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The effect of seasonal variation and lunar cycles on reproductive parameters in dogs is unknown. Lunar cycles have important effects on several biological events. Controversy exists about the influence of lunar cycles on offspring sex ratio. This study examined the sex offspring distribution of 973 puppies (48% females and 52% males) from 150 bitches in Italy between 2015 and 2020. A two-way ANOVA followed by post-hoc t-test (Bonferroni correction) was used to analyze the influence of season and lunar phase on offspring sex ratio at conception. Sex offspring distribution was not affected by season, whereas lunar phase had a significant effect (p< .05). During the new moon, the proportion of male puppies born was significantly lower than during the full moon phase (p < .05). We conclude that season had no effect on sex offspring distribution. The new moon phase at conception appeared to be related to a lower male sex ratio at birth. Further studies assessing additional factors will help provide a better understanding of the lunar cycle differences observed in the sex ratio distribution of dogs.
Daniela Alberghina; Mauro Gioè; Marco Quartuccio; Luigi Liotta. The influence of lunar cycle at the time of conception on sex offspring distribution in dogs. Chronobiology International 2021, 1 -5.
AMA StyleDaniela Alberghina, Mauro Gioè, Marco Quartuccio, Luigi Liotta. The influence of lunar cycle at the time of conception on sex offspring distribution in dogs. Chronobiology International. 2021; ():1-5.
Chicago/Turabian StyleDaniela Alberghina; Mauro Gioè; Marco Quartuccio; Luigi Liotta. 2021. "The influence of lunar cycle at the time of conception on sex offspring distribution in dogs." Chronobiology International , no. : 1-5.
Several studies have recently investigated the birth weight of puppies from different pure-bred dogs. In general, birth weight decreased with litter size but there has been limited investigation into factors influencing growth during early development. The first month of life includes three stages of puppy development: neonatal (0–13 days), transitional (14–20 days), and first week of socialisation period (21–28 days). The aim of this study was to evaluate bodyweight and growth rate of 120 Labrador Retriever (LR) puppies during early development. Puppies from 19 show-line bitches under standardised composition of diet during pregnancy and lactation were involved in this study. Puppies were weighed weekly from birth to 28 days using an electronic digital balance. Relative weight gain (ΔW) was calculated for the neonatal period [ΔW1 = (Wday14-Wday0)/Wday0], transition period [ΔW2 = (Wday21-Wday14)/Wday14] and first week of socialisation period [ΔW2 = (Wday28-Wday21)/Wday21]. The effects of covariates on ΔW were assessed using generalised linear mixed models. Sex and photoperiod had no impact on relative weight gain, whereas litter size had a significant effect at ΔW1 (p < .01) but not at ΔW2 and at ΔW3. Relative weight gain was slightly lower in puppies from larger litter born during short photoperiod on ΔW1. A deeper knowledge of the factors that significantly influence weight gain during the first four weeks of life could be useful for physiological and behavioural science as well as for canine breeding management.
Daniela Alberghina; Mauro Gioè; Marco Quartuccio; Giovanni Majolino; Luigi Liotta. Puppy growth rate during early periods of labrador retriever development: role of litter size and photoperiod of birth. Italian Journal of Animal Science 2021, 20, 26 -32.
AMA StyleDaniela Alberghina, Mauro Gioè, Marco Quartuccio, Giovanni Majolino, Luigi Liotta. Puppy growth rate during early periods of labrador retriever development: role of litter size and photoperiod of birth. Italian Journal of Animal Science. 2021; 20 (1):26-32.
Chicago/Turabian StyleDaniela Alberghina; Mauro Gioè; Marco Quartuccio; Giovanni Majolino; Luigi Liotta. 2021. "Puppy growth rate during early periods of labrador retriever development: role of litter size and photoperiod of birth." Italian Journal of Animal Science 20, no. 1: 26-32.
Background: Few studies have been performed to identify objective indicators for the selection of therapeutic donkeys or to assess their welfare during animal-assisted interventions (AAIs) Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the response to the ethological test and the modifications of physiological parameters in donkeys subjected to AAI sessions. Methods: Thirteen donkeys were subjected to a behavioral evaluation during an AAI session. Heart rate, heart rate variability, and root mean square of successive difference values were detected. Results: Statistically significant changes in the tested parameters were observed during AAI sessions. Conclusions: In donkeys, there was a neurovegetative involvement during AAI sessions. Our data give a contribution to the evaluation of donkey welfare during AAIs.
Michele Panzera; Daniela Alberghina; Alessandra Statelli. Ethological and Physiological Parameters Assessment in Donkeys Used in Animal Assisted Interventions. Animals 2020, 10, 1867 .
AMA StyleMichele Panzera, Daniela Alberghina, Alessandra Statelli. Ethological and Physiological Parameters Assessment in Donkeys Used in Animal Assisted Interventions. Animals. 2020; 10 (10):1867.
Chicago/Turabian StyleMichele Panzera; Daniela Alberghina; Alessandra Statelli. 2020. "Ethological and Physiological Parameters Assessment in Donkeys Used in Animal Assisted Interventions." Animals 10, no. 10: 1867.
