Effects of Whole Corn Germ, A Source of Linoleic Acid, on Carcass Characteristics and Meat Quality of Feedlot Lambs

Simple Summary

The industrialization of corn generates several by-products, including the whole corn germ (WCG). This, in turn, shows promise in diets for ruminants because it contains 85% of the total lipids that can increase the diets’ energy density (lipids naturally protected by the pericarp). Furthermore, WCG has around 56% linoleic acid (of total fatty acids), contributing to increased unsaturated fatty acid concentrations in meat. This research aims to evaluate the quantitative carcass traits and the quality of lambs’ meat supplemented with WCG to determine its optimum inclusion level in feedlot animals’ diet.

Abstract

The whole corn germ (WCG), due to its desirable nutritional characteristics, has been studied as feed for ruminants. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of WCG inclusion as a linoleic acid source in diets for feedlot lambs on carcass characteristics, physicochemical composition, sensory attributes, and fatty acid profile of the meat. Forty non-castrated, crossbreed Dorper x Santa Inês lambs were distributed in a completely randomized design to evaluate the inclusion levels (0, 30, 60, 90, and 120 g/kg dry matter (DM)) of whole corn germ (WCG) in the diet. The dietary inclusion of WCG did not influence (p > 0.05) the weight gain and carcass characteristics, with the exception of the subcutaneous fat thickness (p < 0.01), which was higher in animals fed diets with higher levels of WCG. Lightness (L *; p = 0.04), yellowness (b *; p < 0.01), shear force (p = 0.04), linoleic fatty acid concentrations (p = 0.03), and total polyunsaturated fatty acids (p = 0.04) had a quadratic increase due to WCG inclusion in the diets. The use of up to 120 g/kg DM of WCG in lamb diets does not affect the carcass characteristics, physicochemical composition, and sensory attributes of the meat. Despite this, the best polyunsaturated fatty acid profile in lambs’ meat is obtained using 76.7 g/kg DM of WCG.

Cluster analysis of resistance combinations in Escherichia coli from different human and animal populations in Germany 2014-2017

Recent findings on Antibiotic Resistance (AR) have brought renewed attention to the comparison of data on AR from human and animal sectors. This is however a major challenge since the data is not harmonized. This study performs a comparative analysis of data on resistance combinations in Escherichia coli (E. coli) from different routine surveillance and monitoring systems for human and different animal populations in Germany. Data on E. coli isolates were collected between 2014 and 2017 from human clinical isolates, non-clinical animal isolates from food-producing animals and food, and clinical animal isolates from food-producing and companion animals from national routine surveillance and monitoring for AR in Germany. Sixteen possible resistance combinations to four antibiotics—ampicillin, cefotaxime, ciprofloxacin and gentamicin–for these populations were used for hierarchical clustering (Euclidian and average distance). All analyses were performed with the software R 3.5.1 (Rstudio 1.1.442). Data of 333,496 E. coli isolates and forty-one different human and animal populations were included in the cluster analysis. Three main clusters were detected. Within these three clusters, all human populations (intensive care unit (ICU), general ward and outpatient care) showed similar relative frequencies of the resistance combinations and clustered together. They demonstrated similarities with clinical isolates from different animal populations and most isolates from pigs from both non-clinical and clinical isolates. Isolates from healthy poultry demonstrated similarities in relative frequencies of resistance combinations and clustered together. However, they clustered separately from the human isolates. All isolates from different animal populations with low relative frequencies of resistance combinations clustered together. They also clustered separately from the human populations. Cluster analysis has been able to demonstrate the linkage among human isolates and isolates from various animal populations based on the resistance combinations. Further analyses based on these findings might support a better one-health approach for AR in Germany.

Antimicrobial Usage Factors and Resistance Profiles of Shiga Toxin-Producing Escherichia coli in Backyard Production Systems From Central Chile

Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) is a zoonotic pathogen and important cause of foodborne disease worldwide. Many animal species in backyard production systems (BPS) harbor STEC, systems characterized by low biosecurity and technification. No information is reported on STEC circulation, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and potential drivers of antimicrobial usage in Chilean BPS, increasing the risk of maintenance and transmission of zoonotic pathogens and AMR generation. Thus, the aim of this study was to characterize phenotypic and genotypic AMR and to study the epidemiology of STEC isolated in BPS from Metropolitana region, Chile. A total of 85 BPS were sampled. Minimal inhibitory concentration and whole genome sequencing was assessed in 10 STEC strain isolated from BPS. All strains were cephalexin-resistant (100%, n = 10), and five strains were resistant to chloramphenicol (50%). The most frequent serotype was O113:H21 (40%), followed by O76:H19 (40%), O91:H14 (10%), and O130:H11 (10%). The stx1 type was detected in all isolated strains, while stx2 was only detected in two strains. The Stx subtype most frequently detected was stx1c (80%), followed by stx1a (20%), stx2b (10%), and stx2d (10%). All strains harbored chromosomal bla_AmpC. Principal component analysis shows that BPS size, number of cattle, pet and horse, and elevation act as driver of antimicrobial usage. Logistic multivariable regression shows that recognition of diseases in animals (p = 0.038; OR = 9.382; 95% CI: 1.138–77.345), neighboring poultry and/or swine BPS (p = 0.006; OR = 10.564; 95% CI: 1.996–55.894), visit of Veterinary Officials (p = 0.010; OR = 76.178; 95% CI: 2.860–2029.315) and close contact between animal species in the BPS (p = 0.021; OR = 9.030; 95% CI: 1.385–58.888) increase significantly the risk of antimicrobial use in BPS. This is the first evidence of STEC strains circulating in BPS in Chile, exhibiting phenotypic AMR, representing a threat for animal and public health. Additionally, we identified factors acting as drivers for antimicrobial usage in BPS, highlighting the importance of integration of these populations into surveillance and education programs to tackle the potential development of antimicrobial resistance and therefore the risk for ecosystemic health.

Antibiotic prescription practices and attitudes towards the use of antimicrobials among veterinarians in the City of Tshwane, South Africa

BACKGROUND

Understanding the prescription practices and attitudes of veterinarians towards antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is crucial in guiding efforts to curb AMR. This study investigated prescription practices and attitudes towards AMR among veterinarians in the City of Tshwane, South Africa.

METHODS

Out of the 83 veterinarians invited to participate in the study, 54 signed the consent form and completed the questionnaire. Percentages and 95% confidence intervals of all categorical variables were computed. A multinomial logistic model was used to identify predictors of the veterinarians' view towards antimicrobial use.

RESULTS

The majority (88%) of respondents indicated that improper use of antimicrobials contributed to selection for AMR. Veterinarians relied on clinical signs and symptoms (88%, 48/54) to decide whether to prescribe antimicrobials or not. However, the choice of antimicrobials depended on the cost of antibiotics (77.2%), route of administration (81.5%), and risk of potential adverse reactions (79.6%; 43/54). Many (61.5%) veterinarians were of the view that often antimicrobials are appropriately prescribed and 88.7% agreed that improper use of antimicrobials contributed to selection for antimicrobial resistant organisms. Compared to females, males were significantly more likely (Relative Risk Ratio (RRR) = 9.0; P = 0.0069) to agree rather than to "neither agree nor disagree" that their colleagues over-prescribed antimicrobials.

CONCLUSIONS

The decisions to prescribe antimicrobials by the veterinarians depended on clinical presentation of the patient, while the choice of antimicrobial depended on cost, route of administration, and risk of potential adverse reactions. Most veterinarians were of the view that antimicrobials were prescribed judiciously.

Bacteria Broadly-Resistant to Last Resort Antibiotics Detected in Commercial Chicken Farms

Resistance to last resort antibiotics in bacteria is an emerging threat to human and animal health. It is important to identify the source of these antimicrobial resistant (AMR) bacteria that are resistant to clinically important antibiotics and evaluate their potential transfer among bacteria. The objectives of this study were to (i) detect bacteria resistant to colistin, carbapenems, and β-lactams in commercial poultry farms, (ii) characterize phylogenetic and virulence markers of E. coli isolates to potentiate virulence risk, and (iii) assess potential transfer of AMR from these isolates via conjugation. Ceca contents from laying hens from conventional cage (CC) and cage-free (CF) farms at three maturity stages were randomly sampled and screened for extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Enterobacteriaceae, carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter (CRA), and colistin resistant Escherichia coli (CRE) using CHROMagar™ selective media. We found a wide-spread abundance of CRE in both CC and CF hens across all three maturity stages. Extraintestinal pathogenic Escherichia coli phylogenetic groups B2 and D, as well as plasmidic virulence markers iss and iutA, were widely associated with AMR E. coli isolates. ESBL-producing Enterobacteriaceae were uniquely detected in the early lay period of both CC and CF, while multidrug resistant (MDR) Acinetobacter were found in peak and late lay periods of both CC and CF. CRA was detected in CF hens only. bla_CMY was detected in ESBL-producing E. coli in CC and CF and MDR Acinetobacter spp. in CC. Finally, the bla_CMY was shown to be transferrable via an IncK/B plasmid in CC. The presence of MDR to the last-resort antibiotics that are transferable between bacteria in food-producing animals is alarming and warrants studies to develop strategies for their mitigation in the environment.

