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In the last three decades, we assisted in a shift in the dairy product preferences in developed countries, with an increase in goat-derived products consumption. As already seen in the bovine sector, the diffusion of goat milk consumption has led to an abandonment of the local breeds in favor of the more productive cosmopolitan breeds, with an intense reduction in the livestock biodiversity. However, in several studies, it has been shown that local breeds present unique features such as a robust behavior towards the local climate and a high quality of their dairy products. This study aims to assess the differences between the basic lactation variables (milk yield, fat %, protein %, lactose % and somatic cell count) in the Alpine goat and the local breed Verzasca goat from a Bayesian point of observation. Results indicate that the Nera di Verzasca goat has overall lactation characteristics similar toa cosmopolite breed such as the Alpine goat, except for the milk daily yield reduced with respect to Alpine goats (1.68 ± 0.84 and 2.14 ± 1.03, respectively). Moreover, the Verzasca goat showed a tendency to maintain a lower level of somatic cell count along with lactation (798 ± 1734 and 1216 ± 2828, respectively). These findings help to increase the knowledge about the Italian local goat breeds and are important in the optic of biodiversity conservation.
Stella Agradi; Alessia Gazzonis; Giulio Curone; Massimo Faustini; Susanna Draghi; Gabriele Brecchia; Daniele Vigo; Maria Manfredi; Sergio Zanzani; Luisa Pulinas; Majlind Sulce; Albana Munga; Marta Castrica; Laura Menchetti. Lactation Characteristics in Alpine and Nera di Verzasca Goats in Northern Italy: A Statistical Bayesian Approach. Applied Sciences 2021, 11, 7235 .
AMA StyleStella Agradi, Alessia Gazzonis, Giulio Curone, Massimo Faustini, Susanna Draghi, Gabriele Brecchia, Daniele Vigo, Maria Manfredi, Sergio Zanzani, Luisa Pulinas, Majlind Sulce, Albana Munga, Marta Castrica, Laura Menchetti. Lactation Characteristics in Alpine and Nera di Verzasca Goats in Northern Italy: A Statistical Bayesian Approach. Applied Sciences. 2021; 11 (16):7235.
Chicago/Turabian StyleStella Agradi; Alessia Gazzonis; Giulio Curone; Massimo Faustini; Susanna Draghi; Gabriele Brecchia; Daniele Vigo; Maria Manfredi; Sergio Zanzani; Luisa Pulinas; Majlind Sulce; Albana Munga; Marta Castrica; Laura Menchetti. 2021. "Lactation Characteristics in Alpine and Nera di Verzasca Goats in Northern Italy: A Statistical Bayesian Approach." Applied Sciences 11, no. 16: 7235.
Regulation EC 1/2005 has stricter rules for transportation of unbroken (untamed) vs. broken (tamed) horses, but does not provide adequate tools for their identification. This study aimed to develop and validate such a tool. A behavioural test (Broken/Unbroken Test (BUT)) based on approaching, haltering, and leading was applied to 100 horses. Physiological and additional behavioural data were also collected, and the horses’ status (broken/unbroken) was assessed by the expert who administered the BUT. Each horse’s behaviour during the BUT was scored by four trained observers blinded to the horse’s history. The BUT score showed excellent inter-observer, intra-observer, and test–retest reliability (all intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) > 0.75). It was also negatively associated with respiratory rate, avoidance distance, and time needed to approach, halter, and lead the horse (p< 0.05 for all). The optimal BUT score cut-off for discrimination between broken and unbroken horses (gold standard: expert judgment) showed 97.8% sensitivity and 97.3% specificity. There was almost perfect agreement between BUT-based and expert classification of horses (ICC = 0.940). These findings confirm the BUT’s construct and criterion validity. The BUT could provide officials with a feasible, reliable, and valid tool to identify a horse’s broken/unbroken status and, consequently, direct stakeholders towards correct transport procedures.
Laura Menchetti; Emanuela Dalla Costa; Michela Minero; Barbara Padalino. Development and Validation of a Test for the Classification of Horses as Broken or Unbroken. Animals 2021, 11, 2303 .
AMA StyleLaura Menchetti, Emanuela Dalla Costa, Michela Minero, Barbara Padalino. Development and Validation of a Test for the Classification of Horses as Broken or Unbroken. Animals. 2021; 11 (8):2303.
Chicago/Turabian StyleLaura Menchetti; Emanuela Dalla Costa; Michela Minero; Barbara Padalino. 2021. "Development and Validation of a Test for the Classification of Horses as Broken or Unbroken." Animals 11, no. 8: 2303.
Overweight is common in cats and has health and welfare implications. This study aimed to assess potential predictive/protective factors for feline overweight associated with owner management and their relationship with cat behavior and welfare. A questionnaire was administered to 197 owners to collect information about cat demographics, management, environment, dietary habits and behavior. The feline Body Mass Index was recorded for each cat. Univariate logistic regression was used to evaluate the association of parameters with overweight cats. Variables with a p-value < 0.10 at univariable analyses were selected for the multivariable model. Most cats were mixed- breed, 1–7 years old and neutered; 51.3% were overweight. Age higher than 7 years, neutering, being alone all day and being stressed were predictive for overweight (p< 0.05). Conversely, the presence of other animals had a protective effect (p< 0.05). A general disagreement between owners’ perception and clinical evaluation of cats’ body condition was a common and significant risk factor for overweight (OR = 8.532, 95% CI = 4.073–17.875; p< 0.001). According to the owners, many veterinarians did not inform them about their cat being overweight nor about the risks (p< 0.001). This study provides helpful information on the influence of management and environment on cats’ body condition and its relationship with cat welfare.
Laura Arena; Laura Menchetti; Silvana Diverio; Giovanna Guardini; Angelo Gazzano; Chiara Mariti. Overweight in Domestic Cats Living in Urban Areas of Italy: Risk Factors for an Emerging Welfare Issue. Animals 2021, 11, 2246 .
AMA StyleLaura Arena, Laura Menchetti, Silvana Diverio, Giovanna Guardini, Angelo Gazzano, Chiara Mariti. Overweight in Domestic Cats Living in Urban Areas of Italy: Risk Factors for an Emerging Welfare Issue. Animals. 2021; 11 (8):2246.