Behavioral development in domestic dogs has been investigated for predicting suitability for service dog work or for matching with the “right” families as well as for identifying predispositions to behavioral problems. Findings from the scientific literature seem to confirm that conducting behavioral tests at 7 weeks of age is too early to reliably predict the temperament and personality of a dog. However, this period for domestic dogs is sensitive for early life learning and conditions during this time could have important consequences in adulthood. The aims of this study were to evaluate inter-rater reliability of a simple standardized test and to investigate which factors influence the behavioral reaction of puppies. 105 seven-week old puppies were exposed to five subtests: social attraction, following, retrieving, sudden appearance, noise. During each task, the behaviour of each pup was scored on a 3–5 point scale that reflected the suitability of the pup’s reaction to the task. Scores were evaluated for a single subtest and for two aggregate indicators (i.e. response to a person: social attraction subtest and following subtest and response to object and noise: retrieving subtest, sudden appearance subtest and noise subtest). Three assessors independently scored the dogs’ reactions for each task. Inter-rater reliability of the three assessors were analyzed with Fleiss’ Kappa and Kendall’s coefficient, which showed a high inter-rater reliability in 4 of 5 tasks. The ordered logistic regression was carried out to obtain a proportional odds model that was used to model the relationship between sex, litter size, stimulating environment, parity of mother, adequate maternal behavior and high scores. Litter size and maternal parity were associated with test performance in response to a person. The variance of effect of litter was high in response to object and noise. Taken together, our results suggest that using this scoring system there is sufficient inter-rater reliability in the test and litter size and mother experience influences task performances related to dog-human interaction.
Daniela Alberghina; Fabiola Giunta; Mauro Gioè; Michele Panzera. Behavior test for seven-week old puppies (Canis familiaris): Inter-rater reliability and factors associated with test performance. PLOS ONE 2020, 15, e0236271 .
AMA StyleDaniela Alberghina, Fabiola Giunta, Mauro Gioè, Michele Panzera. Behavior test for seven-week old puppies (Canis familiaris): Inter-rater reliability and factors associated with test performance. PLOS ONE. 2020; 15 (7):e0236271.
Chicago/Turabian StyleDaniela Alberghina; Fabiola Giunta; Mauro Gioè; Michele Panzera. 2020. "Behavior test for seven-week old puppies (Canis familiaris): Inter-rater reliability and factors associated with test performance." PLOS ONE 15, no. 7: e0236271.
The aim of this study was to investigate whether plasma serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine [5-HT]) was associated with the presence of foot pad dermatitis (FPD) in laying hens. FPD birds (n = 20) and healthy individuals (n = 22) were included. Plasma 5-HT was investigated. FPD laying hens showed significantly higher 5-HT levels (median = 6 µmol/L) compared with healthy individuals (median = 4.28 µmol/L, P < .001). When present, FPD were scored as either 1 (n = 12) indicating mildly to moderately abnormal or 2 indicating severely abnormal (n = 8). The subjects whose lesions scored 2 had higher plasma 5-HT levels than those whose lesions scored 1. Inflammatory mechanisms seem to be related to plasma 5-HT levels in laying hens. Assessing plasma 5-HT could be useful to evaluate chicken welfare.
Daniela Alberghina; Vito Biondi; Annamaria Passantino; Fabiola Giunta; Michele Panzera. Plasma Serotonin in Laying Hens (Gallus gallus domesticus) With and Without Foot pad Dermatitis. International Journal of Tryptophan Research 2020, 13, 1 .
AMA StyleDaniela Alberghina, Vito Biondi, Annamaria Passantino, Fabiola Giunta, Michele Panzera. Plasma Serotonin in Laying Hens (Gallus gallus domesticus) With and Without Foot pad Dermatitis. International Journal of Tryptophan Research. 2020; 13 ():1.
Chicago/Turabian StyleDaniela Alberghina; Vito Biondi; Annamaria Passantino; Fabiola Giunta; Michele Panzera. 2020. "Plasma Serotonin in Laying Hens (Gallus gallus domesticus) With and Without Foot pad Dermatitis." International Journal of Tryptophan Research 13, no. : 1.
In mammals, behavioral and physiological processes display 24-hour rhythms that are regulated by the circadian system. In the present study, we investigated clock gene expression in peripheral leukocytes in horses. For this purpose, 10 Italian Saddle gelding horses (9–11 years old; 475 ± 28 Kg) were housed in individual boxes under natural photoperiod and natural environmental temperature. Blood samples were collected at 4-hour intervals over a 48-hour period. The day before the start of sampling, left jugular furrow of each horse was cannulated for the blood sample collection performed in heparinized tubes, for the assessment of melatonin concentration by means of radioimmunoassay and into PAX gene Blood RNA Tube for the assessment of clock genes by real-time RT-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RTqPCR). Well-established melatonin showed a daily rhythm with nocturnal acrophase (day 1–21:30; day 2–21:40). All genes tested (Bmal1, Cry 1, Per 1, Per 2, and Per 3) except Clock showed daily rhythmicity of their expression in peripheral blood. Oscillations of Bmal1 and Per 2 were correlated with the oscillation of melatonin, which anticipated the acrophase of Bmal1 (day 1–01:29; day 2–01:00) and Per 2 (day 1–01:00; day 2–00:32) of about 3 hours. Our results support the presence of a cyclic transcription of clock genes in peripheral leukocytes in horses.
