Non-infectious factors associated with stillbirth in pigs: a review

Estimating the individual stillborn rate from easy-to-collect sow data on farm: an application of the bayesian network model

BACKGROUND

A high number of stillborn piglets has a negative impact on production and animal welfare. It is an important contributor to piglet mortality around farrowing and continues to rise with the increase of prolificacy. The objective of this study was to build a predictive model of the stillborn rate.

RESULTS

This study was performed on two farrow-to-finish farms and one farrow-to-wean farm located in Brittany, France. At each farm, the number of total born (TB), born alive (BA), stillborn piglets (S), the same data at the previous farrowing (TBn- 1, BAn- 1 and Sn- 1), backfat thickness just before farrowing and at previous weaning and parity rank were recorded in our dataset of 3686 farrowings. Bayesian networks were used as an integrated modelling approach to investigate risk factors associated with stillbirth using BayesiaLab® software. Our results suggest the validity of a hybrid model to predict the percentage of stillborn piglets. Three significant risk factors were identified by the model: parity rank (percentage of total mutual information: MI = 64%), Sn- 1 (MI = 25%) and TBn- 1 (MI = 11%). Additionally, backfat thickness just before farrowing was also identified for sows of parity five or more (MI = 0.4%). In practice, under optimal conditions (i.e., low parity rank, less than 8% of stillborn piglets, and a prolificacy lower than 14 piglets at the previous farrowing), our model predicted a stillborn rate almost halved, from 6.5% (mean risk of our dataset) to 3.5% for a sow at the next farrowing. In contrast, in older sows with a backfat thickness less than 15 mm, more than 15% of stillborn and a prolificacy greater than 18 piglets at the previous farrowing, the risk is multiplied by 2.5 from 6.5 to 15.7%.

CONCLUSION

Our results highlight the impact of parity, previous prolificacy and stillborn rate on the probability of stillborn. Moreover, the importance of backfat thickness, especially in old sows, must be considered. This information can help farmers classify and manage sows according to their risk of giving birth to stillborn piglets.

Infectious Agents Associated with Abortion Outbreaks in Italian Pig Farms from 2011 to 2021

The present study retrospectively analyzed the infectious agents associated with 829 abortion outbreaks occurring from 2011 to 2021 in northern Italy. Foetuses were subjected to necropsies, and organ samples were analyzed by direct PCR to screen for six swine pathogens. In 42.0% of the examined outbreaks, at least one infectious agent was found. Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) (24.9%) and porcine circovirus-2 (PCV2) (11.5%) were the most frequently detected among the known abortion-inducing pathogens. Chlamydia spp. (5.6%), porcine parvovirus (PPV) (4.0%), and Leptospira spp. (2.6%) were less common. Although its role in swine reproductive disorders is still unclear, PCV3 was detected in 19.6% of the cases. Coinfections were detected in 25.0% of positive outbreaks, and the most frequent coinfection was represented by PRRSV and PCV2 (32.2%), followed by PRRSV and PCV3 (23%). PCV2 prevalence showed a slight but consistent reduction during the study period, while PCV3 increased in frequency. Our data suggest an overall reduction in abortion outbreaks during the study period. PRRSV was confirmed as the main abortion agent detected in the examined area, while PCV2 prevalence showed a decline. Conversely, PCV3 detection has been increasing, supporting its potential role as an abortion agent. Our results highlight the importance of implementing a consistent and standardized sampling procedure, as well as a thorough diagnostic protocol, to reduce the incidence of inconclusive diagnoses.

Too late or too soon? The replacement gilt paradox

Due to high annual culling rates, pig farms require a constant income of replacement gilts. Gilts typically reach puberty at nearly six months of age. Puberty may be induced through early boar exposure, therapy with steroid hormones and chorionic gonadotropins, and optimized by identifying biological predictors and risk factors. Old age at the time of the first mating is associated with an increased risk of premature culling, often attributed to reproductive failures and locomotor problems. While female prolifacy has increased substantially during the last few decades, selecting for litter size to optimize lifetime productivity would be more efficient after two parities. Additionally, uterine capacity and the number of functional teats should be considered in selecting future dams. For each female, the cost-effective number of parities at removal is determined by the cumulative number of pigs born and weaned during the total herd days.

Effect of peripartum dexamethasone treatment on farrowing outcomes and newborn piglet traits in multiparous sows

This study assessed the effects of dexamethasone treatment on farrowing performance and piglet traits in the first 5 days of life in multiparous sows, a high-risk group for stillbirths and prolonged farrowing. In this study, 185 multiparous sows (parity 4.25 ± 0.14) were selected on the day of farrowing and divided into three treatments: CON - control, without dexamethasone treatment; DexaPF - treatment with dexamethasone (20 mg im per female) at the time of copious colostrum secretion (pre-farrowing); and DexaFO - treatment with dexamethasone (20 mg im per female) when the first piglet was born (farrowing onset). All sows and their litters were monitored for farrowing duration, obstetric interventions, colostrum yield and intake, newborn piglet traits, and piglet performance until 5 d of age. A subsample of 106 females (∼35 per treatment) had their blood glucose concentration checked hourly shortly after the first piglet was born until the end of farrowing. Additionally, blood samples from 42 litters were collected for immunocrit evaluation. The results showed no differences regarding farrowing duration (CON = 258.02 ± 13.81 min; DexaPF = 251.29 ± 13.60 min; DexaFO = 294.92 ± 13.89 min; P = 0.06) and obstetric intervention rates among treatments (CON = 36.58 ± 6.78 %; DexaPF = 42.16 ± 6.89 %; DexaFO = 48.05 ± 7.08 %; P = 0.45). The blood glucose concentration during farrowing was higher in DexaPF (94.56 ± 1.57 mg/dL; P < 0.001) than in CON (73.50 ± 1.72 mg/dL) and DexaFO (87.94 ± 1.80 mg/dL). No differences were observed regarding total piglets born and born alive, stillborn, newborn piglet vitality, colostrum intake, immunocrit, colostrum yield, and glycemia and rectal temperature at 24 h of age (P ≥ 0.13). Regarding meconium staining, higher percentages of piglets born without meconium staining were observed in DexaFO (54.77 ± 5.21 %; P = 0.02) compared with CON (48.58 ± 5.26 %), and no difference was observed for the DexaPF group (53.23 ± 5.21 %). In addition, a higher unbroken umbilical cord rate was observed in DexaFO (92.41 ± 1.31 %; P < 0.01) than the CON or DexaPF (86.91 ± 1.97 % and 89.31 ± 1.67 %, respectively). However, the treatments did not affect piglet performance (weight gain and survival) until 5 d of age (P ≥ 0.15). In summary, dexamethasone treatment in periparturient multiparous sows did not improve farrowing performance and key production parameters, such as the piglet weight gain and survival up to 5 d of age.

Maternal or post-weaning dietary fructo-oligosaccharide supplementation reduces stillbirth rate of sows and diarrhea of weaned piglets

Fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS) are well-known prebiotics that have the potential to improve sow reproductive performance and increase piglet growth. However, previous studies were observed in sole FOS-supplemented diets of sows or weaned piglets and did not consider the sow-to-piglet transfer effect on the performance and diarrhea rate of weaned piglets. This study explores the effects of dietary FOS supplementation on the reproductive performance of sows, and the effects of FOS supplementation at different stages on the growth performance and diarrhea rate of weaned piglets. A split-plot experimental design was used with sow diet effect in the whole plot and differing piglet diet effect in the subplot. Fifty-two multiparous sows (223.24 ± 14.77 kg) were randomly divided into 2 groups (0 or 0.2% FOS). The experiment lasted from day 85 of gestation to day 21 of lactation. Reproductive performance, glucose tolerance, placental angiogenesis, and intestinal flora of sows were assessed. At weaning, 192 weaned piglets were grouped in 2 × 2 factorial designs, with the main effects of FOS supplemental level of sow diet (0 and 0.2%), and FOS supplemental level of weaned piglet diet (0 and 0.2%), respectively. The growth performance and diarrhea rate of the weaned piglets were analyzed during a 28-d experiment. Maternal dietary supplementation of FOS was shown to reduce the stillbirth and invalid piglet rates (P < 0.05), improve the insulin sensitivity (P < 0.05) and fecal scores (P < 0.05) of sows, increase the abundance of Akkermansia muciniphila (P = 0.016), decrease the abundance of Escherichia coli (P = 0.035), and increase the isovalerate content in feces (P = 0.086). Meanwhile, the placental angiogenesis marker CD31 expression was increased in sows fed FOS diet (P < 0.05). Moreover, maternal and post-weaning dietary FOS supplementation reduced the diarrhea rate of weaned piglets (P < 0.05) and increased the content of short-chain fatty acids in feces (P < 0.05). Furthermore, only post-weaning dietary FOS supplementation could improve nutrient digestibility of weaned piglets (P < 0.05). Collectively, FOS supplementation in sows can reduce stillbirth rate, perinatal constipation, and insulin resistance, as well as improve placental vascularization barrier. Additionally, maternal and post-weaning dietary FOS supplementation reduced the diarrhea rate of weaned piglets, but only FOS supplementation in piglets alone at weaning stage could improve their nutrient digestibility.

Duration of maternally derived antibodies of porcine parvovirus in growing pigs and presence of antibodies in gilts and sows vaccinated with three different parvovirus vaccines

While gilts and sows are regularly vaccinated against the porcine parvovirus (PPV), little is known on the presence of antibodies in vaccinated sows nor the decline of maternally derived antibodies (MDA) in their offspring. On twelve farms serum samples were taken from 180 gilts and sows vaccinated at least twice with one of three different commercial PPV vaccines. On nine farms, additional 270 serum samples were collected from growing pigs of three different age categories. All 450 samples were examined for PPV antibodies (Abs) by ELISA and haemagglutination inhibition (HI) assay. In total, 65% of all gilts vaccinated twice with either vaccine 1 or vaccine 3 were seronegative by HI assay. In each farm, there were at least three animals with high Ab titres (≥ 1:1280) indicating the presence of PPV in all twelve study farms. However, PPV DNA could not be detected in collected faecal samples. While low to moderately high Ab titres (1:10-1:640) were measured in 98% of twelve-weeks-old pigs, ELISA was only positive in 30% of the same pigs. Though, the statement on the duration of MDA may depend on the applied test, we could confirm an exponential decay of MDA. In addition, we could demonstrate that applied serological tools are insufficient for the confirmation of successful vaccination.