Chicago/Turabian StyleLaura Arena; Laura Menchetti; Silvana Diverio; Giovanna Guardini; Angelo Gazzano; Chiara Mariti. 2021. "Overweight in Domestic Cats Living in Urban Areas of Italy: Risk Factors for an Emerging Welfare Issue." Animals 11, no. 8: 2246.
Goji berry shows a wide range of beneficial properties in human health, but only a few studies evaluated its effects in livestock animals. The objective of this research was to assess the effects of goji berry supplementation on the hormonal profile, productive, and reproductive performance of does. Two months before artificial insemination, 105 nulliparous does were randomly divided into three groups (n = 35) based on the dietary treatment: commercial diet (C), or a diet supplemented with either 1% (G1), or 3% (G3) of goji berry, respectively. The results showed that receptivity was higher in G1 than in the C group (p< 0.05). Trends toward significance for differences between the G1 and G3 groups in marginal means of LH concentrations (p = 0.059), and between G1 and C in LH AUC values (p = 0.078), were evidenced. Estrogen concentrations showed a more fluctuating trend but a significant interaction effect (p< 0.001). The G1 group showed higher litter weight than C at birth (p = 0.008) and weaning (p< 0.001), as well as higher litter size at weaning (p = 0.020). The G1 group also exhibited the highest mean milk production (p< 0.01). In conclusion, goji berry influenced reproductive and productive performance, probably via modulating hormonal patterns and milk production in rabbits. However, further studies are needed to validate these preliminary results.
Egon Andoni; Giulio Curone; Stella Agradi; Olimpia Barbato; Laura Menchetti; Daniele Vigo; Riccardo Zelli; Elisa Cotozzolo; Maria Ceccarini; Massimo Faustini; Alda Quattrone; Marta Castrica; Gabriele Brecchia. Effect of Goji Berry (Lycium barbarum) Supplementation on Reproductive Performance of Rabbit Does. Animals 2021, 11, 1672 .
AMA StyleEgon Andoni, Giulio Curone, Stella Agradi, Olimpia Barbato, Laura Menchetti, Daniele Vigo, Riccardo Zelli, Elisa Cotozzolo, Maria Ceccarini, Massimo Faustini, Alda Quattrone, Marta Castrica, Gabriele Brecchia. Effect of Goji Berry (Lycium barbarum) Supplementation on Reproductive Performance of Rabbit Does. Animals. 2021; 11 (6):1672.
Chicago/Turabian StyleEgon Andoni; Giulio Curone; Stella Agradi; Olimpia Barbato; Laura Menchetti; Daniele Vigo; Riccardo Zelli; Elisa Cotozzolo; Maria Ceccarini; Massimo Faustini; Alda Quattrone; Marta Castrica; Gabriele Brecchia. 2021. "Effect of Goji Berry (Lycium barbarum) Supplementation on Reproductive Performance of Rabbit Does." Animals 11, no. 6: 1672.
Polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) metabolism and tissue distribution is modulated by the oxidation of these molecules. This research aimed to investigate the implication of dietary n-3 PUFA supplementation (precursor and long-chain PUFA) on the PUFA profile and oxidative status of the liver, testis, and brain of adult rabbit bucks. Twenty New Zealand White rabbit bucks were divided into four experimental groups (n = 5 per group) and were fed different diets for 110 days: control (CNT), standard diet containing 50 mg/kg alpha-tocopheryl acetate (vitamin E); CNT+, standard diet + 200 mg/kg vitamin E; FLAX, standard diet + 10% flaxseed + 200 mg/kg vitamin E; or FISH, standard diet + 3.5% fish oil + 200 mg/kg vitamin E. Antioxidants (enzymatic and non-enzymatic), oxidative status (malondialdehyde and isoprostanoids), and n-3 and n-6 PUFAs of tissues were analysed. A chain mechanism of oxidant/antioxidant molecules, which largely depended on the particular PUFA composition, was delineated in the different organs. The liver showed an oxidant/antioxidant profile and lipid pathways widely modulated by PUFA and vitamin E administration; on the other hand, the testis’ oxidative profile rather than its lipid profile seemed to be particularly affected, an outcome opposite to that of the brain (modulation operated by dietary PUFA).
Simona Mattioli; Giulia Collodel; Cinzia Signorini; Elisa Cotozzolo; Daria Noto; Daniela Cerretani; Lucia Micheli; Anna Fiaschi; Gabriele Brecchia; Laura Menchetti; Elena Moretti; Camille Oger; Claudio De Felice; Cesare Castellini. Tissue Antioxidant Status and Lipid Peroxidation Are Related to Dietary Intake of n-3 Polyunsaturated Acids: A Rabbit Model. Antioxidants 2021, 10, 681 .
AMA StyleSimona Mattioli, Giulia Collodel, Cinzia Signorini, Elisa Cotozzolo, Daria Noto, Daniela Cerretani, Lucia Micheli, Anna Fiaschi, Gabriele Brecchia, Laura Menchetti, Elena Moretti, Camille Oger, Claudio De Felice, Cesare Castellini. Tissue Antioxidant Status and Lipid Peroxidation Are Related to Dietary Intake of n-3 Polyunsaturated Acids: A Rabbit Model. Antioxidants. 2021; 10 (5):681.
Chicago/Turabian StyleSimona Mattioli; Giulia Collodel; Cinzia Signorini; Elisa Cotozzolo; Daria Noto; Daniela Cerretani; Lucia Micheli; Anna Fiaschi; Gabriele Brecchia; Laura Menchetti; Elena Moretti; Camille Oger; Claudio De Felice; Cesare Castellini. 2021. "Tissue Antioxidant Status and Lipid Peroxidation Are Related to Dietary Intake of n-3 Polyunsaturated Acids: A Rabbit Model." Antioxidants 10, no. 5: 681.