Claudia Giannetto; Francesco Fazio; Daniela Alberghina; Elisabetta Giudice; Giuseppe Piccione. Clock Genes Expression in Peripheral Leukocytes and Plasma Melatonin Daily Rhythm in Horses. Journal of Equine Veterinary Science 2019, 84, 102856 .
AMA StyleClaudia Giannetto, Francesco Fazio, Daniela Alberghina, Elisabetta Giudice, Giuseppe Piccione. Clock Genes Expression in Peripheral Leukocytes and Plasma Melatonin Daily Rhythm in Horses. Journal of Equine Veterinary Science. 2019; 84 ():102856.
Chicago/Turabian StyleClaudia Giannetto; Francesco Fazio; Daniela Alberghina; Elisabetta Giudice; Giuseppe Piccione. 2019. "Clock Genes Expression in Peripheral Leukocytes and Plasma Melatonin Daily Rhythm in Horses." Journal of Equine Veterinary Science 84, no. : 102856.
The aim of this study was to evaluate the daily total locomotor activity in captive Chrysocyon brachyurus. Three maned wolves were housed individually under natural light–dark cycle and environmental conditions. In each animal, locomotor activity was monitoored for 30 days by means of an activity data logger (Actiwatch Cambridge©Neurotechnology, Cambridge, UK), applied on a neck collar. Locomotor activity was evaluated by visual inspection of actograms. The average amount of activity during light and dark phases and Cosine 20 Peak were calculated using Actiwatc Activity Analysis 5.06. Subject A was more active during the light phase, and subjects B and C were more active during the dark phase. The single cosinor method applied on the amount of activity recorded every hour showed a daily rhythm of locomotor activity only in subject B (2 years old). Acrophase was observed between 03:20 and 07:30, and robustness had a value between 37.00% and 63.40%. Only one subject due to their early withdrawal from its natural habitat, developed a manifest anthropic dependence, with a marked adaptation to the habitat of captivity presenting an anthropophilic behavior. This study would help to define more appropriate management and conservation strategies for this emblematic mammal of South America.
Nunziacarla Spanò; Raúl Delmar Cerutti; Maria Rizzo; Daniela Alberghina; María Cristina Scaglione; Antonio Sciabarrasi Bagilet; Claudia Giannetto; Giuseppe Piccione. Evaluation of the patterns of daily total locomotor activity in maned wolf (Chryosocyon brachyurus) maintained in captivity. Biological Rhythm Research 2019, 52, 454 -461.
AMA StyleNunziacarla Spanò, Raúl Delmar Cerutti, Maria Rizzo, Daniela Alberghina, María Cristina Scaglione, Antonio Sciabarrasi Bagilet, Claudia Giannetto, Giuseppe Piccione. Evaluation of the patterns of daily total locomotor activity in maned wolf (Chryosocyon brachyurus) maintained in captivity. Biological Rhythm Research. 2019; 52 (3):454-461.
Chicago/Turabian StyleNunziacarla Spanò; Raúl Delmar Cerutti; Maria Rizzo; Daniela Alberghina; María Cristina Scaglione; Antonio Sciabarrasi Bagilet; Claudia Giannetto; Giuseppe Piccione. 2019. "Evaluation of the patterns of daily total locomotor activity in maned wolf (Chryosocyon brachyurus) maintained in captivity." Biological Rhythm Research 52, no. 3: 454-461.
The potential role of serotonin (5-HT) as a marker for identifying sensitivity to clinical diseases or behavioral disorders and for monitoring treatment, emphasizes the need for reference values of serum 5-HT in dogs. Preanalytical factors such as patient variables, time of sample collection, specimen handling, storage time and temperature can potentially cause variations to laboratory results. The aim of the current study was to evaluate canine serum 5-HT concentration measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and to propose standardized pre-analytical conditions. Blood samples were collected from the cephalic vein, between 9.00am and 11.00am, from 120 healthy fasted dogs; the samples were then stored into anticoagulant-free tubes and centrifuged. The serum was stocked at -20°C and analyzed by ELISA within 3 months from collection. Since the results were not normally distributed in the reference population, the 2.5 and 97.5 percentiles were calculated to characterize the 95% reference intervals (201-650 ng/ml, 361 median). For statistical analysis, the results were organized into 3 different groups based on the age of the dogs: 1-2 years old (n= 35), 3-7 years (n= 43), 8-12 years (n=42). 5-HT levels were higher in 3-7 years group than in other age groups, but no significant age-related dissimilarities were found (Kruskal Wallis test, P=0.08). The results of the current study contributed to establish reference intervals for serum 5-HT in dogs which could support both clinical researchers and veterinary behaviorists in designing studies and monitoring the effects of medications. Furthermore, we provide recommendations to decrease 5-HT variations depending on preanalytical factors, in order to improve reliability and validity of serum measurements.
Daniela Alberghina; Emanuela Tropia; Giuseppe Piccione; Claudia Giannetto; Michele Panzera. Serum serotonin (5-HT) in dogs (Canis familiaris): Preanalytical factors and analytical procedure for use of reference values in behavioral medicine. Journal of Veterinary Behavior 2019, 32, 72 -75.
