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Routines for assessing body temperature and thermal comfort are not included in official animal welfare controls although European legislation consider it important. This study investigated time consumption and feasibility of using handheld skin temperature sensors in a dairy farm and the correlation of the recordings with indoor and rectal temperature. Skin temperatures in 21 dairy cows of two breeds were recorded monthly during one year at the neck, hip and vulva, using two techniques (infrared radiation (IR) and conduction). Rectal and indoor ambient temperature were recorded on the same occasion. Time spent recording temperature was ∼2 s/cow with IR and >1 min/cow with conduction technique. Skin temperatures did not correlate well with rectal temperature but correlated strongly with indoor temperature. Neck temperature recorded by IR best reflected indoor temperature, with no difference between breeds, and could be a tool for quick monitoring of ambient conditions in individual cows. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rectal thermometers are commonly used to assess animal health, but non-invasive methods like thermal imaging are gaining popularity for their ease. This study explores using infra-red thermography to measure eye temperatures as a proxy for body temperature in buffaloes. Among 280 adult female buffaloes, rectal temperature averaged 38.26 ± 0.38 °C, while eye temperature averaged 36.99 ± 0.47 °C. Statistical analysis showed a significant positive correlation (0.674, p < 0.001) between eye and rectal temperatures in adult buffaloes. Moderate correlations were also found between rectal temperature and ambient temperature (0.488, p < 0.001), as well as with ocular temperature (0.488, p < 0.001), while the correlation with humidity was low (0.176, p < 0.05). Regression modelling incorporating rectal and eye temperatures, ambient temperature, and humidity revealed that ocular temperature and ambient temperature significantly affect rectal temperature. The developed equation RT ̂ = 20.377 + 0.465(AET) + 0.024(AT) accurately predicts rectal temperature in buffaloes, with R2 of 51.6%, RMSE = 0.272, and AIC = 71.601 indicating satisfactory variability. These findings highlight the potential of thermal imaging as a diagnostic tool and provide insights into temperature measurement interrelationships. HIGHLIGHTS: The study highlights infra-red thermal imaging as a non-invasive technique for remotely measuring the core temperature of buffaloes. There is a significant and high correlation (p < 0.001) between rectal temperature (RT) and average eye temperature (AET) in buffaloes, indicating proportional shifts in AET with changes in RT. The relationship between rectal temperature (RT) and average eye temperature (AET) is quantified by the equation RT = 20.377 + 0.465(AET) + 0.024(AT), derived from a regression model with R2 of 51.6% and absence of autocorrelation (Durbin-Watson = 1.318), where AT represents ambient temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High ambient temperature and relative humidity significantly affect growth and production performance in poultry. Ability of poultry to regulate their core body temperature relative to the ambient temperature depends on the relative nutrient/energy expenditure in maintenance and performance requirements. We hypothesized that changes in rectal temperature corrected for surface area can be used as a measure of heat tolerance/sensitivity. Rectal temperatures of one hundred mixed sex Ross 308 broiler chickens were measured hourly from 6 AM to 6 PM at 24 days of age. The ambient temperature and relative humidity were also measured hourly for the same 12-h period. Body weights were measured at day 24 and 38 days of age. The temperature-humidity index (THI) increased from 77.5 at 6.00 AM and peaked at 83.5 at 3.00 PM. The average rectal temperature increased from 39.900C at 6.00 AM to about 41.300C at 9.00 AM. Thereafter, the average rectal temperature remained constant until 3.00 PM when it began to decline. At 6.00 PM, the rectal temperature had declined to about 40.70 °C. Evaporative heat loss is affected by surface areas and as a result, rectal temperature was corrected for surface area. The change in rectal temperature corrected for surface area was negatively correlated with body weight gain indicating variability in the response of individual chickens exposed to similar THI. This variability was attributed to heat tolerance. It was hypothesized that mismatch between nutrient and energy supply and the partition of nutrient/energy between maintenance of core body temperature and protein synthesis could be reflected on the differences in heat-tolerance and body weight gain in the chicken population. The genetic basis of differences in rectal temperature changes corrected for surface area could be elucidated as a means of developing thermo-tolerant chickens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Little information exists regarding what exertional heatstroke (EHS) survivors know and believe about EHS best practices. Understanding this would help clinicians focus educational efforts to ensure survival and safe return-to-play following EHS. We sought to better understand what EHS survivors knew about EHS seriousness (eg, lethality and short- and long-term effects), diagnosis and treatment procedures, and recovery. Multiyear cross-sectional descriptive design. An 11.3-km road race located in the Northeastern United States in August 2022 and 2023. Forty-two of 62 runners with EHS (15 women and 27 men; age = 33 ± 15 years; pretreatment rectal temperature [TREC] = 41.5°C ± 0.9°C). Medical professionals evaluated runners requiring medical attention at the finish line. If they observed a TREC of ≥40°C with concomitant central nervous system dysfunction, EHS was diagnosed, and patients were immersed in a 189.3-L tub filled with ice water. Before medical discharge, we asked EHS survivors 15 questions about their experience and knowledge of select EHS best practices. Survey items were piloted and validated by experts and laypersons a priori (content validity index of ≥0.88 for items and scale). Survey responses. Sixty-seven percent (28/42) of patients identified EHS as potentially fatal, and 76% (32/42) indicated that it negatively affected health. Seventy-nine percent (33/42) correctly identified TREC as the best temperature site to diagnose EHS. Most patients (74%, 31/42) anticipated returning to normal exercise within 1 week after EHS; 69% (29/42) stated that EHS would not impact future race participation. Patients (69%, 29/42) indicated that it was important to tell their primary care physician about their EHS. Our patients were knowledgeable on the potential seriousness and adverse health effects of EHS and the necessity of TREC for diagnosis. However, educational efforts should be directed toward helping patients understand safe recovery and return-to-play timelines following EHS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Warmed intravenous (IV) fluids administration to prevent hypothermia provide controversial results in humans, cats and dogs, but its effect on calves is unknown. Objectivxe: To evaluate the effectiveness of warmed IV fluids administered to prevent intraoperative heat loss in anaesthetised calves undergoing umbilical herniorrhaphy. Methods: Thirty Simmental breed calves (aged 10–30 days) were randomly divided between two equal groups, wherein the infusion fluid (Ringer's lactate, 5 mL/kg/h) was administered either at room temperature (Group RoT) or warmed (Group WF). Pulse rate (PR), respiratory rate (fR), peripheral haemoglobin oxygen saturation (SpO2) and rectal temperature (RT) were recorded immediately after the onset of anaesthesia induction (T0) at T5, T10, T15, T30, T45 and T60. Duration of anaesthesia, surgery time and recovery scores were also noted. Results: The PR, RT and fR values showed no significant difference between groups over time (p > 0.05). There was no significant difference in duration of anaesthesia, surgery time or recovery score between groups (p > 0.05). Conclusions: The findings of the current study suggest that warmed IV fluid as the warming method did not prevent intraoperative hypothermia in calves. A constant‐rate infusion of warmed fluid (5 mL/kg/h) is insufficient to prevent intraoperative hypothermia in calves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rectal thermometers are commonly used to assess animal health, but non-invasive methods like thermal imaging are gaining popularity for their ease. This study explores using infra-red thermography to measure eye temperatures as a proxy for body temperature in buffaloes. Among 280 adult female buffaloes, rectal temperature averaged 38.26 ± 0.38 °C, while eye temperature averaged 36.99 ± 0.47 °C. Statistical analysis showed a significant positive correlation (0.674, p

