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Meyer AM, Redifer CA. The curse of the firstborn: Effects of dam primiparity on developmental programming in ruminant offspring. Anim Reprod Sci 2024; 265:107469. [PMID: 38705081 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2024.107469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
The first parity, or first pregnancy, of ruminant females has negative effects on offspring during fetal, perinatal, and pre-weaning periods which ultimately lead to diminished pre-weaning productivity. Offspring born to primiparous ruminant females can have decreased fetal and pre-weaning growth, resulting in lower body weights at birth and weaning in cattle, sheep, and goats. Moreover, mortality is greater during both neonatal and pre-weaning periods. Insults during these critical developmental windows likely also have long-term consequences on first-parity offspring through developmental programming, but less research has been done to investigate effects in the post-weaning period. Many potential physiological, metabolic, and behavioral mechanisms exist for the outcomes of dam primiparity. Although competition for nutrient partitioning between maternal and fetal growth or lactation is often cited as a major contributor, we hypothesize that the most important mechanism causing most first-parity outcomes is the relative physiological inexperience of reproductive tissues such as the uterus and mammary gland during the first pregnancy and lactation, or a "first use theory" of tissues. More research is necessary to explore these areas, as well as if primiparous dams respond differently to stressors than multiparous dams, and if stress during the first parity affects subsequent parities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison M Meyer
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA.
| | - Colby A Redifer
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
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2
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Munn AL, Swinbourne A, Brougham BJ, van Wettere W, Weaver AC. The effects of maternal calcium status during late gestation on lamb growth and survival in twin-bearing Merino ewes grazing pasture. Aust Vet J 2024; 102:249-255. [PMID: 38369317 DOI: 10.1111/avj.13321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Our project aimed to investigate whether low maternal calcium status during late gestation decreased weight, growth and survival of lambs born to twin-bearing Merino ewes grazing pasture. On day 130 of gestation, approximately a 10 mL blood sample was collected from 108 twin-bearing Merino ewes. Blood pH and calcium ion concentration were measured in whole blood and serum was analysed for calcium, magnesium, phosphate, beta hydroxy butyrate, non-esterified fatty acids and cholesterol. Six to 18 h after birth and at 49 days of age, lamb live weight was recorded. Ewe serum calcium level at day 130 of gestation were divided into tertiles (1.58-2.13, 2.14-2.30, and 2.31-2.99 mmol/L) with ewes classified as either Low, Med or High (n = 36 per group). A general linear mixed model was used to analyse the data. Survival to 1, 2, 3 and 7 days of age was lower for lambs born to ewes in the Low calcium group compared with those born in the Med and High calcium groups (P < 0.05). At day 49 of age, lamb survival tended to be lower for lambs in the Low (73.6%) compared with Med (86.8%) and High (85.3%) calcium groups (P < 0.1). There were no differences in lamb body weight (P > 0.05). Calcium levels of ewes in the Low calcium group were, on average, indicative of subclinical hypocalcaemia, with this group of ewes also having the lowest lamb survival rate, suggesting that maternal subclinical hypocalcaemia reduces lamb survival. Further studies, particularly on improving maternal calcium levels, are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- A L Munn
- Davies Livestock Research Centre, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, South Australia, Australia
| | - Amf Swinbourne
- Turretfield Research Centre, South Australian Research and Development Institute, Rosedale, South Australia, Australia
| | - B-J Brougham
- Davies Livestock Research Centre, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, South Australia, Australia
| | - Whej van Wettere
- Davies Livestock Research Centre, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, South Australia, Australia
| | - A C Weaver
- Turretfield Research Centre, South Australian Research and Development Institute, Rosedale, South Australia, Australia
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3
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Spanner EA, de Graaf SP, Rickard JP. Factors affecting the success of laparoscopic artificial insemination in sheep. Anim Reprod Sci 2024; 264:107453. [PMID: 38547814 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2024.107453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 01/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
Successful artificial breeding underpins rapid genetic and production gains in animal agriculture. In sheep, artificial insemination with frozen semen is performed via intrauterine laparoscopy as frozen-thawed spermatozoa do not traverse the cervix in sufficient numbers for high fertility and transcervical insemination is anatomically impossible in most ewes. Historically, laparoscopic artificial insemination has always been considered reasonably successful, but recent anecdotal reports of poor fertility place it at risk of warning adoption. Understanding the male, female and environmental factors that influence the fertility of sheep is warranted if the success of artificial insemination is to be improved and genetic progress maximised for the sheep industry. This review details the current practice of laparoscopic AI in sheep. It explores the effects of semen quantity and quality, the ewe, her preparation, and environmental conditions, on the fertility obtained following laparoscopic artificial insemination.