This study aimed to investigate the effects of feed supplementation on body condition score (BCS) and different metabolic hormones concentration in lactating sheep reared in Italian Central Apennine pastures during the grazing summer period. In this study, 24 Comisana x Appenninica pluriparous ewes from June until August were divided into two homogenous groups: the control group (UNS) was free to graze, while the other group (SUP), in addition to grazing, was supplemented with 600 g/day/head of cereals. At the start of the supplementation and at an interval of 9–10 days until the end of experimentation, BCS evaluation and blood withdrawal to assay nesfatin-1, insulin, glucagon, leptin, triiodothyronine and cortisol levels were performed. Univariable analysis showed no remarkable differences between the groups, while multivariable analysis suggested that the UNS group was characterized by a lower BCS and greater nesfatin-1 than the SUP group. These findings can be considered in relation to milk production, which shows a clear better persistence in the SUP group. Our results indicate that nutritional supplementation has protected ewes from the usual lowering of the body state linked to lactation and provides a good maintenance of milk production, determining also a better overall body and metabolic state of the animals, which is important at the beginning of the sexual season.
Olimpia Barbato; Elena De Felice; Luca Todini; Laura Menchetti; Alessandro Malfatti; Paola Scocco. Effects of Feed Supplementation on Nesfatin-1, Insulin, Glucagon, Leptin, T3, Cortisol, and BCS in Milking Ewes Grazing on Semi-Natural Pastures. Animals 2021, 11, 682 .
AMA StyleOlimpia Barbato, Elena De Felice, Luca Todini, Laura Menchetti, Alessandro Malfatti, Paola Scocco. Effects of Feed Supplementation on Nesfatin-1, Insulin, Glucagon, Leptin, T3, Cortisol, and BCS in Milking Ewes Grazing on Semi-Natural Pastures. Animals. 2021; 11 (3):682.
Chicago/Turabian StyleOlimpia Barbato; Elena De Felice; Luca Todini; Laura Menchetti; Alessandro Malfatti; Paola Scocco. 2021. "Effects of Feed Supplementation on Nesfatin-1, Insulin, Glucagon, Leptin, T3, Cortisol, and BCS in Milking Ewes Grazing on Semi-Natural Pastures." Animals 11, no. 3: 682.
This study aimed to apply a protocol for assessing camel welfare, to develop a scoring system for the welfare measures, to produce overall assessment indices, and to classify the animal units (i.e., pens) according to their welfare level. A total of 105 measures were collected at Herd level from 76 pens at a market in Qatar. The pens held 528 camels, 132 of which were evaluated at a deeper level (i.e., Animal level). Out of the 105 measures, 71 were selected, scored, and aggregated to reach a Total Welfare Index (TWI) for each pen. The TWI ranged from 46.2 to 69.8. The Good Feeding index, including measures related to prolonged thirst and prolonged hunger, was the most critical (p < 0.001), while the Good Health index, including measures related to the absence of injuries, disease and pain, was the less problematic (p < 0.001). However, most of the pens were classified as “unsatisfactory” (61.8%) and none as “excellent”. Body Condition Score (BCS), Thirst Index, disease and physical injuries, presence of a shelter, and cleanliness of bedding were the measures which influenced the pens’ classification the most (p < 0.05). The proposed model seems useful in the identification of camel welfare issues. Further applications, as well as the involvement of many scientists and stakeholders, are needed to refine and validate the protocol and its indices.
Laura Menchetti; Martina Zappaterra; Leonardo Nanni Costa; Barbara Padalino. Application of a Protocol to Assess Camel Welfare: Scoring System of Collected Measures, Aggregated Assessment Indices, and Criteria to Classify a Pen. Animals 2021, 11, 494 .
AMA StyleLaura Menchetti, Martina Zappaterra, Leonardo Nanni Costa, Barbara Padalino. Application of a Protocol to Assess Camel Welfare: Scoring System of Collected Measures, Aggregated Assessment Indices, and Criteria to Classify a Pen. Animals. 2021; 11 (2):494.
Chicago/Turabian StyleLaura Menchetti; Martina Zappaterra; Leonardo Nanni Costa; Barbara Padalino. 2021. "Application of a Protocol to Assess Camel Welfare: Scoring System of Collected Measures, Aggregated Assessment Indices, and Criteria to Classify a Pen." Animals 11, no. 2: 494.
The aim of this work was to find the best strategy to diagnose pregnancy failures in buffalo. A total of 109 animals belonging to a buffalo herd subjected to a synchronization and artificial insemination (AI) program were enrolled in this study. Blood samples were collected at days 0, 14, 25, 28 and 40 after AI for the determination of progesterone (P4) and pregnancy-associated glycoproteins (PAGs) by the radioimmunoassay (RIA) method. Transrectal ultrasonography was performed on day 25, 28 and 40 after AI to monitor pregnancy. The animals included in the data analysis were assigned ex post in pregnant (n = 50) and mortality (n = 12) groups. By ultrasonography, the predictive sign of mortality was the heartbeat. At day 25, the PAGs concentration was significant in predicting embryonic mortality with respect to ultrasonography and P4, at the cut-off of 1.1 ng/mL. At day 28, either PAGs, at a cut-off of 2.2 ng/mL, or ultrasonography, with no detection of heartbeat, were highly predictive of embryonic mortality. PAGs were the best marker (p < 0.05) for predicting embryonic mortality between 25 and 40 days of gestation in buffalo. Its utilization as a diagnostic tool can influence management decisions in order to improve farm reproductive management.
Vittoria Barile; Laura Menchetti; Anna Casano; Gabriele Brecchia; Noelita Melo de Sousa; Riccardo Zelli; Claudio Canali; Jean Beckers; Olimpia Barbato. Approaches to Identify Pregnancy Failure in Buffalo Cows. Animals 2021, 11, 487 .
AMA StyleVittoria Barile, Laura Menchetti, Anna Casano, Gabriele Brecchia, Noelita Melo de Sousa, Riccardo Zelli, Claudio Canali, Jean Beckers, Olimpia Barbato. Approaches to Identify Pregnancy Failure in Buffalo Cows. Animals. 2021; 11 (2):487.
Chicago/Turabian StyleVittoria Barile; Laura Menchetti; Anna Casano; Gabriele Brecchia; Noelita Melo de Sousa; Riccardo Zelli; Claudio Canali; Jean Beckers; Olimpia Barbato. 2021. "Approaches to Identify Pregnancy Failure in Buffalo Cows." Animals 11, no. 2: 487.