Herd-Level and Individual Differences in Fecal Lactobacilli Dynamics of Growing Pigs

Simple Summary

Selection for hyper-prolific sows has led to increased litter size, decreased birth weight, and increased within-litter variation. This is accompanied by impaired colostrum intake of piglets and poor performance. We aimed to investigate the total count of fecal lactobacilli and species diversity in growing pigs on two herds. Study pigs were categorized either small or large according to their birth weight. Sow colostrum quality and colostrum supply of piglets were determined. We hypothesized that the birth weight and growth performance of pigs are associated with fecal lactobacilli composition, which is influenced by colostrum. Small pigs had higher lactobacilli counts in both herds, but the difference was significant only for one herd (p = 0.01). Colostrum quality was numerically better in the herd that appeared also better managed in comparison to the other study herd. Colostrum intake tended to be significantly associated with the total lactobacilli count in the better-managed herd. In conclusion, herd-level factors clearly contribute to the microbiota of pigs, but birth weight also plays a potential role in the gastrointestinal tract lactobacilli dynamics. Our results revealed a potential long-term effect of colostrum, and therefore give a reason to investigate more thoroughly the associations between maternal immunity, pig microbiota, and performance.

Abstract

We studied the fecal lactobacilli count and species diversity of growing pigs along with immune parameters associated with intestinal lactobacilli. Thirty pigs categorized as small (S, n = 12) or large (L, n = 18) at birth were followed from birth to slaughter in two commercial herds, H1 and H2. Herds differed in terms of their general management. We determined sow colostrum quality, colostrum intake, piglet serum immunoglobulins, and pig growth. We took individual fecal samples from pigs in the weaning and finishing units. We studied lactobacilli count and identified their diversity with 16S PCR. Total lactobacilli count increased in H1 and decreased in H2 between samplings. Lactobacilli species diversity was higher in H1 in both fecal sampling points, whereas diversity decreased over time in both herds. We identified altogether seven lactobacilli species with a maximum of five (one to five) species in one herd. However, a relatively large proportion of lactobacilli remained unidentified with the used sequencing technique. Small pigs had higher lactobacilli counts in both herds but the difference was significant only in H2 (p = 0.01). Colostrum quality was numerically better in H1 than in H2, where colostrum intake tended to be associated with total lactobacilli count (p = 0.05).

Understanding antibiotic use for pig farming in Thailand: a qualitative study

BACKGROUND

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR), recognised as a serious and growing threat to global health, is promoted by multiple drivers, including antibiotic use in the livestock sector. Thus, understanding factors influencing antibiotic use in livestock production is essential to the design and implementation of effective interventions to reduce AMR. This qualitative study aimed to explore the experiences and views of the key actors associated with the use of antibiotics for pig farming in Thailand, from local farmers to officers in central government institutions.

METHODS

A total of 31 in-depth interviews were conducted with different categories of actors: pig farmers (n = 13), drug retailers (n = 5), veterinarians (n = 7), government officers (n = 3) and representatives of animal and human health associations (n = 2). Themes emerging from the interviews were identified and explored using thematic analysis. In addition, direct observations were conducted in the pig farms.

RESULTS

The findings highlight the multi-faceted nature of the views and practices that may contribute to misuse or overuse of antibiotics in the study locations, including misconceptions about the nature of antibiotics and AMR (particularly among smallholders), lack of facilities and financial means to establish an antibiotic-free farm, lack of sufficient training on AMR and antibiotic prescribing for veterinarians, the profit motive of pharmaceutical companies and their ties to farm consultants, and lack of sufficient regulatory oversight.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study indicates a clear need to improve antibiotic use for pig production in Thailand. Farmers need better access to veterinary services and reliable information about animal health needs and antibiotics. Innovative investments in biosecurity could improve farm management and decrease reliance on antibiotics, although the cost of these interventions should be low to ensure wide uptake in the livestock sector. Lastly, further development of professional training and clinical guidelines, and the establishment of a code of conduct, would help improve antibiotic dispensing practices.

Transition of microbiota in chicken cecal droppings from commercial broiler farms

Background

Chickens are major sources of human nutrition worldwide, but the chicken intestinal microbiota can be a source of bacterial infection. The microbiota has potential to regulate the colonization of pathogens by competitive exclusion, production of antimicrobial compounds, and stimulation of the mucosal immune system. But information on the microbiota in commercial broiler chickens is limited because of the difficulty of conducting studies at commercial farms. To obtain fundamental information that can be used to control pathogens in chickens, we determined the 6-week dynamics of microbiota in chicken cecal droppings from commercial broiler farms.

Results

Cecal droppings from four chickens were collected once a week from 1 to 6 weeks of age at three commercial broiler farms. A total of 168 samples were collected from 7 flocks and subjected to 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing. Despite the farms have distinctly different climate conditions, the microbiota in the same growth stages were similar among farms. Moreover, as the chickens grew and the feed types were switched, the richness and diversity of the microbiota gradually increased and convergence of the composition of the microbiota was apparent. Notably, minor bacterial taxa (i.e. OTUs with relative abundance < 0.05%) within the microbiota were changed by the chicken age, switching of feed types, and presence of Campylobacter. In particular, the effects of switching of feed types on the microbiota were larger than the effects of age and Campylobacter.

Conclusions

Irrespective of the locations of the farms, the microbiota of chicken cecum, especially minor bacteria, was successively changed more affected by feed types than by ages. Switching of feed types inducing the alteration of the microbiota may be associated with the colonization of pathogens in the chicken gut. These results will also help with extrapolation of studies in experimental animals to those in the commercial farms.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12917-020-02688-7.

Porcine Babesiosis Caused by Babesia sp. Suis in a Pot-Bellied Pig in South Africa

Babesiosis is a worldwide, tick-borne disease of economic importance in livestock caused by Babesia spp., which are hemoparasitic piroplasms that target the host erythrocytes. Cattle, dogs, small ruminants, and wild ruminants are the species most commonly affected, while in cats, horses, and pigs, it is less frequently reported. Although babesiosis has been observed worldwide, porcine babesiosis remains an uncommon disease with a very limited number of cases reported. Here, we describe a case in a 12-year old pot-bellied pig from South Africa that died after a history of anorexia and reluctance to rise for 2 days. A complete necropsy, blood smear cytology, reverse line blot (RLB) hybridization and 18S rRNA sequencing were performed. Numerous Babesia spp. hemoparasites and a moderate regenerative anemia were identified on blood smear, and a urine dipstick test yielded 4+ heme. Diffuse icterus and splenomegaly were observed upon gross examination. Histopathology revealed hemoglobin casts within renal tubules and collecting ducts, pulmonary edema, splenic congestion, and intrahepatic cholestasis. BLASTN homology of the 18SrRNA sequence revealed a 100% identity to the published sequence of Babesia sp. Suis isolated from pigs in Italy. This case of babesiosis in a pig highlights the clinical manifestations and gross and pathological findings of porcine babesiosis.