Background and Aim: Body temperature is the most useful clinical parameter for evaluating animal health. In clinical practice, rectal temperature is the gold standard for assessing body temperature, but rectal temperature measurement is not convenient and can cause stress in animals. The non-contact infrared thermometer is considered an alternative method for skin temperature measurements in animals. Many biological factors may influence the response of body regions to thermal challenges; thus, the identification of these variables is essential for accurate infrared temperature measurements. This study aimed to estimate the relationship between the physiological factors of cats and their body temperature measured across various body positions, as well as to propose a model for predicting rectal temperature using an infrared thermometer. Materials and Methods: A total of 184 client-owned cats were included in this study. The infrared temperature (°F) was measured using a non-contact infrared thermometer at five body positions: maxillary canine gingival margin (GCT), anal skin (ANS), inguinal canal (ING), ear canal (EC), and palmar pad. The five biological factors (age, body condition score [BCS], gender, hair type, and hair color) were recorded and analyzed to adjust predictive factors for rectal temperature prediction. All statistical analyses were performed using multivariable linear regression. The rectal temperature prediction model was then designed using the forward stepwise selection method. Results: Based on multivariable linear regression analysis of infrared temperature results, the pre-prediction model showed significant correlations with rectal temperature for ANS, GCT, and EC (p = 0.0074, 0.0042, and 0.0118, respectively). Moreover, the combination of infrared temperatures on ANS and ING was the most appropriate parameter for predicting rectal temperature (p = 0.0008). All models were adjusted according to the baseline characteristics of the cats. However, the adjusted R-squared values of the pre-prediction model of the infrared temperature on the ANS, GCT, and EC and the final prediction model by the infrared temperature on the ANS combined with the ING were low (8.7%, 8.9%, 7.3%, and 12.8%, respectively). Conclusion: The prediction model of rectal temperature of cats by infrared temperature from a non-contact infrared thermometer in ANS combined with ING and adjusted by age, BCS, hair type, and hair color may be applicable for use in clinical practice. This study found that the adjusted R-squared values of all models were low; the predictive model will need to be developed and used to test validity and reliability with an external study group for assessing their practical usefulness.

The effect of oral administration of White Radish root Juice (WRJ) on physiological response, blood profile and liver histology of broiler chickens was investigated. Day-old Arbor acre broiler chicks (n = 240) were allotted to six treatment groups of 40 birds each, replicated into four in a 2 by 3 factorial design, consisting of 2 dosages of WRJ (10 ml and 15 ml) and frequency of administration (FOA) (Zero (control), Twice/week and Thrice/week of WRJ). Birds in the control groups were administered broad-spectrum antibiotics. No significant (p>0.05) variation was observed in all the physiological parameters across the treatments. Lower (p<0.05) Red Blood Cell (RBC) value was recorded in the control group compared with other FOA. Birds on 10 ml WRJ thrice/week (2.22 x 1012/L) and 15 ml WRJ twice/week (2.25 x 1012/L) had higher (p<0.05) RBC compared with other treatment groups. Significantly (p<0.05) lower glucose (140.81 mg/dL), Total protein (48.08 g/L), Albumin (26.61 g/L), Creatinine (0.69 mg/dL), Alanine amino transferase (ALT) (50.98 U/L), Aspartate amino transferase (AST) (43.79 U/L), Alkaline phosphatase (72.93 U/L) and Malondialdehyde (MDA) (1.64 μmol/L) were observed in birds on 15 ml WRJ/L compared with birds on other groups. Likewise, birds on twice/week had significantly (p<0.05) lower Albumin, Uric acid, Creatinine, ALT, AST, Cholesterol and MDA compared with birds on thrice/week FOA. Mild congestion of the central veins was observed in the control group which was absent in all other groups. Hepatocytes and sinusoids appear normal in all the treatments. It can therefore be concluded that WRJ proffer health benefit on broiler chickens, significantly at 15 ml/L, and both Frequencies of administration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Variations in temperature throughout the reproductive tract have been noted in many species. A recent study found the cervix–rectum temperature differential (CR‐TD) in cattle was related to fertility. The present study aimed to assess the CR‐TD in mares around the time of ovulation and relate it to embryo recover. Over 52 cycles, mares were inseminated with a fertile stallion and embryo recovery was undertaken on Day 7 post ovulation. Further 10 control mares were not inseminated. Rectal and cervical temperatures were measured using a precision thermometer on four or five occasions: the day of deslorelin administration and insemination, the day before ovulation, the day of ovulation (Day 0), the day after ovulation and, for inseminated mares, before embryo recovery on Day 7. One‐way ANOVA showed that the CR‐TD was significantly lower on the day of ovulation in the 36 positive cycles, in which an embryo was recovered, versus the 16 in which the embryo flush was negative (0.21 ± 0.17 vs. 0.40 ± 0.09°C; p < 0.001). Control cycles showed equivalent CR‐TD to positive (0.13 ± 0.22 vs. 0.21 ± 0.17°C; p = 0.196) but not negative cycles (0.13 ± 0.22 vs. 0.40 ± 0.09°C; p < 0.001). A positive embryo recovery was associated with lower CR‐TDs from the time of insemination and deslorelin to the day after ovulation compared to the day of embryo flushing (RM ANOVA; p < 0.001; Pairwise comparisons; p ≤ 0.01, in all cases). Rectal or cervical temperatures per se showed no significant differences between positive, negative or control cycles at any time point. In conclusion, a thermoregulatory process occurs close to ovulation which results in a lower CR‐TD in cycles that produced an embryo versus those which did not. Further characterisation of TDs within the reproductive tract of the mare would increase our understanding of the conditions required for optimum fertility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Our study examined the challenges newborn piglets face, comparing those born with growth restriction, those born with low body weight, and those of normal body weight. We aim to understand if their start in life is related to their physical characteristics and whether this affects their chances of survival. We categorized newborn piglets based on their size and physical characteristics immediately after birth. Over three hours, we assigned vitality scores, measured body temperature, and described behaviors such as seeking sow's milk. We found that piglets with growth restrictions had more difficulty keeping warm and feeding than their counterparts with a low and normal body weight at birth. Consequently, they faced a higher mortality rate within the first 24 h after birth. This suggests they need special care to improve their survival and health. Our research highlights the importance of recognizing and addressing the needs of specifically intra-uterine growth-restricted piglets early on to improve the welfare of these growth-restricted piglets. This observational study explored the early-life challenges of intra-uterine growth restricted (IUGR), low birth body weight (LBW), and normal birth body weight (NBW) piglets. The aim was to understand the impact of birth weight and intra-uterine growth restriction phenotype on neonatal survival and behavior. Based on weight and phenotype, piglets were classified as IUGR (n = 32), LBW (n = 34), and NBW (n = 29) immediately after birth. The piglets were litter- and sex-matched. Vitality scores were assigned based on motor activity and breathing and complemented with an assessment of umbilical cord condition, rectal temperature, crown–rump length (CRL), time to reach the udder, time to suckle, colostrum intake, and weight gain over 24 h. Beyond the lower birth weight, reduced CRL, and higher mortality rate, IUGR piglets faced several other challenges compared with LBW and NBW piglets. Growth-impaired piglets often struggled to engage in early feeding behaviors and displayed consistently lower rectal temperatures at 1, 3 and 24 h after birth. IUGR piglets showed inadequate colostrum intake and weight loss, which were also observed for LBW counterparts. In contrast, no significant differences were observed in vitality scores and umbilical cord conditions across the groups. In conclusion, our findings underscore the impact of intra-uterine growth restriction on neonatal piglets, emphasizing the need for specialized care strategies to improve survival and health outcomes in IUGR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maternal nutritional status plays a crucial role in embryonic development and has persistent effects on postnatal chicks. Vitamin C (VC) plays an important role in embryonic and postnatal development involved in nutri-epigenetics. The present study was conducted to investigate the effects of in ovo feeding (IOF) of VC on embryonic development, egg hatching time, and chick rectal temperature. Trial 1 was conducted under normal incubation conditions without the IOF procedure and was designed to analyze the characteristics of embryonic development and establish the scoring standards for yolk absorption and the rupture of the shell membrane. The results showed that the relative weight of the embryo and residual yolk and the organ indexes were reliable indicators of embryonic development. Yolk absorption was scored 0, 1, 2, 3, and 4, with a higher score indicating more complete absorption. In addition, the rupture of the shell membrane was divided into two cases: YES and NO. Trial 2 included three groups, control (CON), normal saline (NS), and vitamin C (VC), and was designed to detect the effects of IOF of VC on the indicators in trial 1, as well as the plasma biochemical indicators. At embryonic age 11 (E11), each egg in the CON group was non-injected, each egg in the NS group was injected with 0.1 mL of sterile normal saline, and each egg in the VC group was injected with 0.1 mL of sterile normal saline containing 3 mg vitamin C. The whole day of E21 was evenly divided into three time periods: early (incubation hours 480–488), middle (incubation hours 488–496), and late (incubation hours 496–504). Among the CON, NS, and VC groups, the percentages of the early-hatched chicks (egg hatching time) were 29.31, 12.00, and 33.90%, respectively. The proportions of early and middle hatched chicks in these groups were 51.72, 42.00, and 38.27%, respectively. The rectal temperature of chicks was lower (p