AMA StyleDaniela Alberghina, Emanuela Tropia, Giuseppe Piccione, Claudia Giannetto, Michele Panzera. Serum serotonin (5-HT) in dogs (Canis familiaris): Preanalytical factors and analytical procedure for use of reference values in behavioral medicine. Journal of Veterinary Behavior. 2019; 32 ():72-75.
Chicago/Turabian StyleDaniela Alberghina; Emanuela Tropia; Giuseppe Piccione; Claudia Giannetto; Michele Panzera. 2019. "Serum serotonin (5-HT) in dogs (Canis familiaris): Preanalytical factors and analytical procedure for use of reference values in behavioral medicine." Journal of Veterinary Behavior 32, no. : 72-75.
The aim of this study was to determine whether behavioural indicators such as marking frequency and whether cortisol/creatinine ratio (C/Cr) are influenced by three socialization sessions.
Daniela Alberghina; Gina Pumilia; Pierluigi Raffo; Giuseppe Distefano; Michele Panzera. Marking frequency during intraspecific socialization sessions is related to urinary cortisol levels in shelter dogs. Pet Behaviour Science 2019, 1 -6.
AMA StyleDaniela Alberghina, Gina Pumilia, Pierluigi Raffo, Giuseppe Distefano, Michele Panzera. Marking frequency during intraspecific socialization sessions is related to urinary cortisol levels in shelter dogs. Pet Behaviour Science. 2019; (7):1-6.
Chicago/Turabian StyleDaniela Alberghina; Gina Pumilia; Pierluigi Raffo; Giuseppe Distefano; Michele Panzera. 2019. "Marking frequency during intraspecific socialization sessions is related to urinary cortisol levels in shelter dogs." Pet Behaviour Science , no. 7: 1-6.
The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of intraspecific social exposure (socialization vs rest) and habituation factors on the levels of urinary serotonin and cortisol [corrected respectively for creatinine to give the serotonin-creatinine ratio (5-HT/Cr) and cortisol-creatinine ratio (C/Cr)] and how they fluctuate in dogs. The frequency of marking during social sessions was recorded to evaluate its relationship with physiological parameters. The effects of covariates on 5-HT/Cr and C/Cr were assessed using a linear mixed models. 5-HT/Cr values were higher at dawn than at dusk during resting days, however, this difference is less evident after socialization sessions. During rest days, there was a trend for a decrease in C/Cr between dawn and dusk, while during social exposure days there was an opposite trend. Significant interactions were found between social exposure vs rest (P = 0.0005) and social exposure vs sessions (P = 0.002). Urine marking was more frequent in male than female dogs. The frequency of urine marking also appeared to be positively associated with C/Cr. Non-invasive monitoring of physiological markers could be a useful tool in assessing behaviour modulation following intraspecific socialization exposure. C/Cr was characterized by high individual variability and interactions with examined factors. The identification of new markers such as serotonin for assessing welfare in dogs is highly desirable.
Daniela Alberghina; Giuseppe Piccione; Gina Pumilia; Mauro Gioè; Maria Rizzo; Pierluigi Raffo; Michele Panzera. Daily fluctuation of urine serotonin and cortisol in healthy shelter dogs and influence of intraspecific social exposure. Physiology & Behavior 2019, 206, 1 -6.
AMA StyleDaniela Alberghina, Giuseppe Piccione, Gina Pumilia, Mauro Gioè, Maria Rizzo, Pierluigi Raffo, Michele Panzera. Daily fluctuation of urine serotonin and cortisol in healthy shelter dogs and influence of intraspecific social exposure. Physiology & Behavior. 2019; 206 ():1-6.
Chicago/Turabian StyleDaniela Alberghina; Giuseppe Piccione; Gina Pumilia; Mauro Gioè; Maria Rizzo; Pierluigi Raffo; Michele Panzera. 2019. "Daily fluctuation of urine serotonin and cortisol in healthy shelter dogs and influence of intraspecific social exposure." Physiology & Behavior 206, no. : 1-6.
The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of different photoperiod schedules on daily total locomotor activity in cat. Four male cats (4 ± 0.3 kg) were housed individually under controlled temperature during the study and were subjected to four different artificial lighting regimes including 12L:12D (light on at 08:00, light off at 20:00), 12D:12L (light on at 20:00, light off at 08:00), 24L:0D (light on for all experimental period), 0L:24D (constant darkness). The application of the statistical analysis of cosinor indicated the existence of a significant daily rhythm (P < 0.05). In particular, in 12L:12D conditions, the cats were more active during the dark phase compared to the light phase, with a range of variation between 23:30 and 24:30 h. During the 12D:12L cycle, all cats changed their locomotor activity rhythm, so that it coincided with the new phase of the photoperiod. The resynchronization to a new LD cycle was quick. Endogenous rhythms were manifested in all cats with different clarity when subjected to 24L:0D cycles. When the cats were exposed to constant darkness, the endogenous periodicity was not observed. These results suggest the existence of an endogenous circadian oscillator that controls the expression of locomotor activity rhythms in the cat.
Raúl Delmar Cerutti; Maria Rizzo; Daniela Alberghina; María Cristina Scaglione; Giuseppe Piccione. Locomotor activity patterns of domestic cat (Felis silvestris catus) modulated by different light/dark cycles. Biological Rhythm Research 2018, 50, 838 -844.
