coordinate Attention mechanism into the C2f module to form the C2f-CA module, which strengthens the expression of inter-channel feature information, enabling the model to more accurately identify and understand the spatial relationship between different Holstein cows’ positions, thereby improving the sensitivity to key areas and the ability to filter background interference. Secondly, the MLLAttention mechanism is introduced in the P3, P4, and P5 layers of the Neck part of the model to better cope with the challenges of Holstein cow behavior recognition caused by large-scale changes. In addition, we also innovatively improve the SPPF module to form the SPPF-GPE module, which optimizes small target recognition by combining global average pooling and global maximum pooling processing and enhances the model’s ability to capture the key parts of Holstein cow behavior in the environment. Given the limitations of traditional IoU loss in cow behavior detection, we replace CIoU loss with Shape–IoU loss, focusing on the shape and scale features of the Bounding Box, thereby improving the matching degree between the Prediction Box and the Ground Truth Box. In order to verify the effectiveness of the proposed CAMLLA-YOLOv8n algorithm, we conducted experiments on a self-constructed dataset containing 23,073 Holstein cow behavior instances. The experimental results show that, compared with models such as YOLOv3-tiny, YOLOv5n, YOLOv5s, YOLOv7-tiny, YOLOv8n, and YOLOv8s, the improved CAMLLA-YOLOv8n model achieved increases in Precision of 8.79%, 7.16%, 6.06%, 2.86%, 2.18%, and 2.69%, respectively, when detecting the states of Holstein cows grazing, standing, lying, licking, estrus, fighting, and empty bedding. Finally, although the Params and FLOPs of the CAMLLA-YOLOv8n model increased slightly compared with the YOLOv8n model, it achieved significant improvements of 2.18%, 1.62%, 1.84%, and 1.77% in the four key performance indicators of Precision, Recall, [email protected], and [email protected]:0.95, respectively. This model, named CAMLLA-YOLOv8n, effectively meets the need for the accurate and rapid identification of Holstein cow behavior in actual agricultural environments. This research is significant for improving the economic benefits of farms and promoting the transformation of animal husbandry towards digitalization and intelligence.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Precision Livestock Farming: New Techniques for Monitoring the Behaviour and Welfare of Farm Animal)
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Open AccessSystematic Review
Evaluating the Effects of Non-Nutritive Sweeteners on Pigs: A Systematic Review
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Mariah R. Jansen and Kwangwook Kim
Animals 2024, 14(20), 3032; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14203032 (registering DOI) - 19 Oct 2024
Abstract
Non-nutritive sweeteners (NNS) have been investigated for their potential to improve feed palatability and growth performance in pigs, although their use in swine production remains limited. This systematic review evaluates the effects of NNS on pigs, drawing from 18 studies published between 1990
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Non-nutritive sweeteners (NNS) have been investigated for their potential to improve feed palatability and growth performance in pigs, although their use in swine production remains limited. This systematic review evaluates the effects of NNS on pigs, drawing from 18 studies published between 1990 and 2024. Following the PRISMA guidelines and using the PICOS framework, a total of 448 papers were initially identified, of which 18 met the inclusion criteria for review. The results are mixed: some studies suggest that NNS like stevioside, sucralose, and neotame may improve performance and reduce diarrhea, while others show limited or no effects. The impact of NNS on gut microbiota is similarly inconsistent, with some sweeteners promoting beneficial bacterial growth, while others show minimal changes in microbial diversity. This review emphasizes the need for more research to clarify the effects of NNS in pigs, particularly the mechanisms behind their influence on growth and gut health. Additionally, further studies are needed to determine optimal dosages and assess the long-term impacts of NNS on pig immune function and overall health. The findings highlight the current gaps in knowledge and suggest that more evidence is needed to understand the role of NNS in swine nutrition.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feed Additives in Pig Feeding: 2nd Edition)
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Open AccessReview
Physiological and Genetic Basis of High-Altitude Indigenous Animals’ Adaptation to Hypoxic Environments
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Pengfei Zhao, Shaobin Li, Zhaohua He and Xiong Ma
Animals 2024, 14(20), 3031; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14203031 (registering DOI) - 19 Oct 2024
Abstract
Adaptation is one of the fundamental characteristics of life activities; humans and animals inhabiting high altitudes are well adapted to hypobaric hypoxic environments, and studies on the mechanisms of this adaptation emerged a hundred years ago. Based on these studies, this paper reviews