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Affiliation(s)
- E A Spanner
- The University of Sydney, Faculty of Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, NSW 2006, Australia.
| | - S P de Graaf
- The University of Sydney, Faculty of Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - J P Rickard
- The University of Sydney, Faculty of Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, NSW 2006, Australia
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4
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Van Wettere WHEJ, Culley S, Swinbourne AMF, Leu ST, Lee SJ, Weaver AC, Kelly JM, Walker SJ, Kleemann DO, Thomas DS, Hayman PT, Gatford KL, Kind KL, Westra S. Heat stress from current and predicted increases in temperature impairs lambing rates and birth weights in the Australian sheep flock. NATURE FOOD 2024; 5:206-210. [PMID: 38459392 DOI: 10.1038/s43016-024-00935-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024]
Abstract
Livestock heat stress threatens production, particularly in semi-arid, arid and tropical regions. Using established temperature thresholds for sheep, we modelled +1 °C and +3 °C temperature increases over the historical baseline, estimating that 2.1 million potential lambs are lost annually due to heat stress alone, increasing to 2.5 and 3.3 million, respectively, as temperatures rise. Heat stress poses risks at key periods of the reproductive cycle, with consequences across the Australian sheep flock.
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Affiliation(s)
- William H E J Van Wettere
- Davies Livestock Research Centre, School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.
| | - Sam Culley
- School of Civil, Environmental and Mining Engineering, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Alyce M F Swinbourne
- South Australian Research and Development Institute, Primary Industries and Regions SA, Reproductive Biology, Livestock Sciences, Turretfield Research Centre, Rosedale, South Australia, Australia
| | - Stephan T Leu
- Davies Livestock Research Centre, School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Stephen J Lee
- Davies Livestock Research Centre, School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Alice C Weaver
- South Australian Research and Development Institute, Primary Industries and Regions SA, Reproductive Biology, Livestock Sciences, Turretfield Research Centre, Rosedale, South Australia, Australia
| | - Jennifer M Kelly
- South Australian Research and Development Institute, Primary Industries and Regions SA, Reproductive Biology, Livestock Sciences, Turretfield Research Centre, Rosedale, South Australia, Australia
| | - Simon J Walker
- South Australian Research and Development Institute, Primary Industries and Regions SA, Reproductive Biology, Livestock Sciences, Turretfield Research Centre, Rosedale, South Australia, Australia
| | - David O Kleemann
- South Australian Research and Development Institute, Primary Industries and Regions SA, Reproductive Biology, Livestock Sciences, Turretfield Research Centre, Rosedale, South Australia, Australia
| | - Dane S Thomas
- Waite Research Institute, School of Agriculture, Food and Wine, The University of Adelaide, Urrbrae, South Australia, Australia
- South Australian Research and Development Institute, Primary Industries and Regions SA, Government of South Australia, Climate Applications, Waite Research Precinct, Urrbrae, South Australia, Australia
| | - Peter T Hayman
- Waite Research Institute, School of Agriculture, Food and Wine, The University of Adelaide, Urrbrae, South Australia, Australia
- South Australian Research and Development Institute, Primary Industries and Regions SA, Government of South Australia, Climate Applications, Waite Research Precinct, Urrbrae, South Australia, Australia
| | - Kathryn L Gatford
- Robinson Research Institute, School of Biomedicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Karen L Kind
- Davies Livestock Research Centre, School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Seth Westra
- School of Civil, Environmental and Mining Engineering, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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5
