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Animals
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Maternal Influence on Animal Health and Performance
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Maternal Influence on Animal Health and Performance

A special issue of Animals (ISSN 2076-2615).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 January 2022) | Viewed by 27810

Special Issue Editor

Dr. Rebecca R. Cockrum

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Dairy Science, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA
Interests: animal health; colostrum; dairy cattle; genetics; genomics; high-throughput phenotyping; microbiome; precision technology; reproduction; transcritomics

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The pre- and post-natal environment can have a marked impact on the growth and development of young animals. Maternal nutrition, the reproductive microbiome, hormonal dynamics, gene expression patterns, and the degree of innate immune protection across the placental barrier all differ by species, breed, and animal. Some, such as innate immune protection, are driven by the physiology of the uterus and placenta. Whereas, variations in gene expression patterns may be controlled by environmental stressors, stage of parturition, and(or) epigenetic events. Mode of birth and the nutrition management protocols used shortly after birth can also impact long-term performance. For ruminants, consumption of high-quality colostrum is the only way for neonates to acquire antibodies through passive transfer of immunity. Not doing so will likely result in death. Though the majority of research has focused on immune components in colostrum, there are many additional components in colostrum that are integral to gut development and health that have yet to be fully explored. The purpose of this special issue is to explore the environmental influences that impact conception, gestation, parturition, and the periparturient period and the subsequent effects on neonatal health and performance.

Dr. Rebecca R. Cockrum
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

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

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

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

Keywords

  • Animal production
  • Fetal programming
  • Newborn health
  • Reproductive physiology

Published Papers (7 papers)