The impact of the interval between the last meal and the onset of farrowing on the duration of farrowing, stillbirth rates, and colostrum production in highly productive sows in a tropical climate

The present study investigated impact of the interval between the last meal and the onset of farrowing on the duration of farrowing, stillbirth rates, and colostrum production in highly productive sows in a tropical climate. The study involved a total of 92 Danish Landrace x Yorkshire sows (herd A) and 114 French Landrace × Yorkshire sows (herd B). In herd B, a total of 61 sows had their blood samples collected within 1 hr after the onset of farrowing to evaluate their blood glucose levels. The interval between the last meal and the onset of farrowing averaged 5.9 ± 4.5 and 5.4 ± 4.1 hr in herds A and B, respectively. Neither the duration of farrowing nor the occurrence of stillborn piglets in both herds was affected by the time gap between the last meal and the onset of farrowing. At the onset of farrowing, the average blood glucose level in sows was 77.1 ± 19.3 mg/dL, with a range of 27 to 115 mg/dL. There was a positive correlation observed between the blood glucose concentration and the colostrum yield of the sows (r=0.261, P=0.042). In conclusion, the time interval between the last meal and the onset of farrowing did not have any impact on the farrowing performance of sows. However, a higher concentration of blood glucose at the onset of farrowing was associated with an improvement in the colostrum yield of the sows.

Effects of free farrowing system on the productive performance and welfare of sows and piglets

Regardless of international animal welfare regulations, most sows in production currently spend most of their lives and the peripartum period in caged housing systems. Although this type of management is intended to reduce neonatal mortality in piglets, several studies consider that there has been no significant reduction in its incidence over the last 30 years. On the contrary, cage housing has promoted the appearance of alterations during the farrowing process such as dystocia, as well as in maternal behavior and health, promoting stereotypes, skin lesions and other alterations, which not only impact the sows but also their progeny during the lactational period. Therefore, the aim of the present review is to compare the productive performance and welfare of sows and their piglets within the farrowing, lactation, and post-weaning period in both traditional and free-farrowing systems, highlighting the differences in these indicators in each of them.

CYP24A1 is associated with fetal mummification in pigs

Mummified piglets are among the leading causes of fertility loss and severely hamper reproductive performance in pigs. However, the contributions of genomic variation to the emergence of mummified piglets (MUM) have rarely been studied. This study aims to (1) elucidate the genetic architecture of MUM in sows of parity 1 - 3 using a single-step genome-wide association study (ssGWAS). The ssGWAS involved genotyping-by-sequencing of Large White and Landrace pig breeds. (2) Explore the biological role of the candidate genes at the cellular level. A total of 185 and 48 genome-wide significant SNPs are associated with MUM in Large White and Landrace pigs, explaining 0.01-36.52% genetic variance for different significant loci, respectively. All the significant SNPs are parity-specific, and the numerous, consecutive significant loci likely generated the nine significant peaks in different parities. Multiple candidate genes (including CYP24A1, FBXO30, and ARHGEF28) are associated with fetal congenital and maternal diseases. Collectively, CYP24A1 regulation contributes to steady-state levels of embryo development genes. CYP24A1 is involved in reproduction and, immune and gestational disorders. Thus, it is associated with known newborn death traits and MUM in Large White sows. Altogether, these results improve the current understanding of the genetic architecture of MUM and expand the knowledge on genetic variations for selecting against mummified piglets in pig breeding.

Premature farrowing and stillbirths in two organic sow farms due to riboflavin deficiency

BACKGROUND

Riboflavin deficiency can lead to premature farrowing, stillborn piglets, weak-born piglets and neonatal death. Riboflavin (vitamin B2) is considered essential for reproductive function. The longer the period on riboflavin-deficient diets, the more severe the clinical signs become. Litter size as well as body size of piglets can also be considered risk factors that may contribute to the problem.

CASE PRESENTATION

This case report involved two organic farms of 320 (farm A) and 250 sows (farm B). Between 2019 and 2020, premature farrowing with weak-born or stillborn piglets and severe intra-litter mortality, ranging from 60 to 100% were observed. Investigations for infectious causes of reproductive disease, drinking water quality and general feed composition were performed, but showed no significant results. Feed composition was subsequently evaluated more in detail. Riboflavin levels were very low specifically 1.25 mg/kg of diet (3.75 mg/kg of diet is the NRC minimum recommended level). Riboflavin as a vitamin complex supplement (B complex) was administered to sows one month before the farrowing date and this led to a rapid improvement of the problem such that no stillbirth or intra-litter mortality was observed.

CONCLUSIONS

The clinical presentation, the low riboflavin levels in the feed below the recommended levels for gestating sows and the effectiveness of the riboflavin supplementation, led to an ex juvantibus diagnosis of this deficiency condition. This case report highlights that riboflavin deficiency during gestation should be considered in case of premature parturition and stillborn litters.

Sow Nutrition, Uterine Contractions, and Placental Blood Flow during the Peri-Partum Period and Short-Term Effects on Offspring: A Review

The birth process is a crucial event for piglet survival. Along with increasing litter sizes, not only has the duration of parturition increased, but placental blood flow per piglet has reduced and placental area per piglet has become smaller, making these piglets more susceptible for hypoxia. Diminishing the risk of piglet hypoxia by either reducing the total duration of parturition or increasing fetal oxygenation may reduce the incidence of stillbirth and early post-partum mortality. This review discusses options to do so by nutritionally supporting the sow in the final pre-partum period, after discussing the role of uterine contractions and placental blood flow. Providing sufficient energy seems to be a logical first step, but also other nutrients needed for uterine contractions, such as calcium, or enhancing uterine blood flow by using nitrate seem promising. These nutrient requirements may depend on litter size.

Allelic to genome wide perspectives of swine genetic variation to litter size and its component traits

Litter size is a complex and sex limited trait that depends on various biological, managemental and environmental factors. Owing to its low heritability it is inefficaciously selected by traditional methods. However, due to higher heritability of ovulation rate and embryo survival, selection based on component traits of litter size is advocated. QTL analysis and candidate gene approach are among the various supplementary/alternate strategies for selection of litter size. QTL analysis is aimed at identifying genomic regions affecting trait of interest significantly. Candidate gene approach necessitates identification of genes potentially affecting the trait. There are various genes that significantly affect litter size and its component traits viz. ESR, LEP, BF, IGFBP, RBP4, PRLR, CTNNAL1, WNT10B, TCF12, DAZ, and RNF4. These genes affect litter size in a complex interacting manner. Lately, genome wide association study (GWAS) have been utilized to unveil the genetic and biological background of litter traits, and elucidate the genes governing litter size. Favorable SNPs in these genes have been identified and offers a scope for inclusion in selection programs thereby increasing breeding efficiency and profit in pigs. The review provides a comprehensive coverage of investigations carried out globally to unravel the genetic variation in litter size and its component traits in pigs, both at allelic and genome wide level. It offers a current perspective on different strategies including the profiling of candidate genes, QTLs, and genome wide association studies as an aid to efficient selection for litter size and its component traits.

The effect of piglet vitality, birth order, and blood lactate on the piglet growth performances and preweaning survival

BACKGROUND

Litter size is going up in modern pig production. Due to large litter size and increased farrowing duration, newborn piglets, during parturition, can suffer from asphyxiation. This alters their blood energy parameters and can contribute to their reduced vitality at birth, which is detrimental to their growth performance and survival. We aimed to evaluate the effects of vitality score, piglets' umbilical cord blood lactate, glucose, and butyrate, and birth order on growth performance and the preweaning mortality of piglets.

RESULTS

The more vital (vitality score 2, VS2) piglets had higher umbilical cord blood glucose and butyrate, lower blood lactate, and higher colostrum intake (CI) at birth, and showed higher body weight at birth and at weaning than did less vital piglets (vitality score 1, VS1). Umbilical cord lactate negatively correlated with vitality, colostrum intake, and growth before weaning. Among the four birth-order groups (BOGs), piglets born earlier during parturition had a higher mean vitality score than those born later. BOG1 and BOG2 had significantly higher CI (p < 0.05) than BOG3 and BOG4.

CONCLUSION

Changes in piglets' body weight, colostrum intake, and umbilical cord lactate are associated with piglet vitality and asphyxiation during farrowing. In addition, asphyxiation induced higher umbilical cord lactate may serve as an indicator of low vitality and low colostrum consumption. Overall, improvement in piglets' vitality and in the farrowing process can help in reducing piglet mortality.