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Haslin E, Allington T, Blumer SE, Boshoff J, Clarke BE, Hancock SN, Kearney GA, Kenyon PR, Krog J, Kubeil LJ, Lockwood A, Refshauge G, Trompf JP, Thompson AN. Management of Body Condition Score between Pregnancy Scanning and Lamb Marking Impacts the Survival of Triplet-Bearing Ewes and Their Lambs. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2057. [PMID: 37443855 DOI: 10.3390/ani13132057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
This study evaluated the impacts of management of body condition score (BCS) between pregnancy scanning and lamb marking on the mortality of triplet-bearing ewes and their lambs at 19 research sites across Southern Australia. Triplet-bearing ewes of Maternal (crossbred or composite) or Merino breed were randomly allocated to treatment at pregnancy scanning at an average of 97 days from the start of joining: High or Low BCS. The BCS of individual ewes was assessed at pregnancy scanning, pre-lambing (average of 137 days from the start of joining) and marking (average of 165 days from the end of joining), and ewe and lamb mortality to marking, recorded for each mob. The average BCS at pregnancy scanning was 3.4 for Maternal ewes and 3.3 for Merino ewes. There were no breed by BCS treatment effects on the BCS of ewes at pregnancy scanning or lamb marking or on the change in BCS between pregnancy scanning and pre-lambing or between pre-lambing and marking. The change in BCS differed between the High and Low BCS treatments, between pregnancy scanning and pre-lambing (0.12 vs. -0.33; p < 0.001) and between pre-lambing and marking (-0.39 vs. 0.07; p < 0.001) but did not differ between breeds. The average BCS at marking for ewes managed at the High and Low BCS treatments was 3.1 and 3.0 for Maternals and 3.0 and 2.8 for Merinos. Survival of triplet-bearing Merino ewes (p < 0.01) and their lambs (p < 0.001) was greater when ewes were managed at the High BCS compared to the Low BCS. The BCS treatment did not impact the survival of Maternal ewes or their lambs. The survival of Merino but not Maternal lambs was higher when ewes were in greater BCS pre-lambing (p < 0.01) and when ewes gained BCS between pregnancy scanning and pre-lambing (p < 0.01). Ewe mortality was lower when ewes gained BCS between pregnancy scanning and pre-lambing (p < 0.05). Merino ewes were more likely to die than Maternal ewes for a given change in BCS between pregnancy scanning and pre-lambing (p = 0.065). Overall, our findings demonstrate that producers should manage the nutrition of triplet-bearing Merino ewes so that ewes are in greater BCS at lambing and/or to gain BCS between pregnancy scanning and lambing to improve ewe and lamb survival. Triplet-bearing Maternal ewes should be managed to gain BCS between pregnancy scanning and lambing to improve ewe survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuelle Haslin
- School of Agriculture and Environment, Massey University, Tennent Drive, Palmerston North 4410, New Zealand
| | - Travis Allington
- Centre for Animal Production and Health, Murdoch University, 90 South Street, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia
| | - Sarah E Blumer
- Centre for Animal Production and Health, Murdoch University, 90 South Street, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia
| | - Johan Boshoff
- Faculty of Science, Agriculture, Business and Law, University of New England, Elm Avenue, Armidale, NSW 2351, Australia
| | - Bronwyn E Clarke
- Centre for Animal Production and Health, Murdoch University, 90 South Street, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia
| | - Serina N Hancock
- Centre for Animal Production and Health, Murdoch University, 90 South Street, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia
| | | | - Paul R Kenyon
- School of Agriculture and Environment, Massey University, Tennent Drive, Palmerston North 4410, New Zealand
| | - Jarryd Krog
- Centre for Animal Production and Health, Murdoch University, 90 South Street, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia
| | - Lyndon J Kubeil
- Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resources, 89 Sydney Road, Benalla, VIC 3672, Australia
| | - Amy Lockwood
- Centre for Animal Production and Health, Murdoch University, 90 South Street, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia
| | - Gordon Refshauge
- New South Wales Department of Primary Industries, Cowra Agricultural Research and Advisory Station, 296 Binni Creek Road, Cowra, NSW 2351, Australia
| | - Jason P Trompf