Risk factors associated with endometritis in zero-grazed dairy cows on smallholder farms in Rwanda

Clinical endometritis (CLE) and subclinical endometritis (SCLE) manifesting at the cow- and herd-levels has been associated with multiple risk factors (RFs), but hardly are RFs with direct influences separated from those with mediated indirect influences. This study identified and quantified the direct and indirect associations of cow- and herd-levels RFs with CLE and SCLE cases observed among 466 zero-grazed dairy cows that were in their 21-60 days postpartum (dpp). The cases were observed in a cross-sectional survey of smallholder farms (n = 370) in Rwanda. The direct and indirect associations were constructed with odds ratio (OR) derived from multiple logistic regression modelling. The cow-level RFs that had direct positive association with CLE and SCLE were the season of calving (OR: 5.0, 2.1), dystocia (OR: 1.9, 2.2), poor body condition score (OR: 4.1, 2.2), stillbirth (OR: 3.5, 3.3), and retained placenta (OR: 1.4, 1.8) while mastitis (OR: 2.5) and parity (OR: 1.5) had a direct positive association with SCLE. Breed and parity of cow, sex of calf, and twin births had indirect positive association with both CLE and SCLE cases. At the herd-level, unhygienic cowshed (OR: 25.1, 8.9) had direct positive association with both CLE and SCLE cases. In contrast, earthen floor cowshed (OR: 6.6) and large herd size (OR: 3.1) had direct positive association with CLE and not using bedding materials (OR: 1.5) had direct positive association with SCLE. Herd-level RFs that showed indirect positive association with both CLE and SCLE cases were farm size (OR: 2.9) and farmer's experience in dairying (OR: 1.7) while housing cows within the first 30 dpp (OR: 0.1) showed indirect negative association. These results show which RFs have strong direct and indirect influences on CLE and SCLE cases at the cow- and herd-levels. Effective management of those RFs should be a priority in extension education and services to enable smallholder farmers effectively manage them to prevent and control endometritis among their zero-grazed dairy cows.

Serological Determination of Toxoplasma gondii among Sheep (Ovis aries) in Guilan Province, Iran

Toxoplasma gondii is one of the most common foodborne protozoan parasite causing congenital infection, abortion, and stillbirth in humans and animals. The temperate and humid climate is one of the most important factors in the high prevalence of T. gondii. Sheep are among the important sources of meat production in Guilan province, Iran. Therefore, the consumption of raw and half-cooked meat is one of the major risk factors for T. gondii infection. Toxoplasmosis in patients with intact immune systems is usually asymptomatic; however, it but can be life-threatening in patients with a weak immune system (for example, patients with the human immunodeficiency viruses/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome or cancer and transplant recipients). Guilan is divided into three geographical regions of plains with a temperate climatic condition, hillsides with a semi-humid climate, and heights with cold mountainous climate. Climate situations play a role in the prevalence of toxoplasmosis. The present study aimed to investigate the seroprevalence of T. gondii infection among sheep in Guilan province, north of Iran. In the current cross-sectional study, a total of 400 sheep sera samples were tested for the determination of immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibody against T. gondii using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The samples were divided into different groups according to the geographical location and animal age. T. gondii antibody (i.e., IgG) was detected in 166 sheep (41.5%). The highest frequency of T. gondii infection (72.7%; n=56) was observed for the age group of &amp;gt; 4 years; the difference was statistically significant in this regard (P=0.0001) in comparison to that reported for other groups. In addition, the seroprevalence of T. gondii was significantly higher in the plains (53.9%) than that of the hillsides and heights (P=0.0001). Consequently, the seroprevalence of T. gondii infection in Guilan was high indicating a significant relationship with geographical location and animal age.

Evaluating the Histologic Grade of Digital Squamous Cell Carcinomas in Dogs with Dark and Light Haircoat-A Comparative Study of the Invasive Front and Tumor Cell Budding Systems

Simple Summary

This study compares two different adapted grading systems for Canine digital squamous cells carcinomas, taking into account the animals’ haircoat color and focusing on the tumor’s invasive front. In general, dark-haired breeds develop more poorly differentiated DSCC than their light-haired counterparts. Additionally, both grading systems challenged are in agreement when grading well differentiated CDSCC in both populations but are discordant when assessing tumors with poorly differentiated features. To our knowledge, this is the first study comparing CDSCC in dogs by two histological grading systems, taking into account their phenotypical and presumed genotypical haircoat color and demonstrating that digital squamous carcinomas are not only more common in dark-haired dogs, but potentially more aggressive.

Abstract

Canine digital squamous cell carcinomas (CDSCC) are particularly aggressive when compared to their occurrence in other locations. Although these neoplasms are more frequently seen in dark-haired dogs, such as Giant Schnauzers, there are no data checking whether these tumors are histologically different between breeds. We histologically evaluated DSCC from 94 dogs. These were divided into two groups, namely, (1) dark-haired (N = 76) and (2) light-haired breeds (N = 18), further subdividing Group 1 into three subgroups, (1a) black breeds (n = 11), (1b) Schnauzers (n = 34) and (1c) black & tan breeds (n = 31). Adaptations from two different squamous cell carcinomas grading schemes from human and veterinary literature were used. Both systems showed significant differences when compared to Groups 1 and 2 in terms of final grade, invasive front keratinization, degree of invasion, nuclear pleomorphism, tumor cell budding, smallest tumor nest size and amount of tumor stroma. Group 2 was consistently better differentiated CDSCC than Group 1. However, there were no significant differences among the dark-haired breeds in any of the features evaluated. This study represents the first attempt to grade CDSCC while taking into account both phenotypical and presumptive genotypical haircoat color. In conclusion, CDSCC are not only more common in dark-haired dogs, they are also histologically more aggressive.

Effects of Neospora caninum on reproductive parameters in dairy cows from a closed herd in Brazil

Dairy production and cattle reproductive parameters exhibit a strong relationship, which can be disrupted by infectious agents, such as Neospora caninum, that affect the reproductive tract of these animals. Neosporosis is a major cause of abortion in cattle worldwide and is responsible for substantial economic losses. We evaluated the impact of N. caninum infection on the reproductive parameters of 434 Holstein dairy cows from a herd in Brazil that had been closed for 4 years through the assessment of serological testing and reproductive parameters. Dairy cows older than 24 months and that required at least 2.2 inseminations to become pregnant had a higher frequency of seropositive results. Analysis of the medians of positive and negative cows revealed that seropositive cows tended to require more insemination efforts to achieve pregnancy and showed a 2-month increase in age at first calving. According to the reproductive parameters, the correlation coefficient was higher in seronegative animals, while no such correlation was detected in seropositive cows. Thus, we concluded that N. caninum negatively affects the reproductive parameters of dairy cows kept in a closed herd.

Potential effectiveness and adverse implications of repurposing doxycycline in COVID-19 treatment

Introduction: COVID-19 infection with no known-specific drugs or vaccines has impacted mankind and has become beyond precedence. Currently, re-purposing of existing drugs is the only therapeutic option for managing COVID-19 symptoms and associated co-infections to reduce mortality. Antimicrobials as varied as antiparasitic, antiviral, and antibiotics are under various stages of evaluation.Areas covered: Recently, doxycycline, a broad-spectrum antibiotic that has also reported antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties was widely investigated in clinical trials, either alone or in combination with other drugs, and repurposed for COVID-19 treatment. In the review, the potential therapeutic applications of doxycycline in COVID-19 treatment and its potential adverse implications with respect to antimicrobial resistance bestowed by repurposing the antibiotic have been expounded.Expert opinion: 'Fighting disease with already existing antibiotics' and 'antimicrobial resistance progression' are like two arms of a balance that has to be carefully equilibrated. Any imbalance by the inappropriate or indiscriminate use of the repurposed drugs would cause a disastrous increase in antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Hence, cautious parallel assessment of potential long-term consequences of AMR is of great importance to mankind as its impacts would prevail even after the current pandemic.

Anaplasmosis in Animals

Anaplasmosis is a vector-borne, infectious and non-contagious disease. The disease is caused by various pathogens of the genus Anaplasma. The different species cause different types of anaplasmosis depending on which cells that are infected in the mammalian host. Anaplasmosis has a wide host range, including humans, and it is distributed worldwide. The zoonotic potential of some species is of great importance in regards to public health concerns. This review presents information about anaplasmosis in animals and its prevalence in Europe, and other countries in the world.

Indications and patterns of antimicrobial use in pig farms in the southern Kyushu, Japan: large amounts of tetracyclines used to treat respiratory disease in post-weaning and fattening pigs

In Japan, reducing the use of antimicrobials in pig production is a significant issue. However, there are no published reports concerning porcine disease treatment, as related to the age of the pigs and the indications (e.g., organ system) in Japan. In this study, we analyzed the prescription records of 17 farrow-to-finish farms from 2014 to 2018 in southern Kyushu, Japan. The farms’ antimicrobial usage was calculated as the active ingredient per population correction unit (PCU) or the number of treated pigs per PCU using the defined daily dose. All data were analyzed according to the indications and production stages (sows, suckling pigs, post-weaning pigs, and fattening pigs). In terms of active ingredients/PCU, tetracyclines were the most commonly used (43.2–59.3%), and the largest amounts of antimicrobials administered through feeds were for treating the respiratory organs of fattening pigs. In terms of the number of treated pigs/PCU, tetracyclines were most frequently used (16.3–31.1%), and a high frequency of antimicrobials administered through feeds was used for the treatment of respiratory organs in post-weaning pigs. In this study, it was confirmed that tetracyclines were used frequently as a herd treatment for respiratory diseases in post-weaning and fattening pigs in southern Kyushu, Japan. The findings suggest that it is necessary to improve the treatment and prevention of respiratory diseases in post-weaning and fattening pigs in order to reduce the frequencies of antimicrobial treatments.