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Adaptation is one of the fundamental characteristics of life activities; humans and animals inhabiting high altitudes are well adapted to hypobaric hypoxic environments, and studies on the mechanisms of this adaptation emerged a hundred years ago. Based on these studies, this paper reviews the adaptive changes in hypoxia-sensitive tissues and organs, as well as at the molecular genetic level, such as pulmonary, cardiovascular, O2-consuming tissues, and the hemoglobin and HIF pathway, that occur in animals in response to the challenge of hypobaric hypoxia. High-altitude hypoxia adaptation may be due to the coordinated action of genetic variants in multiple genes and, as a result, adaptive changes in multiple tissues and organs at the physiological and biochemical levels. Unraveling their mechanisms of action can provide a reference for the prevention and treatment of multiple diseases caused by chronic hypoxia.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Assessing the Environmental Adaptation of Wildlife and Production Animals: Applications of Physiological Indices and Welfare Assessment Tools (Volume II))
Open AccessArticle
Integrative Taxonomy Revealed High Diversity of Hemiphyllodactylus Bleeker, 1860 (Squamata: Gekkonidae) and the Description of Three New Species from Yunnan Province, China
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Hongxin Zhou, Xiuyan Li, Chaoying Yuan, Liangwei Cui, Shuo Liu and Dingqi Rao
Animals 2024, 14(20), 3030; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14203030 (registering DOI) - 19 Oct 2024
Abstract
The karst landform in Yunnan Province, China, represents one of the most biodiverse regions for Hemiphyllodactylus. Previous research has revealed that the karst forests in this province host a greater diversity of Hemiphyllodactylus than previously acknowledged. However, substantial fundamental data essential for
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The karst landform in Yunnan Province, China, represents one of the most biodiverse regions for Hemiphyllodactylus. Previous research has revealed that the karst forests in this province host a greater diversity of Hemiphyllodactylus than previously acknowledged. However, substantial fundamental data essential for taxonomic and biogeographical studies are lacking. We conducted extensive surveys for Hemiphyllodactylus in the Yunnan Province that led to the discovery of three new species from Menglian Dai, Lahu, and Wa Autonomous County and Jinghong City based on morphological and genetic data. A phylogenetic reconstruction based on the ND2 gene (1038 bp) placed the three new species into clade 3 and clade 4 of Agung et al. The uncorrected genetic pairwise distance of the Menglian specimens were greater than 5.7%, and those of the Jinghong City specimens were greater than 5.2% and 8.5%, respectively. They could be distinguished from their congeners by body size, chin scales, internasal scales, ventral scales, dorsal scales, and the total number of femoral and precloacal pores. Furthermore, we update the distributional knowledge of the known species.
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(This article belongs to the Section Herpetology)
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Open AccessCommunication
Clinical Pathology Evaluation in Pet Rabbits Vaccinated Against Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease Virus 2 (RHDV2)
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Chris Griffin, Salina Locke, Fabiano Montiani-Ferreira, Andressa Lopes Grego, Jeny Soto and Carolyn Cray
Animals 2024, 14(20), 3029; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14203029 (registering DOI) - 19 Oct 2024
Abstract
A recombinant vaccine for rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus 2, a highly pathogenic virus, was granted emergency use authorization in the United States after the detection and spread of the virus starting in 2018. The goal of the current study was to assess pet
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A recombinant vaccine for rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus 2, a highly pathogenic virus, was granted emergency use authorization in the United States after the detection and spread of the virus starting in 2018. The goal of the current study was to assess pet rabbits (n = 29) through physical examination and routine clinical pathology testing using repeated assessments post-vaccination. In addition, seroconversion was also monitored after the initial vaccination and booster vaccination. Neither owners nor clinicians detected any physical abnormalities in relationship to the vaccine protocol. Hematological and clinical biochemistry testing showed some changes although median values were within species specific reference intervals. A significant increase in antibody levels was observed at day 21 (post-initial vaccination) and day 49 (post-booster vaccination) versus that present at baseline (p < 0.0001). However, variability in study rabbits was noted with some individuals showing low antibody levels as well as a lower overall response in older rabbits (r = −0.56, p = 0.006). A second cohort of rabbits was assessed at 11–12 months post-initial vaccination. In this second group, antibody levels were not significantly different from baseline levels (p = 0.21). Additional studies should be conducted to further define the variability in seroconversion and the term of protection in pet rabbits as the industry moves forward in the optimization of RHDV2 vaccines.