- J.T. Agri-Source, 2A Bradley Drive, Melbourne, VIC 3082, Australia
| | - Andrew N Thompson
- Centre for Animal Production and Health, Murdoch University, 90 South Street, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia
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Lockwood A, Allington T, Blumer SE, Boshoff J, Clarke BE, Hancock SN, Kearney GA, Kenyon PR, Krog J, Kubeil LJ, Refshauge G, Trompf JP, Thompson AN. Decreasing Mob Size at Lambing Increases the Survival of Triplet Lambs Born on Farms across Southern Australia. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:1936. [PMID: 37370446 DOI: 10.3390/ani13121936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Industry consultation in Australia revealed that the potential impact of the mob size of ewes during lambing on the survival of triplet-born lambs was an important research priority. Previous research has demonstrated that smaller mob sizes at lambing improve the survival of single- and especially twin-born lambs, regardless of ewe stocking rate. Therefore, we hypothesised that lambing triplet-bearing ewes in smaller mobs, regardless of stocking rate, will increase the survival of their lambs. Research sites were established on 12 commercial sheep farms across southern Australia between 2019 and 2021. One farm used Merinos whilst the remainder of the farms used non-Merino breeds, consisting of composite ewes joined to composite or terminal sires. Three of the farms were used in two years of the experiment. Adult, triplet-bearing ewes were randomly allocated into one of two treatments, 'High' or 'Low' mob size, at an average of 135 days from the start of joining. Ewe and lamb survival were assessed between allocation to treatments and lamb marking. Lamb survival was significantly greater for lambs born in the Low (65.6%) compared with the High (56.6%) mob size treatments (p < 0.001). There was no effect of mob size at lambing on the mortality of triplet-bearing ewes. Analysis of the effect of the actual mob sizes showed that reducing the mob size at lambing by 10 triplet-bearing ewes increased the survival of their lambs to marking by 1.5% (p < 0.001). This study has shown that the survival of triplet-born lambs can be improved by lambing triplet-bearing ewes in smaller mobs regardless of stocking rate when ranging from 0.7-13 ewes/ha.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Lockwood
- Centre for Animal Production and Health, Murdoch University, Perth, WA 6150, Australia
| | - Travis Allington
- Centre for Animal Production and Health, Murdoch University, Perth, WA 6150, Australia
| | - Sarah E Blumer
- Centre for Animal Production and Health, Murdoch University, Perth, WA 6150, Australia
| | - Johan Boshoff
- Faculty of Science, Agriculture, Business and Law, University of New England, Elm Avenue, Armidale, NSW 2351, Australia
| | - Bronwyn E Clarke
- Centre for Animal Production and Health, Murdoch University, Perth, WA 6150, Australia
| | - Serina N Hancock
- Centre for Animal Production and Health, Murdoch University, Perth, WA 6150, Australia
| | | | - Paul R Kenyon
- School of Agriculture and Environment, Massey University, Tennent Drive, Palmerston North 4410, New Zealand
| | - Jarryd Krog
- Centre for Animal Production and Health, Murdoch University, Perth, WA 6150, Australia
| | - Lyndon J Kubeil
- Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resources, 89 Sydney Road, Benalla, VIC 3672, Australia
| | - Gordon Refshauge
- New South Wales Department of Primary Industries, Cowra Agricultural Research and Advisory Station, 296 Binni Creek Road, Cowra, NSW 2794, Australia
| | - Jason P Trompf
- J.T. Agri-Source, 2A Bradley Drive, Melbourne, VIC 3082, Australia
| | - Andrew N Thompson
- Centre for Animal Production and Health, Murdoch University, Perth, WA 6150, Australia
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Genfors E, Magnusson U, Moliso MM, Wieland B, König U, Hallenberg GS, Båge R. Preventive herd management practices and their effect on lamb mortality in Ethiopia. Trop Anim Health Prod 2023; 55:42. [PMID: 36656383 PMCID: PMC9852112 DOI: 10.1007/s11250-022-03361-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