Animal board invited review: Factors affecting the early growth and development of gilt progeny compared to sow progeny

Progeny born to primiparous sows farrowing their first litter, often called gilt progeny (GP), are typically characterised by their poorer overall production performance than progeny from multiparous sows (sow progeny; SP). Gilt progeny consistently grow slower, are born and weaned lighter, and have higher postweaning illness and mortality rates than SP. Collectively, their poorer performance culminates in a long time to reach market weight and, ultimately, reduced revenue. Due to the high replacement rates of sows, the primiparous sow and her progeny represent a large proportion of the herd resulting in a significant loss for the pig industry. While the reasons for poorer performance are complex and multifaceted, they may largely be attributed to the immature age at which gilts are often mated and the significant impact of this on their metabolism during gestation and lactation. As a result, this can have negative consequences on the piglet itself. To improve GP performance, it is crucial to understand the biological basis for differences between GP and SP. The purpose of this review is to summarise published literature investigating differences in growth performance and health status between GP and SP. It also examines the primiparous sow during gestation and lactation and how the young sow must support her own growth while supporting the metabolic demands of her pregnancy and the growth and development of her litter. Finally, the underlying physiology of GP is discussed in terms of growth and development in utero, the neonatal period, and the early development of the gastrointestinal tract. The present review concludes that there are a number of interplaying factors relating to the anatomy and physiology of the primiparous sow and of GP themselves. The studies presented herein strongly suggest that poor support of piglet growth in utero and reduced colostrum and milk production and consumption are largely responsible for the underperformance of GP. It is therefore recommended that future management strategies focus on supporting the primiparous sow during gestation and lactation, increasing the preweaning growth of GP to improve their ability to cope with the stressors of weaning, selection of reproductive traits such as uterine capacity to improve birth weights and ultimately GP performance, and finally, increase the longevity of sows to reduce the proportion of GP entering the herd.

Killing underweighted low viable newborn piglets: Which health parameters are appropriate to make a decision?

Background

The aim of this study was to estimate the mortality risk and associated factors within the first days of life for underweight or low-vital neonatal piglets. This risk estimation should start a discussion concerning the preconditions for timely killing of compromised newborn piglets to prevent unnecessary pain and suffering. In an observational study, various clinical and laboratory variables were examined in 529 piglets out of four farms. Body weight, crown-rump-length, rectal temperature, a 4-stage vitality score, an intrauterine-growth-retardation score, glucose, lactate, haemoglobin and immunocrit were assessed on the first day of life. Vitality was scored by three factors: movement, abdominal palpation, and colour of the skin. Afterwards the death of the piglets (by killing or spontaneously) was monitored until day 5 of age.

Results

Body weight, rectal temperature and vitality score were significantly associated with probability of death. Piglets with rectal temperatures ≤ 37.5 °C, a body weight < 0.86 kg and impaired vitality scores were found to have the highest probability of death until day 5 of age.

Conclusion

The clinical findings, identified by this model, allow a first estimation of mortality risk for newborn piglets within the first days of life. In a further step veterinarians, farmers and ethicians now need to clarify what probability of death should justifiy the killing of a newborn piglet.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40813-022-00265-y.

Early Blood Analysis and Gas Exchange Monitoring in the Canine Neonate: Effect of Dam’s Size and Birth Order

Simple Summary

The complications that are observed during parturition are events that affect the vitality of the newborn and can also compromise their health by predisposing them to fetal hypoxia, increasing newborn mortality. Blood gas analysis to measure the main biomarkers associated with hypoxia evaluates the physiological and metabolic alterations derived from this state, and these could help identify if said markers respond to maternal or neonatal causes. This study aimed to assess the effect of the dam’s size, the birth order, and the presentation of blood gas alterations. Recognizing if these elements are intertwined may enhance newborns’ life expectancy by enabling the planning of a perinatal protocol to avoid serious metabolic consequences that are derived from prolonged hypoxia.

Abstract

In canines, size at birth is determined by the dam’s weight, which would probably affect the newborn’s viability due to litter size and birth order. Fetal hypoxia causes distress and acidemia. Identifying physiological blood alterations in the puppy during the first minute of life through the blood gas exchange of the umbilical cord could determine the puppy’s risk of suffering asphyxiation during labor. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of the birth order and dam’s size during spontaneous labor and the alterations during the first minute of life. The results indicate that the dam’s size and the birth order have considerable physiological and metabolic effects in the puppies, mainly in birth order 1 (BO1) in small-size dogs, while in the medium size, the last puppy presented more alterations, probably because of a prolonged whelping which could have fostered hypoxic processes and death. Likewise, with large-size dogs, intrapartum asphyxiation processes were registered during the first minute of life in any birth order.

Effect of Enrichment Items on the Physiology and Behavior of Sows in the Third Trimester of Pregnancy

Modern intensive pig breeding harms animal welfare, which is especially noticeable for pregnant sows kept in confinement stalls. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of enrichment items on the movement and physiological parameters of sows in the third trimester of pregnancy. A total of 30 large white pregnant sows were randomly divided into three equal treatment groups (n = 10): control, pine wood, and scented wood groups. Interestingly, compared with the control group, the sows in the pine wood or scented wood groups showed less ventral lying and more lateral lying behavior (p < 0.01), coupled with significant reduction in the frequency of scratching and sham-chewing (p < 0.01), but with no significant difference in the degree of preference for these enrichment items (p > 0.05). Additionally, the sows in the pine wood or scented wood groups also decreased significantly in the concentration of immunoglobulin A (IgA) (p < 0.01) and the concentration of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) (p < 0.05) throughout the late pregnancy period. Overall, adding enrichment items to confinement stalls can alleviate the chronic stress and the stereotypic behavior of sows, suggesting their potential to reduce welfare compromise.

Study on the influence of different production factors on PSY and its correlation

Background

Finding out the key reproductive performance factors, affecting piglets weaned per sow per year (PSY) can improve the production efficiency and profitability of pig farms. The objective was to understand the actual distribution of different production factors and PSY of breeding pig farms, analyze the correlation to find the main production factors affecting PSY, and formulating a Production Efficiency Improvement Plan in practice. Data included 603 breeding pig farms from September 28, 2020 to September 26, 2021. Regression analysis was used to evaluate the relationship between PSY and key production factors, and the characteristics of total pig farms versus high performance (HP) pig farms (the production performance was in the top 10%) or top 5% pig farms were compared. Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient was used to analyze the correlation between production factors and find the factors related to PSY. Non-linear support vector regression (NL-SVR) was used to analyze the personalized PSY improvement through a various change of the four key factors.

Results

The median distribution of 15 production factors and PSY in total pig farms were different from those of HP farms. All of data were distributed nonlinearly. Mating rate within 7 days after weaning (MR7DW), farrowing rate (FR), number of piglets born alive per litter (PBAL) and number of weaned piglets per litter (WPL) were moderately correlated with PSY, and the correlation coefficients were 0.5058, 0.4427, 0.3929 and 0.3839, respectively. When the four factors in NL-SVR changed in medium (0.5 piglet or 5%) or high level (1.0 piglet or 10%), PSY can be increased by more than 0.5.

Conclusion

NL-SVR model can be used to analyze the impact of changes in key production factors on PSY. By taking measures to improve MR7DW, FR, PBAL and WPL, it may effectively improve the current PSY and fully develop the reproductive potential of sows.

Effects of Litter Size and Parity on Farrowing Duration of Landrace × Yorkshire Sows

Simple Summary

Litter size is an important economic trait in pigs. Improving the number born alive is an important breeding goal of the pig husbandry. A shorter farrowing duration is welcome for facilitating the management and sows’ health. Therefore, the aim of this study was to explore the effect of litter size and parity on farrowing duration, to determine whether a shorter length of farrowing duration could be considered as a breeding parameter in pig breeding. Our results showed the total number born had no significant relation with farrowing duration, but number of stillbirths increased with the prolongation of farrowing duration and decrease of live litter size if farrowing duration was longer than 240–300 min. Different parities sows had little difference in the same farrowing duration interval except for gilts. A shorter farrowing duration within 300 min might be considered in pig breeding without worrying about the decreasing of live litter size or the negative effect of parity.

Abstract

Litter size has increased and farrowing duration has also prolonged in recent years. The aim of this study was to analyze the effect of litter size and parity on farrowing duration (FAR) to estimate the possibility of selecting a short farrowing duration. We recorded 32,200 parturitions of 8420 Landrace × Yorkshire sows, determined farrowing duration, litter size, parity, gestation length. Results showed that total number of born (TNB) and parity obeyed a cubic (p = 0.0004, p = 0.004) relationship while number born alive (NBA) and number born dead (NBD) obeyed a linear (p = 0.0239, p = 0.0035) relationship with FAR. Gestation length obeyed a linear (p = 0.02) relationship with FAR. FAR of sows with stillbirth was longer than that of sows without stillbirth. Stillbirth rate increased rapidly from about 2% to 4%, especially when FAR was over 240 min. FAR gradually prolonged with the parities. FAR of 7th parity sows was longer than that of 1st~6th parity sows (p < 0.05), but different parity sows had little difference in the same FAR interval except for gilts. Results indicated it was possible and necessary to consider FAR into pig breeding without worrying about decreasing of live litter size or negative effect of parity if FAR was shorter than 300 min.

Maternal Dietary Nitrate Supplementation Lowers Incidence of Stillbirth in Hyper Prolific Sows under Commercial Circumstances

The objective of the current experiment was to investigate whether or not maternal dietary nitrate supplementation, a nitric oxide (NO) precursor, could reduce piglet losses under commercial circumstances. In the current experiment, 120 hyper prolific gilts and sows (Landrace x Yorkshire: Danbred) on a commercial farm in Denmark received either a control lactation diet or a lactation diet containing 0.1% of calcium nitrate (containing 63.1% of nitrate) from approximately 5 days pre-farrowing until day 4 of lactation. The number of piglets born total, alive, and stillborn, as well as birth weights, weights after cross-fostering (approximately 1 day of age), 24 h after cross-fostering, day 3 of age, and at weaning was recorded. Placentas of sows were collected after expulsion and scored on redness. No effect of nitrate supplementation was found on piglet weight, piglet growth, placental redness score, and pre-weaning mortality during lactation. Maternal dietary nitrate supplementation decreased stillbirth percentage with 2.5% (9.9 vs. 7.4%; p = 0.05). It can be concluded that maternal dietary nitrate supplementation shows the potential to decrease the incidence of stillbirth in hyper prolific sows.