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Research

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9 pages, 468 KiB  
Article
Mixed-Effects Modelling of the Risk Factors Associated with Multiple Pregnancies in Thoroughbred Mares
by Shebl E. Salem, Alannah Sinnott, Jessica M. Roach, Kristien L. P. Verheyen and Amanda M. de Mestre
Animals 2022, 12(14), 1841; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12141841 - 20 Jul 2022
Viewed by 1495
Abstract
Multiple pregnancies (MPs) are commonly diagnosed during breeding management of mares. Whilst some studies have reported on factors associated with the risk of MPs, few have utilised multivariable data analysis to control for confounding variables. A prospective cohort study of Thoroughbred broodmares was [...] Read more.
Multiple pregnancies (MPs) are commonly diagnosed during breeding management of mares. Whilst some studies have reported on factors associated with the risk of MPs, few have utilised multivariable data analysis to control for confounding variables. A prospective cohort study of Thoroughbred broodmares was conducted with information collected on 27 factors. Mixed-effects logistic regression was used to determine risk factors for MPs. Mare, stallion, stud, and veterinarian were evaluated as random effects. The prevalence of MPs in 1754 mares and 2245 pregnancies was 16.06% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 14.54, 17.58). Multiple ovulations (OR = 15.57, 95% CI = 11.88, 20.53) and treatment with cloprostenol (OR = 1.35, 95% CI = 1.015, 1.80) were associated with increased odds of MPs following multivariable analysis. Mares that foaled at the start of the breeding season (OR = 0.66, 95% CI = 0.47, 0.94), conceived at the second or more oestrus cycles (OR = 0.60, 95% CI= 0.43, 0.84), or identified with a uterine cyst (OR = 0.63, 95% CI = 0.40, 0.97) were at reduced odds of conceiving MPs. Mare, stallion, stud, and veterinarian were not associated with MPs. These findings provide possible explanations as to why the prevalence of MPs but not MOs have increased over the last decade. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Maternal Influence on Animal Health and Performance)
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20 pages, 1070 KiB  
Article
The Combined Effect of Weaning Stress and Immune Activation during Pig Gestation on Serum Cytokine and Analyte Concentrations
by Haley E. Rymut, Laurie A. Rund, Courtni R. Bolt, Maria B. Villamil, Bruce R. Southey, Rodney W. Johnson and Sandra L. Rodriguez-Zas
Animals 2021, 11(8), 2274; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11082274 - 01 Aug 2021
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 3348
Abstract
Weaning stress can elicit changes in the metabolic, hormone and immune systems of pigs and interact with prolonged disruptions stemming from maternal immune activation (MIA) during gestation. The present study advances the characterization of the combined effects of weaning stress and MIA on [...] Read more.
Weaning stress can elicit changes in the metabolic, hormone and immune systems of pigs and interact with prolonged disruptions stemming from maternal immune activation (MIA) during gestation. The present study advances the characterization of the combined effects of weaning stress and MIA on blood chemistry, immune and hormone indicators that inform on the health of pigs. Three-week-old female and male offspring of control gilts or gilts infected with the porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus were allocated to weaned or nursed groups. The anion gap and bilirubin profiles suggest that MIA enhances tolerance to the effects of weaning stress. Interleukin 1 beta and interleukin 2 were highest among weaned MIA females, and cortisol was higher among weaned relative to nursed pigs across sexes. Canonical discriminant analysis demonstrated that weaned and nursed pigs have distinct chemistry profiles, whereas MIA and control pigs have distinct cytokine profiles. The results from this study can guide management practices that recognize the effects of the interaction between MIA and weaning stress on the performance and health of pigs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Maternal Influence on Animal Health and Performance)
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15 pages, 758 KiB  
Article
Late Gestation Maternal Feed Restriction Decreases Microbial Diversity of the Placenta While Mineral Supplementation Improves Richness of the Fetal Gut Microbiome in Cattle
by Gwendolynn Hummel, Kelly Woodruff, Kathleen Austin, Ryan Knuth, Scott Lake and Hannah Cunningham-Hollinger
Animals 2021, 11(8), 2219; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11082219 - 27 Jul 2021
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2743
Abstract
Feed intake restriction impacts both humans and ruminants in late gestation, although it is unknown whether this adverse maternal environment influences the microbiome of the reproductive tract, and through it, the colonization of the fetal gut. A 2 × 2 factorial design including [...] Read more.
Feed intake restriction impacts both humans and ruminants in late gestation, although it is unknown whether this adverse maternal environment influences the microbiome of the reproductive tract, and through it, the colonization of the fetal gut. A 2 × 2 factorial design including a 70% feed intake restriction (feed restricted ‘FR’ or control diets ‘CON’) and mineral supplementation (unsupplemented ‘S−’ or supplemented ‘S+’) was used to analyze these effects in multiparous cows (n = 27). Vaginal swabs were obtained 60, 30, and 10 days prior to the estimated calving date, along with neonatal rumen fluid and meconium. Placental tissues and efficiency measurements were collected. Microbial DNA was extracted for 16S sequencing of the V4 region. Feed restriction decreased the diversity of the placental microbiome, but not the vagina, while mineral supplementation had little impact on these microbial communities. Mineral supplementation did improve the richness and diversity of the fetal gut microbiomes in relation to reproductive microbes. These differences within the placental microbiome may influence individual health and performance. Adequate maternal nutrition and supplementation yielded the greatest placental efficiency, which may aid in the establishment of a healthy placental microbiome and fetal microbial colonization. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Maternal Influence on Animal Health and Performance)
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15 pages, 1885 KiB  
Article
Microbiomes of Various Maternal Body Systems Are Predictive of Calf Digestive Bacterial Ecology
by Connor E. Owens, Haley G. Huffard, Alexandra I. Nin-Velez, Jane Duncan, Chrissy L. Teets, Kristy M. Daniels, Alan D. Ealy, Robert E. James, Katharine F. Knowlton and Rebecca R. Cockrum
Animals 2021, 11(8), 2210; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11082210 - 26 Jul 2021
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 4135
Abstract
Body systems once thought sterile at birth instead have complex and sometimes abundant microbial ecosystems. However, relationships between dam and calf microbial ecosystems are still unclear. The objectives of this study were to (1) characterize the various maternal and calf microbiomes during peri-partum [...] Read more.
Body systems once thought sterile at birth instead have complex and sometimes abundant microbial ecosystems. However, relationships between dam and calf microbial ecosystems are still unclear. The objectives of this study were to (1) characterize the various maternal and calf microbiomes during peri-partum and post-partum periods and (2) examine the influence of the maternal microbiome on calf fecal microbiome composition during the pre-weaning phase. Multiparous Holstein cows were placed in individual, freshly bedded box stalls 14 d before expected calving. Caudal vaginal fluid samples were collected approximately 24 h before calving and dam fecal, oral, colostrum, and placenta samples were collected immediately after calving. Calf fecal samples were collected at birth (meconium) and 24 h, 7 d, 42 d, and 60 d of age. Amplicons covering V4 16S rDNA regions were generated using DNA extracted from all samples and were sequenced using 300 bp paired end Illumina MiSeq sequencing. Spearman rank correlations were performed between genera in maternal and calf fecal microbiomes. Negative binomial regression models were created for genera in calf fecal samples at each time point using genera in maternal microbiomes. We determined that Bacteroidetes dominated the calf fecal microbiome at all time points (relative abundance ≥42.55%) except for 24 h post-calving, whereas Proteobacteria were the dominant phylum (relative abundance = 85.10%). Maternal fecal, oral, placental, vaginal, and colostrum microbiomes were significant predictors of calf fecal microbiome throughout pre-weaning. Results indicate that calf fecal microbiome inoculation and development may be derived from various maternal sources. Maternal microbiomes could be used to predict calf microbiome development, but further research on the environmental and genetic influences is needed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Maternal Influence on Animal Health and Performance)
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Review