AMA StyleRaúl Delmar Cerutti, Maria Rizzo, Daniela Alberghina, María Cristina Scaglione, Giuseppe Piccione. Locomotor activity patterns of domestic cat (Felis silvestris catus) modulated by different light/dark cycles. Biological Rhythm Research. 2018; 50 (6):838-844.
Chicago/Turabian StyleRaúl Delmar Cerutti; Maria Rizzo; Daniela Alberghina; María Cristina Scaglione; Giuseppe Piccione. 2018. "Locomotor activity patterns of domestic cat (Felis silvestris catus) modulated by different light/dark cycles." Biological Rhythm Research 50, no. 6: 838-844.
Low stress handling techniques or “Fear Free principles” in veterinary clinics are becoming an important research area aimed at improving small animal welfare, considering that the majority of dogs who undergo clinical examinations exhibit fear or anxiety signs. Objective of this study was to compare a number of physiological and behavioural indicators using low stress handling (LSH) and traditional (TT) techniques in order to assess whether the LSH approach had a positive impact on the dog’s welfare. Eight adult dogs were filmed while undergoing both LSH and TT visits (separated by a distance of seven weeks). The same usual sequence of events was followed for both visits (e. g. muzzle wearing, heart and lungs stethoscope examination, etc.) except that 1) during the LSH visit, the dog was free to explore the environment (while receiving treats) and play for five minutes before and after the visit 2) throughout the medical examination the veterinarians’ attitude and handling techniques were always aimed at preventing stress and guaranteeing the best physical support possible. The videos were then evaluated for the number of fear and stress signs the subjects showed. The examined physiological variables were respiration (breath/min), heart rate (HR) and rectal temperature (RT). Physiological variables were analysed by t-Test for paired data while frequency of behavioural fear indicators by Wilcoxon signed-rank test. Rectal temperature was within range in both groups but significantly higher (P
Bruno Scalia; Daniela Alberghina; Michele Panzera. Influence of low stress handling during clinical visit on physiological and behavioural indicators in adult dogs: a preliminary study. Pet Behaviour Science 2017, 20 -22.
AMA StyleBruno Scalia, Daniela Alberghina, Michele Panzera. Influence of low stress handling during clinical visit on physiological and behavioural indicators in adult dogs: a preliminary study. Pet Behaviour Science. 2017; (4):20-22.
Chicago/Turabian StyleBruno Scalia; Daniela Alberghina; Michele Panzera. 2017. "Influence of low stress handling during clinical visit on physiological and behavioural indicators in adult dogs: a preliminary study." Pet Behaviour Science , no. 4: 20-22.
The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of moderate treadmill exercise session on body surface and core temperature in dog measured by means of two infrared instruments. Ten Jack Russell Terrier/Miniature Pinscher mixed-breed dogs were subjected to 15min of walking, 10min of trotting and 10min of gallop. At every step, body surface temperature (Tsurface) was measured on seven regions (neck, shoulder, ribs, flank, back, internal thigh and eye) using two different methods, a digital infrared camera (ThermaCam P25) and a non-contact infrared thermometer (Infrared Thermometer THM010-VT001). Rectal temperature (Trectal) and blood samples were collected before (T0) and after exercise (T3). Blood samples were tested for red blood cell (RBC), hemoglobin concentration (Hb) and hematocrit (Hct). A significant effect of exercise in all body surface regions was found, as measured by both infrared methods. The temperature obtained in the eye and the thigh area were higher with respect to the other studied regions throughout the experimental period (P<0.0001). RBC, Hb, Hct and Trectal values were higher at T3 (P<0.05). Statistically significant higher temperature values measured by infrared thermometer was found in neck, shoulder, ribs, flank, back regions respect to the values obtained by digital infrared camera (P<0.0001). The results obtained in this study showed that both internal and surface temperatures are influenced by physical exercise probably due to muscle activity and changes in blood flow in dogs. Both infrared instruments used in this study have proven to be useful in detecting surface temperature variations of specific body regions, however factors including type and color of animal hair coat must be taken into account in the interpretation of data obtained by thermography methodology.
Maria Rizzo; Francesca Arfuso; Daniela Alberghina; Elisabetta Giudice; Matteo Gianesella; Giuseppe Piccione. Monitoring changes in body surface temperature associated with treadmill exercise in dogs by use of infrared methodology. Journal of Thermal Biology 2017, 69, 64 -68.
AMA StyleMaria Rizzo, Francesca Arfuso, Daniela Alberghina, Elisabetta Giudice, Matteo Gianesella, Giuseppe Piccione. Monitoring changes in body surface temperature associated with treadmill exercise in dogs by use of infrared methodology. Journal of Thermal Biology. 2017; 69 ():64-68.
Chicago/Turabian StyleMaria Rizzo; Francesca Arfuso; Daniela Alberghina; Elisabetta Giudice; Matteo Gianesella; Giuseppe Piccione. 2017. "Monitoring changes in body surface temperature associated with treadmill exercise in dogs by use of infrared methodology." Journal of Thermal Biology 69, no. : 64-68.