Stillbirth rates and their association with swine leucocyte antigen class II haplotypes in Microminipigs

OBJECTIVE

Microminipig (MMP) is a miniature pig with an extra small body size for experimental use. In the present study, the occurrence of stillbirths and their genetic association with swine leukocyte antigen (SLA) class II haplotypes were evaluated in a population of MMPs.

METHODS

The occurrences of stillbirth and genetic association with SLA class II haplotypes using 483 stillborn and 2,246 live piglets, and their parents were compared among the three groups of newborn piglet litters; an all stillborn (AS) group consisting of only stillborn piglet litters, a partial stillborn (PS) group consisting of stillborn and live piglet litters, and an all alive (AA) group consisting of only live piglet litters.

RESULTS

The incidence of stillborn piglets was 483/2,729 (17.7%). Distributions of litter sizes, numbers of stillborn piglets in a litter, parities, and gestation periods were distinct among the three groups. The frequencies of low resolution haplotype (Lr)-0.7 or Lr-0.23 were higher in the AS group than in the PS or AA groups. In sires, the frequency of Lr-0.7 associated with the AS group was significantly higher in the AS group than with the AA group. In dams, the frequency of Lr-0.23 was significantly higher in the AS group than in the PS or AA groups, whereas the frequency of Lr-0.7 was not significantly different.

CONCLUSION

The incidence of stillborn piglets in MMPs appears to be higher than those in other pig breeds. Several traits related with stillbirths such as the number of stillborn piglets and parities of the AS group were different from those of the PS and AA groups. Specific SLA class II haplotypes were associated significantly with a high incidence of stillbirths and could be used as genetic markers to adopt breeding strategies to lower the rate of stillbirth in MMPs.

Non-infectious risk factors for intrapartum stillbirth in a swine farm in the North of Vietnam

Background and Aims

Stillbirth causes considerable loss to the pig farming industry. Methods aimed at reducing stillbirth should base on the understanding of risk factors for intrapartum stillbirth because it accounts for 75% of all stillbirths. Unfortunately, few studies have differentiated between intrapartum and prepartum stillbirths leading to inadequate information about risk factors for sole intrapartum stillbirth. This study investigated risk factors for piglet's intrapartum stillbirth.

Materials and Methods

Data of 1527 piglets born from 103 sows in one herd were recorded. Generalized linear mixed models were used to determine the relationship between investigated risk factors and intrapartum stillbirth at the piglet level. The potential risk factors were parity, gestation length (GL), litter size (LS), birth order (BO), birth interval (BI), cumulative farrowing duration (CFD), gender, crown-rump length, birth weight (BW), body mass index, ponderal index (PI), and BW deviation.

Results

About 60% (60.2%, 62/103) litters had stillborn piglet(s), and the intrapartum stillbirth rate was 5.8% (89/1527). BW deviation (≤0.1 and >0.6 kg), LS >13, GL (<114 and >117 days), PI ≤54, and BO >10 were the most significant factors associated with increased intrapartum stillbirth. No effect of parity, sex, BI, and CFD on intrapartum stillbirth was detected.

Conclusion

These data stressed the importance of piglets' size and shape in the prediction of intrapartum stillbirth. Furthermore, large LS, high BO, short, and long GL were associated with increased intrapartum stillbirth. The results of this study suggest that procedures aimed at increasing litter homogeneity, optimizing piglets' size and shape, avoiding short and long gestation, and increasing supervision rate, especially at the second half, of the farrowing may reduce piglet's intrapartum stillbirth.

Five risk factors and their interactions of probability for a sow in breeding herds having a piglet death during days 0-1, 2-8 and 9-28 days of lactation

Background

Increasing preweaning piglet mortality is a concern for veterinarians and producers in relation to sow performance and piglet welfare. Our objectives were (1) to characterize pre-weaning piglet mortality risk for sows (PWM) during early (0–1 days), mid- (2–8 days) and late (9–28 days) lactation and (2) to quantify the following five factors and their interactions, parity, number of piglets born alive (PBA), number of stillborn piglets (SB), gestation length (GL) and season for PWM during the three lactation phases.

Methods

Data obtained from 264,333 parity records of 55,635 sows farrowed in 2015 and 2016 from 74 Spanish herds. Three multi-level mixed-effects logistic regression models were separately applied for PWM during three lactation phases, which was analyzed as whether or not a sow had a piglet death (i.e. probability of a sow having a piglet death) in each phase.

Results

PWM during early, mid- and late lactation were 36.9, 27.0 and 15.4%, respectively. As PBA increased from 11 or less to 16 or more pigs, PWM during early and mid-lactation increased by 15.8 and 6.0%, respectively, but there was no increase during late lactation. Also, as GL decreased from 117–120 to 110–113 days, PWM during early, mid- and late lactation increased by 7.5, 6.8 and 1.5%, respectively. Additionally, PWM during the respective lactation phases increased by 8.3, 5.2 and 1.0%, as SB increased from 0 to 3 or more pigs. During early lactation, parity 1 sows had 2.1% lower PWM than parity 5 or higher sows, but during mid- and late lactation they had 4.2% higher PWM (P < 0.05). However, there was no difference between summer and winter for PWM during early lactation (P = 0.26).

Conclusion

Management practices to reduce PWM need to take account of these factors, and be modified for different phases. For example, during early lactation special care should be given to piglets born to parity 5 or higher sows farrowing 16 or more PBA, having 3 or more SB or GL 110–113 days, whereas during mid- and late lactation more care should be given to piglets born to parity 1 sows with the same PBA, GL and SB conditions.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40813-021-00231-0.

Characterisation of the Behavioural Effects of a Thoracic Squeeze in Healthy Newborn Piglets

Simple Summary

Firmly squeezing the chests of newborn foals and calves that are showing abnormal behaviours after birth causes them to enter a less-responsive state, characterised by lying down with eyes closed and no limb movements. Once the squeeze is removed, the newborns immediately ‘wake up’ and begin to display more normal behaviours. This response to the thoracic squeeze has also been observed in healthy, normally behaving foals. However, no studies have looked at the effects of the thoracic squeeze in healthy newborns of other mammalian species. We aimed to characterise the behavioural responses of healthy newborn piglets to a thoracic squeeze using the following two methods: a soft fabric rope, or a purpose-made inflation cuff. Behavioural data indicated that all piglets initially became less responsive, with reduced or absent reflex responses to a toe pinch or touch of the eyelid observed in over half of the piglets. The piglets squeezed with the inflation cuff appeared to enter a less-responsive state faster than the piglets squeezed with the rope. These findings suggest that the piglets responded to the thoracic squeeze in a similar way to healthy foals and that this may be a response conserved across multiple precocial mammalian species. Furthermore, the squeeze was found to be safe for inducing a less-responsive state in healthy piglets. This study provides a foundation for exploring the mechanisms underlying the responses to the thoracic squeeze and potential applications whilst performing husbandry procedures.

Abstract

A thoracic squeeze has been observed to cause both healthy and low vigour neonatal foals to enter a ‘less-responsive state’, characterised by loss of posture, eye closure and cessation of movement, from which they rapidly recover to express normal healthy behaviours when the squeeze is released. To date, there have been no systematic studies characterising the responses of healthy neonates of other mammalian species to a thoracic squeeze. We describe the responses of healthy newborn piglets (n = 17) to a standardised application of the thoracic squeeze and evaluate the effect of the method of squeeze application on the response. Neonatal piglets were squeezed around the chest with either a soft fabric rope as has been used in foals (n = 8) or a novel purpose-made inflation cuff (n = 9). Both methods were effective at inducing a less-responsive behavioural state in all piglets, with neural reflexes reduced or absent in over half of them. The inflation cuff appeared to induce the less-responsive state faster than the rope, and more piglets squeezed with the cuff remained in this state for the full 10-min squeeze. These findings suggest that the behavioural response of foals to thoracic squeezing can be generalised to neonates of other precocial mammalian species. This initial study provides a foundation for further research using the inflation cuff to explore mechanisms underlying the thoracic squeeze and ways in which it may be applied whilst performing husbandry procedures.

Blood Biomarker Profile Alterations in Newborn Canines: Effect of the Mother's Weight

This study aims to determine the effect of the weight of bitches on liveborn and stillbirth puppies from eutocic births, and physiological blood alterations during the first minute postpartum. A total of 52 female dogs were evaluated and distributed in four categories: C1 (4.0-8.0 kg, n = 19), C2 (8.1-16.0 kg, n = 16), C3 (16.1-32.0 kg, n = 11), and C4 (32.1-35.8 kg, n = 6). The dams produced 225 liveborn puppies and 47 were classified as stillbirth type II. Blood samples were taken from the umbilical vein to evaluate the concentration of gases, glucose, lactate, calcium, hematocrit levels, and blood pH. The liveborn puppies in C2, C3, and C4 had more evident physiological alterations (hypercapnia, acidosis) than those in C1 (p < 0.05). These signs indicate a process of transitory asphyxiation. The stillborn pups in all four categories had higher weights than their liveborn littermates. C3 and C4 had the highest mean weights (419.86 and 433.79 g, respectively) and mortality rates (C3 = 20.58%, C4 = 24.58%). Results suggest that if the weight of the bitch is >16.1 kg in eutocic births, there is a higher risk of intrapartum physiological alterations and death. The results of this study allowed us to identify that the weight of dams before birth determines the weight of the puppies at birth.