This study aimed at documenting whether dromedary camels have a preference for shade and how their behavior would change depending on the presence of shade and variable space allowance. A total of 421 animals kept in 76 pens (66 with shelter (Group 1), and 10 without shelter (Group 2)) at the camel market in Doha (Qatar) were recorded for 1 min around 11:00 a.m. when the temperature was above 40 °C. The number of animals in the sun and shade and their behaviors were analyzed using an ad libitum sampling method and an ad hoc ethogram. The results of a chi-square test indicated that camels in Group 1 had a clear preference for shade (p < 0.001). The majority of Group 1 camels were indeed observed in the shade (312/421; 74.11%). These camels spent more time in recumbency and ruminating, while standing, walking, and self-grooming were more commonly expressed by the camels in the sun (p < 0.001). Moreover, locomotory stereotypic behaviors (i.e., pacing) increased as space allowance decreased (p = 0.002). Based on the findings of this pilot study, camels demonstrated a preference for shade; shade seemed to promote positive welfare, while overcrowding seemed to trigger stereotypy and poor welfare. Overall, our preliminary results are novel and provide evidence that shaded areas are of paramount importance for camel welfare. Further research, involving designed studies at multiple locations is needed to confirm these results.
Martina Zappaterra; Laura Menchetti; Leonardo Nanni Costa; Barbara Padalino. Do Camels (Camelus dromedarius) Need Shaded Areas? A Case Study of the Camel Market in Doha. Animals 2021, 11, 480 .
AMA StyleMartina Zappaterra, Laura Menchetti, Leonardo Nanni Costa, Barbara Padalino. Do Camels (Camelus dromedarius) Need Shaded Areas? A Case Study of the Camel Market in Doha. Animals. 2021; 11 (2):480.
Chicago/Turabian StyleMartina Zappaterra; Laura Menchetti; Leonardo Nanni Costa; Barbara Padalino. 2021. "Do Camels (Camelus dromedarius) Need Shaded Areas? A Case Study of the Camel Market in Doha." Animals 11, no. 2: 480.
The microbiota is extremely important for the animal’s health, but, to date, knowledge on the intestinal microbiota of the rabbit is very limited. This study aimed to describe bacterial populations that inhabit the different gastrointestinal compartments of the rabbit: stomach, duodenum, jejunum, ileum, caecum, and colon. Samples of the luminal content from all compartments of 14 healthy New White Zealand rabbits were collected at slaughter and analyzed using next generation 16S rRNA Gene Sequencing. The findings uncovered considerable differences in the taxonomic levels among the regions of the digestive tract. Firmicutes were the most abundant phylum in all of the sections (45.9%), followed by Bacteroidetes in the large intestine (38.9%) and Euryarchaeota in the foregut (25.9%). Four clusters of bacterial populations were observed along the digestive system: (i) stomach, (ii) duodenum and jejunum, (iii) ileum, and (iv) large intestine. Caecum and colon showed the highest richness and diversity in bacterial species, while the highest variability was found in the upper digestive tract. Knowledge of the physiological microbiota of healthy rabbits could be important for preserving the health and welfare of the host as well as for finding strategies to manipulate the gut microbiota in order to also promote productive performance.
Elisa Cotozzolo; Paola Cremonesi; Giulio Curone; Laura Menchetti; Federica Riva; Filippo Biscarini; Maria Laura Marongiu; Marta Castrica; Bianca Castiglioni; Dino Miraglia; Sebastiano Luridiana; Gabriele Brecchia. Characterization of Bacterial Microbiota Composition along the Gastrointestinal Tract in Rabbits. Animals 2020, 11, 31 .
AMA StyleElisa Cotozzolo, Paola Cremonesi, Giulio Curone, Laura Menchetti, Federica Riva, Filippo Biscarini, Maria Laura Marongiu, Marta Castrica, Bianca Castiglioni, Dino Miraglia, Sebastiano Luridiana, Gabriele Brecchia. Characterization of Bacterial Microbiota Composition along the Gastrointestinal Tract in Rabbits. Animals. 2020; 11 (1):31.
Chicago/Turabian StyleElisa Cotozzolo; Paola Cremonesi; Giulio Curone; Laura Menchetti; Federica Riva; Filippo Biscarini; Maria Laura Marongiu; Marta Castrica; Bianca Castiglioni; Dino Miraglia; Sebastiano Luridiana; Gabriele Brecchia. 2020. "Characterization of Bacterial Microbiota Composition along the Gastrointestinal Tract in Rabbits." Animals 11, no. 1: 31.
The aim of this research was to evaluate the inflammatory and/or oxidative damage related to silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), which are responsible for negative effects on sperm physiology and metabolism. Thirty New Zealand White rabbit bucks were divided into 5 experimental groups (6 animals/group): Control, treated with 0.9% NaCl; AgNP, treated with a 5 mM AgNP solution; LPS, treated with 50 g/kg b.w. E. coli LPS; AgNPs + NSAID, treated with an anti-inflammatory drug at 0.2 mg/kg b.w. and 5 mM AgNPs; and AgNPs + Vit E, treated with 0.18 mg/kg b.w. vitamin E and 5 mM AgNPs. Sperm quality and oxidative and inflammatory status were assessed at different times (0-60 days). Two statistical models were built: the first evaluated the effects of AgNPs and LPS (vs. Control), whereas the second evaluated the protective effect of an NSAID and vitamin E against AgNP-induced damage. Three principal component analyses were performed: sperm traits (motility, volume), oxidative status (antioxidants, oxidative metabolites, and redox reactions), and cytokines (TNF-α, IL-8, and IL-6). A negative effect on reproductive traits resulted after NP administration. In particular, an inflammatory/oxidative response took place in the reproductive tract during the first 2-3 wks of AgNP administration (cytokine and oxidative metabolite generation); the inflammatory/oxidative thrust impaired the status of rabbit tissues (seminal plasma, sperm, and blood), inducing a response (increased antioxidant enzymes and redox reactions) at 4-7 wks; oxidative stress, if not totally counteracted, likely induced toxicity in the late phases of AgNP administration (8-9 wks). In conclusion, exposure to silver nanoparticles produced a similar but more persistent effect than that of LPS on rabbit reproductive tissues: AgNP administration triggered a proinflammatory response linked to oxidative thrust, worsening many sperm parameters. However, only anti-inflammatory treatment counteracted the negative effects of AgNPs, whereas vitamin E seemed to act as an adjuvant, attenuating the oxidative cascade.