The monoamine neurotransmitter serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine [5-HT]) is involved in neuronal excitability, regulates mood and cognition, and is implicated in the regulation of a wide range of social behavior. Understanding its role in social behavior would be useful in understanding and improving human-animal interactions, in particular, the human-dog interaction. Examination of canine social behavior is crucial for screening shelter dogs to be placed for adoption or for identifying dogs that need behavioral intervention. Behavior problems in dogs can arise because of long-term stays in shelters. The aim of this study was to determine whether serum 5-HT is related to behavioral responses in shelter dogs. Fourteen mixed-breed castrated male dogs, with no signs of aggressive behavior toward humans, were selected for exploring the relationship between 5-HT and social behavior in dogs. These dogs were individually observed by an operator during a sociability toward humans test, and their behavioral responses toward the operator were evaluated using a simple test constituted by 7 episodes: Operator approaches the door of the pen, coaxes the dog, attempts to sit the dog and ask for its forelimb, attempts to put a collar on the dog, walks with the dog on a leash, throws a tennis ball against a wall and plays alone, and throws the tennis ball and invites the dog to play with him once. Each episode was scored from 2 to 8, with low scores representing the most fearful dogs. Blood samples were drawn from the cephalic vein during routine health checks, and some serum was retained for 5-HT analysis. A weak linear correlation between the behavioral scores from operator-dog interactions and 5-HT levels (r2 = 0.31, P < 0.05) was found. According to these preliminary data, markers of the serotoninergic system could be related to the sociability of dogs toward humans.
Daniela Alberghina; Maria Rizzo; Giuseppe Piccione; Claudia Giannetto; Michele Panzera. An exploratory study about the association between serum serotonin concentrations and canine-human social interactions in shelter dogs (Canis familiaris). Journal of Veterinary Behavior 2016, 18, 96 -101.
AMA StyleDaniela Alberghina, Maria Rizzo, Giuseppe Piccione, Claudia Giannetto, Michele Panzera. An exploratory study about the association between serum serotonin concentrations and canine-human social interactions in shelter dogs (Canis familiaris). Journal of Veterinary Behavior. 2016; 18 ():96-101.
Chicago/Turabian StyleDaniela Alberghina; Maria Rizzo; Giuseppe Piccione; Claudia Giannetto; Michele Panzera. 2016. "An exploratory study about the association between serum serotonin concentrations and canine-human social interactions in shelter dogs (Canis familiaris)." Journal of Veterinary Behavior 18, no. : 96-101.
The liver plays an important role in nutrient metabolism, in detoxification and excretion of hydrophobic metabolites, and in the synthesis of most circulating proteins. Thus, enhanced knowledge of the processes that regulate liver function in beef cattle production stages can lead to significant improvements in their management. The authors studied the levels of some serum liver parameters during growing and finishing stages of steers. Blood samples were collected from (n = 60) steers at day 1 and at day 21 and 42 days after the start of the growing (group 1 n = 30: mean body weight (BW) 430 ± 5.8 Kg) or finishing (group 2 n = 30: mean BW 591 ± 5.3 Kg) phases. Steers from both groups were separated into two subgroups (A and B, respectively) according to the percentage of body weight gain (%WG). Subgroup A steers had a lower mean %WG than subgroup B steers. Serum total proteins (TP), albumin, globulins, serum urea nitrogen (SUN), total and conjugated bilirubin (TB, CB), aspartate amino transferase (AST), and gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT) were assessed in order to evaluate significant differences between groups and subgroups. All parameters showed significant differences between the phases and between groups with the exception of AST and GGT. Mean ± S.D. of %WG was 11.07 ± 1.95 for group 1 and 9.84 ± 0.77 % for group 2. For group 1 steers, there was a significant difference on SUN concentration and GGT activity between subgroup A and subgroup B. These findings suggest that hepatic markers in steers are influenced by production stages and improve the knowledge about the effect of growing and finishing phases on their hepatic markers. Furthermore, it underlies the importance of monitoring body weight gain in order to obtain a maximizing profitability.
Daniela Alberghina; Enrico Fiore; G. Piccione; S. Marafioti; M. Morgante; M. Gianesella. Evaluation of hepatic markers and body weight gain in growing and finishing steers. Comparative Clinical Pathology 2016, 25, 721 -725.
AMA StyleDaniela Alberghina, Enrico Fiore, G. Piccione, S. Marafioti, M. Morgante, M. Gianesella. Evaluation of hepatic markers and body weight gain in growing and finishing steers. Comparative Clinical Pathology. 2016; 25 (4):721-725.
Chicago/Turabian StyleDaniela Alberghina; Enrico Fiore; G. Piccione; S. Marafioti; M. Morgante; M. Gianesella. 2016. "Evaluation of hepatic markers and body weight gain in growing and finishing steers." Comparative Clinical Pathology 25, no. 4: 721-725.