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14 pages, 755 KiB  
Review
Cytokines That Serve as Embryokines in Cattle
by Alan D. Ealy, Savannah L. Speckhart and Lydia K. Wooldridge
Animals 2021, 11(8), 2313; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11082313 - 05 Aug 2021
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3503
Abstract
The term “embryokine” has been used to denote molecules produced by the endometrium, oviduct, or by embryo itself that will influence embryo development. Several cytokines have been identified as embryokines in cattle and other mammals. This review will describe how these cytokines function [...] Read more.
The term “embryokine” has been used to denote molecules produced by the endometrium, oviduct, or by embryo itself that will influence embryo development. Several cytokines have been identified as embryokines in cattle and other mammals. This review will describe how these cytokines function as embryokines, with special emphasis being placed on their actions on in vitro produced (IVP) bovine embryos. Embryokines are being explored for their ability to overcome the poor development rates of IVP embryos and to limit post-transfer pregnancy retention efficiencies that exist in IVP embryos. This review will focus on describing two of the best-characterized cytokines, colony-stimulating factor 2 and interleukin 6, for their ability to modify bovine embryo quality and confirmation, promote normal fetal development, and generate healthy calves. Additional cytokines will also be discussed for their potential to serve as embryokines. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Maternal Influence on Animal Health and Performance)
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15 pages, 1619 KiB  
Review
A Narrative Review on the Unexplored Potential of Colostrum as a Preventative Treatment and Therapy for Diarrhea in Neonatal Dairy Calves
by Havelah S. M. Carter, David L. Renaud, Michael A. Steele, Amanda J. Fischer-Tlustos and Joao H. C. Costa
Animals 2021, 11(8), 2221; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11082221 - 28 Jul 2021
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 6294
Abstract
Diarrhea is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in pre-weaned dairy calves and, as such, represents a significant animal health and welfare concern. Furthermore, digestive disease early in life is associated with several long-term consequences such as reduced growth rate and decreased [...] Read more.
Diarrhea is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in pre-weaned dairy calves and, as such, represents a significant animal health and welfare concern. Furthermore, digestive disease early in life is associated with several long-term consequences such as reduced growth rate and decreased milk yield during the first lactation, thus generating severe economic losses. The majority of diarrheic cases in young calves are treated with antimicrobials; however, it is necessary to develop alternative treatments, as excessive antimicrobial usage can lead to antimicrobial resistance and can negatively impact the gut microflora of a calf. Bovine colostrum is abundant in immune and bioactive factors that improve immune function and development. This rich and natural combination of immunoglobulins, natural antimicrobial factors, growth factors, anti-inflammatories and nutrients may be an attractive alternative to antimicrobials in the treatment of diarrhea in young dairy calves. There is evidence that supports the use of colostrum as an early treatment for diarrhea in young calves. Future research should investigate its therapeutic and economic effectiveness. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Maternal Influence on Animal Health and Performance)
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13 pages, 1259 KiB  
Review
Maternal Nutrition and Developmental Programming of Male Progeny
by Sarah McCoski, Amanda Bradbery, Rodrigo da Silva Marques, Christian Posbergh and Carla Sanford
Animals 2021, 11(8), 2216; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11082216 - 27 Jul 2021
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 4752
Abstract
Poor maternal nutrition can cause several maladaptive phenotypes in exposed offspring. While non-sex-specific and female-specific adaptations are well-documented, male-specific outcomes are still poorly understood. Of particular interest are the outcomes in bulls and rams, as developmental programming directly impacts long-term productivity of the [...] Read more.
Poor maternal nutrition can cause several maladaptive phenotypes in exposed offspring. While non-sex-specific and female-specific adaptations are well-documented, male-specific outcomes are still poorly understood. Of particular interest are the outcomes in bulls and rams, as developmental programming directly impacts long-term productivity of the animal as well as human food security. The following review discusses the impact of poor maternal dietary energy and protein on bull and ram developmental programming as it relates to growth, development, and reproductive capacity. The review also highlights the importance of the timing of maternal dietary insult, as early-, mid-, and late-gestational insults can all have varying effects on offspring. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Maternal Influence on Animal Health and Performance)
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