Collodel Giulia; Mattioli Simona; Moretti Elena; Cerretani Daniela; Micheli Lucia; Fiaschi Anna Ida; Menchetti Laura; Brecchia Gabriele; Castellini Cesare. Oxidative and/or Inflammatory Thrust Induced by Silver Nanoparticles in Rabbits: Effect of Vitamin E or NSAID Administration on Semen Parameters. Mediators of Inflammation 2020, 2020, 1 -15.
AMA StyleCollodel Giulia, Mattioli Simona, Moretti Elena, Cerretani Daniela, Micheli Lucia, Fiaschi Anna Ida, Menchetti Laura, Brecchia Gabriele, Castellini Cesare. Oxidative and/or Inflammatory Thrust Induced by Silver Nanoparticles in Rabbits: Effect of Vitamin E or NSAID Administration on Semen Parameters. Mediators of Inflammation. 2020; 2020 ():1-15.
Chicago/Turabian StyleCollodel Giulia; Mattioli Simona; Moretti Elena; Cerretani Daniela; Micheli Lucia; Fiaschi Anna Ida; Menchetti Laura; Brecchia Gabriele; Castellini Cesare. 2020. "Oxidative and/or Inflammatory Thrust Induced by Silver Nanoparticles in Rabbits: Effect of Vitamin E or NSAID Administration on Semen Parameters." Mediators of Inflammation 2020, no. : 1-15.
This work aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial susceptibility of 87 Salmonella Infantis strains isolated in Italy from 2016 to 2019 along the food chain of broiler meat production and in humans and to determine the genetic profiles of the strains in order to establish a possible correlation with the antimicrobial pattern. All isolates were tested by the disk diffusion method to evaluate antimicrobial susceptibility toward sixteen antimicrobials, and the broth microdilution method was used to confirm extended spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) production. PCR and pulsed field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) were applied to characterize ESBL-encoding and AmpC β-lactamase genes and to analyze the S. Infantis strains genetic profiles respectively. S. Infantis isolates showed high prevalence of resistance, in particular toward nalidixic acid (97.7%), tetracycline (96.5%), sulphamethoxazole/trimethoprim (91%) and cefepime (72.4%). The 80.5% of isolates were ESBL, cefotaxime-resistant, carrying the blaCTX-M1 gene. The most prevalent PFGE profile was XbaI.0126 (35.6%). The remaining strains had a genetic homology from 81% to 97% with the XbaI.0126 profile. The strains belonging to these profiles were isolated from different matrices collected along the broiler food chain independently on the year and from the region and there was no correlation between the PFGE profiles and resistance patterns. We found two ESBL-producing S. Infantis strains with the same XbaI.2621 profile isolated from humans and from poultry feces, not yet reported in Italy. Our findings confirmed the diffusion of ESBL-multi drug resistant (MDR) S. Infantis along the broiler food chain and in humans and underlined the importance of continuous monitoring to control and to reduce the prevalence of this bacterium, applying a global One Health approach.
Patrizia Casagrande Proietti; Valentina Stefanetti; Laura Musa; Alessia Zicavo; Anna Maria Dionisi; Sara Bellucci; Agnese La Mensa; Laura Menchetti; Raffaella Branciari; Roberta Ortenzi; Maria Pia Franciosini. Genetic Profiles and Antimicrobial Resistance Patterns of Salmonella Infantis Strains Isolated in Italy in the Food Chain of Broiler Meat Production. Antibiotics 2020, 9, 814 .
AMA StylePatrizia Casagrande Proietti, Valentina Stefanetti, Laura Musa, Alessia Zicavo, Anna Maria Dionisi, Sara Bellucci, Agnese La Mensa, Laura Menchetti, Raffaella Branciari, Roberta Ortenzi, Maria Pia Franciosini. Genetic Profiles and Antimicrobial Resistance Patterns of Salmonella Infantis Strains Isolated in Italy in the Food Chain of Broiler Meat Production. Antibiotics. 2020; 9 (11):814.
Chicago/Turabian StylePatrizia Casagrande Proietti; Valentina Stefanetti; Laura Musa; Alessia Zicavo; Anna Maria Dionisi; Sara Bellucci; Agnese La Mensa; Laura Menchetti; Raffaella Branciari; Roberta Ortenzi; Maria Pia Franciosini. 2020. "Genetic Profiles and Antimicrobial Resistance Patterns of Salmonella Infantis Strains Isolated in Italy in the Food Chain of Broiler Meat Production." Antibiotics 9, no. 11: 814.
Nineteen raccoons were enrolled in this study. The aim was to evaluate and compare the quality of anesthesia and the cardiorespiratory effects following treatment with a ketamine-based combination with either dexmedetomidine (KD group) or midazolam (KM group) in raccoons undergoing ovariohysterectomy/orchiectomy. General anesthesia was maintained with sevoflurane in oxygen and sufentanil infusion. The time required to approach the animals was similar among groups resulting in a median of 5 min after IM injection. Animals in group KD were scored with greater myorelaxation (p < 0.01) and easier intubation (p < 0.05). Moreover 70% of them did not require other drugs for tracheal intubation unlike animals in group KM, which required propofol in 100% of cases. After intubation and connection to the breathing circuit, physiological parameters were monitored continuously and recorded every 5 min. Sevoflurane requirements were lower in group KD than KM (p = 0.005). Blood pressure was maintained within physiological ranges in both groups but with higher values in group KM (p < 0.05). Mild respiratory depression occurred during surgery and animals in group KM showed greater respiratory acidosis (p < 0.05). Recovery was smooth and uneventful in all animals. Both anesthetic protocols can be recommended for safe anesthesia in wild raccoons.