The aim of the study was to evaluate physiological variables invasively and non-invasively and heat exchange in Nordestina breed horses, and to determine which variables have the greatest discriminating power in terms of adaptive profile, using canonical and stepwise discriminant analysis. Seven adult horses were used, 3 females and 4 stallion males, which were housed from birth in the property's paddocks with ad libitum access to native pasture, concentrate in the trough and water, remaining in these conditions during the experimental period. The thermal comfort index (TCI) values ​​above 65 are considered severe heat stress for horses. The rectal temperature, respiratory rate and heart rate of the females were similar (P > 0.05) between the periods and these variables remained within the limit for the equine species, even with the rise in air temperature in the afternoon and the high TCI, demonstrating the animals' adaptive capacity. The Nordestina breed showed physiological values within the standard for the species, even with the ambient temperature above the thermal comfort zone in both periods (30.09 and 35.05 °C), being efficient at dissipating heat through the skin and respiratory system, keeping the rectal temperature within the standard for the species

ABSTRACT Background Warmed intravenous (IV) fluids administration to prevent hypothermia provide controversial results in humans, cats and dogs, but its effect on calves is unknown. Objectivxe To evaluate the effectiveness of warmed IV fluids administered to prevent intraoperative heat loss in anaesthetised calves undergoing umbilical herniorrhaphy. Methods Thirty Simmental breed calves (aged 10–30 days) were randomly divided between two equal groups, wherein the infusion fluid (Ringer's lactate, 5 mL/kg/h) was administered either at room temperature (Group RoT) or warmed (Group WF). Pulse rate (PR), respiratory rate (fR), peripheral haemoglobin oxygen saturation (SpO2) and rectal temperature (RT) were recorded immediately after the onset of anaesthesia induction (T0) at T5, T10, T15, T30, T45 and T60. Duration of anaesthesia, surgery time and recovery scores were also noted. Results The PR, RT and fR values showed no significant difference between groups over time (p > 0.05). There was no significant difference in duration of anaesthesia, surgery time or recovery score between groups (p > 0.05). Conclusions The findings of the current study suggest that warmed IV fluid as the warming method did not prevent intraoperative hypothermia in calves. A constant‐rate infusion of warmed fluid (5 mL/kg/h) is insufficient to prevent intraoperative hypothermia in calves.

This study aimed to characterize body temperature in finishing broiler chickens and to explore heat transfer dynamics under thermoneutral (TN) and heat stress (HS) conditions. To achieve this, 900 Ross 308 chicks were divided into TN and HS groups, with the HS group subjected to cyclical heat stress (30°C, 45 % RH) from day 28 to day 33 post-hatch. Rectal temperature (Tr) and skin temperature (Ts) at the face (Tsf), eye (Tse), and breast (Tsb) were measured. Tr ranged from 39.1 to 40.6°C under TN and from 40.4 to 43.2°C under HS (Pcondition < 0.001). Core-to-skin temperature gradients were lower under HS (P < 0.0001), indicating reduced heat transfer to the skin. All Ts parameters were higher under HS (P < 0.001), and skin-to-air temperature gradients were also lower (P < 0.0001), reflecting lower heat dissipation. Ts varied significantly across anatomical regions (P < 0.001), and core-to-skin and skin-to-air gradients differed between regions under both conditions (P < 0.001). Strong correlations were observed between Tr and Ts (r = 0.88, 0.89, and 0.92 for Tsb, Tse, and Tsf, respectively), suggesting Ts as a strong predictor of Tr. In conclusion, rectal temperatures in finishing broilers are more variable under HS than under TN. Under HS, some birds continue to exhibit Tr in the physiological range. Under TN, heat is transferred from the core to the eyes at a significantly higher rate than to the face and breast skin. However, the breast skin dissipates heat into the environment at a greater rate than the face and the eyes. These patterns of heat transfer between the core and the skin, and between the skin and the environment are conserved under HS. However, heat transfer rates are significantly reduced leading to increased heat load of the birds. These findings provide further insights into thermoregulation in broiler chickens.