According to previous studies, lamb mortality is high in the Ethiopian highlands. The present study aims to evaluate the execution of preventive sheep herd health management practices with respect to if, and how, such practices are linked to occurrence of lamb mortality. Interviews were performed with 74 sheep-owning households participating in a capacity development program on livestock and 69 households not participating in such program. To evaluate the impact of combinations of performed practices, a scoring system was developed-the households retrieved a higher score the more desired routines were accomplished. To identify which practices had the highest impact on lamb mortality, a similar score was calculated for each phase of the sheep reproductive year, creating sub-scores for each phase. The results showed a significant (p < 0.05) negative correlation between the total number of performed practices and occurrence of lamb mortality, indicating a lower occurrence of lamb mortality the more desired practices implemented. Further analysis of sub-scores showed significant (p < 0.05) negative correlations between a higher number of performed desired practices during gestation period and during lambing. Conclusively, the study indicates that preventive herd management routines are beneficial for lamb survival, foremost when enforced during the gestation period and around lambing-hence, this is where to focus future interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- E. Genfors
- grid.6341.00000 0000 8578 2742Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Swedish University of Agriculture Agricultural University (SLU), Box 7054, 750 07 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - U. Magnusson
- grid.6341.00000 0000 8578 2742Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Swedish University of Agriculture Agricultural University (SLU), Box 7054, 750 07 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - M. M. Moliso
- grid.419369.00000 0000 9378 4481International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - B. Wieland
- grid.419369.00000 0000 9378 4481International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), Addis Ababa, Ethiopia ,grid.438536.fPresent Address: Institute of Virology and Immunology, Mittelhaeusern, Switzerland ,grid.5734.50000 0001 0726 5157Present Address: Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - U. König
- Farm and Animal Health Organisation, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - G. S. Hallenberg
- grid.6341.00000 0000 8578 2742Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Swedish University of Agriculture Agricultural University (SLU), Box 7054, 750 07 Uppsala, Sweden ,grid.419734.c0000 0000 9580 3113Present Address: Public Health Agency of Sweden, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - R. Båge
- grid.6341.00000 0000 8578 2742Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Swedish University of Agriculture Agricultural University (SLU), Box 7054, 750 07 Uppsala, Sweden
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Breeding Ewe Lambs: An Australasian Perspective. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12223207. [PMID: 36428434 PMCID: PMC9686899 DOI: 10.3390/ani12223207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
A number of potential advantages have been identified for breeding ewe lambs at 7 to 9 months of age, including increased lifetime productivity and profitability. However, breeding at this young age in extensive pastoral systems, such as in Australasia, can be associated with a number of disadvantages resulting in uptake of this management procedure being relatively low. This review highlights the known differences between ewe lamb and mature ewe reproductive performance, thus differing in their management. The review then summaries the scientific literature of factors that affect ewe lamb reproductive success, with a focus on recent studies conducted under extensive pasture-based conditions in Australasia. In particular, this review outlines the importance of ewe lamb live weight and body condition score on their productivity. The potential long-term consequences of breeding a ewe lamb at a young age in terms of her future success and that of her offspring to weaning are briefly outlined. In addition, the potential impacts of selecting progeny born to ewe lambs as future replacement ewes are discussed. Throughout this review, optimal management guidelines from prior to breeding the ewe lambs until rebreeding at 2 years of age are provided. Lastly, areas requiring future research are identified and discussed.