Sara Nannarone; Valentina De Monte; Rolando Arcelli; Laura Menchetti; Rodolfo Gialletti. Gonadectomy in Raccoons: Anesthetic and Cardiorespiratory Effects of Two Ketamine-Based Pre-Anesthetic Protocols before Sevoflurane-Sufentanil. Animals 2020, 10, 2110 .
AMA StyleSara Nannarone, Valentina De Monte, Rolando Arcelli, Laura Menchetti, Rodolfo Gialletti. Gonadectomy in Raccoons: Anesthetic and Cardiorespiratory Effects of Two Ketamine-Based Pre-Anesthetic Protocols before Sevoflurane-Sufentanil. Animals. 2020; 10 (11):2110.
Chicago/Turabian StyleSara Nannarone; Valentina De Monte; Rolando Arcelli; Laura Menchetti; Rodolfo Gialletti. 2020. "Gonadectomy in Raccoons: Anesthetic and Cardiorespiratory Effects of Two Ketamine-Based Pre-Anesthetic Protocols before Sevoflurane-Sufentanil." Animals 10, no. 11: 2110.
The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of phenolic extract derived from olive vegetation water (PEOVW) in deep-water rose shrimps (Parapenaeus longirostris) at the day of packaging (D0) and after three (D3), six (D6) and eight (D8) days of refrigerated storage. Freshly caught shrimps were randomly divided into four groups: the phenolic extract (PE) group (2 g/L of phenols); the sulfites (S) group (0.5% sodium metabisulfite solution); the phenolic extract + sulfites (PE + S) group (0.25% sodium metabisulfite solution with 1 g/L of phenols), and the control (CTRL) group (tap water). Concerning color coordinates, there were no variations either between groups or over time, while it is important to highlight that phenolic extract (PE group) led to a significant reduction in total volatile basic nitrogen (TVB-N; p < 0.001) and thiobarbituric reactive substances (TBARS; p < 0.001) values. Furthermore, PE also had a relevant effect in reducing bacterial counts and decreasing the microbial development. Finally, as concerns melanosis, the effect of phenolic extract alone was marginal, but when combined with half a dose of sodium metabisulfite, it was as effective as the shrimps treated with only sodium metabisulfite in delaying black spots (p < 0.05). These results are very promising with a view to commercializing additive-free shrimps.
Dino Miraglia; Marta Castrica; Laura Menchetti; Sonia Esposto; Raffaella Branciari; David Ranucci; Stefania Urbani; Beatrice Sordini; Gianluca Veneziani; Maurizio Servili. Effect of an Olive Vegetation Water Phenolic Extract on the Physico-Chemical, Microbiological and Sensory Traits of Shrimp (Parapenaeus longirostris) during the Shelf-Life. Foods 2020, 9, 1647 .
AMA StyleDino Miraglia, Marta Castrica, Laura Menchetti, Sonia Esposto, Raffaella Branciari, David Ranucci, Stefania Urbani, Beatrice Sordini, Gianluca Veneziani, Maurizio Servili. Effect of an Olive Vegetation Water Phenolic Extract on the Physico-Chemical, Microbiological and Sensory Traits of Shrimp (Parapenaeus longirostris) during the Shelf-Life. Foods. 2020; 9 (11):1647.
Chicago/Turabian StyleDino Miraglia; Marta Castrica; Laura Menchetti; Sonia Esposto; Raffaella Branciari; David Ranucci; Stefania Urbani; Beatrice Sordini; Gianluca Veneziani; Maurizio Servili. 2020. "Effect of an Olive Vegetation Water Phenolic Extract on the Physico-Chemical, Microbiological and Sensory Traits of Shrimp (Parapenaeus longirostris) during the Shelf-Life." Foods 9, no. 11: 1647.
Nowadays, active packaging plays a key role in the food sector, improving the safety and quality of food and, at the same time, extending its shelf life. The aim of the study was to evaluate the efficacy that an active absorbent pad has in limiting microbial growth during the shelf-life of fresh bovine meat. The experiment was carried out on 50 slices of eye of round (semitendinosus muscle) of an adult bovine, packaged in two different packs, one containing the conventional pad (C: Control group) and the other containing the active pad (PAD group). The analyses, performed at 0, 3 and 6 days of refrigeration storage (4 °C), concerned the pH, color, total volatile basic nitrogen (TVBN) and microbiological parameters. The packaging with the active pad had no noticeable effect on the pH, but with regard to the color coordinates, the meat at day 6 was lighter than the control group (p < 0.01). The innovative pad was able to delay the growth of all the microorganisms investigated, but only at day 3 (p < 0.05 to p < 0.001) compared to the control group. Furthermore, the TVBN values were lower than the control ones at both the third (p = 0.036) and sixth (p < 0.01) day of analysis. All samples were negative for coagulase positive staphylococci, L. monocytogenes, and Salmonella spp. In conclusion, following a preliminary examination, the packaging with the active pad was potentially effective in delaying microbial growth and it positively affected the color and TVBN of beef meat.
Marta Castrica; Dino Miraglia; Laura Menchetti; Raffaella Branciari; David Ranucci; Claudia M. Balzaretti. Antibacterial Effect of an Active Absorbent Pad on Fresh Beef Meat during the Shelf-Life: Preliminary Results. Applied Sciences 2020, 10, 7904 .
AMA StyleMarta Castrica, Dino Miraglia, Laura Menchetti, Raffaella Branciari, David Ranucci, Claudia M. Balzaretti. Antibacterial Effect of an Active Absorbent Pad on Fresh Beef Meat during the Shelf-Life: Preliminary Results. Applied Sciences. 2020; 10 (21):7904.
Chicago/Turabian StyleMarta Castrica; Dino Miraglia; Laura Menchetti; Raffaella Branciari; David Ranucci; Claudia M. Balzaretti. 2020. "Antibacterial Effect of an Active Absorbent Pad on Fresh Beef Meat during the Shelf-Life: Preliminary Results." Applied Sciences 10, no. 21: 7904.