Killer whales are an important sentinel species and developing non-invasive methods of health assessments might provide insight for understanding how wildlife health is influenced by ecosystem change. Rectal temperature (RT) is a proxy for core body temperature in managed-care cetaceans, however, this measurement is impractical for free-ranging cetaceans and infrared imaging has been suggested as an alternative. The aim of the current study was to prospectively compare infrared thermography of the blowhole to rectal temperatures in killer whales, as well as establish a healthy range for rectal temperature using retrospective data. Infrared video was recorded from the blowhole of thirteen healthy killer whales in managed care, immediately followed by rectal temperature measurement. Repeated measures Bland-Altman analysis revealed blowhole temperature (BHT) had a bias of -1.28°C from RT. Considerable proportional bias was observed with agreement between measurements improving as mean temperature increased. RT positively associated with air temperature, and inversely associated with body mass. BHT was not significantly affected by sex or body mass but was significantly affected by water temperature and air temperature. Retrospective analysis from eighteen killer whales (n = 3591 observations) was performed to generate expected RT ranges, partitioning out for sex and body mass. Given the proportional bias observed with Bland Altman analysis, BHT cannot currently be recommended as a measurement for absolute core body temperature, however infrared thermography of the blowhole remains a promising tool for health assessment of free-ranging killer whale populations, as it may serve as a non-contact screening tool to detect pyrexic animals within a group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Hypothermia is a critical welfare issue in early days of newborn piglets. • The average rectal temperature (RT) increased significantly as the neonatal piglets get older. • In the early days of life, ambient temperature influences the RT of neonates. • The neonatal piglet's daytime RT follows rhythmicity. Homeothermic mammals can assert equilibrium in heat production and heat exchange with the ambient environment to maintain their body temperature through modification of physiology and behavior. However, the newborn piglets do not possess a well-developed thermoregulatory center resulting in a welfare issue, that is, piglet mortality due to hypothermia. Therefore, the present study was aimed to evaluate the early life welfare crisis of thermal adaptability of neonatal piglets. For this purpose, 127 newborn piglets were selected immediately after their birth. Rectal temperature (RT), which represents the core temperature of the neonate piglets, was recorded for three consecutive days from the second day of the birth. The first-day recording was avoided to minimize the disturbance of the farrowing mother. The RT was recorded for three days (second, third, and fourth day) at 0600, 0800, 1000, 1200, 1400, and 1600 hours of the day. Concurrently, the ambient temperature and relative humidity were recorded. The average RT increased significantly (P < 0.01) as the neonatal piglets became older. The cosinor analysis demonstrated significant (P < 0.01) rhythmicity in RT of daytime on all three days. Furthermore, the gradual reduction of acrophase value indicated the gradual gaining of thermal control of neonates. The daytime RT of neonates was positively (P < 0.01) correlated with the ambient temperature (r2 = 0.301). The results indicated that the RT of neonatal piglets in the early days of life was modified as per the ambient temperature and their thermoregulatory system gradually developed as age increased. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rectal temperature is widely used as an indicator of animal health. However, rectal temperature is conventionally measured by an invasive method, which may reduce animal welfare. So, this study aimed to determine the relationships between the deep-body (core) temperature and body surface temperatures in goats and develop a linear regression equation to establish the core temperature based on body surface temperatures. Body surface temperatures (head, eye, muzzle, horn, back, scrotum and groin) of goats were measured by infrared thermography (IRT). Ambient temperatures were measured by digital thermometer. Core temperatures were measured by a digital vet thermometer. Pearson correlation analysis was used to analyze the relationship between body surface temperatures, ambient temperature, and core temperature. Simple linear regression analysis was used to develop core temperature assessment equations. Correlation analysis showed that groin temperature was highly correlated with core temperature, and low correlated with ambient temperature. The body surface temperature of other region was low correlated with core temperature, and highly correlated with ambient temperature. Regression analysis showed that the determination coefficient of core temperature assessment equation based on groin temperature was the highest (P < 0.0001, R2 = 0.55), and those based on surface temperature of other regions were low (P < 0.01, R2 ≤ 0.16). We concluded that body surface temperatures obtained by IRT could be used for the assessment of goat core temperature. The core temperature assessment equations developed by the temperature of the body surface, which is less affected by ambient temperature, was found to have a higher determination coefficient than the equations developed using body surface temperature that is more affected by ambient temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT The purpose was to evaluate structural characteristics of pasture, behavioral aspects and physiological parameters of sheep finished on irrigated Tamani grass pasture under continuous stocking, using castor bean cake as alternative input. Structural characteristics of the pasture were assessed in a randomized block design in 2 x 2 factorial arrangement, with two sources of nitrogen fertilization (mineral - urea and organic - in natura castor bean cake) and two supplements (with or without detoxified castor bean cake), in four replications (paddocks). Behavioral aspects and physiological parameters were assessed in a randomized block design with four treatments, and repeated measures over time in eight replications (sheep). Total forage biomass, green leaf blade biomass, grazing, rumination, and idleness times, as well as respiratory rate and rectal temperature were assessed. Urea provided greater leaf blade biomass (1,807 kg DM.ha.cycle-1) and tiller population density (1,592 tillers.m-2). Grazing time reduced 65 minutes.day-1 for animals supplemented with detoxified castor bean cake and kept in pastures fertilized with urea. The use of castor bean cake did not change the physiological parameters of the animals in any of the managements evaluated and can be used as a strategic input in the finishing of sheep on pasture.

Purpose: To compare the perceptual responses and interleukin-6 (IL-6) concentration following rectal temperature-matched dry heat exposure (DH) and hot water immersion (HWI). Methods: Twelve healthy young adults (BMI 23.5 ± 3.6 kg/m2; age: 25.8 ± 5.7 years) underwent 3 trials in randomised order: DH (air temperature 68.9 °C), HWI (water temperature 37.5 °C), and thermoneutral dry exposure (CON, air temperature 27.3 °C). Blood samples to determine IL-6 plasma concentration were collected; basic affect and thermal comfort, rectal and skin temperature (Tskin) were assessed throughout the intervention. Results: Rectal temperature (Trec) did not differ between DH (end temperature 38.0 ± 0.4 °C) and HWI (37.9 ± 0.2 °C, P = 0.16), but was higher compared with CON (37.0 ± 0.3 °C; P ≤ 0.004). Plasma IL-6 concentration was similar after DH (pre to post: 0.8 ± 0.5 to 1.4 ± 1.5 pg·ml−1) and HWI (0.5 ± 0.2 to 0.9 ± 0.6 pg·ml−1; P = 0.46), but higher compared with CON (0.6 ± 0.5 to 0.6 ± 0.4 pg·ml−1; P = 0.01). At the end of the intervention, basic affect and thermal comfort were most unfavourable during DH (Basic affect; DH: − 0.7 ± 2.9, HWI: 0.8 ± 1.9, CON 1.9 ± 1.9, P ≤ 0.004; Thermal comfort; 2.6 ± 0.8, HWI: 1.4 ± 0.9 and CON: 0.2 ± 0.4; P ≤ 0.004). Mean Tskin was highest for DH, followed by HWI, and lowest for CON (DH: 38.5 ± 1.3 °C, HWI: 36.2 ± 0.5 °C, CON: 31.6 ± 0.7 °C, P < 0.001). Conclusion: The IL-6 response did not differ between DH and HWI when matched for the elevation in Trec. However, thermal comfort was lower during DH compared to HWI, which may be related to the higher Tskin during DH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: To determine whether rectal temperature, Hct, or blood glucose at presentation were associated with all-cause mortality in ferrets (Mustela putorius furo). ANIMALS: 321 client-owned ferrets. METHODS: A medical record database was searched for ferrets from January 2012 through September 2022. Records from 1,189 individual examinations were evaluated. Inclusion criteria were rectal temperature, Hct, and/or blood glucose measured at presentation and data on survival status 7 days postpresentation. Data were included from 321 ferrets from 571 examinations. Rectal temperature in 244 ferrets from 346 examinations, Hct in 181 ferrets from 277 examinations, and blood glucose in 260 ferrets from 420 examinations were available. RESULTS: The odds of death for hypothermic ferrets (< 37.8 °C) were 3.72 times (OR, 3.72; 95% CI, 2.30 to 6.01) the odds of death for normothermic ferrets (37.8 to 40 °C). For every 0.56 °C below normal rectal temperature, the odds of death increased 1.49 times (OR, 1.49; 95% CI, 1.21 to 1.90). The odds of death for anemic ferrets (Hct < 33%) were 4.74 times (OR, 4.74; 95% CI, 1.70 to 13.21) the odds of death for ferrets with a normal Hct (33% to 57%). The odds of death for hyperglycemic ferrets (> 152 mg/dL) were 2.61 times (OR, 2.61; 95% CI, 1.29 to 5.30) the odds of death for normoglycemic ferrets (74 to 152 mg/dL). The odds of death for severely hypoglycemic ferrets (< 40 mg/dL) were 9.45 times (OR, 9.45; 95% CI, 3.18 to 28.12) the odds of death for normoglycemic ferrets. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Hypothermia, anemia, hyperglycemia, and severe hypoglycemia were significant prognostic indicators of death in ferrets. Further investigation into the causes and management of these derangements is warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