Strategies of inorganic and organic trace mineral supplementation in gestating hyperprolific sow diets: effects on the offspring performance and fetal programming

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of trace mineral nutrition on sow performance, mineral content, and intestinal gene expression of neonate piglets when inorganic mineral sources (ITM) were partially replaced by their organic mineral (OTM) counterparts. At 35 d postmating, under commercial conditions, a total of 240 hyperprolific multiparous sows were allocated into three experimental diets: 1) ITM: with Zn, Cu, and Mn at 80, 15, and 60 mg/kg, respectively; 2) partial replacement trace mineral source (Replace): with a 30 % replacement of ITM by OTM, resulting in ITM + OTM supplementation of Zn (56 + 24 mg/kg), Cu (10.5 + 4.5 mg/kg), and Mn (42 + 18 mg/kg); and 3) Reduce and replace mineral source (R&R): reducing a 50% of the ITM source of Zn (40 + 24 mg/kg), Cu (7.5 + 4.5 mg/kg), and Mn (30 + 18 mg/kg). At farrowing, 40 piglets were selected, based on birth weight (light: <800 g, and average: >1,200 g), for sampling. Since the present study aimed to reflect results under commercial conditions, it was difficult to get an equal parity number between the experimental diets. Overall, no differences between experimental diets on sow reproductive performance were observed. Light piglets had a lower mineral content (P < 0.05) and a downregulation of several genes (P < 0.10) involved in physiological functions compared with their average littermates. Neonate piglets born from Replace sows had an upregulation of genes involved in functions like immunity and gut barrier, compared with those born from ITM sows (P < 0.10), particularly in light piglets. In conclusion, the partial replacement of ITM by their OTM counterparts represents an alternative to the totally inorganic supplementation with improvements on neonate piglet gene expression, particularly in the smallest piglets of the litter. The lower trace mineral storage together with the greater downregulation of gut health genes exposed the immaturity and vulnerability of small piglets.

Inclusion of wheat aleurone in gestation diets improves postprandial satiety, stress status and stillbirth rate of sows

This study investigated the effects of different amounts of wheat aleurone (WA) (0, 15%, 30%) inclusion in gestation diets on the reproductive performance, postprandial satiety, stress status and stereotypic behaviors of sows. A total of 84 Landrace × Yorkshire sows (parity 4.87 ± 1.32) at breeding were randomly allotted to one of the three isoenergetic and isonitrogenous dietary treatments based on parity and body weight. The results showed that, compared with the control (0), sows fed the WA diet had a higher serum concentration of peptide YY (PYY) (P < 0.05) and glucagon like peptide-1 (GLP-1) (P < 0.05) and a lower concentration of saliva cortisol (P < 0.01). Importantly, compared with the control group, only the 15% WA group had a higher concentration of the total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) (P < 0.05), lower proportions of sitting (P = 0.05) and stillbirth rates (P < 0.01). Accordingly, the production cost per piglet born alive ($ 6.9 vs. $ 7.6) or per piglet born healthy ($ 7.4 vs. $ 7.9) declined in the 15% WA group versus the control group. Overall, 15% WA inclusion in gestation diets contributed to enhancing postprandial satiety, alleviating stress status and decreasing stillbirth rate of sows. This study provides a reference for the application of WA as a partial substitute for conventional feed ingredients to improve sows’ reproductive performance.

Fetal mortality associated with backfat thickness at first mating and first farrowing of the primiparous sows raised in a commercial herd in Thailand

This study aimed to investigate the fetal mortality, including stillborn piglets (SB) and mummified fetuses (MM), in relation to backfat thickness both at first mating (MBF) and at first farrowing (FBF) in 200 primiparous sows accommodated in a commercial breeding herd in Thailand. Backfat thickness of all pigs was measured at P2 position using an A-mode ultrasonography. Based on MBF, the gilts were classified into four groups: MBF1 (≤12.0 mm), MBF2 (>12.0-15.0 mm), MBF3 (>15.0-18.0 mm), and MBF4 (>18.0 mm). According to FBF, the primiparous sows were categorized into four classes: FBF1 (≤15.0 mm), FBF2 (>15.0-18.0 mm), FBF3 (>18.0-21.0 mm), and FBF4 (>21.0 mm). At farrowing, 174 litters were examined for percentage of SB and MM. The results indicated that mean MBF and FBF were 16.7 ± 0.3 mm and 19.6 ± 0.3 mm, respectively. Based on MBF, the pigs in MBF1 significantly possessed higher percentage of MM (13.8 ± 4.5%) than others; meanwhile, SB percentage was not different among groups (P > 0.05). According to FBF, the pigs in FBF4 farrowed the highest percentage of SB (9.1 ± 3.2%) than others, whereas MM percentage was not different among classes (P > 0.05). In summary, backfat thickness of the gilts should be one of the parameters to pay more attention since it is related to fetal mortality of the primiparous sows. The farmers should monitor the backfat thickness not only at the first mating time, but also along the gestation period in order to minimize fetal mortality in the primiparous sows.

Associations between piglet umbilical blood hematological criteria, birth order, birth interval, colostrum intake, and piglet survival

A total of 656 pigs (623 live-born and 33 stillborn) from 43 sows were used to evaluate hematological criteria at birth and their association with piglet survival. At birth of each piglet, birth time and order within the litter, weight, umbilical cord status (intact or ruptured) and whether the pig was live-born or stillborn were recorded. A 200µL sample of blood from the umbilical cord was collected and immediately analyzed for concentrations of glucose, oxygen partial pressure (pO2), carbon dioxide partial pressure (pCO2), pH, base excess (BE), bicarbonate (HCO3), saturated oxygen (sO2), total carbon dioxide (TCO2), sodium, potassium, ionized calcium (iCa), hematocrit (Hct), and hemoglobin (Hb) on a hand held iStat portable clinical analyzer (iStat Alinity, Abbott Point of Care Inc., Princeton, NJ). Piglets were categorized into quartiles based on birth order and cumulative birth interval (CumBI). Live-born pigs had higher (P < 0.01) umbilical cord blood pH, HCO3, BE, sO2, TCO2, and birth weight compared with stillborn pigs, but lower (P < 0.01) pCO2, K, iCa, and glucose compared with stillborn pigs. Pigs with intact umbilical cords at birth were associated with higher (P < 0.01) blood pH, HCO3, BE, and TCO2 compared with piglets born with a ruptured umbilical cord. Pigs with intact umbilical cords were associated with lower (P < 0.01) Hct and Hb concentrations and born earlier (P < 0.01) in the birth order compared with pigs born with a ruptured umbilical cord. Pigs that did not survive to weaning had lower (P < 0.01) umbilical cord blood pH, HCO3, BE, sO2, TCO2, Na, glucose, and birth weight, and 24 hr weight compared with pigs alive at weaning. Pigs born in the first quartile for CumBI had higher (P <0.05) pH compared with pigs in the other three quartiles. Umbilical cord blood HCO3, BE, and TCO2 decreased (P <0.05) with each change in CumBI quartile from first to last. Blood glucose was lowest (P <0.05) in pigs born before 44 min and highest in pigs born after 164 min. Umbilical cord blood pH, HCO3, BE, TCO2, Na, glucose, Hct, and Hb were positively associated (P <0.001) with colostrum intake, indicating increased blood values resulted in higher colostrum intake. Although a pig may be live-born, their survival to 24 hr and to weaning is reduced when blood pH, HCO3, BE, and sO2 are lower reiterating the importance of management practices that can reduce the birth interval between pigs and the number of pigs experiencing moderate to severe hypoxia.

Management of swine mortalities through the use of a mixed composting-accelerating bio-inoculant

A composting-accelerating bio-inoculant (Bacillus subtilis, Talaromyces sayulitensis (HC1), Steinernema sp., and Heterorhabditis sp.) was evaluated in a composting process made up of a different mix of wood chips, pig manure, urine, and swine mortality (raw material RM). Three different treatments (T1, T2, and T3) were assessed, and physicochemical, microbiological, and entomological evaluations were carried out at 0 and 45 days of the composting process. The highest organic nitrogen (1.34 %) concentration was detected in swine mortality, whereas the highest total oxidizable organic carbon (39.1 %) concentration was observed in wood chips. Salmonella spp., was not identified in any of the raw materials. Clostridium spp., count was 5.5, 2.0, and 1.0 Log10 unit, for pig manure, wood chips, and swine mortality, respectively. Pig manure, swine mortality, and wood chip total coliform count was 6.21, 5.32, and 1 Log10 unit, respectively. Helminth eggs were not detected in any of the RM and Cryptosporidium spp., oocysts were occasionally found in pig manure and wood chips. Several types of flies were identified, Musca domestica, Muscina stabulans, Stomoxys calcitrans, Fannia canicularis, Sarcophaga sp., and Calliphora sp. Treatment 3 (45.11 % swine mortality, 33.33 % wood chips, and 21.55 %, urine and bio-inoculant) had the greatest total oxidizable organic carbon availability, the highest carbon/nitrogen (C/N) ratio (20.67, p < 0.05), and the lowest dipterous larvae count. Moreover, Salmonella sp., was not observed and had only low Clostridium spp., and fecal coliform count. The bio-inoculant's effect on C/N ratio, cation exchange capacity, and electrical conductivity were beneficial, and resulted in production of a fertilizer complying with EPA 600/1-87-014, EPA 40 CFR Part 258, and NTC5167/11 norms. According to the characterization protocols used in this study the compost was apparently free from bacterial and parasitic pathogens and minimal dipteran counts. Last, maturation time was 15 days shorter compared with control (C4).