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Walls A, Hatze B, Lomax S, Bathgate R. Defining "Normal" in Pig Parturition. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12202754. [PMID: 36290140 PMCID: PMC9597809 DOI: 10.3390/ani12202754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2022] [Revised: 10/02/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The dual considerations of efficient food production and good animal welfare have never been so important nor under such strong public scrutiny as they are in current times. Intensive animal production industries play an important role in feeding an ever-growing, increasingly affluent population that is hungry for animal proteins. The efforts to improve efficiency in these production systems must not come at the cost of animal welfare. One pain point in pig production is that of parturition, where factors such as litter size and sow-housing type have been shown to influence the process and outcome. However, there are still many gaps in knowledge surrounding the normal physiology and endocrinology in a farrowing and this review seeks to summarise what is known and highlight areas where further work is required. Abstract Animal production industries rely on efficient and successful reproductive outcomes, with pigs being no exception. The process of parturition in pigs (farrowing) can be especially prolonged, due to the large numbers of piglets being born (on average, approximately 13 piglets per litter in Australian conditions). Difficulties in farrowing (dystocia) lead to poor piglet outcomes and health problems in sows, in turn, causing economic loss for producers and welfare concerns for the animals. Despite the importance of this topic and publications in the area stretching back nearly 50 years, there is still no consensus on the prevalence of dystocia in pigs nor on how to identify a pig experiencing the condition. Understanding the process of parturition and the factors that influence its success is a crucial step towards the early identification of sows undergoing dystocia and development of best practices to assist them. This article describes the key factors that contribute to successful farrowing and identifies areas in which more research is required before the parturition process in the pig can be fully understood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Walls
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2006, Australia
| | - Bianca Hatze
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2006, Australia
| | - Sabrina Lomax
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2006, Australia
| | - Roslyn Bathgate
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2006, Australia
- Correspondence:
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Clune T, Bruce M, Glanville E, Campbell AJD, Lockwood A, Hancock S, Thompson AN, Beetson S, Brookes D, Trengove C, O'Handley R, Jacobson C. Seropositivity to
Campylobacter
and association with abortion and lamb mortality in maiden ewes from Western Australia, South Australia and Victoria. Aust Vet J 2022; 100:397-406. [PMID: 35665919 PMCID: PMC9544749 DOI: 10.1111/avj.13173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Revised: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
This case‐control study investigated associations between Campylobacter fetus or Campylobacter jejuni titre and reproductive outcomes in 22 flocks of Merino and non‐Merino maiden ewes aged 1–2 years old. Campylobacter titres were also determined for multiparous ewes aged 3 years or older on the same farms. C. fetus ‘positivity’ (titre ≥1:80) was detected for 12% (57/462; 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 9.6 to 15.6) of maiden ewes and 31% (65/210; 95% CI 25.0 to 37.4) of mature ewes. The odds for failing to rear a lamb in C. fetus‐‘exposed’ maiden ewes (titre ≥1:10) was 2.01 times that of seronegative ewes (95% CI 1.09 to 3.77; P = 0.027), but there was no association between C. fetus‐‘positivity’ (titre ≥1:80) and failure to rise (OR 1.69; 95% CI 0.77 to 3.76; P = 0.191). C. fetus abortions were confirmed with microbial culture in one maiden ewe flock. In this flock, C. fetus titres fluctuated and often waned by lamb marking, highlighting the value of necropsies during abortion investigations. C. jejuni‐‘positivity’ (titre ≥1:80) was detected for 44% (204/462; 95% CI 39.7 to 48.7) maiden ewes, but odds of failing to rear were decreased for C. jejuni‐‘positive’ ewes (OR 0.52; 95% CI 0.32 to 0.83; P = 0.007). The association between Campylobacter serology and the reproductive outcome was inconsistent in these flocks. Serology should be considered in the context of other risk factors and used in conjunction with other strategies to investigate the impact of Campylobacter exposure on ewe reproductive performance such as monitoring for abortions and lamb necropsies to determine aetiological diagnosis, and vaccination trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Clune