INTRODUCTION: Exertional heatstroke (EHS) is a life-threatening condition that requires quick recognition and cooling for survival. Experts recommend using cooling modalities that reduce rectal temperature (TREC) faster than 0.16°C/min though rates above 0.08°C/min are considered “acceptable.” Hyperthermic individuals treated in body bags filled with ice water (∼3°C) have excellent cooling rates (0.28±0.09°C/min). However, clinicians may not have access to large amounts of ice or ice water when treating EHS victims. The purpose of this study was to determine if using a body bag filled with water near the upper limits of expert recommendations for EHS treatment would produce acceptable (>0.08°C/min) or “ideal (>0.16°C/min)” TREC cooling rates or different nadir values. METHODS: A total of 12 individuals (9 men, 3 women; age: 21±2yr; mass: 74.6±10.2kg; height: 179.5±9.6cm) exercised in the heat until TREC was 39.5°C. They lay supine while 211.4±19.5 L of 10°C (Ten) or 15°C (Fifteen) water was poured into a body bag. Subjects cooled until TREC was 38°C. They exited the body bag and rested in the heat for 10min. RESULTS: Subjects exercised in similar conditions and for similar durations (Ten = 46.3±8.6min, Fifteen = 46.2±7.8min). TREC cooling rates were faster in Ten than Fifteen (Ten = 0.18±0.07°C/min, Fifteen = 0.14±0.09°C/min). TREC nadir was slightly higher in Fifteen (37.3±0.2°C) than Ten (37.1±0.3°C). DISCUSSION: Body bag cooling rates met expert definitions of acceptable (Fifteen) and ideal (Ten) for EHS treatment. This information is valuable for clinicians who do not have access to or the resources for ice water cooling to treat EHS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Subtle changes in body temperature affect the outcomes of ill newborns. However, the temperature profile of neonatal brains remains largely unknown. In open-cot care, increased cerebral perfusion is correlated with higher superficial brain temperatures. This study investigated the dependence of brain temperature (relative to rectal temperature) on ambient temperature, body size, cerebral perfusion, and metabolism in infants receiving incubator care. Rectal, scalp, and brain temperatures, superior vena cava flow, and brain oxygenation were assessed using echocardiography, thermo-compensatory temperature monitoring, and near-infrared spectroscopy in 60 newborns. These infants had a mean postconceptional age of 36.9 (2.2) weeks and weighed 2348 (609) g at the time of evaluation. The ambient temperature was maintained at 30.0 (1.0) °C. A higher rectal temperature was associated with greater postconceptional age (p = 0.002), body weight (p < 0.001), and head circumference (p < 0.001). Relative scalp, superficial brain, and deep brain temperatures were associated with smaller head circumference (p < 0.001, p = 0.030, and p = 0.015, respectively) and superior vena cava flow (p = 0.002, p = 0.003, and p = 0.003, respectively). In infants receiving incubator care, larger head sizes and increased brain perfusion were associated with lower relative scalp and brain temperatures. When considered alongside previous reports, cerebral perfusion may contribute to maintaining stable cerebral tissue temperature against ambient temperature changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Simple Summary: Due to climate change, heat waves occur more often, and the annual average temperature increases, which may contribute to the negative effects of heat stress in pigs. This study explored ways to help growing–finishing pigs cope with heat stress during hot weather. Two groups of pigs were given different diets—one standard and one enriched with specific feed additives. The pigs' respiration rates, rectal and skin temperatures, performances, and meat qualities were monitored. During a heat wave, the group with the enriched diet did not need as much drinking water compared to the standard diet group. Both groups, without distinguishing between dietary treatments, showed increased respiration rates and skin temperatures during higher heat loads. The findings suggest that the enriched diet may help reduce the need to increase daily water intake during hot periods. Furthermore, this study highlighted the sensitivity of the parameter of respiration rate in pigs suffering from (mild) heat stress. Heat stress in pigs negatively affects welfare, health, and performance. Osmoprotectants and antioxidants may alleviate oxidative damage during hot periods. We investigated whether an additive-enriched feed can reduce negative effects in pigs during summer conditions. Sixty growing–finishing pigs were allocated into two groups: the control (CF) and summer feed (SF) group. The CF group contained 0.4 mg/kg inorganic selenium and 100 ppm vitamin E, while the SF group contained 0.3 mg/kg inorganic selenium, 0.1 mg/kg selenomethionine, 200 ppm vitamins E and C, and 0.2% betaine. Feed was offered ad libitum. Respiration rate, rectal and skin temperature, behaviour, and weight gain were assessed weekly. Daily measurements of these parameters were performed during a 3-day heat wave (temperature humidity index (THI) ≥ 75) and during an artificial heating period. Individual average daily water intake (ADWI) and feed intake were measured using RFID systems. The ADWI of the SF group did not change during heat load while it increased for the CF group. Independent of dietary treatment, increases in ∆THI or the THI were accompanied by significant increases in both respiration rate and skin temperature. In conclusion, the SF may induce a reduced need to increase ADWI during hot periods. In addition, mainly skin temperatures and especially respiration rates revealed the sensitivity of pigs to heat stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neonatal piglets encounter survival challenges owing to immature thermoregulation. Assessing sex, birth weight and environmental temperature of neonatal piglets enables the farmers in adapting crucial management strategies to improve welfare and prevent hypothermia. Therefore, present study was initiated to investigate the effect of gender, birthweight and environment temperature on neonatal piglet body temperature. For this purpose, a total of 91 piglets were examined. Rectal temperature (RT) and ambient temperature were recorded six times daily for three days (2nd, 3rd and 4th day of birth). Results revealed that gender exerts minimal impact (p > 0.01) on piglet body temperature, whilst birth weight influences initial thermoregulation, particularly on the second day (p < 0.05) of birth. Environmental temperature emerges as a pivotal factor, with piglets born in temperatures exceeding 25°C exhibiting higher body temperatures (p < 0.05). The findings provide practical insights for swine management, emphasizing the need for interventions based on birth weight and environmental conditions to enhance piglet welfare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated the hypothesis that a daily-variation exists for a 4-km time-trial, where a standardised-approach has been employed. Twenty-six male students completed a 30-s Wingate test, a ${\dot {\rm V}}$ V ˙ O2 peak test: and then three 4-km familiarisations at 12:00 h. Two further time-trials counterbalanced for start at 07:30 or 17:30 h were undertaken. There was 72 h between each session. Heart rate, rectal and skin temperature values, rating-of-perceived-exertion, effort, pacing perception and split-times were measured every 1-km during the time-trial. Blood lactate, urine osmolarity, rectal and skin temperature were taken at rest and immediately after each time-trial. Evening finishing times, resting rectal temperatures, pre-post time-trial blood lactate were faster, higher with a greater rise (~10 s, 0.48°C, 0.7mmol.L) than morning values (p<0.05) with no other interactions. In summary, where a standardised approach has been employed 4-km performance was 2.6 % faster in the evening than the morning (ES = 0.34, power = 0.8). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As climate change intensifies, heat stress mitigation for pigs becomes more important. Trials involving induced heat waves are useful to test several measures (e.g. reduced stocking density) at a faster rate, but only when accurately evaluated and validated. In the present study, we investigated the suitability of an artificial heating protocol at different pig weights (experiment 1). The impact of different stocking densities on fattening pigs during an artificial heat wave (experiment 2) was also investigated. Experiment 1: Forty 20-week-old pigs weighing 96.5 ± 7.3 kg (W100) and forty 17-week-old pigs weighing 72.7 ± 9.9 kg (W70) were housed in two compartments. An artificial heat wave (heat load) was induced for 3 days. During 3-day periods before, during and after the heat load, physiological parameters (respiration rate (RR), rectal temperature (Trectal), skin temperature (Tskin) and behavior) were measured and average daily feed intake was observed. Ambient temperature, relative humidity and temperature-humidity index (THI) were monitored. Experiment 2: A total of 150 fattening pigs were randomly divided into three treatment groups: SD1.3 (1.3 m2/pig), SD1.0 (1.0 m2/pig) and SD0.8 (0.8 m2/pig). All pens had a total pen surface of 4.88 m2, corresponding with 4, 5 and 6 fattening pigs in the SD1.3, SD1.0 and SD0.8 groups, respectively. The heat load was induced for 7 days on week 21. Respiration rate and Trectal were observed as in experiment 1. Average daily gain and average daily feed intake were also noted. During the heat load, THI reached ≥ 75 (78.4 (experiment 1) and 78.6 (experiment 2)), even when relative humidity decreased to ± 45%. Every physiological parameter showed significant increases during the heat load. The prolonged heating protocol in experiment 2 also provoked significant decreases in average daily feed intake (15%) and average daily gain (19%) for all groups. Weight within the studied range of 70–100 kg did not have a significant impact on any of the parameters. However, Tskin was affected by both weight and heat load (P