Functional Prediction and Assignment of Methanobrevibacter ruminantium M1 Operome Using a Combined Bioinformatics Approach

Methanobrevibacter ruminantium M1 (MRU) is a rod-shaped rumen methanogen with the ability to use H₂ and CO₂, and formate as substrates for methane formation in the ruminants. Enteric methane emitted from this organism can also be influential to the loss of dietary energy in ruminants and humans. To date, there is no successful technology to reduce methane due to a lack of knowledge on its molecular machinery and 73% conserved hypothetical proteins (HPs; operome) whose functions are still not ascertained perceptively. To address this issue, we have predicted and assigned a precise function to HPs and categorize them as metabolic enzymes, binding proteins, and transport proteins using a combined bioinformatics approach. The results of our study show that 257 (34%) HPs have well-defined functions and contributed essential roles in its growth physiology and host adaptation. The genome-neighborhood analysis identified 6 operon-like clusters such as hsp, TRAM, dsr, cbs and cas, which are responsible for protein folding, sudden heat-shock, host defense, and protection against the toxicities in the rumen. The functions predicted from MRU operome comprised of 96 metabolic enzymes with 17 metabolic subsystems, 31 transcriptional regulators, 23 transport, and 11 binding proteins. Functional annotation of its operome is thus more imperative to unravel the molecular and cellular machinery at the systems-level. The functional assignment of its operome would advance strategies to develop new anti-methanogenic targets to mitigate methane production. Hence, our approach provides new insight into the understanding of its growth physiology and lifestyle in the ruminants and also to reduce anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions worldwide.

What's in a Meow? A Study on Human Classification and Interpretation of Domestic Cat Vocalizations

Simple Summary

Cat–human communication is a core aspect of cat–human relationships and has an impact on domestic cats’ welfare. Meows are the most common human-directed vocalizations and are used in different everyday contexts to convey emotional states. This work investigates adult humans’ capacity to recognize meows emitted by cats during waiting for food, isolation, and brushing. We also assessed whether participants’ gender and level of empathy toward animals in general, and toward cats in particular, positively affect the recognition of cat meows. Participants were asked to complete an online questionnaire designed to assess their knowledge of cats and to evaluate their empathy toward animals. In addition, they listened to cat meows recorded in different situations and tried to identify the context in which they were emitted and their emotional valence. Overall, we found that, although meowing is mainly a human-directed vocalization and should represent a useful tool for cats to communicate emotional states to their owners, humans are not good at extracting precise information from cats’ vocalizations and show a limited capacity of discrimination based mainly on their experience with cats and influenced by gender and empathy toward them.

Abstract

Although the domestic cat (Felis catus) is probably the most widespread companion animal in the world and interacts in a complex and multifaceted way with humans, the human–cat relationship and reciprocal communication have received far less attention compared, for example, to the human–dog relationship. Only a limited number of studies have considered what people understand of cats’ human-directed vocal signals during daily cat–owner interactions. The aim of the current study was to investigate to what extent adult humans recognize cat vocalizations, namely meows, emitted in three different contexts: waiting for food, isolation, and brushing. A second aim was to evaluate whether the level of human empathy toward animals and cats and the participant’s gender would positively influence the recognition of cat vocalizations. Finally, some insights on which acoustic features are relevant for the main investigation are provided as a serendipitous result. Two hundred twenty-five adult participants were asked to complete an online questionnaire designed to assess their knowledge of cats and to evaluate their empathy toward animals (Animal Empathy Scale). In addition, participants had to listen to six cat meows recorded in three different contexts and specify the context in which they were emitted and their emotional valence. Less than half of the participants were able to associate cats’ vocalizations with the correct context in which they were emitted; the best recognized meow was that emitted while waiting for food. Female participants and cat owners showed a higher ability to correctly classify the vocalizations emitted by cats during brushing and isolation. A high level of empathy toward cats was significantly associated with a better recognition of meows emitted during isolation. Regarding the emotional valence of meows, it emerged that cat vocalizations emitted during isolation are perceived by people as the most negative, whereas those emitted during brushing are perceived as most positive. Overall, it emerged that, although meowing is mainly a human-directed vocalization and in principle represents a useful tool for cats to communicate emotional states to their owners, humans are not particularly able to extract precise information from cats’ vocalizations and show a limited capacity of discrimination based mainly on their experience with cats and influenced by empathy toward them.

Occurrence of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus spp. on Brazilian Dairy Farms that Produce Unpasteurized Cheese

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus spp. (MRS) have been identified in several foods, including dairy products. Studies are needed about their occurrence and genetic diversity in the dairy production chain in order to gain a better understanding of their epidemiology and control. This study therefore focuses on isolating and characterizing MRS strains detected in milk used in the production of Brazilian artisanal unpasteurized cheeses. To this end, samples were collected from bovine feces, the hands of milkmen, milking buckets, sieves, unpasteurized milk, whey, water, artisanal unpasteurized cheeses, cheese processing surfaces, cheese handlers, cheese trays, cheese molds, and skimmers at five dairy farms located in the state of São Paulo, Brazil. Colonies suggestive of Staphylococcus spp. were subjected to multiplex PCR to confirm the presence of Staphylococcus aureus and to detect the mecA gene. Sixteen isolates containing mecA gene were detected in samples from unpasteurized cheese and from cheese handlers. None of these isolates were positive to enterotoxin genes. These 16 isolates were subjected to antimicrobial susceptibility tests, which revealed they were resistant to oxacillin, penicillin, and cefepime. Using gene sequencing, the MRS isolates were identified as S. haemolyticus, S. hominis, and S. epidermidis. Furthermore, isolates from cheese handlers’ hands and artisanal unpasteurized cheese presented high genetic similarity by random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD-PCR) analysis, which indicates cross contamination during cheese production. Thus, we found that people directly involved in milking and cheese processing activities at small dairy farms are a potential source of contamination of MRS strains in unpasteurized milk and cheese, representing a risk to public health.

Influence of Subclinical Ketosis in Dairy Cows on Ingestive-Related Behaviours Registered with a Real-Time System

Simple Summary

Earlier disease detection may benefit cows by improving responses to treatment. We expected that changes in rumination before evident clinical signs of subclinical ketosis would result in the earlier identification of disease. Cows with subclinical ketosis showed lesser average values for the following parameters: rumination time and rumination chews (1.48 and 1.68 times respectively; p < 0.001), drinking time (1.50 times; p < 0.001), chews per minute, bolus and chews per bolus (1.12, 1.45 and 1.51 times; p < 0.001). From the 15th day before the diagnosis of ketosis, rumination time in the healthy group was greater than that in subclinical ketosis cows from −0.96% (−17 day) to 187.79% (0 days, p < 0.001). Eating time at the beginning of the experiment in healthy cows was 48.92% and at the end of the period was −91.97% lesser compared to subclinical ketosis (p < 0.001).

Abstract

According to the literature, rumination time can be used as biomarker in the diagnosis of subclinical ketosis (SCK). We hypothesized that SCK in cows influences ingestive-related behaviours registered with the real-time system. The aim of the current study was to determine the influence of SCK on dairy cows’ ingestive-related behaviours registered with a real-time system. Twenty Lithuanian Black and White breed dairy cows were selected based on the following criteria: First day after calving, having two or more lactations (on average 3.0 ± 0.13 lactations), and being clinically healthy. The experiment lasted 18 days. Cows were tested 24 h a day for 17.5 days. On the day of diagnosis (day 0), data were recorded for 12 h. During the experimental period, one cow was studied for a total of 420 h. For the registration of rumination behaviour, the RumiWatch system (RWS) was used. It was found that cows with SCK showed lesser average values for the following parameters: rumination time and rumination chews (1.48 and 1.68 times respectively; p < 0.001), drinking time (1.50 times; p < 0.001), chews per minute, bolus and chews per bolus (1.12, 1.45 and 1.51 times; p < 0.001). From the 15th day before the diagnosis of SCK, rumination time in health cows was greater than that in SCK cows from −0.96% (−17 day) to 187.79% (0 days, < 0.001). We estimated the greater average value of drinking time in healthy cows compared with SCK cows from 34.22% on day −17 to −121.67% on day 0 (p < 0.001). Decrease in rumination time was associated with a significant increase in the probability of risk of SCK. Further studies are needed with a larger number of cows with SCK.