The observation of locomotor activity and resting behavior is used to determine time budgets, which may give some indication for the assessment of horses' welfare concerning management and housing. The aim of this study was to investigate total locomotor activity (TLA) daily rhythm in athletic horses (Thoroughbred, Standardbred, and Italian Saddle), with special attention to the intrasubject and intersubject variabilities. Ten subjects for each breed were divided into two subgroups, one housed in box and one housed in paddock. TLA was recorded for 10 consecutive days by mean of an activity data logger, Actiwatch Mini, applied at each horse by mean of a headstall. The obtained data were analyzed using the method of single cosinor. All horses, in all experimental conditions, showed a daily rhythm of TLA. On the obtained circadian parameters (mesor, amplitude, acrophase, and robustness), a multivariate analysis of variance was applied to investigate the effect of breed, housing conditions, and days of monitoring. It showed a statistically significant effect of breed on all circadian parameters; an effect of housing condition on mesor, amplitude, and robustness; and an effect of days of monitoring on acrophase and robustness. The analyses of intrasubject and intersubject variabilities indicate that organization of TLA daily rhythm in Standardbred and Jumper is characterized by greater accuracy of control within and between the individuals of a breed. In contrast, Thoroughbreds showed a high intrasubject and intersubject variability for all parameters studied, except for the intravariability of acrophase, denoting a different response to noxious stimuli that was observed not only among the subjects but also within the subject.
Claudia Giannetto; Francesco Fazio; Anna Assenza; Daniela Alberghina; Michele Panzera; Giuseppe Piccione. Intrasubject and intersubject variabilities in the daily rhythm of total locomotor activity in horses. Journal of Veterinary Behavior 2016, 12, 42 -48.
AMA StyleClaudia Giannetto, Francesco Fazio, Anna Assenza, Daniela Alberghina, Michele Panzera, Giuseppe Piccione. Intrasubject and intersubject variabilities in the daily rhythm of total locomotor activity in horses. Journal of Veterinary Behavior. 2016; 12 ():42-48.
Chicago/Turabian StyleClaudia Giannetto; Francesco Fazio; Anna Assenza; Daniela Alberghina; Michele Panzera; Giuseppe Piccione. 2016. "Intrasubject and intersubject variabilities in the daily rhythm of total locomotor activity in horses." Journal of Veterinary Behavior 12, no. : 42-48.
•Courtship and agonistic calls of wild and domestic stallions were characterized.•Species-specific acoustic differences exist in the agonistic squeals of stallions.•Przewalskii's stallion squeals are higher in source-related parameters.•Courtship nickers did not differ between Pzrewalskii's and domestic stallions. AbstractFor closely related species living in similar habitats, differences in the acoustic morphology of vocalizations could play a role in mate recognition as well as provide insight into the evolutionary divergence between species. Przwewalski's horses (Equus Przwewalskii) and Mongolian domestic horses (Equus callabus) are sometimes found cohabiting in the same environment during the mating season. As such, we examined the hypothesis that interspecies differences are reflected in the acoustic morphology of vocalizations produced by two closely related species.We analyzed the acoustic structure of courtship nickers and agonistic squeals produced by Przwewalski's and Mongolian domestic stallions. Our acoustic analyses indicated that agonistic squeals produced by Przwewalski's stallions were significantly higher in source-related acoustic parameters and in the frequency of maximal energy than those produced by Mongolian domestic stallions. In addition to species differences, we found context-related differences in Przwewalski's stallion vocalizations. Courtship nickers were significantly lower in fundamental frequencies than agonistic squeals.Our findings suggest that acoustic differences between nickers and squeals could reflect underlying motivational states in Przwewalski's horses. Interspecies differences in acoustic structure however, are restricted to agonistic squeals. From an evolutionary standpoint, the lack of interspecies differences in courtship vocalizations suggest that similar factors influence the evolution of courtship calls whereas the differences found in agonistic vocalizations indicate that different factors modulate the evolution of agonistic calls.
Daniela Alberghina; Eugenia Caudullo; Winnie Y. Chan; Namkhai Bandi; Michele Panzera; Press Enter Key For Correspondence Information. Acoustic characteristics of courtship and agonistic vocalizations in Przwewalskii's wild horse and in domestic horse. Applied Animal Behaviour Science 2016, 174, 70 -75.
AMA StyleDaniela Alberghina, Eugenia Caudullo, Winnie Y. Chan, Namkhai Bandi, Michele Panzera, Press Enter Key For Correspondence Information. Acoustic characteristics of courtship and agonistic vocalizations in Przwewalskii's wild horse and in domestic horse. Applied Animal Behaviour Science. 2016; 174 ():70-75.
Chicago/Turabian StyleDaniela Alberghina; Eugenia Caudullo; Winnie Y. Chan; Namkhai Bandi; Michele Panzera; Press Enter Key For Correspondence Information. 2016. "Acoustic characteristics of courtship and agonistic vocalizations in Przwewalskii's wild horse and in domestic horse." Applied Animal Behaviour Science 174, no. : 70-75.
In animals, recent studies have shown a dynamic interaction between neuroendocrine-immune systems and consequent behaviors, resulting in adaptive responses to different stimuli. Stereotypic oral and locomotor behaviors are common among intensively managed horses; however, little is known about how or whether immune responses affect such abnormal repetitive behaviors. Cytokines can be classified as proinflammatory or anti-inflammatory and they can affect brain development, neurogenesis, and synaptic plasticity. In humans and rodents, there is some evidence that cytokines can impair behavior. Our study compared leukocyte gene expression of cytokines of horses with stereotypic behavior with those exhibiting normal behavior. Blood samples were collected from 22 horses: 8 non-stereotypic controls (group C), 8 cribbers (group CR), and 6 weavers (group W). Leukocyte counts were obtained using an automated cell counter. Expression of some proinflammatory [interleukin (IL)-1, IL-2, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α] and anti-inflammatory (IL-4 and IL-10) cytokines was determined by quantitative polymerase chain reaction. No differences in body temperature, heart rate, respiratory rate, total proteins in serum, or leukocyte counts were found. A significant effect of group was found for IL-4, IL-10 messenger RNA (mRNA), and TNF-α mRNA. Group CR and group W showed a similar profile of cytokines expression. The results of this study show that there are differences in cytokine mRNA expression between non-stereotypic and stereotypic horses which could be related to a different activation of the immune system.