This study examines the complex relationship between scenarios of cold-water immersion, survival durations, and prehospital interventions. It utilizes computational modeling methods to shed light on how different water temperatures affect individuals facing accidental cold-water immersion incidents. The analysis reveals significant variations in survival times based on water temperature. For example, subjects immersed in water at temperatures of 5 °C, 2 °C, and 0 °C had average survival times of 136, 113, and 100 min, respectively, under stable conditions. In flowing water at the same temperatures, survival times decreased to 119, 92, and 81 min, indicating the impact of water movement on cooling rates and survival durations. Likewise, individuals immersed in saltwater at temperatures of 5 °C, 2 °C, 0 °C, and −2 °C showed average survival times of 111, 88, 80, and 66 min, respectively, in static conditions. In flowing saltwater at the same temperatures, survival times decreased to 98, 74, 68, and 57 min, highlighting the influence of water flow on cooling rates and survival durations. A comparison between immersion in pure water and saltwater at 2 °C revealed survival times of 113 and 88 min under stable conditions and 92 and 74 min under dynamic conditions, emphasizing the role of water composition in survival outcomes. The study also challenges the notion that the demise of the Titanic's passengers and crew resulted from hypothermia, asserting instead that severe thermal shock was the primary cause. These numerical findings underscore the importance of considering water temperature, flow dynamics, and prompt medical responses in cold-water emergencies to enhance survival prospects. The study identifies water within the range of 41–43 °C as the most effective active external rewarming fluid for critical hypothermal conditions. By quantifying the impact of these variables on survival times, the study provides data-driven recommendations to improve emergency protocols and outcomes for individuals facing cold-water immersion incidents.

Killer whales are an important sentinel species and developing non-invasive methods of health assessments might provide insight for understanding how wildlife health is influenced by ecosystem change. Rectal temperature (RT) is a proxy for core body temperature in managed-care cetaceans, however, this measurement is impractical for free-ranging cetaceans and infrared imaging has been suggested as an alternative. The aim of the current study was to prospectively compare infrared thermography of the blowhole to rectal temperatures in killer whales, as well as establish a healthy range for rectal temperature using retrospective data. Infrared video was recorded from the blowhole of thirteen healthy killer whales in managed care, immediately followed by rectal temperature measurement. Repeated measures Bland-Altman analysis revealed blowhole temperature (BHT) had a bias of -1.28°C from RT. Considerable proportional bias was observed with agreement between measurements improving as mean temperature increased. RT positively associated with air temperature, and inversely associated with body mass. BHT was not significantly affected by sex or body mass but was significantly affected by water temperature and air temperature. Retrospective analysis from eighteen killer whales (n = 3591 observations) was performed to generate expected RT ranges, partitioning out for sex and body mass. Given the proportional bias observed with Bland Altman analysis, BHT cannot currently be recommended as a measurement for absolute core body temperature, however infrared thermography of the blowhole remains a promising tool for health assessment of free-ranging killer whale populations, as it may serve as a non-contact screening tool to detect pyrexic animals within a group.