- Centre for Animal Production and Health, Food Futures Institute Murdoch University South Street Murdoch Western Australia 6150 Australia
| | - M Bruce
- Centre for Biosecurity and One Health, Harry Butler Institute Murdoch University South Street Murdoch Western Australia 6150 Australia
| | - E Glanville
- Mackinnon Project, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences University of Melbourne Werribee Victoria 3030 Australia
| | - AJD Campbell
- Nossal Institute for Global Health, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health University of Melbourne Melbourne Victoria 3010 Australia
| | - A Lockwood
- Centre for Animal Production and Health, Food Futures Institute Murdoch University South Street Murdoch Western Australia 6150 Australia
| | - S Hancock
- Centre for Animal Production and Health, Food Futures Institute Murdoch University South Street Murdoch Western Australia 6150 Australia
| | - AN Thompson
- Centre for Animal Production and Health, Food Futures Institute Murdoch University South Street Murdoch Western Australia 6150 Australia
| | - S Beetson
- Centre for Animal Production and Health, Food Futures Institute Murdoch University South Street Murdoch Western Australia 6150 Australia
| | - D Brookes
- Mackinnon Project, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences University of Melbourne Werribee Victoria 3030 Australia
| | - C Trengove
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences University of Adelaide Roseworthy South Australia 5371 Australia
| | - R O'Handley
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences University of Adelaide Roseworthy South Australia 5371 Australia
| | - C Jacobson
- Centre for Animal Production and Health, Food Futures Institute Murdoch University South Street Murdoch Western Australia 6150 Australia
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11
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Dorsch MA, Francia ME, Tana LR, González FC, Cabrera A, Calleros L, Sanguinetti M, Barcellos M, Zarantonelli L, Ciuffo C, Maya L, Castells M, Mirazo S, da Silva Silveira C, Rabaza A, Caffarena RD, Doncel Díaz B, Aráoz V, Matto C, Armendano JI, Salada S, Fraga M, Fierro S, Giannitti F. Diagnostic Investigation of 100 Cases of Abortion in Sheep in Uruguay: 2015–2021. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:904786. [PMID: 35664842 PMCID: PMC9161216 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.904786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this work was to identify causes of abortion through laboratory investigations in sheep flocks in Uruguay. One hundred cases of abortion, comprising 58 fetuses, 36 fetuses with their placentas, and 6 placentas were investigated in 2015–2021. Cases were subjected to gross and microscopic pathologic examinations, and microbiological and serological testing for the identification of causes of abortion, including protozoal, bacterial, and viral pathogens. An etiologic diagnosis was determined in 46 (46%) cases, including 33 (33%) cases caused by infectious pathogens, as determined by the detection of a pathogen along with the identification of fetoplacental lesions attributable to the detected pathogen. Twenty-seven cases (27%) were caused by Toxoplasma gondii, 5 (5%) by Campylobacter fetus subspecies fetus, and 1 (1%) by an unidentified species of Campylobacter. Fourteen cases (14%) had inflammatory and/or necrotizing fetoplacental lesions compatible with an infectious etiology. Although the cause for these lesions was not clearly identified, T. gondii was detected in 4 of these cases, opportunistic bacteria (Bacillus licheniformis, Streptococcus sp.) were isolated in 2 cases, and bovine viral diarrhea virus 1 subtype i (BVDV-1i) was detected in another. Campylobacter jejuni was identified in 1 (1%) severely autolyzed, mummified fetus. BVDV-2b was identified incidentally in one fetus with an etiologic diagnosis of toxoplasmosis. Microscopic agglutination test revealed antibodies against ≥1 Leptospira serovars in 15/63 (23.8%) fetuses; however, Leptospira was not identified by a combination of qPCR, culture, fluorescent antibody testing nor immunohistochemistry. Neospora caninum, Chlamydia abortus, Chlamydia pecorum, Coxiella burnetii and border disease virus were not detected in any of the analyzed cases. Death was attributed to dystocia in 13 (13%) fetuses delivered by 8 sheep, mostly from one highly prolific flock. Congenital malformations including inferior prognathism, a focal hepatic cyst, and enterohepatic agenesis were identified in one fetus each, the latter being the only one considered incompatible with postnatal life. Toxoplasmosis, campylobacteriosis and dystocia were the main identified causes of fetal losses. Despite the relatively low overall success rate in establishing an etiologic diagnosis, a systematic laboratory workup in cases of abortion is of value to identify their causes and enables zoonotic pathogens surveillance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matías A. Dorsch