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(This article belongs to the Section Companion Animals)
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Open AccessArticle
Microwave Cooking of Some or All High Starch Ingredients of Cattle Feed Concentrate Improves Nutritional Value and In Vitro Bioavailability
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Sukanya Poolthajit, Suriyanee Takaeh, Waraporn Hahor, Nutt Nuntapong, Wanwisa Ngampongsai and Karun Thongprajukaew
Animals 2024, 14(20), 3028; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14203028 (registering DOI) - 19 Oct 2024
Abstract
Microwaving has been used to qualitatively improve feed ingredients prior to including them in cattle feed. However, it is not known whether feed ingredients should be microwaved separately or in a mixture before being included in cattle feed concentrates. In the current study,
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Microwaving has been used to qualitatively improve feed ingredients prior to including them in cattle feed. However, it is not known whether feed ingredients should be microwaved separately or in a mixture before being included in cattle feed concentrates. In the current study, the effects of the partial and full microwaving of high starch ingredients were investigated regarding their impact on the nutritional composition, physicochemical properties, and in vitro digestibility of feed concentrates. The cassava was microwave-irradiated before being mixed with other ingredients (MC, 35% of formulation). A microwave-cooked cassava–corn meal mixture (MCC, 45% of formulation) and a combination of all solid components (MSI, 96% of formulation) were also compared. A feed containing non-microwaved ingredients was formulated and served as the control (NM). Significantly altered proximate compositions and nutritive profiles were observed in all the microwaved components (p < 0.05). The observed modifications in pHs, water absorption capacities, thermal properties (differential scanning calorimetry), diffraction patterns (X-ray diffractometry), and microstructures (scanning electron microscopy) indicated enhanced enzymatic hydrolysis in vitro. A higher cellulase organic matter solubility and digestible organic matter were observed in the MCC and MSIs feeds relative to the control NM (p < 0.05). These findings indicate a combination of components could be added to feedstock before it is microwave processed to potentially include this pretreatment in the feed production process.
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(This article belongs to the Section Animal Nutrition)
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Open AccessArticle
Effects of Methionine on Milk Performance and Milk Constituents of Lactating Donkeys
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Fei Huang, Xinyi Du, Zongjie Ma, Guiqin Liu, Changfa Wang and Miaomiao Zhou
Animals 2024, 14(20), 3027; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14203027 (registering DOI) - 19 Oct 2024
Abstract
This study investigated the effects of adding methionine (Met) in milk production and the milk and blood metabolites of lactating donkeys. Eighteen healthy multiparous donkeys in early-stage lactation were selected for this study. The donkeys were randomly divided into three groups and fed
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This study investigated the effects of adding methionine (Met) in milk production and the milk and blood metabolites of lactating donkeys. Eighteen healthy multiparous donkeys in early-stage lactation were selected for this study. The donkeys were randomly divided into three groups and fed diets with different levels of Met: control group (C, Met 0 g/d), Met group I (M1, Met 5 g/d), and Met group II (M2, Met 15 g/d). The total duration of the experiment was 5 weeks. Donkey milk and blood samples were collected at the end of the experiment. The milk yield and composition, milk, and serum metabolites were analyzed. The results showed that the addition of 5 g of Met significantly increased milk yield as well as the milk composition contents of protein, fat, lactoferrin, polyunsaturated fatty acid (PFA), solids, and solids-not-fat (SNF) (p < 0.05). Significant differences in metabolites were detected among the different samples of milk (p < 0.05). The addition of Met increased the levels of milk metabolites, such as myristic acid, d-glutamine, l-aspartic acid, and LPS 16:0. A total of 753 metabolites were detected in the serum, including 17 differential metabolites between C and M1 and 48 differential metabolites between C and M2. The levels of serum metabolites, such as l-ascorbate, inositol, and l-lysine, were up-regulated by the addition of Met (p < 0.05). The above results indicated that Met increased donkey milk production and milk composition yield and improved milk metabolites by regulating serum metabolites. These results provide a foundation for improving the nutritional needs of lactating donkeys and the nutritional regulation of donkey milk synthesis.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Research Advances in Donkey and Mule Science and Medicine)