Objective This study was conducted to assess effects of heat stress on growth performance, physiological parameters, and blood profiles of Hanwoo steers during early-fattening period in climate chambers. Methods Four Hanwoo steers (body weight, 454.3±10.9 kg; age, 14±0.1 month) were allocated into four levels of temperature-humidity index (THI) in a 4×4 Latin square design for 21 days (pre-adaptation, 7 d; heat stress, 7 d; post-adaptation, 7 d) per period. Experimental treatments were assigned according to THI chart based on National Institute Animal Science (NIAS, 2022): Comfort (25.5°C to 26.5°C, 60%; THI 73 to 75), Mild (28°C to 29°C, 60%; THI 77 to 79), Moderate (29.5°C to 30.5°C, 80%; THI 82 to 84), and Severe (31°C to 32°C, 80%; THI 85 to 86) in separate climatic controlled chambers. Results The dry matter intake (DMI) of the formula feed was lower in Severe compared to Mild and Comfort (p

Surface temperature recording has shown promise in older pigs and in piglets but only under controlled conditions. The aim of this experiment was to compare surface temperatures using an infrared thermal camera (pointer), verified by the maximum temperature from the thermal images extracted by an algorithm (MATLAB®R2020), at the base, tip of ear, or eye, with rectal temperature under production conditions. The influence of bodyweight (BWC1; ≤0.80 kg, BWC2; 0.81 kg to 1.10 kg and BWC3; >1.10 kg), time post-partum (0 and 24 h) and colostrum intake (CI1;

This observational study explored the early-life challenges of intra-uterine growth restricted (IUGR), low birth body weight (LBW), and normal birth body weight (NBW) piglets. The aim was to understand the impact of birth weight and intra-uterine growth restriction phenotype on neonatal survival and behavior. Based on weight and phenotype, piglets were classified as IUGR (n = 32), LBW (n = 34), and NBW (n = 29) immediately after birth. The piglets were litter- and sex-matched. Vitality scores were assigned based on motor activity and breathing and complemented with an assessment of umbilical cord condition, rectal temperature, crown–rump length (CRL), time to reach the udder, time to suckle, colostrum intake, and weight gain over 24 h. Beyond the lower birth weight, reduced CRL, and higher mortality rate, IUGR piglets faced several other challenges compared with LBW and NBW piglets. Growth-impaired piglets often struggled to engage in early feeding behaviors and displayed consistently lower rectal temperatures at 1, 3 and 24 h after birth. IUGR piglets showed inadequate colostrum intake and weight loss, which were also observed for LBW counterparts. In contrast, no significant differences were observed in vitality scores and umbilical cord conditions across the groups. In conclusion, our findings underscore the impact of intra-uterine growth restriction on neonatal piglets, emphasizing the need for specialized care strategies to improve survival and health outcomes in IUGR.

To investigate the effect of isoflurane anesthesia on thermoregulation and peripheral heat loss in dorsally recumbent horses. Prospective, clinical study. Seven adult horses (2.6 ± 1.5 years old, 455 ± 70.2 kg). Horses underwent elective surgical procedures in dorsal recumbency under general anesthesia (GA) maintained with isoflurane in oxygen. Rectal (T R), intranasal (T N) and fetlock surface temperatures (T F) were measured every 10 minutes for the first 80 minutes following induction of GA. Room temperature (T RO) was monitored during the study. Statistical analysis to determine differences between temperature measurement sites and techniques (T R , T N and T F), and differences over time were completed using a mixed-effects model with Tukey's multiple comparison or Dunnett's multiple comparison testing where appropriate. Significance was set at p < 0.05. Following induction of anesthesia, T F was significantly increased compared with baseline (0 minutes) from 40 to 80 minutes (p < 0.01). No significant differences were detected in T R and T N at any time point compared with baseline (p > 0.05). T F was significantly lower than T N (p < 0.02) at all time points and T R from times 0 to 70 minutes (p < 0.04). There were no significant differences between T R and T N at any time (p > 0.05). In horses undergoing isoflurane GA, T F increased, indicating peripheral heat loss likely because of vasodilation, whereas T R showed a clinically relevant decrease over time. These findings are suggestive of body heat redistribution during GA in horses in dorsal recumbency. Thermographic imaging of the peripheral limbs in combination with T R and T N monitoring allowed for recognition of peripheral heat redistribution in anesthetized horses. Anesthetized horses experience peripheral heat loss through their extremities as a result of vasodilation. Mitigating peripheral heat loss may improve thermoregulation and reduce hypothermic complications in anesthetized horses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surface temperature recording has shown promise in older pigs and in piglets but only under controlled conditions. The aim of this experiment was to compare surface temperatures using an infrared thermal camera (pointer), verified by the maximum temperature from the thermal images extracted by an algorithm (MATLAB®R2020), at the base, tip of ear, or eye, with rectal temperature under production conditions. The influence of bodyweight (BWC1; ≤0.80 kg, BWC2; 0.81 kg to 1.10 kg and BWC3; >1.10 kg), time post-partum (0 and 24 h) and colostrum intake (CI1; <200 g and CI2, ≥200 g) were investigated. Ear tip pointer temperatures showed low correlations with rectal temperature (r < 0.39; P = 0.20). Both the ear base and eye had moderate correlations (r = 0.53 and 0.55, respectively; P < 0.001 for both) to rectal temperature, and high correlations between pointer and extracted values (r = 0.73 and 0.82, respectively; P < 0.001 for both). At birth, eye temperatures had a moderate correlation with rectal temperature. The extracted eye, but not rectal or ear base, temperatures were higher (P = 0.01) in piglets consuming greater amounts of colostrum. In contrast to research settings, production conditions are highly variable and increase the inaccuracy of the surface temperature recordings. Therefore, overall, surface temperatures were not appropriate for commercial application in neonatal piglets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are limited studies on circadian rhythmicity in farm animals affected by protozoan diseases. The rectal temperature (RT) and body surface temperature (BST) rhythmic patterns in experimental Trypanosoma evansi-infected Red Sokoto goats (T. evansiinfected RSG) July - September were evaluated. Five goats were assigned to each experimental group, with group I as the negative control (CRSG), while animals in group II were individually infected with about 2.0x106/2ml T. evansi-inoculum. Temperature reaction patterns were monitored by digital clinical and infrared thermometry. The RT and BST of goats, the ambient temperature (AT) and relative humidity (RH) inside the pen were measured at 06:00, 12:00 and 18:00 hours (GMT+1) three times a week for 12 weeks. The AT had maximum, minimum and mean values of 27.0°C, 24.2°C and 25.6±0.26°C, respectively, while RH had maximum, minimum and mean values of 94.5%, 53.6% and 80.5±11.5%, respectively. Results obtained, via the application of a single Cosinor procedure showed that the RT and BST exhibited daily rhythmicity in both groups with the pattern distorted in T. evansi-infected RSG which showed an ascent from the 5th to the 10th week. The rhythmic characteristic of RT of the T. evansi-infected RSG showed that the mesor and amplitude were higher (p=0.05) than those recorded for CRSG. Both groups showed no difference (p=0.05) in acrophase. The eye region in both groups showed the highest BST, while the coronary band had the lowest. The result, for the first time, reported rhythmicity of RT and BST in T. evansi-infected goats under tropical conditions. The results obtained from our study may be useful for the early screening, diagnosis, treatment and prevention of protozoan diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Recently, in-feed medicinal zinc has been phased out in pig production in the European Union. This makes updated knowledge about porcine post-weaning diarrhea (PWD) crucial. The objectives of the present study were to investigate (i) the clinical presentation of PWD in pigs housed in Danish herds that did not use medicinal zinc, specifically the prevalence of diarrhea and whether PWD was associated to clinical signs of dehydration or altered body temperature; (ii) which microorganism are associated to PWD; and iii) whether measurements of the fecal pH have a potential to be used diagnostically to differentiate between infectious etiologies in cases of PWD. Results The prevalence of diarrhea varied considerably between the outbreaks in the nine studied herds (median = 0.58, range = 0.10; 0.94). In a cross-sectional design (n = 923), diarrhea was associated with reduced rectal temperature and alkaline feces. Diarrhea was also associated with observably reduced skin elasticity, possibly indicating dehydration. In both diarrheic case pigs (n = 87) and control pigs (n = 86), the presence of Brachyspira pilosicoli, Clostridium perfringens, Cryptosporidium spp., Cystoisopora suis, enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli, Lawsonia intracellularis, porcine circovirus types 2 and 3, rotavirus A, B, C, and H, Samonella enterica spp. enterica, and Trichuris suis was described. PWD was associated with high levels of enterotoxigenic E. coli shedding (odds ratio versus no E. coli detection = 4.79 [CI 1.14; 12.62]). Diarrhea was associated with high levels of rotavirus A shedding (odds ratio versus no/low rotavirus A = 3.80 [CI 1.33; 7.97]). The association between microbiological findings in diarrheic pigs and fecal pH was negligible. Conclusions Enterotoxigenic E. coli was confirmed to be a cause of PWD; however, cases of PWD where enterotoxigenic E. coli was not detected in high levels occurred commonly, and this adds to the increasing evidence suggesting that PWD is not necessarily a result of enteric colibacillosis. Rotaviral enteritis might be a differential diagnosis of PWD. pH-measurements cannot be used to differentiate between differential diagnoses for PWD.