Effect of antimicrobial use and production system on Campylobacter spp., Staphylococcus spp. and Salmonella spp. resistance in Spanish swine: A cross-sectional study

Antimicrobial resistance is a worldwide public health threat; hence, current trends tend to reduce antimicrobial use in food-producing animals and to monitor resistance in primary production. This study aimed at evaluating the impact of antimicrobial use and production system on swine farms in the antimicrobial resistance of Campylobacter, Salmonella and Staphylococcus, the main zoonotic pathogens in pig herds, in order to assess their potential value as sentinel microorganisms in antimicrobial resistance surveillance schemes. A total of 37 Spanish swine farms, 18 intensive and 19 organic/extensive farms, were included in the study. The antimicrobial resistance of 104 Campylobacter, 84 Staphylococcus and 17 Salmonella isolates was evaluated using Sensititre plates following the EUCAST guidelines. Mixed-effects logistic regression was used to evaluate the influence of production system and antimicrobial use in resistant and multidrug-resistant (MDR) phenotypes to the antimicrobials tested. The results showed that antimicrobial use was higher (p < .001) on intensive farms than on organic/extensive farms. MDR in Campylobacter and Staphylococcus was lower on organic/extensive farms (OR < .01p < .001). Antimicrobial resistance in Campylobacter and Staphylococcus isolates was, also for most of the antimicrobials studied, significantly higher in intensive than organic/extensive pig herds. Tetracycline resistance was associated with total antimicrobial consumption in both microbial species (p < .05), and some cross-associations between distinct antimicrobial substances were established, for instance resistance to erythromycin was associated with macrolide and phenicol consumption. No significant associations could be established for Salmonella isolates. The results demonstrate the link between antimicrobial consumption and resistance in zoonotic bacteria and evidence the potential value of using Campylobacter and Staphylococcus species in monitoring activities aimed at determining the impact of antimicrobials use/reduction on the occurrence and spread of antimicrobial resistance.

Metals in Imaging of Alzheimer's Disease

One of the hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the deposition of amyloid plaques in the brain parenchyma, which occurs 7-15 years before the onset of cognitive symptoms of the pathology. Timely diagnostics of amyloid formations allows identifying AD at an early stage and initiating inhibitor therapy, delaying the progression of the disease. However, clinically used radiopharmaceuticals based on 11C and 18F are synchrotron-dependent and short-lived. The design of new metal-containing radiopharmaceuticals for AD visualization is of interest. The development of coordination compounds capable of effectively crossing the blood-brain barrier (BBB) requires careful selection of a ligand moiety, a metal chelating scaffold, and a metal cation, defining the method of supposed Aβ visualization. In this review, we have summarized metal-containing drugs for positron emission tomography (PET), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) imaging of Alzheimer's disease. The obtained data allow assessing the structure-ability to cross the BBB ratio.

The presence of tetracyclines and sulfonamides in swine feeds and feces: dependence on the antibiotic type and swine growth stages

Swine farms are one of the important sources of antibiotics in the environment. In this study, 42 samples of compound feed and feces of swine collected at different growth stages from intensive farms were evaluated for the occurrence and concentrations of three tetracyclines (TCs, namely oxytetracycline, chlortetracycline, and doxycycline) and three sulfonamides (SAs, namely sulfadiazine, sulfadimidine, and sulfamethoxazole). To check for other additional sources of antibiotic administration, ratios (R) of the measured and the predicted levels of each antibiotic excreted via feces were also estimated. Our results showed that the maximum concentration of TCs was 376,210 μg kg^-1 and 541,020 μg kg^-1 in the feeds and feces, respectively, both for oxytetracycline. In contrast, the highest concentration of SAs were 16.98 μg kg^-1 for sulfadimidine in the feeds and 14.70 μg kg^-1 for sulfadiazine in the feces. The concentrations of ΣTCs (sum of the three tetracyclines) in swine feeds and feces were found to be 1-4 orders of magnitude higher than those of ΣSAs (sum of the three sulfonamides). Approximately 36% of the R values were found to be greater than one, indicating other sources of administration such as injection and/or oral administration (via drinking water) may also contribute to the presence of antibiotics in feces. Most of the higher R values were found in starter pigs, which were generally administrated with antibiotics by multiple routes to prevent disease and promote swine growth. Our study suggests that comprehensive measures may be undertaken to control antibiotic use in intensive swine farms.

Pharmacokinetic profile of a single dose of an oral pradofloxacin suspension administered to eastern long-necked turtles (Chelodina longicollis)

The pharmacokinetics of fluoroquinolones in chelonians are well described but this does not extend to pradofloxacin, a broad-spectrum veterinary fluoroquinolone available as an oral suspension for cats and dogs. The aim of this study was to investigate the single-dose pharmacokinetic profile of pradofloxacin oral suspension at 7.5 mg/kg in eastern long-necked turtles (Chelodina longicollis). Eight treated turtles were sampled at multiple time points up to 168 hr. Plasma concentrations were measured using high-performance liquid chromatography. Pradofloxacin was quantifiable for up to 48 hr after drug administration. The T_max (9.0 hr) and T_½ to 48 hr (13.16 hr) were longer, and the C_max (0.2 μg/ml) and AUC_0-24 (2.2 hr*μg/ml) lower, than previously reported in cats and dogs. Pradofloxacin was measurable in tank water samples for up to 48 hr. No adverse effects were observed in six turtles administered 7.5 mg/kg sid for 7 days. Using mammalian MIC data, the AUC_0-24 /MIC ratios for a range of bacterial isolates suggest that this dose of pradofloxacin in turtles is unlikely to be effective against many bacterial pathogens.

Knockout of the Glucocorticoid Receptor Impairs Reproduction in Female Zebrafish

The pleiotropic effects of glucocorticoids in metabolic, developmental, immune and stress response processes have been extensively investigated; conversely, their roles in reproduction are still less documented. It is well known that stress or long-lasting therapies can cause a strong increase in these hormones, negatively affecting reproduction. Moreover, the need of glucocorticoid (GC) homeostatic levels is highlighted by the reduced fertility reported in the zebrafish glucocorticoid receptor mutant (nr3c1^ia30/ia30) line (hereafter named gr^−/−). Starting from such evidence, in this study, we have investigated the role of glucocorticoid receptor (Gr) in the reproduction of female zebrafish. Key signals orchestrating the reproductive process at the brain, liver, and ovarian levels were analyzed using a multidisciplinary approach. An impairment of the kiss-GnRH system was observed at the central level in (gr^−/−) mutants as compared to wild-type (wt) females while, in the liver, vitellogenin (vtg) mRNA transcription was not affected. Changes were instead observed in the ovary, particularly in maturing and fully grown follicles (classes III and IV), as documented by the mRNA levels of signals involved in oocyte maturation and ovulation. Follicles isolated from gr^−/− females displayed a decreased level of signals involved in the acquisition of competence and maturation, causing a reduction in ovulation with respect to wt females. Fourier transform infrared imaging (FTIRI) analysis of gr^−/− follicle cytoplasm showed major changes in macromolecule abundance and distribution with a clear alteration of oocyte composition. Finally, differences in the molecular structure of the zona radiata layer of gr^−/− follicles are likely to contribute to the reduced fertilization rate observed in mutants.

Effect of seaweed-containing diets on visceral organ sizes, carcass characteristics, and meat quality and stability of Boschveld indigenous hens

Seaweeds are functional feed ingredients that have antioxidant, antimicrobial, and growth-boosting properties that can improve poultry product quality. This study, therefore, investigated the effect of graded levels of green seaweed meal (Ulva spp.) (SWM) on visceral organ sizes, carcass characteristics, and meat quality and stability of Boschveld indigenous hens. A total of 275, four-week-old female chicks (202.4 ± 6.65 g of live weight) were reared on 5 isocaloric and isonitrogenous diets formulated by adding SWM at a concentration of 0 (SW0), 2 (SW20), 2.5 (SW25), 3 (SW30), and 3.5% (SW35). Birds were humanely slaughtered at 14 wk of age. Cecum weight linearly increased (R² = 0.366, P = 0.002), whereas proventriculus (R² = 0.205, P = 0.025) and duodenum (R² = 0.242, P = 0.010) weights linearly decreased with SWM levels. Neither linear nor quadratic trends (P > 0.05) were observed for carcass traits, meat quality parameters, and shelf life indicators in response to dietary SWM levels. Repeated-measures analysis showed a significant time × diet interaction effect on meat redness (a∗). After 24 h of storage, meat from hens fed with SW35 (2.47) diet had a higher a∗ value than meat from hens fed with SW30 diet (0.48). However, the inclusion of SWM promoted similar (P > 0.05) shelf life indicators as the control diet for the rest of the 7-d storage period at room temperature. In conclusion, dietary inclusion of SWM had no adverse effect on visceral organ size, carcass and meat quality traits, and meat stability of Boschveld indigenous hens.