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Open AccessArticle
Impact of Heat Stress on Milk Yield, Milk Fat-to-Protein Ratio, and Conception Rate in Thai–Holstein Dairy Cattle: A Phenotypic and Genetic Perspective
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Wuttigrai Boonkum, Watcharapong Teawyoneyong, Vibuntita Chankitisakul, Monchai Duangjinda and Sayan Buaban
Animals 2024, 14(20), 3026; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14203026 (registering DOI) - 19 Oct 2024
Abstract
Heat stress severely affects dairy cattle production and reproduction performances in tropical regions. Genetic selection to maintain adequate yield and reproductive performance while enhancing their ability to withstand heat is essential for improving the genetics of dairy cows. Therefore, in this study, we
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Heat stress severely affects dairy cattle production and reproduction performances in tropical regions. Genetic selection to maintain adequate yield and reproductive performance while enhancing their ability to withstand heat is essential for improving the genetics of dairy cows. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to estimate genetic parameters affecting production and reproduction performances under heat stress conditions in dairy cattle and to investigate the threshold point of heat stress for milk yield (MY), milk fat-to-protein ratio (FPR), and conception rate (CR) in Thai–Holstein dairy cattle. The data included 168,124 records related to MY and milk FPR and 21,278 records of CR in Thai–Holstein dairy cattle, covering the period from 1990 to 2007. A multiple-trait threshold-linear random regression model based on a Bayesian approach via Gibbs sampling was used to estimate variance components, genetic parameters (heritability values, and genetic correlations), and decline rates for each studied trait. The threshold point of heat stress was identified as a temperature and humidity index (THI) of 76. At THI76, a decline was observed in the MY, milk FPR, and CR of Thai dairy cattle. The heritability estimates for MY, milk FPR and CR were 0.347 ± 0.032, 0.293 ± 0.021, and 0.032 ± 0.001, respectively. The genetic correlation between MY and milk FPR and MY and CR were −0.24 and −0.53, respectively, whereas those between milk FPR and heat tolerance as well as between CR and heat tolerance were −0.48 and −0.49, respectively. In addition, the decline rates in MY, milk FPR, and CR were found to be associated with a high percentage of Holstein genetics. In conclusion, the results obtained in this study reveal that the simultaneous consideration of the MY, milk FPR, CR, and heat tolerance traits of Thai–Holstein dairy cattle is possible. In addition, developing a genetic model that incorporates THI is essential for sustainably addressing heat stress problems.
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(This article belongs to the Collection Advances in Cattle Breeding, Genetics and Genomics)
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Open AccessArticle
Temporal Range Dynamics of the Lataste’s Viper (Vipera latastei Boscá, 1878) in Doñana (Spain): Insights into Anthropogenically Driven Factors
by
Rafael Carmona-González, Francisco Carro, Juan Pablo González de la Vega and Fernando Martínez-Freiría
Animals 2024, 14(20), 3025; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14203025 (registering DOI) - 19 Oct 2024
Abstract
Doñana (southern Spain), a region of notable biodiversity richness, is highly threatened by ongoing landscape transformation and climate change. We investigated the local effect of these anthropogenic factors on the temporal range dynamics of Lataste’s viper (Vipera latastei), an Iberian endemic
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Doñana (southern Spain), a region of notable biodiversity richness, is highly threatened by ongoing landscape transformation and climate change. We investigated the local effect of these anthropogenic factors on the temporal range dynamics of Lataste’s viper (Vipera latastei), an Iberian endemic Mediterranean reptile that has apparently become rare over the years in Doñana. Using ecological niche-based models, based on climatic and remote sensing variables, we analyzed historical (1959–1999) and contemporary (2000–2022) records of the species to assess range shifts and identify environmental factors that may influence them. Our results show that V. latastei is mostly restricted to the coastal region of Doñana and that one temperature variable is the most important factor explaining this distribution pattern in both periods. Additional climatic and vegetation variables play a role in its historical distribution, but they become less important in contemporary times, suggesting a niche simplification over time. We found 30.5% of reduction in the species suitable area from historical to contemporary conditions, a reduction that would be even greater (83.37%) in the absence of niche shift. These findings underscore the species’ heightened vulnerability to ongoing environmental changes and highlight the urgent need for targeted conservation strategies.