This study examined the effects of goji berries dietary supplementation on the energetic metabolism of doe. Thirty days before artificial insemination, 75 New Zealand White does were assigned to three different diets: commercial standard diet (C) and supplemented with 1% (LG) and 3% (HG) of goji berries, respectively. Body conditions, hormones and metabolites were monitored until weaning. Body weight and BCS were higher in HG than C (p < 0.05). LG showed lower T3/T4 ratio and cortisol concentrations (p < 0.05) and tended to have lower indices of insulin resistances (p < 0.1) than HG. Compared to control, leptin was higher in HG at AI (p < 0.01) and in LG during lactation (p < 0.05). Two principal components were extracted by multivariate analysis describing the relationships between (1) non-esterified fatty acids, insulin and glucose levels, and (2) body conditions and leptin metabolism. The first component highlighted the energy deficit and the insulin resistance of the does during pregnancy and lactation. The second one showed that leptin, body weight and Body Condition Score (BCS) enhance as levels of goji berries in the diet increase. Thus, the effects of goji supplementation are dose-dependent: an improvement on energy metabolism was achieved with a low-dose while the highest dose could determine excessive fattening and insulin resistance in does.
Laura Menchetti; Giulio Curone; Egon Andoni; Olimpia Barbato; Alessandro Troisi; Bernard Fioretti; Angela Polisca; Michela Codini; Claudio Canali; Daniele Vigo; Gabriele Brecchia. Impact of Goji Berries (Lycium barbarum) Supplementation on the Energy Homeostasis of Rabbit Does: Uni- and Multivariate Approach. Animals 2020, 10, 2000 .
AMA StyleLaura Menchetti, Giulio Curone, Egon Andoni, Olimpia Barbato, Alessandro Troisi, Bernard Fioretti, Angela Polisca, Michela Codini, Claudio Canali, Daniele Vigo, Gabriele Brecchia. Impact of Goji Berries (Lycium barbarum) Supplementation on the Energy Homeostasis of Rabbit Does: Uni- and Multivariate Approach. Animals. 2020; 10 (11):2000.
Chicago/Turabian StyleLaura Menchetti; Giulio Curone; Egon Andoni; Olimpia Barbato; Alessandro Troisi; Bernard Fioretti; Angela Polisca; Michela Codini; Claudio Canali; Daniele Vigo; Gabriele Brecchia. 2020. "Impact of Goji Berries (Lycium barbarum) Supplementation on the Energy Homeostasis of Rabbit Does: Uni- and Multivariate Approach." Animals 10, no. 11: 2000.
Forty-two New Zealand White rabbits (n = 21/group) were fed with two different diets: a commercial diet (control group) and a diet supplemented with goji berries (3% w/w). After slaughtering, the effect of dietary supplementation on microbiological, physico-chemical, and sensory characteristics of the rabbit loins, packed in an oxygen-permeable package, was evaluated at 6 h post mortem (day 0), after 4 and 10 days of refrigerated storage. No relevant results were obtained for pH and total volatile basic Nitrogen (TVBN) values but with regards to the color, some significant differences were observed between the groups. The goji berries (GBs) dietary supplementation had positive effects by reducing thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) values in all the observations (p < 0.001). Moreover, microbiological results showed that the supplementation had a significant impact on Lactobacillus spp. (p < 0.001) prevalence, indeed the goji group had higher means on day 0 (p < 0.05) and on day 4 (p < 0.001) than the control group. Lastly, with regards to the consumer’s test, the tasters assigned a higher score to GBs rabbit meatballs and the purchase interest increased when the rabbit diet was known. Overall, these results indicate that the goji berries inclusion in the rabbit diet could represent a valuable strategy to improve quality and sensory traits of meat.
Marta Castrica; Laura Menchetti; Claudia M. Balzaretti; Raffaella Branciari; David Ranucci; Elisa Cotozzolo; Daniele Vigo; Giulio Curone; Gabriele Brecchia; Dino Miraglia. Impact of Dietary Supplementation with Goji Berries (Lycium barbarum) on Microbiological Quality, Physico-Chemical, and Sensory Characteristics of Rabbit Meat. Foods 2020, 9, 1480 .
AMA StyleMarta Castrica, Laura Menchetti, Claudia M. Balzaretti, Raffaella Branciari, David Ranucci, Elisa Cotozzolo, Daniele Vigo, Giulio Curone, Gabriele Brecchia, Dino Miraglia. Impact of Dietary Supplementation with Goji Berries (Lycium barbarum) on Microbiological Quality, Physico-Chemical, and Sensory Characteristics of Rabbit Meat. Foods. 2020; 9 (10):1480.
Chicago/Turabian StyleMarta Castrica; Laura Menchetti; Claudia M. Balzaretti; Raffaella Branciari; David Ranucci; Elisa Cotozzolo; Daniele Vigo; Giulio Curone; Gabriele Brecchia; Dino Miraglia. 2020. "Impact of Dietary Supplementation with Goji Berries (Lycium barbarum) on Microbiological Quality, Physico-Chemical, and Sensory Characteristics of Rabbit Meat." Foods 9, no. 10: 1480.
Despite promising immunotherapy strategies in human melanoma, there are few studies on the immune environment of canine melanocytic tumors. In humans, the activation of immunosuppressive cell subpopulations, such as regulatory T cells (Tregs) that express forkhead box protein P3 (FoxP3), the engagement of immunosuppressive surface receptors like cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen (CTLA-4), and the secretion of molecules inhibiting lymphocyte activation, such as indoleamine-pyrrole 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO), are recognized as immunoescape mechanisms that allow tumor growth and progression. The aim of our study was to investigate the expression of these immunosuppression markers in canine melanocytic tumors and to postulate their possible role in melanoma biology and progression. Fifty-five formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded canine melanocytic tumors (25 oral melanomas; 20 cutaneous melanomas; 10 cutaneous melanocytomas) were selected to investigate the expression of FoxP3, CTLA-4, and IDO by immunohistochemistry and RT-qPCR (real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction). All of the tested markers showed high gene and protein expression in oral melanomas and were differently expressed in cutaneous melanomas when compared to their benign counterpart. IDO expression was associated with an increased hazard of death both in univariable and multivariable analyses ( P < .05). FoxP3 protein expression >6.9 cells/HPF (high-power field) was an independent predictor of death ( P < .05). CTLA-4 gene and protein expressions were associated with a worse prognosis, but only in the univariable analysis ( P < .05). FoxP3, CTLA-4, and IDO likely play a role in canine melanoma immunoescape. Their expression, if supported by future studies, could represent a prognostic tool in canine melanoma and pave the way to future immunotherapeutic approaches in dogs.