First isolation and whole-genome sequencing of a Shewanella algae strain from a swine farm in Brazil

BACKGROUND

Infections caused by Shewanella spp. have been increasingly reported worldwide. The advances in genomic sciences have enabled better understanding about the taxonomy and epidemiology of this agent. However, the scarcity of DNA sequencing data is still an obstacle for understanding the genus and its association with infections in humans and animals.

RESULTS

In this study, we report the first isolation and whole-genome sequencing of a Shewanella algae strain from a swine farm in Brazil using the boot sock method, as well as the resistance profile of this strain to antimicrobials. The isolate was first identified as Shewanella putrefaciens, but after whole-genome sequencing it showed greater similarity with Shewanella algae. The strain showed resistance to 46.7% of the antimicrobials tested, and 26 resistance genes were identified in the genome.

CONCLUSIONS

This report supports research made with Shewanella spp. and gives a step forward for understanding its taxonomy and epidemiology. It also highlights the risk of emerging pathogens with high resistance to antimicrobial formulas that are important to public health.

Antimicrobial use and practices by animal health professionals in 20 sub-Saharan African countries

The use of antimicrobial (AM) in animal production is an important contributor to antimicrobial resistance (AMR) worldwide. Animal health professionals should play a key role in ensuring judicious use of AM. However, they are subjected to influence from clinical and non-clinical factors. The present study evaluates the perceptions and concerns of animal health practitioners regarding antimicrobial use (AMU) and prescription practices. A cross-sectional online questionnaire survey was conducted among animal health practitioners, predominantly veterinary doctors (88 %) in 20 African countries. Results showed that the most prescribed and administered AM were tetracycline (66 %) followed by β-lactams (32 %) and macrolides (25 %). Most respondents were very confident in deciding on the right dose of AM (77 %) and treatment plans (76 %) as compared to choosing the correct AM (52 %) and making an accurate diagnosis (46 %). Self-reported confidence in the implementation of antimicrobial stewardship was significantly influenced by the respondents' work environment, gender and access to information on AM. Lack of diagnostic facilities and susceptibility tests were major hindrances to adequate prescriptions and use of AM. Perceived drivers of AMR identified were excessive prescription by animal health professionals and the use of AM without proper diagnosis. Almost two thirds (62 %) of the respondents had sufficient information on AM when needed while the main source of information was professional training and drug labels. Thus, reinforcement of regional and country-level guidelines and tailored continuing education programs for veterinarians as well as the development of field-friendly disease diagnosis and management tools are essential to considerably improve AMU.

Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Comparison With Canine Mammary Tumors From Light Microscopy to Molecular Pathology

Many similar characteristics in human and dog cancers including, spontaneous development, clinical presentation, tumor heterogeneity, disease progression, and response to standard therapies have promoted the approval of this comparative model as an alternative to mice. Breast cancer represents the second most frequent neoplasm in humans after lung cancer. Triple-negative breast cancers (TNBC) constitute around 15% of all cases of breast cancer and do not express estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and do not overexpress human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2). As a result, they do not benefit from hormonal or trastuzumab-based therapy. Patients with TNBC have worse overall survival than patients with non-TNBC. Lehmann and collaborators described six different molecular subtypes of TNBC which further demonstrated its transcriptional heterogeneity. This six TNBC subtype classification has therapeutic implications. Breast cancer is the second most frequent neoplasm in sexually intact female dogs after skin cancer. Canine mammary tumors are a naturally occurring heterogeneous group of cancers that have several features in common with human breast cancer (HBC). These similarities include etiology, signaling pathway activation, and histological classification. Molecularly CMTs are more like TNBCs, and therefore dogs are powerful spontaneous models of cancer to test new therapeutic approaches, particularly for human TNBCs. More malignant tumors of the breast are more often ER and PR negative in both humans and dogs. Promising breast cancer biomarkers in both humans and canines are cancer-associated stroma (CAS), circulating tumor cells and tumor DNA (ctDNA), exosomes and miRNAs, and metabolites.

Canine babesiosis - a disease rarely considered in the context of male infertility

Background

Little is known about the impact of babesiosis on semen quality and fertility in dogs.

Case presentation

Four cases of infertility in male dogs after infection with Babesia canis are described. In all dogs sperm quality was low. Two dogs were castrated pharmacologically or surgically. In two dogs fertility was restored after supplementation with selenium and Vitamin E. As possible causes of spermatogenesis disorders due to the treatment of infection with Babesia canis with imidocarb, fever and disturbed testicular microcirculation are discussed.

Conclusions

These cases indicate that if males have fertility problems, question about babesiosis infection in the past should be a permanent point in the clinical interview.

Serotypes and antimicrobial resistance profiles of Salmonella enterica recovered from clinical swine samples

Background and Aim:

Salmonella enterica is an important foodborne pathogen and is recognized as a major public health issue. The emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) S. enterica represents a major challenge for national public health authorities. We investigated the distribution of serovars and antimicrobial resistance of S. enterica isolates from clinical swine samples stored at the Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University from 2016 to 2017.

Materials and Methods:

Clinical samples were collected and subjected to standard microbiological techniques outlined in the Manual of Clinical Microbiology to identify Salmonella serovars. Susceptibility to antimicrobials was tested by the Kirby–Bauer disk diffusion method using a panel of 14 antimicrobials.

Results:

A total of 144 Salmonella isolates were identified and the dominant serovar was Salmonella Choleraesuis (66.67%), followed by monophasic Salmonella Typhimurium (18.75%), S. Typhimurium (9.03%), and Rissen (5.56%). The isolates displayed high resistance rates to ampicillin (AMP [100%]), amoxicillin (AX [100%]), tetracycline (TE [100%]), cefotaxime (CTX [89.58%]), ceftriaxone (CRO [87.50%]), chloramphenicol (C [82.64%]), gentamicin (CN [79.17%]), nalidixic acid (NA [72.92%]), and ceftazidime (CAZ [71.53%]). All isolates were MDR, with 29 distinct resistance patterns. The dominant MDR pattern among serovars Choleraesuis and Rissen exhibited resistance to 9 antimicrobials: (R7-14 AMP-AX-CAZ-CRO-CTX-NA-C-CN-TE). However, all tested isolates were susceptible to AX/clavulanic acid and fosfomycin.

Conclusion:

High resistance levels to the third generation of cephalosporins such as CAZ, CRO, and CTX highlight the need for careful and reasonable usage of antimicrobials in animals and humans, especially for S. Choleraesuis infections.

Antimicrobial use in wean to market pigs in the United States assessed via voluntary sharing of proprietary data

Data on antimicrobial use were collected for the 2016 and 2017 calendar years from swine producers in the United States. Nine large systems, collectively producing over 20 million market pigs annually, voluntarily provided data to advance understanding of antimicrobial use in the industry and to support antimicrobial stewardship initiatives. The scope of the study was limited to growing pigs, and the granularity of data varied across the systems. Data were summarized both qualitatively and quantitatively by antimicrobial class, active ingredient and route of administration (injection, water and feed). Data on the purpose of administration, doses and durations of administration were not available, but some information was provided by the responsible veterinarians. Aggregate data were similar both qualitatively and quantitatively in 2016 and 2017, although marked changes between years were evident within systems for some antimicrobials. Antimicrobial use (by weight) was dominated by the tetracycline class (approximately 60% of total use). Antimicrobials in classes categorized as critically important constituted 4.5% and 5.3% of total use in 2016 and 2017, respectively. In both years, fluoroquinolone (0.23%, 0.46%) and 3rd generation cephalosporin (0.15%, 0.11%) use collectively accounted for <1% of total use. Administration was predominantly oral in feed and water, and injection comprised approximately 2% of use overall, but around 12% for critically important antimicrobials. There was considerable variability among systems in patterns of antimicrobial use. This pilot project demonstrates the feasibility of acquiring antimicrobial use data via voluntary sharing. It is currently being expanded among larger swine production systems, and further efforts to enable confidential data sharing and benchmarking for smaller producers are being pursued by the swine industry. Recognized biases in the data caution against over-interpretation of these data as an index of national use.