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(This article belongs to the Section Herpetology)
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The Effect of Synbiotics and Probiotics on Ochratoxin Concentrations in Blood and Tissues, Health Status, and Gastrointestinal Function in Turkeys Fed Diets Contaminated with Ochratoxin A
by
Magdalena Mazur-Kuśnirek, Krzysztof Lipiński, Zofia Antoszkiewicz and Katarzyna Śliżewska
Animals 2024, 14(20), 3024; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14203024 (registering DOI) - 18 Oct 2024
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate carcass quality and analyze gastrointestinal functional status, ochratoxin A (OTA) accumulation in tissues and organs, and the health status of turkeys fed diets contaminated with OTA and supplemented with synbiotic preparations in comparison with commercial
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The aim of this study was to evaluate carcass quality and analyze gastrointestinal functional status, ochratoxin A (OTA) accumulation in tissues and organs, and the health status of turkeys fed diets contaminated with OTA and supplemented with synbiotic preparations in comparison with commercial probiotic feed additives. The research involved 120 female BIG 6 turkeys, divided into six treatment groups (five replicates, four birds per replicate). Wheat naturally contaminated with OTA (662.03 μg/kg) was used in turkey diets. Turkeys in group 1 received an OTA-contaminated diet without additives. Groups 2 and 3 received 0.4 g/kg of probiotic preparation BioPlus 2B or Cylactin. Groups 4, 5, and 6 received 0.5 g/kg of synbiotics S1, S2, or S3. The following parameters were monitored: growth performance, carcass quality, gastrointestinal tract structure and digesta pH, health status, and concentrations of OTA in the blood and tissues of turkeys. The study found no significant differences in the growth performance and carcass quality of turkey. However, the introduction of probiotics or synbiotics into OTA-contaminated feed mixtures resulted in a reduced pH of the digesta in certain sections of the turkey digestive tract (p < 0.05). Additionally, the tested synbiotic additives significantly reduced liver weight in turkeys at weeks 6 and 15 (p < 0.05). The addition of probiotic and synbiotic preparations based on lactic acid bacteria strains, inulin, and S. cerevisiae yeasts to OTA-contaminated diets in commercial turkey farming may improve health status (p < 0.05) and reduce mycotoxin accumulation in organs and tissues of poultry (p < 0.05).
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(This article belongs to the Section Poultry)
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Beta-Glucans Improve the Mammary Innate Immune Response to Endotoxin Challenge in Dairy Ewes
by
Santiago A. Guamán, Abdelaali Elhadi, Ahmed A. K. Salama, Carmen L. Manuelian, Gerardo Caja and Elena Albanell
Animals 2024, 14(20), 3023; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14203023 (registering DOI) - 18 Oct 2024
Abstract
This study evaluated short-term immune responses of dairy ewes supplemented with barley β-glucan (BG) following an intramammary Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide (LPS) challenge. In the adaptation period, 36 ewes were fed an alfalfa hay diet ad libitum and barley grain cv. Hispanic (3.8% BG).
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This study evaluated short-term immune responses of dairy ewes supplemented with barley β-glucan (BG) following an intramammary Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide (LPS) challenge. In the adaptation period, 36 ewes were fed an alfalfa hay diet ad libitum and barley grain cv. Hispanic (3.8% BG). Then, ewes were assigned into three experimental groups: (1) Control (CON), the same previous diet (13.3 g BG/d); (2) high β-glucans barley (HBG), new barley (cv. Annapurna) containing 10% BG (35 g BG/d); (3) intraperitoneally injected (INP) with a 1.4% BG solution dose (2 g BG/ewe). At d 9, all ewes were infused with an E. coli LPS or saline solution in each udder half. After the challenge, rectal temperature (RT), milk yield and composition, somatic cell count (SCC), and plasma interleukins (IL-1α and IL-1β) were monitored daily. The INP treatment revealed a transitory increase in RT and decreased milk yield by 38%. Milk fat, protein, and SCC increased in LPS-treated udders but not by BG treatment. The IL-1α plasma concentration was similar among groups but INP ewes showed a lower IL-1β concentration suggesting a lower inflammatory response. The BG administration appears more effective intraperitoneally than orally, which needs additional study.