Ilaria Porcellato; Chiara Brachelente; Katia Cappelli; Laura Menchetti; Serenella Silvestri; Monica Sforna; Samanta Mecocci; Selina Iussich; Leonardo Leonardi; Luca Mechelli. FoxP3, CTLA-4, and IDO in Canine Melanocytic Tumors. Veterinary Pathology 2020, 58, 42 -52.
AMA StyleIlaria Porcellato, Chiara Brachelente, Katia Cappelli, Laura Menchetti, Serenella Silvestri, Monica Sforna, Samanta Mecocci, Selina Iussich, Leonardo Leonardi, Luca Mechelli. FoxP3, CTLA-4, and IDO in Canine Melanocytic Tumors. Veterinary Pathology. 2020; 58 (1):42-52.
Chicago/Turabian StyleIlaria Porcellato; Chiara Brachelente; Katia Cappelli; Laura Menchetti; Serenella Silvestri; Monica Sforna; Samanta Mecocci; Selina Iussich; Leonardo Leonardi; Luca Mechelli. 2020. "FoxP3, CTLA-4, and IDO in Canine Melanocytic Tumors." Veterinary Pathology 58, no. 1: 42-52.
Although popular culture describes them as mortal enemies, more and more often, dogs and cats live under the same roof. Does this make them best friends? Can sharing the same social and physical environment make them similar? This study compares the approaches of dogs and cats living in the same household have towards humans and other pets as perceived by the owner. Questionnaires collected from 1270 people owning both dog(s) and cat(s) were analysed. Most dogs and cats living together are playful with familiar humans (76.2%) but dogs have a more sociable approach towards strangers and conspecifics than cats (P<0.001). Moreover, the percentage of dogs that have a playful relationship with the owner (84.0%) was higher than cats (49.2%; P<0.001). Dogs and cats living together eat in different places and show different mutual interactions: more dogs lick the cat (42.8%) and more cats ignore the dog (41.8%) than vice versa (P<0.001). However, most dogs and cats sleep at least occasionally (68.5%) and play together (62.4%; P<0.001). Although some body postures, such as the tail’s position, are interpreted differently by the two species, the greater proportions of dogs and cats show a relaxed response to several kinds of approaches of their roommate. Our questionnaire confirms the common beliefs about the sociability of the dog and the privacy of the cat, but this does not result in continuous internal struggles. Most cohabitations are peaceful. Moreover, it is true that they speak different languages, but they seem to understand each other well and interpret each other's approaches in the right way. Thus, aspiring owners should not blindly believe popular assumptions, but both knowledge and respect for species-specific pet behaviours are essential to establish a balance in the household.
Laura Menchetti; Silvia Calipari; Chiara Mariti; Angelo Gazzano; Silvana Diverio. Cats and dogs: Best friends or deadly enemies? What the owners of cats and dogs living in the same household think about their relationship with people and other pets. PLOS ONE 2020, 15, e0237822 .
AMA StyleLaura Menchetti, Silvia Calipari, Chiara Mariti, Angelo Gazzano, Silvana Diverio. Cats and dogs: Best friends or deadly enemies? What the owners of cats and dogs living in the same household think about their relationship with people and other pets. PLOS ONE. 2020; 15 (8):e0237822.
Chicago/Turabian StyleLaura Menchetti; Silvia Calipari; Chiara Mariti; Angelo Gazzano; Silvana Diverio. 2020. "Cats and dogs: Best friends or deadly enemies? What the owners of cats and dogs living in the same household think about their relationship with people and other pets." PLOS ONE 15, no. 8: e0237822.
The gray squirrel is one of the most common invasive species in Europe, whose presence is dangerous for the survival of the European red squirrel. To cope with this biological invasion and to safeguard biodiversity, the LIFE+U-SAVEREDS project aims to protect the red squirrel, by limiting the growth of the current population of gray squirrels and simultaneously promoting their eradication with surgical sterilization. This study compares two different anesthetic protocols, including dexmedetomidine (40 µg/kg) and midazolam (0.3 mg/kg) associated with ketamine (15 mg/kg; n = 25 squirrels) or alfaxalone (5 mg/kg; n = 22 squirrels). A blinded investigator evaluated the quality and onset of sedation, intraoperative anesthesia, and recovery, as well as the physiologic parameters for each animal. Alfaxalone provided a good quality of anesthesia with limited cardiovascular effects (p < 0.05) and good intraoperative myorelaxation. Ketamine induced complete relaxation in a shorter time (p < 0.05) and a rapid (p < 0.001) and excellent (p < 0.05) recovery. Despite the overall superiority of ketamine, alfaxalone appeared to be an adequate alternative anesthetic drug that can be administered without requiring intravascular access. It should be rapidly metabolized and excreted; however, it requires the combination of longer acting sedatives/myorelaxants to prevent a poor recovery quality.
Sara Nannarone; Giulia Moretti; Federica Bellocchi; Laura Menchetti; Antonello Bufalari. A Comparative Study of Intramuscular Alfaxalone- or Ketamine-Based Anesthetic Mixtures in Gray Squirrels Undergoing Gonadectomy: Clinical and Physiologic Findings. Animals 2020, 10, 1402 .
AMA StyleSara Nannarone, Giulia Moretti, Federica Bellocchi, Laura Menchetti, Antonello Bufalari. A Comparative Study of Intramuscular Alfaxalone- or Ketamine-Based Anesthetic Mixtures in Gray Squirrels Undergoing Gonadectomy: Clinical and Physiologic Findings. Animals. 2020; 10 (8):1402.
Chicago/Turabian StyleSara Nannarone; Giulia Moretti; Federica Bellocchi; Laura Menchetti; Antonello Bufalari. 2020. "A Comparative Study of Intramuscular Alfaxalone- or Ketamine-Based Anesthetic Mixtures in Gray Squirrels Undergoing Gonadectomy: Clinical and Physiologic Findings." Animals 10, no. 8: 1402.