Eucommia ulmoides Flavones as Potential Alternatives to Antibiotic Growth Promoters in a Low-Protein Diet Improve Growth Performance and Intestinal Health in Weaning Piglets

Eucommia ulmoides flavones (EUF) have been demonstrated to attenuate the inflammation and oxidative stress of piglets. This study aimed to test whether EUF could be used as an alternative antibiotic growth promoter to support growth performance and maintain intestinal health in weanling piglets. Weaned piglets (n = 480) were assigned into three groups and fed with a low-protein basal diet (NC), or supplementation with antibiotics (PC) or 0.01% EUF (EUF). Blood, intestinal contents, and intestine were collected on days 15 and 35 after weaning. The results showed the PC and EUF supplementations increased (p < 0.05) body weight on day 35, average daily gain and gain: feed ratio from day 15 to day 35 and day 0 to day 35, whereas decreased (p < 0.05) the diarrhea index of weanling piglets. EUF treatment increased (p < 0.05) jejunal villus height: crypt depth ratio, jejunal and ileal villus height, and population of ileal lactic acid bacteria on day 15 but decreased (p < 0.05) the population of ileal coliform bacteria on day 15 and day 35. These findings indicated the EUF, as the potential alternative to in-feed antibiotic growth promoter, could improve growth performance and intestinal morphology, and decrease colonization of coliform bacteria and diarrhea index in weanling piglets.

Association of diet with left ventricular wall thickness, troponin I and IGF-1 in cats with subclinical hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

BACKGROUND

Cats with subclinical hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (sHCM) have elevated serum insulin and serum amyloid A concentrations correlating with the degree of cardiac hypertrophy. Diet might affect these and other cardiac variables.

OBJECTIVE

Evaluate the effect of a complete, balanced diet with restricted starch and supplemented with eicosapentaenoic acid + docosahexaenoic acid (EPA + DHA) on echocardiographic variables and cardiac biomarkers in cats with sHCM.

ANIMALS

Forty-four client-owned cats with sHCM.

METHODS

A prospective, randomized, double-blind, multicenter study enrolled cats with end-diastole interventricular septum thickness (IVSd) or left ventricular wall thickness (LVWd) ≥6 mm, or both. Nonsedated, fasted cats were examined at baseline and after 6 and 12 months of Test (restricted starch and EPA + DHA supplements) (n = 23) or Control (unrestricted starch without EPA + DHA supplementation) (n = 21) diet. Assessments included auscultation, body weight, body condition score, echocardiography and blood analysis. Linear and generalized mixed models analyzed diet, time and diet * time interactions (5% significance level).

RESULTS

No differences between diet groups were significant for any variable at any timepoint. There were significant decreases in the Test but not Control group in maximum IVSd (P = .03), maximum LVWd (P = .02) and insulin-like growth factor-1 levels (P = .04) after 12 months, and in ultrasensitive cardiac troponin I (cTnI) (P = .001) after 6 months; effect sizes (95% confidence interval) were 0.53 (0.09; 0.99), 0.63 (0.18; 1.09), 0.61 (0.16; 1.07), and 0.37 (-0.06; 0.8), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE

Cats with sHCM fed Test diet had significant decreases in echocardiographic variables of sHCM and in cTnI and IGF-1.

Trends in de-lousing of Norwegian farmed salmon from 2000-2019-Consumption of medicines, salmon louse resistance and non-medicinal control methods

The salmon louse Lepeophtheirus salmonis has been a substantial obstacle in Norwegian farming of Atlantic salmon for decades. With a limited selection of available medicines and frequent delousing treatments, resistance has emerged among salmon lice. Surveillance of salmon louse sensitivity has been in place since 2013, and consumption of medicines has been recorded since the early 80’s. The peak year for salmon lice treatments was 2015, when 5.7 times as many tonnes of salmonids were treated compared to harvested. In recent years, non-medicinal methods of delousing farmed fish have been introduced to the industry. By utilizing data on the annual consumption of medicines, annual frequency of medicinal and non-medicinal treatments, the aim of the current study was to describe the causative factors behind salmon lice sensitivity in the years 2000–2019, measured through toxicity tests–bioassays. The sensitivity data from 2000–2012 demonstrate the early emergence of resistance in salmon lice along the Norwegian coast. Reduced sensitivity towards azamethiphos, deltamethrin and emamectin benzoate was evident from 2009, 2009 and 2007, respectively. The annual variation in medicine consumption and frequency of medicinal treatments correlated well with the evolution in salmon louse sensitivity. The patterns are similar, with a relatively small response delay from the decline in the consumption of medicines in Norway (2016 and onward) to the decline in measured resistance among salmon louse (2017 and onward). 2017 was the first year in which non-medicinal treatments outnumbered medicinal delousing treatments as well as the peak year in numbers of cleanerfish deployed. This study highlights the significance of avoiding heavy reliance on a few substance groups to combat ectoparasites, this can be a potent catalyst for resistance evolution. Further, it demonstrates the importance of transparency in the global industry, which enables the industry to learn from poor choices in the past.

The Quality of Eggs from Rosa 1 Hens Fed Diets Containing Seeds of Legume Plants (Lupinus luteus L., Lupinus angustifolius, and Pisum sativum) in Two Laying Phases

Simple Summary

The use of legumes in diets for egg-laying hens exists as an alternative high-protein material in place of soybean meal, which will allow for wider production choices, including the elimination of genetically modified organism (GMO) products. The lack of negative impacts with legume usage on most of the examined traits and the improvement of the color of the yolk presents an attractive solution for the consumer market. The reduced content of anti-nutritional compounds in new varieties of lupins and peas is also a fact of the progress in agricultural production, including egg quality, which the producer can influence by feeding hens differently. The presented research indicates the possibility of using alternative feeding of laying hens in terms of the quality of table eggs.

Abstract

This study analyzes the eggs’ quality from hens fed with alternative protein to soybean meal (SBM) in relation to laying phase. Here, 226 hens are divided into the control (I) and experimental (II) groups and reared for 50 weeks. There were two feeding phases (weeks 1–36; 37–50). Quality was assessed for 20 eggs from each group. The eggs are analyzed for their external and internal traits. A higher albumen weight in II and higher weights of the components were found in the 37–50 weeks for both groups, also in the percentage of yolk and albumen, however lower eggshell percentage was found for both groups, at the same time they were less durable and found to be thinner. In II, the La Roche color and the L*, b* were lower, but the a* increased, as did the albumen height. In the second phase, the La Roche and DSM color were higher, while the Haugh unit and albumen height decreased. Factors’ interaction was demonstrated for color. Legumes can partly substitute SBM in feed for hens. There were no negative effects on the eggs’ quality for most traits. The differences between the laying phases are due to the natural course and the physiology of laying hens.

Pesticides Used on Beef Cattle Feed Yards Are Aerially Transported into the Environment Via Particulate Matter

Considering the recent discovery of veterinary pharmaceutical aerial transport from industrial cattle feeding operations via particulate matter, the objective of this study is to determine the extent to which insecticides are also transported into the environment by total suspended particulates emanating from beef cattle feed yards. Of 16 different pesticides quantified in particulate matter samples collected from beef cattle feed yards, permethrin was detected most frequently at >67% of particulate matter samples and at a mean concentration of 1211.7 ± 781.0 (SE) ng/m³. Imidacloprid was detected at a mean concentration of 62.8 ± 38.2 (SE) ng/m³ or equivalent to published concentrations in dust from treated seed planting activities. When insecticide concentrations observed in this study are projected to all United States of America feed yards, the resulting particulate matter (669,000 kg) could contain enough insecticides (active ingredient mass basis) to kill over a billion honeybees daily. Furthermore, a novel transport pathway for macrocyclic lactone entry into the environment was identified. These data raise concern that nontarget organisms may be exposed to potentially toxic levels of pesticides from beef cattle feed yards.