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(This article belongs to the Section Small Ruminants)
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Cat Caring Behaviors and Ownership Status of Residents Enrolling a Cat in a Free Sterilization Program
by
Kate Dutton-Regester and Jacquie Rand
Animals 2024, 14(20), 3022; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14203022 (registering DOI) - 18 Oct 2024
Abstract
Most cats entering animal shelters in Australia are less than 12 months old and emanate from low socioeconomic areas. Many are unidentified and may be either owned or semi-owned cats (cats cared for by someone who does not consider themselves the owner). In
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Most cats entering animal shelters in Australia are less than 12 months old and emanate from low socioeconomic areas. Many are unidentified and may be either owned or semi-owned cats (cats cared for by someone who does not consider themselves the owner). In Australia, approximately 33% of cats entering shelters and pounds are euthanized annually, adversely affecting the mental health of staff involved. Our study investigated cat ownership and caregiving behaviors of cats enrolled in the Australian Pet Welfare Foundation’s Community Cat Program, which included free sterilization, microchipping, and preventive healthcare. The suburbs targeted in Ipswich, Australia had a high per capita cat intake into animal shelters. We surveyed 1094 cat owners and semi-owners. Most cats were under 12 months old (79%), primarily domestic short-haired (69%), and acquired through informal channels such as friends, family, or as strays. Veterinary care was limited, with only 15% of cats having visited a veterinarian and 28% being vaccinated. Prior to hearing about the free sterilization program, 88.5% of participants identified as owners, while 11.5% were semi-owners. Before completing the survey, these semi-owners transitioned from an informal caregiving relationship to becoming owner of the cat/s. Of the semi-owners, 93% indicated that their transition to ownership was driven by feelings of responsibility, emotional attachment, and access to free sterilization services. These findings suggest that targeted interventions, such as accessible veterinary care and sterilization programs, are crucial in encouraging semi-owners to take full ownership of cats, improving cat welfare, and reducing unplanned breeding. Supporting this transition helps curb overpopulation and fosters improved caregiving, benefiting both cats and communities.
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(This article belongs to the Section Animal Welfare)
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Open AccessReview
Nutritional Value of Oregano-Based Products and Its Effect on Rabbit Performance and Health
by
Ayman Abd El-Aziz, Ahmed Elfadadny, Mahmoud Abo Ghanima, Damiano Cavallini, Isa Fusaro, Melania Giammarco, Giovanni Buonaiuto and Karim El-Sabrout
Animals 2024, 14(20), 3021; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14203021 (registering DOI) - 18 Oct 2024
Abstract
Antimicrobials long been used to enhance the performance and immunity of rabbits, typically by adding them to feed or drinking water to prevent illness. However, increasing consumer concerns about antibiotic-resistant microorganisms have led to a shift toward natural, eco-friendly, non-antibiotic feed supplements that
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Antimicrobials long been used to enhance the performance and immunity of rabbits, typically by adding them to feed or drinking water to prevent illness. However, increasing consumer concerns about antibiotic-resistant microorganisms have led to a shift toward natural, eco-friendly, non-antibiotic feed supplements that can improve rabbit health and productivity. Recently, aromatic herbs and their extracts have gained considerable attention as natural antioxidants with growth-promoting and health-boosting properties. Essential oils and secondary metabolites play a central role in these effects, with Origanum vulgare (oregano) emerging as a standout option. Compared to synthetic alternatives, oregano is a natural, residue-free feed supplement with fewer harmful side effects. Its key bioactive components, thymol and carvacrol, have been shown to deliver significant benefits when incorporated into rabbit diets, particularly in improving production performance, immunity, and antioxidant capacity. Supplementing rabbit diets and drinking water with oregano essential oil (OEO) has been found to enhance growth performance, feed efficiency, and meat quality, while also lowering cholesterol levels and boosting antioxidant activity. Despite these promising results, research on the use of oregano in rabbit farming remains limited. This review aims to provide an up-to-date overview of the potential effect of oregano supplements, on growth parameters, carcass and meat quality, hemato-biochemical parameters, antioxidant capacity, immunity response, gut health, and gene expression in rabbits.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Strategies to Improve Gut Health and Immunity in Monogastric Animals)
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