Daniela Alberghina; Adriana De Pasquale; Giuseppe Piccione; Fabrizio Vitale; Michele Panzera. Gene expression profile of cytokines in leukocytes from stereotypic horses. Journal of Veterinary Behavior 2015, 10, 556 -560.
AMA StyleDaniela Alberghina, Adriana De Pasquale, Giuseppe Piccione, Fabrizio Vitale, Michele Panzera. Gene expression profile of cytokines in leukocytes from stereotypic horses. Journal of Veterinary Behavior. 2015; 10 (6):556-560.
Chicago/Turabian StyleDaniela Alberghina; Adriana De Pasquale; Giuseppe Piccione; Fabrizio Vitale; Michele Panzera. 2015. "Gene expression profile of cytokines in leukocytes from stereotypic horses." Journal of Veterinary Behavior 10, no. 6: 556-560.
In order to investigate the potential causal link between the rhythm of activity and body temperature, we simultaneously recorded rectal temperature and total locomotor activity in five clinically healthy female rabbits (blue Vienna breed), 12 week old and mean body weight 2.7 ± 0.3. Animals were housed in individual cages (90 × 50 × 35 cm) under natural 12/12 light/dark cycle. Total locomotor activity was monitored for 15 days by an activity data logger. On day 1, 5, 10, and 15 rectal temperature was recorded every 2 h for a 24-h period. Application of single cosinor method showed a nocturnal daily rhythm of rectal temperature with a range of oscillation of about 1 °C, acrophase after dusk and low robustness value. The daily rhythm of locomotor activity showed its acrophase in the middle of the scotophase and a high robustness value. This information improves the knowledge available on the circadian biology of rabbits useful in the evaluation of physiology of this species.
C. Giannetto; Elisabetta Giudice; Francesco Fazio; Daniela Alberghina; A. Assenza; M. Panzera; Giuseppe Piccione. Different behavior of body temperature and total locomotor activity daily rhythms during light/dark cycle in stabled Oryctolagus cuniculus. Biological Rhythm Research 2015, 47, 1 -6.
AMA StyleC. Giannetto, Elisabetta Giudice, Francesco Fazio, Daniela Alberghina, A. Assenza, M. Panzera, Giuseppe Piccione. Different behavior of body temperature and total locomotor activity daily rhythms during light/dark cycle in stabled Oryctolagus cuniculus. Biological Rhythm Research. 2015; 47 (1):1-6.
Chicago/Turabian StyleC. Giannetto; Elisabetta Giudice; Francesco Fazio; Daniela Alberghina; A. Assenza; M. Panzera; Giuseppe Piccione. 2015. "Different behavior of body temperature and total locomotor activity daily rhythms during light/dark cycle in stabled Oryctolagus cuniculus." Biological Rhythm Research 47, no. 1: 1-6.
The present study was undertaken to examine the relationship among the circulating levels of nitric oxide metabolites (NOx) and gas parameters and body temperature in horses before and after a standardized exercise test (SET). Total levels of NOx were calculated as the sum of nitrite (NO3−) and nitrate (NO2−) levels. The results indicate that blood gas parameters were significantly modified at short time after SET (5 minutes), normalizing at 30 minutes after SET. A significant increase of body temperature (P < .001) and plasma NOx levels (P < .05) was observed at both 5 and 30 minutes after SET. A linear correlation between the postexercise values of NOx and body temperature (r2 = 0.501, P < .01) was found. According to these data, plasma NOx could be involved in thermoregulation during physical exercise in horses; further studies are necessary to investigate this association and to understand the systems that permit animals to maintain homeostasis during body exercise.
Daniela Alberghina; Giuseppe Piccione; Angela Maria Amorini; Giacomo Lazzarino; Fulvio Congiu; Giuseppe Lazzarino; Barbara Tavazzi. Body Temperature and Plasma Nitric Oxide Metabolites in Response to Standardized Exercise Test in the Athletic Horse. Journal of Equine Veterinary Science 2015, 35, 709 -713.
AMA StyleDaniela Alberghina, Giuseppe Piccione, Angela Maria Amorini, Giacomo Lazzarino, Fulvio Congiu, Giuseppe Lazzarino, Barbara Tavazzi. Body Temperature and Plasma Nitric Oxide Metabolites in Response to Standardized Exercise Test in the Athletic Horse. Journal of Equine Veterinary Science. 2015; 35 (9):709-713.
Chicago/Turabian StyleDaniela Alberghina; Giuseppe Piccione; Angela Maria Amorini; Giacomo Lazzarino; Fulvio Congiu; Giuseppe Lazzarino; Barbara Tavazzi. 2015. "Body Temperature and Plasma Nitric Oxide Metabolites in Response to Standardized Exercise Test in the Athletic Horse." Journal of Equine Veterinary Science 35, no. 9: 709-713.