A cross-specific multiplicative binomial recursive model for the analysis of perinatal mortality in a diallel cross among three varieties of Iberian pig

Perinatal piglet mortality is an important factor in pig production from economic and animal welfare perspectives; however, the statistical analysis of mortality is difficult because of its categorical nature. Recent studies have suggested that a binomial model for the survival of each specific piglet with a logit approach is appropriate and that recursive relationships between traits are useful for taking into account non-genetic relationships with other traits. In this study, the recursive binomial model is expanded in two directions: (1) the recursive phenotypic dependence among traits is allowed to vary among groups of individuals or crosses, and (2) the binomial distribution is replaced by the multiplicative binomial distribution to account for over or underdispersion. In this study, five recursive multiplicative binomial models were used to obtain estimates of the Dickerson crossbreeding parameters in a diallel cross among three varieties of Iberian pigs [Entrepelado (EE), Torbiscal (TT), and Retinto (RR)]. Records (10,255) from 2110 sows were distributed as follows: EE (433 records, 100 sows), ER (2336, 527), ET (942, 177), RE (806, 196), RR (870, 175), RT (2450, 488), TE (193, 36), TR (1993, 359), and TT (232, 68). Average litter size [Total Number Born (TNB)] and number of stillborns (SB) were 8.46 ± 2.27 and 0.25 ± 0.72, respectively. The overdispersion was evident with all models. The model with the best fit included a linear recursive relationship between TNB and the logit of [Formula: see text] of the multiplicative binomial distribution, and it implies that piglet mortality increases with litter size. Estimates of direct effects showed small differences among populations. The analysis of maternal effects indicated that the dams whose mothers were EE had a larger SB, while dams with RR mothers reduced the probability of born dead. The posterior estimates of heterosis suggested a reduction in SB when the sow is crosbred. The multiplicative binomial distribution provides a useful alternative to the binomial distribution when there is overdispersion in the data. Recursive models can be used for modeling non-genetic relationships between traits, even if the phenotypic dependency between traits varies among environments or groups of individuals. Piglet perinatal mortality increased with TNB and is reduced by maternal heterosis.

An investigation into uterine capacity based on litter and placental characteristics in two sow lines with different prolificacy (Danish Landrace x Danish Yorkshire versus German Saddleback)

Litter size in modern so called hyperprolific pig (Sus scrofa Linnaeus) breeds such as of crossbred Danish Landrace x Danish Yorkshire (LY/YL) sows increased remarkably over recent years, however, commonly associated with reduced piglet birth weight and higher within litter birth weight variability likely due to a limited uterine capacity. Since investigation into this issue is patchy, the aim of this study was to investigate uterine capacity based on litter and placental characteristics in two sow lines with different prolificacy, that is crossbred Danish genetic (Danish Landrace x Danish Yorkshire; DG; n = 14) and purebred German Saddleback (GS) sows (n = 12). Parameters recorded were litter size, piglet birth weight and vitality, placental weight and surface area as well as placental vascularization. Litters of DG were on average larger than of GS (p < .001). Piglets of DG weighed on average less than GS (p < .001) and were less vital (p < .001-.142). Increasing litter size was associated with reduced piglet birth weight and increased within litter birth weight variability in GS, but not in DG. DG had on average a lower placental weight (p < .001) and smaller placentae (p < .001) than GS, but the placenta was on average more efficient than of GS (based on the quotient of piglet and corresponding placental weight; p < .001). Vascularization of placentae was on average not or only slightly different between breeds (p < .05 - .982). Remarkably, however, vascularization of the lateral and apical chorionic epithelium of the chorionic ridges as the immediate foetal/maternal interface was on average slightly higher in DG than GS (p < .05-.111). Results thus demonstrate that uterine capacity based on litter and placental characteristics is higher in DG than GS sows.

Farm data analysis for lifetime performance components of sows and their predictors in breeding herds

Our objectives in this review are 1) to define the four components of sow lifetime performance, 2) to organize the four components and other key measures in a lifetime performance tree, and 3) to compile information about sow and herd-level predictors for sow lifetime performance that can help producers or veterinarians improve their decision making. First, we defined the four components of sow lifetime performance: lifetime efficiency, sow longevity, fertility and prolificacy. We propose that lifetime efficiency should be measured as annualized piglets weaned or annualized piglets born alive which is an integrated measure for sow lifetime performance, whereas longevity should be measured as sow life days and herd-life days which are the number of days from birth to removal and the number of days from date of first-mating to removal, respectively. We also propose that fertility should be measured as lifetime non-productive days, whereas prolificacy should be measured as lifetime pigs born alive. Second, we propose two lifetime performance trees for annualized piglets weaned and annualized piglets born alive, respectively, and show inter-relationships between the four components of the lifetime performance in these trees. Third, we describe sow and herd-level predictors for high lifetime performance of sows. An example of a sow-level predictor is that gilts with lower age at first-mating are associated with higher lifetime performance in all four components. Other examples are that no re-service in parity 0 and shorter weaning-to-first-mating interval in parity 1 are associated with higher fertility, whereas more piglets born in parity 1 is associated with higher prolificacy. It appears that fertility and prolificacy are independent each other. Furthermore, sows with high prolificacy and high fertility are more likely to have high longevity and high efficiency. Also, an increased number of stillborn piglets indicates that sows have farrowing difficulty or a herd health problem. Regarding herd-level predictors, large herd size is associated with higher efficiency. Also, herd-level predictors can interact with sow level predictors for sow lifetime performance. For example, sow longevity decreases more in large herds than small-to-mid herds, whereas gilt age at first-mating increases. So, it appears that herd size alters the impact of delayed gilt age at first-mating on sow longevity. Increased knowledge of these four components of sow lifetime performance and their predictors should help producers and veterinarians maximize a sow's potential and optimize her lifetime productivity in breeding herds.

Effects of timing and size of meals prior to farrowing on sow and litter performance

A total of 727 mixed parity (µ = 3.8) sows were used to evaluate the effects of timing and size of meals before farrowing on sow and litter performance. Upon entry to the farrowing house (day 113), sows were blocked by weight within parity and allotted to one of three three feeding management strategies until farrowing: (1) 2.7 kg lactation diet (1.15% standardized ileal digestible lysine and 2,153 kcal/kg net energy) once daily at 0700 hours; (2) four daily meals of 0.67 kg (0100, 0700, 1300, and 1900 hours); (3) ad libitum lactation diet and encouraged to consume feed at 0100, 0700, 1300, and 1900 hours. After farrowing, all sows were provided lactation diets fed on an ad libitum basis until weaning. Data were analyzed for treatment effects within parity category in a mixed model with block as a random effect. Feeding sows ad libitum before farrowing tended to reduce sow body weight (BW) loss (P = 0.077) and reduce backfat (BF) loss (P = 0.003) from entry into the farrowing house until weaning compared with sows fed four daily meals, with sows fed once daily intermediate. Litter gain from 24 h to weaning tended to be greater (P = 0.073) in sows fed on an ad libitum basis or four times daily prior to farrowing compared with sows fed one meal. Piglet weaning weight increased (P = 0.050) in sows fed on an ad libitum basis before farrowing, compared with those fed one meal, with those fed four times daily intermediate. There was no evidence for difference in farrowing duration, stillborn rate, colostrum yield, or 24 h piglet survival regardless of treatment. However, from 24 h after farrowing to weaning, sows fed one daily meal prior to farrowing had an increased (P = 0.012) percentage of fall-behind pigs compared with sows fed on an ad libitum basis, and increased (P = 0.027) preweaning mortality compared with sows fed four daily meals, resulting in reduced (P = 0.006) weaned percentage compared with sows fed four daily meals. There was no evidence for difference (P > 0.10) in subsequent reproductive performance regardless of treatment. In conclusion, when sows were fed on an ad libitum basis from 2 to 3 d, before farrowing there was an observed improvement in sow BW and BF maintenance during lactation, and piglet weaning weight during lactation. Increased frequency of meals prior to farrowing improved the survival of pigs to weaning compared with sows fed a single meal prior to farrowing.

Viral DNA genomes in sera of farrowing sows with or without stillbirths

A study was conducted to investigate the serum virome of sows with and without stillbirths after farrowing. Sera from sows with at least one stillbirth or with normal litters were collected immediately after farrowing. Viral DNA was extracted from serum pools and submitted to high throughput sequencing. No differences in the proportion of virus-related reads were found in both groups (p > 0.05). A variety of viral DNA genomes were identified, mostly representative of three viral families: Anelloviridae, Circoviridae and Smacoviridae. Besides, a number of novel unclassified circular Rep-encoding single stranded DNA (CRESS DNA) viruses were also identified. These findings suggest that the presence of such viral genomes in sows’ sera bears no correlation with stillbirths’ occurrence; it seems likely that these constitute part of the normal serum microbiome of sows at farrowing.

Short Communication: effect of positive handling of sows on litter performance and pre-weaning piglet mortality

Fear and environmental stressors may negatively affect the welfare of farm animals such as pigs. The present study investigated the effects of music and positive handling on reproductive performance of sows (n = 1014; parity 1 to 8) from a commercial pig farm practicing a batch farrowing system. Every 2 weeks, 56 sows were moved from the gestation unit to conventional-crated farrowing houses 1 week prior to expected farrowing. Treated (T; n = 299) and control (C; n = 715) sows were included in the study. In the farrowing houses, auditory enrichment (music from a radio) was provided to sows of T groups daily from 0600 to 1800 h until the end of lactation. Until the day of farrowing, T sows were additionally subjected, for 15 s per day per sow, to continuous back scratching by one member of farm staff. Litter performance and piglet mortality were recorded and analysed between T and C sows using linear mixed regression models. The number of liveborn piglets (C 13.85 v. T 13.26) and liveborn corrected for fostering (C 13.85 v. T 13.43) was significantly higher (P < 0.05) in C groups compared to the T groups. The number of stillborn piglets was 0.60 and 0.72 in T and C groups, respectively (P > 0.05). With regard to piglet mortality, a linear mixed regression model showed a significant overall effect of treatment in reducing piglet mortality (P < 0.01). Yet, the effect of treatment varied according to litter size (number of liveborn piglets) with a diminishing treatment effect in sows with a high litter size (P < 0.01). Pre-weaning survival was improved in the current study by the combined effect of daily back scratching of sows prior to farrowing and providing music to sows and piglets during lactation. Further research is needed to assess the separate effects of both interventions.