Guidelines for oral fluid-based surveillance of viral pathogens in swine

Recent decades have seen both rapid growth and extensive consolidation in swine production. As a collateral effect, these changes have exacerbated the circulation of viruses and challenged our ability to prevent, control, and/or eliminate impactful swine diseases. Recent pandemic events in human and animal health, e.g., SARS-CoV-2 and African swine fever virus, highlight the fact that clinical observations are too slow and inaccurate to form the basis for effective health management decisions: systematic processes that provide timely, reliable data are required. Oral fluid-based surveillance reflects the adaptation of conventional testing methods to an alternative diagnostic specimen. The routine use of oral fluids in commercial farms for PRRSV and PCV2 surveillance was first proposed in 2008 as an efficient and practical improvement on individual pig sampling. Subsequent research expanded on this initial report to include the detection of ≥23 swine viral pathogens and the implementation of oral fluid-based surveillance in large swine populations (> 12,000 pigs). Herein we compile the current information regarding oral fluid collection methods, testing, and surveillance applications in swine production.

Prevalence of fasciolosis (Liver flukes) infection in cattle in Zamfara, Nigeria: A slaughterhouse surveillance data utilizing postmortem examination

Bovine fasciolosis, caused by Fasciola gigantica (F. gigantica) and rarely F. hepatica, is an economically important disease affecting cattle in tropical Africa. The aims of this study were to determine a year prevalence of bovine fasciolosis and correlate determinants of infection in slaughtered cattle at the municipal abattoir in Zamfara, Nigeria. Fasciola gigantica was detected in 15% (1740/11,562) cattle slaughtered during a daily postmortem examination (PME) between November 2016 and October 2017. This approach demonstrated an increase risk of liver fluke infection in older cattle (p = 0.001, AOR = 1.476, 95% CI: 1.188-1.832) and during rainfall (p = 0.003, AOR = 1.604, 95% CI: 1.176-2.187). Liver condemnation had been significantly found in hot-dry season (p ≤0.001, AOR = 0.518, 95% CI: 0.417-0.643) and adult cattle (p = 0.003, AOR = 1.726, 95% CI: 0.586-0.899). This study is an account of bovine fasciolosis prevalence and infection dynamics in part of the northwest region of Nigeria, which provides preliminary information for further studies to guide the design of appropriate control steps to lower the impact of the disease and safeguard public health.

Prevotella in Pigs: The Positive and Negative Associations with Production and Health

A diverse and dynamic microbial community (known as microbiota) resides within the pig gastrointestinal tract (GIT). The microbiota contributes to host health and performance by mediating nutrient metabolism, stimulating the immune system, and providing colonization resistance against pathogens. Manipulation of gut microbiota to enhance growth performance and disease resilience in pigs has recently become an active area of research in an era defined by increasing scrutiny of antimicrobial use in swine production. In order to develop microbiota-targeted strategies, or to identify potential next-generation probiotic strains originating from the endogenous members of GIT microbiota in pigs, it is necessary to understand the role of key commensal members in host health. Many, though not all, correlative studies have associated members of the genus Prevotella with positive outcomes in pig production, including growth performance and immune response; therefore, a comprehensive review of the genus in the context of pig production is needed. In the present review, we summarize the current state of knowledge about the genus Prevotella in the intestinal microbial community of pigs, including relevant information from other animal species that provide mechanistic insights, and identify gaps in knowledge that must be addressed before development of Prevotella species as next-generation probiotics can be supported.

Effect of acidified turmeric and/or black pepper on growth performance and meat quality of broiler chickens

The study investigated the effect of acidified turmeric, black pepper or its combination on growth and meat quality of broilers. The Averrhoa bilimbi Linn. fruit filtrate was used to acidify the herbs. A number of 392 day-old Lohmann broiler chicks were randomly distributed to four groups, including CONT (control diet), TRMC (diet supplemented with 1% acidified turmeric), BLPR (1% acidified black pepper) and TRPR (1% acidified turmeric and 1% acidified black pepper). Body weight, feed intake and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were weekly recorded. Internal organ weight and carcase traits were determined at day 35. The CONT and TRMC showed greater (p < 0.05) weight gain than BLPR and TRPR. The FCR was lower (p < 0.05) in TRMC than in BLPR and TRPR, but did not differ from CONT. The gizzard was greater (p < 0.05) in BLPR than that in CONT and TRMC. The BLPR had smaller (p < 0.05) pancreas than other chickens. Abdominal fat was lower (p < 0.05) in TRMC, BLPR and TRPR than that in CONT, of which BLPR was the lowest. Drumstick was greater (p < 0.05) in BLPR than in CONT. CONT had lighter and less yellow (p < 0.05) breast meats than other broilers. In thigh meats, the lightness (L*) values were higher (p < 0.05) in CONT than in TRMC and BLPR. The yellowness (b*) were lower (p < 0.05) in CONT than in TRPR meats. In conclusion, acidified turmeric reduced abdominal fat deposition and improved meat quality of broilers.

Distribution, virulence, genotypic characteristics and antibiotic resistance of Listeria monocytogenes isolated over one-year monitoring from two pig slaughterhouses and processing plants and their fresh hams

Listeria monocytogenes contamination in raw pork and ready to eat foods is an important food safety concern, also for the increasing detection of antimicrobial-resistant isolates. Data on L. monocytogenes occurrence, persistence, distribution and genetic characterization in two different plants, namely in continuum from slaughtered pigs, environment and unfinished products (fresh hams) were observed by one-year monitoring and were integrated with their antimicrobial resistance patterns. A total of 98 samples out of the overall 1131 (8.7%) were positive for L. monocytogenes, respectively 2.6% and 13.2% in plants A and B: only three serotypes were identified, 1/2c (50%), 1/2b (36.7%) and 1/2a (13.27%), and strains were classified in 35 pulsotypes and 16 clusters by PFGE; a unique P-type was highlighted according to the detection of virulence genes. The contamination flow of L. monocytogenes has a low occurrence in slaughterhouse (Plant A = 1.1%, Plant B: 3.1%; p > 0.05) and increased throughout the processing chain with trimming area as the most contaminated (Plant A: 25%, Plant B: 57%; (p < 0.05)), both in the environment and in unfinished products (80% in hams before trimming in plant B). The dominant role of environmental contamination in post-slaughter processing is confirmed to be a significant cause of meat contamination by L. monocytogenes. Very high levels of resistance were observed for clindamycin (57%) and high resistance levels (>20-50%) to ciprofloxacin, oxacillin, levofloxacin and daptomycin, confirming the L. monocytogenes resistance trend to a wide range of antimicrobial agents. A total of 11 L. monocytogenes isolates were multidrug resistant and 7 out of them were isolated from slaughtered pigs. An interesting significant (p < 0.05) statistical correlation has been found between resistance to some antimicrobial agents and lineage/serotypes. Microbiological sampling of food and environments after sanitization are commonly used as verification procedure for the absence of L. monocytogenes in food plants and to give assurance of food safety, but strains characterization is necessary for industries to target specific control measures, like the enforcement of the hygiene program and of the control of operator activities, at least for permanent strains. The only presence of L. monocytogenes could not be considered as the conclusive assessment of a potential risk for public health, also in terms of emerging and emerged antimicrobial resistances.

Complete genome analysis confirms that the pygmy marmoset adenovirus is a variant of the skunk adenovirus 1 - Short communication

The complete genomic sequence along with phylogenetic analyses of an adenovirus (AdV), isolated from a dead captive pygmy marmoset (Callithrix pygmaea) from a Hungarian zoo is reported. Earlier, based on the phylogenetic analysis of the sequence of a PCR-amplified fragment from the DNA polymerase gene, the pygmy marmoset AdV (PMAdV) has been reported to cluster closest to certain chiropteran AdVs. In the following years similar AdVs were discovered in additional mammalian hosts, including a skunk (Mephitis mephitis), African pygmy hedgehogs (Atelerix albiventris), North American porcupines (Erethizon dorsatum) and grey fox (Urocyon cinereoargenteus). After the full genome analysis of the skunk adenovirus (SkAdV-1), a novel species Skunk mastadenovirus A (SkAdV-A) has been established. The AdVs, originating from the African pygmy hedgehogs, have been found to belong to virus species SkAdV-A. Partial gene sequences from the porcupine AdVs have also implied their very close genetic relatedness to SkAdV-A. The complete genomic sequence of PMAdV, examined in this study, was found to share 99.83% nucleotide identity with SkAdV-1, thus unequivocally represents a genomic variant of SkAdV-1. The observation that viruses classifiable as SkAdV-A are able to infect and cause diseases in several, distantly related mammals seems to deserve further studies to elucidate the infection biology of this intriguing AdV.