This study aimed to determine the effect of heat stress (HS) on reproductive parameters (calving to first service (CTFS) and the first-service conception rate (FSCR)) and general physiological responses (rectal temperature (RT) and respiratory rate (RR)) in tropical cross-bred Holstein dairy cows raised in Ratchaburi province, Thailand. HS was determined using the temperature–humidity index (THI), calculated from temperature and humidity inside the barns, and was classified as moderate HS (THI: 80.67 ± 0.79) and mild HS (THI: 77.81 ± 1.09) in this study. Cows with detected corpus luteum were defined as cyclic cows and were injected with PGF2α at the beginning of the experimental period. Reproductive and physiological parameters were recorded. Cows showed significantly lower RT and RR in the mild HS group (38.47 ± 0.21 °C and 41.04 ± 4.55 bpm, respectively) than in the moderate HS group (38.87 ± 0.15 °C and 51.17 ± 10.52 bpm). The percentage of cows that ovulated after being induced by PGF2α and showed estrus signs was higher in the mild than the moderate HS groups (54.55% vs. 18.18%). Furthermore, the FSCR of cows under mild HS tended to be higher than that in the moderate HS group (42.11% and 15%, respectively) (p = 0.06), while the average CTFS interval was significantly shorter under mild HS than moderate HS (69.47 ± 18.18 and 84.60 ± 27.68 days, respectively). These results indicate that moderate HS impairs reproductive performance in crossbred Holstein cows, compared to mild HS conditions.

The aim of the present study was to investigate eye temperature modifications after road transport in athletic horses habituated to travel. Eight adult Italian saddle horses traveled 100 km and, two weeks later, 300 km. Eye temperature (ET), rectal temperature (RT) and serum cortisol concentration were assessed before (T1), after (T2) and 60 min (T3) after the road transport. ET was evaluated with infrared thermography (IRT) in three regions of interest: EL1 (medial canthus), EL2 (central cornea) and EL3 (lateral canthus). Two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) for repeated measures showed statistically higher values at T2 and T3 for EL1 (p < 0.01), EL2 (p < 0.01) and EL3 (p < 0.01) following the 100 km journey. RT (p < 0.01) showed higher values at T2 and T3 after the 100 km journey and higher values at T2 (p < 0.01) following the 300 km journey. ET values were positively correlated with RT at T1, T2 and T3 following the 100 km journey and at T2 following the 300 km journey and positively correlated with serum cortisol concentration at T1, T2 and T3 following the 100 km journey and at T2 and T3 following the 300 km journey. Eye temperature monitoring with IRT allows quick and practical strategies to monitor an animal’s physiological state and welfare during daily activities.

The evaluation of thermoregulation in homeothermic animals is important for their health assessment. Body temperature is influenced by the circadian rhythm, which, through certain signals, is regulated by the suprachiasmatic nucleus. Temperature is collected by various methods; to reduce the invasiveness of rectal temperature sampling, considered the most accurate, infrared thermography has been used. The aim of the present review was to describe the circadian variability of average body temperature in several domestic animal species. In addition to variations due to the circadian rhythm, a number of conditions that can influence body temperature have also been studied. One example of this is exercise, which occurs in the case of domestic animals such as horses, dogs, and donkeys. In particular, it has been analysed in athletic horses, where, following intense exercise, the circadian rhythm of temperature is altered. The daily temperature variation during pregnancy and the neonatal period was also analysed. The circadian rhythm of temperature is influenced by the gestational period of sheep and goats, but this is affected differently depending on the type of species. The same is true for the neonatal period, in kids, lambs, and cattle, where the circadian rhythm is established at different times.

Copyright of Nativa is the property of Revista Nativa and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Correctly estimating the post-mortem interval (PMI) is essential in forensic practice. In recent decades, the measurement of vitreous humor analyte concentrations — especially of hypoxanthine and potassium — and their correlation with the PMI have returned good results. However, calculating the PMI from the data collected can be quite complex. The present paper describes a web resource (http://modestya.usc.es:3838/Forensic/) that simplifies the procedure. The PMI is determined (with its 95% confidence interval) in a rapid, easy, and reliable manner based on the use of mathematical models, the biochemistry of the vitreous humor, and physical variables such as the ambient temperature, the rectal temperature, and bodyweight. The application is entirely free to use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Experiments were performed to determine the effect of ergothioneine on rectal temperature and the serum concentrations of heat shock protein-70 (HSP-70) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in stallions following a race of 2000 m in a hot-dry environment. Eighteen stallions weighing approximately 400 kg each were used for the experiment. They were divided into three groups of six stallions each. Group I (EEX) was the experimental group that was administered ergothioneine (0.5 mg/kg per os), while group II (EEC) did not receive ergothioneine before exercise. The third group (EEN) was neither administered ergothioneine nor exercised. The dry-bulb temperature and the relative humidity of the experiment were determined for six days and on the day of the experiment. The temperature-humidity index was also calculated. Rectal temperature, serum HSP-70, and TNF-α concentrations of all horses were measured before commencement, immediately after, and 2 h after the exercise. The dry-bulb temperature and relative humidity which showed diurnal fluctuations increased significantly (p < 0.05) between 06.00 h and 12.00 h (22.6 ± 1.23 and 38.6 ± 6.5, respectively). Serum TNF-α and HSP-70 levels of the stallions in the EEX group were higher than the values obtained in the EEC and EEN groups (p < 0.05). The values of rectal temperature obtained were lower (p < 0.05) in the EEX group than in the other groups. Therefore, it could be concluded that ergothioneine modulated rectal temperature, as well as TNF-α and HSP-70 concentrations in the stallions, and might be beneficial to horses during exercise.