Dietary energy sources during late gestation and lactation of sows: effects on performance, glucolipid metabolism, oxidative status of sows, and their offspring1

In this study, the effects of maternal energy sources during late gestation and lactation on the performance, glucolipid metabolism, and oxidative status of sows and their offspring were investigated using a total of 75 (2 to 6 of parity) Landrace × Large White sows at day 85 of gestation under 3 different dietary treatments: SO diet (basal diet plus 3.0% and 5.0% soybean oil during late gestation and lactation, respectively), FO diet (basal diet plus 3.0%/5.0% fish oil during late gestation and lactation, respectively), and CS diet (basal diet plus 32%/42% corn starch during late gestation and lactation, respectively). All the 3 groups showed no obvious differences (P > 0.05) in the number of total piglets born, born alive, after cross-fostering, and at weaning, whereas the CS group exhibited a shorter farrowing duration (P < 0.05) and lower stillbirth rate (P < 0.05) when compared with the SO group. In addition, litter weight at birth was significantly higher in the CS group than in the SO or FO group (P < 0.05). Despite no notable differences in the ADG of suckling piglets among dietary treatments (P > 0.05), the CS group had greater feed intake than the SO group during the lactation period (P < 0.05). In neonatal piglets with normal birth weight (NBW, 1.3 to 1.5 kg), the CS group was lower than the SO group in the content of liver glycogen (P < 0.05) and the mRNA abundances of fatty acid synthase, acetyl-CoA carboxylase, fatty acid-binding protein 1, and acyl-CoA oxidase (P < 0.05). Interestingly, compared with the SO group, the FO group had a lower preweaning mortality rate (P < 0.05), but greater liver glycogen pools (P < 0.05) in neonatal piglets with low birth weight (LBW, <1.1 kg). Compared with the CS group, the FO group showed an increase in the plasma malondialdehyde levels (P < 0.05) of sows, as well as an increase of 8-hydroxy-deoxyguanosine (P < 0.05) and a decrease of ferric reducing ability of plasma (P < 0.05) in NBW piglets. Overall, the diet rich in starch decreased the stillbirth rate and increased the litter weight of neonatal piglets, the dietary supplementation with fish oil decreased preweaning mortality rate, and the diet with a low n6:n3 ratio increased the oxidative status of sows and their offspring.

Iron treatment of pregnant sows in a Danish herd without iron deficiency anemia did not improve sow and piglet hematology or stillbirth rate

Background

Anemia characterized by low hemoglobin concentration (HbC) is common in indoor housed pregnant sows. Iron is essential for hemoglobin synthesis and a number of metabolic processes including DNA synthesis and regulation of enzyme systems. In sows, anemia has been linked to lower HbC in piglets and increased occurrence of stillbirths. Therefore, the main objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of iron injection on hematology of pregnant sows and their offspring. Other objectives were to evaluate the effect of this injection on the probability of stillbirths and to study the tolerability of injected iron.

Results

A sow herd with bi-weekly batch farrowing was selected for the study and 100 sows at mid-gestation were randomly assigned to either a treatment (FeT) or a control (FeC) group. At the time of recruitment to the study (baseline), 46% of the sows in the herd were anemic with a HbC less than 103 g/L. However, none of the anemic sows had iron deficiency anemia on erythrocyte characterization. HbC decreased numerically during gestation in both the FeT (− 2.48 g/L) and FeC (− 2.99 g/L) groups but the decrease was insignificant between the groups (P = 0.79). Likewise, the change from baseline to farrowing and from baseline to post-farrowing in other hematologic variables was similar for both groups. The percentage of transferrin saturation was not statistically different between groups (P = 0.14). There was a batch effect (week of breeding) in most of the hematologic variables. The probability of stillbirth in the two groups did not differ (P = 0.94). None of the hematologic variables in piglets was significantly different between the two groups. The sows tolerated the iron injection well.

Conclusions

Intramuscular injection of two doses of 2500 mg iron 2 weeks apart at mid-gestation did neither change hematologic variables in sows nor in the piglets at farrowing. Similarly, iron treatment did not reduce the probability of stillbirths among the offspring. The sows recruited in this study tolerated the iron injections well. Further characterization of erythrocytes did not support that sows had iron deficiency anemia at baseline. Therefore, further studies on animals with well-defined anemia and with focus on the iron regulating hormone hepcidin are recommended.

Enrichment with Lucerne Hay Improves Sow Maternal Behaviour and Improves Piglet Survival

This study investigated the effects of providing lucerne hay on the behaviour and the performance of sows housed in farrowing crates during farrowing and lactation. Seventy-two mixed parity sows received either 1 kg lucerne hay daily from entry into the farrowing crate (-2 d from expected farrowing date) until weaning at 17 d (lucerne group, n = 36), or received no additional enrichment (control group, n = 36). In the 18 h prior to farrowing, the sows in the lucerne treatment spent more time performing nest-building behaviour (14.8% lucerne vs 11.1% control, p = 0.0009) and less time sham-chewing (1.0% lucerne vs 1.9% control, p = 0.01) than control sows, and gave birth to fewer stillborn piglets/litter (0.1 lucerne vs 0.4 control, p = 0.027). After farrowing (Day 3), the control sows spent less time lying than the lucerne sows (26% control vs 43% lucerne, p < 0.05). The control sows also spent less time interacting with their piglets during early lactation compared to late lactation (25.5% Day 5 vs 47.3% Day 12, p < 0.05), suggesting reduced maternal behaviour in this group. The lucerne sows continued to interact with the lucerne throughout lactation, indicating that they still found the enrichment rewarding after the nesting period had ceased. Based on these results, lucerne enrichment was considered to improve sow welfare during farrowing and lactation and reduce the number of stillborn piglets.

Assessment of Piglet Vitality by Farmers-Validation of A Scoring Scheme and Estimation of Associated Genetic Parameters

Simple Summary

The aim of animal breeding is to improve desirable traits in animals over generations by selecting those animals with the best performance for producing offspring. Sows have been bred for bearing and raising large litters. However, piglets in large litters are often underweight at birth and have a higher risk of dying before weaning. Therefore, breeding for large litters presents an animal welfare issue and focus should be put on new traits, such as piglet vitality. To select the best performing sows, breeders need a scheme to assess piglet vitality on a routine basis. In this study, 23 farmers used a four-point scoring scheme for piglet vitality (1 = low vitality to 4 = high vitality) to assess 3171 litters. To validate the new scoring scheme, i.e., to see if it assesses what it is supposed to assess, the vitality scores were compared to the piglet mortality rate of the respective litters. The results show that litters assessed with low vitality scores had the highest mortality rate and vice versa. Furthermore, genetic analysis showed that the trait is hereditary. Therefore, including piglet vitality into breeding programs may contribute to animal welfare improvement.

Abstract

Maternal breeds for sows have been bred for high prolificacy during recent decades. Although large litters may be beneficial for economic efficiency, pre-weaning mortality is increased. Thus, focus should instead be put on new traits such as piglet vitality (PV). Until now, no validated scoring scheme for piglet vitality exists, which is feasible to be applied for routine on-farm trait recording. The objective of this study was to validate a four-point vitality scoring scheme (1 = low vitality to 4 = high vitality) applied by farmers based on pre-weaning mortality and to estimate genetic parameters. A linear mixed model was fitted for piglet vitality for 3172 litters from Large White and Landrace sows on 23 farms and correlations were calculated for vitality score and piglet mortality. A subsample of 2900 records was used for genetic analysis. Pre-weaning mortality differed significantly between all vitality score categories except for 1 and 2, ranging between 7.98% (category 4) and 29.1% (category 1). PV was genetically negatively correlated to litter size (−0.68) and mortality rate (−0.65), whereas litter size was positively correlated with mortality rate (0.59). Including PV into breeding programs may, thus, improve animal welfare.

Investigating causal biological relationships between reproductive performance traits in high-performing gilts and sows1

Efficient management of swine production systems requires understanding of complex reproductive physiological mechanisms. Our objective in this study was to investigate potential causal biological relationships between reproductive performance traits in high-producing gilts and sows. Data originated from a nutrition experiment and consisted of 200 sows and 440 gilts arranged in body weight blocks and randomly assigned to dietary treatments during late gestation at a commercial swine farm. Reproductive performance traits consisted of weight gain during late gestation, total number born and number born alive in a litter, born alive average birth weight, wean-to-estrous interval, and total litter size born in the subsequent farrowing. Structural equation models combined with the inductive causation algorithm, both adapted to a hierarchical Bayesian framework, were employed to search for, estimate, and infer upon causal links between the traits within each parity group. Results indicated potentially distinct reproductive networks for gilts and for sows. Sows showed sparse connectivity between reproductive traits, whereas the network learned for gilts was densely interconnected, suggesting closely linked physiological mechanisms in younger females, with a potential for ripple effects throughout their productive lifecycle in response to early implementation of tailored managerial interventions. Cross-validation analyses indicated substantial network stability both for the general structure and for individual links, though results about directionality of such links were unstable in this study and will need further investigation. An assessment of relative statistical power in sows and gilts indicated that the observed network discrepancies may be partially explained on a biological basis. In summary, our results suggest distinctly heterogeneous mechanistic networks of reproductive physiology for gilts and sows, consistent with physiological differences between the groups. These findings have potential practical implications for integrated understanding and differential management of gilts and sows to enhance efficiency of swine production systems.

Incidences and risk factors for prolapse removal in Spanish sow herds

Prolapses in sows are an emerging concern in pig production. The objectives of this study were to estimate the incidence rate of prolapses and to determine risk factors associated with prolapse occurrences. Data included 905,089 service records in 819,754 parity records of 155,238 sows from 144 swine herds in Spain. Producers were required to record a removal reason, including type of prolapse. A 1:4 matched case-control study was carried out to investigate prolapse risk factors, and piecewise exponential models were applied to the data. The following factors were assessed: parity, number of services, service season, weeks after service, prior gestational length, total number of piglets born, and number of stillborn and mummified piglets. Almost 1% of sows (0.8%) were removed due to prolapses (95% confidence interval: 0.76, 0.85), and the annualized incidence rate for all prolapse cases was 3.8 cases per 1000 sow-years (95% confidence interval: 3.59, 4.01). Significant factors were the 16^th week after service, being in parity 3 or higher, re-service, servicing in summer, autumn or winter, shorter gestational length, fewer piglets born and more stillborn piglets (P ≤  0.04). For example, the prolapse incidence was 30.6 times higher at 16 weeks after service than during the first 14 weeks (P <  0.01). Also, 60.9% of 1198 prolapses occurred during the first 0 to 4 weeks after farrowing. The prolapse incidence was 1.5-1.8 times higher in parity 3 or higher sows than in parity 0 sows (P <  0.01), and 1.3 times higher in re-serviced sows than in first serviced sows (P =  0.02). It was also 1.3-1.5 times higher in sows serviced in summer, autumn or winter than in those serviced in spring (P ≤  0.02), and 1.3-1.5 times higher in sows with a prior gestational length of 113 days or less than in sows with 114 days or more gestational length (P <  0.01). Lastly, the prolapse incidence rate was 1.2 times higher in sows with 11 or fewer piglets born than in sows with 12-16 piglets born (P =  0.04), and was also 1.4 times higher in sows with two or more stillborn piglets than in sows with no stillborn piglets (P <  0.01). However, there was no association between prolapse incidence and mummified piglets (P =  0.54). Consequently, producers should pay more attention to sows exposed to high risks, while trying to identify prolapse cases at an early stage.

Factors associated with specific health, welfare and reproductive performance indicators in pig herds from five EU countries

Production diseases are often of multi-factorial origin in which environment (housing, nutrition and management) health and reproductive challenges show complex interactions. The aim of this study was to identify specific environment-related factors and to discuss their associations with health, welfare and reproductive performance in sows and piglets, in diverse systems using data from 130 farms from five EU countries. Two sets of data were used: a) a questionnaire was developed for sows and piglets covering farm management, interventions and housing and b) farm production data covering various performance parameters. Eight parameters were further selected, four of which were related to sow reproductive performance (litter index, replacement rate, repeat breeding (i.e. failure to breed after one mating), weaning to first mating interval) and the remaining four to litter / piglet health performance (piglets born alive per litter, piglets born dead per litter, preweaning mortality rate and weaned piglets per litter). Univariable and multivariable linear models were employed to identify risk factors. Associations were considered significant if P ≤ 0.007 (a criterion of p ≤ 0.05 corrected for the number of parameters tested). Various risk and protective factors were identified for each tested outcome variable. Country effects were included in all models as a fixed factor. Adjusted R-squared values for the multivariable models varied between 9.6% (preweaning mortality) and 66% (litter index). Litter index (litters/sow/year) was negatively associated with a higher weaning age of the piglets. Housing recently weaned sows to be inseminated in a separate unit from the gestation unit had a positive association with litter index. Repeat breeding was negatively associated with PRRS-free farms, farms that bred (raised) all gilts on the farm and farms that perform farrowing induction of sows. PRRS-free farms were also associated with a higher replacement rate. Farms that bred gilts on the farm and PRRS-free farms were negatively associated with preweaning mortality. Natural ventilation in the gestation unit was associated with fewer piglets born alive and with fewer weaned piglets. Closed type of farms was associated with less piglets born dead. The use of open box housing system for pregnant sows (provision of individual resting areas) was associated with more weaned piglets. In conclusion, several factors related to applying good farm and health management, and optimal housing conditions showed positive association with various sow and piglet performance parameters. Further studies will help to assess causal links for these factors.

l-arginine supplementation in sow diet during late gestation decrease stillborn piglet, increase piglet birth weight and increase immunoglobulin G concentration in colostrum

The fetal growth is rapid during the last trimester of gestation in sows and hence sow nutrition during this period is important for fetal growth and development. During the last decade, studies reported that l-arginine HCl supplementation during gestation increased sow and piglet performances. However, clinical studies concerning the association between l-arginine HCL supplementation and some neonatal piglet characteristics as well as colostrum and milk yield of sow are still lacking. The present study aims to determine the effect of l-arginine HCl supplementation in sow diet during late gestation on piglet characteristics at birth, colostrum consumption (CC), concentration of immunoglobulin G (IgG) in colostrum, milk yield, average daily gain at d 7 and 21 and piglet mortality at d 7 and 21 of life. In total, 166 sows were allocated into four groups, i.e., CON (n = 66), ARG-0.5 (n = 42), ARG-1.0 (n = 41) and ALA (n = 17). The sows in each group were fed with a conventional gestation diet (CON) or the same diet supplemented with 0.5% l-arginine HCl (ARG-0.5), 1.0% l-arginine HCl (ARG-1.0) or 1.7% l-alanine (ALA, isonitrogenous with ARG-1.0). The feeding protocol was carried out from 85 days of gestation until farrowing. The proportion of live-born piglets, piglet birth weight (BW_B), within-litter variation of BW_B, proportion of piglets with BW_B above 1.35 kg, proportion of growth-restricted piglets (defined as BW_B below 1.0 kg), blood oxygen saturation (SatO₂) and heart rate were determined in 2292 newborn piglets from 166 litters. Colostrum consumption of each individual piglets and the colostral concentration of IgG was determined. The milk yield between d 0-7 and 7-21 and relative backfat loss were estimated in each individual sow. The piglet mortality and body weight was determined at d 7 and 21 of life. On average, the number of piglet born alive per litter was 12.4. The proportion of stillborn piglets, piglets with BW_B above 1.35 kg and growth-restricted piglets were 6.9%, 62.7% and 14.0%, respectively. Piglet preweaning mortality at d 7 and 21 were 8.5% and 12.4%, respectively. Compared to the ALA group, ARG-0.5 increased the proportion of live-born piglets per litter (+9.8%, P < 0.001), reduced stillborn (-8.3%, P < 0.001) and tended to increase the proportion of piglets with BW_B above 1.35 kg (+6.4%, P = 0.08). Compared to the CON group, ARG-0.5 increased BW_B (+7.0%, P < 0.001), increased SatO₂ (+3%, P < 0.001) and reduced heart rate (-20%, P < 0.001) and tended to reduce the relative backfat loss (-4.4%, P = 0.06). No difference between ARG-1.0 and ARG-0.5 was observed among these traits. Other traits including within-litter variation of BW_B, growth-restricted piglets, average daily gain, piglets preweaning mortality and CC and milk yield were not affected by treatment (P > 0.05). The colostral concentration of IgG at 1 h after onset of farrowing in ARG-1.0 sows (116 mg/ml) was higher than CON, ARG-0.5 and ALA sows (85, 74 and 78 mg/ml, respectively; P < 0.05). In conclusions, dietary l-arginine HCl supplementation in late gestating sows favourably increased proportion of live-born piglets, BW_B, SatO₂ and IgG concentration in the sow colostrum.

Exploratory field study on the effect of Porcine circovirus 2 (PCV2) sow vaccination on serological, virological and reproductive parameters in a PCV2 subclinically infected sow herd

Background

This study sought to evaluate the effect of sow vaccination against Porcine circovirus 2 (PCV2) on reproductive parameters during two consecutive reproductive cycles. The study was performed in a PCV2 subclinical infected breeding herd (PCV2 circulation but absence of major reproductive problems). Ninety-four pregnant sows were primo-immunized with a commercial PCV2 vaccine and ninety-seven were injected with phosphate-buffered saline at 6 and 3 weeks before the first studied farrowing, and then boosted at 2 weeks before the second one. Blood samples were taken throughout the study to assess PCV2 DNA load and antibodies. At farrowing, main reproductive parameters and piglet vitality index were registered. In addition, in those litters with more than three mummified or stillborn piglets, microscopic examination and PCV2 antigen detection in foetal myocardium was done.

Results

Vaccinated sows showed significantly higher antibody levels compared to the non-vaccinated counterparts. PCV2 DNA was only detected at farrowing in 2 (4.2%) non-vaccinated sows. Vaccinated sows had 1.3 more live-born piglets per litter at the second cycle than non-vaccinated counterparts. Piglets from vaccinated sows had significantly higher (+ 12.7%) vitality score than the ones born from non-vaccinated sows. No PCV2 compatible lesions neither PCV2 antigen were detected in the tested foetal hearts.

Conclusions

The present study represents a first attempt to demonstrate that PCV2 sow vaccination may have a positive influence on prolificacy and vitality of the offspring in a subclinical infected breeding herd. However, since reproductive outcomes at farm level may be affected by a number of factors, further studies would be needed to confirm this association.

Genetic parameters for reproductive traits at different parities in Large White pigs

Univariate or bivariate animal models were used to estimate the variance components and co-variance components for eight reproductive traits: total number born (TNB), number born alive (NBA), total litter weight of piglets born alive (BALWT), number of healthy births (NHB), number of weak births (NWB), number of deformed fetuses (NDF), number of stillborn (NSB), and number of mummified pigs (MUMM). In addition, the phenotypic and genetic correlations between traits at different parities were also estimated. The results showed that the heritabilities of the eight reproductive traits were lower than 0.10. Genetic correlations between NHB and TNB, NBA, or BALWT were 0.68, 0.84 and 0.89 respectively; whereas genetic correlations between NHB and NWB, NDF, NSB or MUMM were negative or close to 0, ranging from -0.28 to 0.13. NHB was relatively identified as an ideal informative trait for selection for improved reproduction. Furthermore, genetic correlations between different parities for all traits, except for NDF were strongly positive, showing that it was reasonable to consider different parities as the same trait. For NDF, genetic correlations between the first and the other parities were low, indicating that it was probably unreasonable to cull pigs according to the NDF at first parity. Optimum reproductive traits were observed at the third parity, and reinforcing the management of sows in the first and > 4 parities can be a practical method for improving reproductive traits.