- Plataforma de Investigación en Salud Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación Agropecuaria (INIA), Estación Experimental La Estanzuela, Colonia, Uruguay
| | - María E. Francia
- Laboratorio de Biología de Apicomplejos, Instituto Pasteur de Montevideo, Montevideo, Uruguay
- Departamento de Parasitología y Micología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Leandro R. Tana
- Laboratorio de Biología de Apicomplejos, Instituto Pasteur de Montevideo, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Fabiana C. González
- Laboratorio de Biología de Apicomplejos, Instituto Pasteur de Montevideo, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Andrés Cabrera
- Laboratorio de Interacciones Hospedero-Patógeno, Instituto Pasteur de Montevideo, Montevideo, Uruguay
- Unidad de Microbiología, Departamento de Patobiología, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Lucía Calleros
- Sección de Genética Evolutiva, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Margarita Sanguinetti
- Sección de Genética Evolutiva, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Maila Barcellos
- Sección de Genética Evolutiva, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Leticia Zarantonelli
- Unidad Mixta Instituto Pasteur de Montevideo e Instituto Nacional de Investigación Agropecuaria (UMPI), Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Camila Ciuffo
- Unidad Mixta Instituto Pasteur de Montevideo e Instituto Nacional de Investigación Agropecuaria (UMPI), Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Leticia Maya
- Laboratorio de Virología Molecular, Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas, Centro Universitario Regional (CENUR) Litoral Norte, Universidad de la República, Salto, Uruguay
| | - Matías Castells
- Laboratorio de Virología Molecular, Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas, Centro Universitario Regional (CENUR) Litoral Norte, Universidad de la República, Salto, Uruguay
| | - Santiago Mirazo
- Laboratorio de Virología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
- Departamento de Bacteriología y Virología, Instituto de Higiene, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Caroline da Silva Silveira
- Plataforma de Investigación en Salud Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación Agropecuaria (INIA), Estación Experimental La Estanzuela, Colonia, Uruguay
| | - Ana Rabaza
- Plataforma de Investigación en Salud Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación Agropecuaria (INIA), Estación Experimental La Estanzuela, Colonia, Uruguay
| | - Rubén D. Caffarena
- Plataforma de Investigación en Salud Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación Agropecuaria (INIA), Estación Experimental La Estanzuela, Colonia, Uruguay
- Unidad Académica Salud de los Rumiantes, Departamento de Producción Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Benjamín Doncel Díaz
- Plataforma de Investigación en Salud Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación Agropecuaria (INIA), Estación Experimental La Estanzuela, Colonia, Uruguay
- Laboratorio de Patología Veterinaria, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y de Zootecnia, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Sede Bogotá, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Virginia Aráoz
- Plataforma de Investigación en Salud Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación Agropecuaria (INIA), Estación Experimental La Estanzuela, Colonia, Uruguay
| | - Carolina Matto
- Laboratorio Regional Noroeste, División de Laboratorios Veterinarios (DILAVE) Miguel C. Rubino, Ministerio de Ganadería, Agricultura y Pesca (MGAP), Paysandú, Uruguay
| | - Joaquín I. Armendano
- Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional del Centro de la Provincia de Buenos Aires (UNCPBA), Tandil, Argentina
| | - Sofía Salada
- Secretariado Uruguayo de la Lana (SUL), Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Martín Fraga
- Plataforma de Investigación en Salud Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación Agropecuaria (INIA), Estación Experimental La Estanzuela, Colonia, Uruguay
| | - Sergio Fierro
- Secretariado Uruguayo de la Lana (SUL), Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Federico Giannitti
- Plataforma de Investigación en Salud Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación Agropecuaria (INIA), Estación Experimental La Estanzuela, Colonia, Uruguay
- *Correspondence: Federico Giannitti
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12
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Johnston CH, Whittaker AL, Franklin SH, Hutchinson MR. The Neuroimmune Interface and Chronic Pain Through the Lens of Production Animals. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:887042. [PMID: 35663552 PMCID: PMC9160236 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.887042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Communication between the central nervous system (CNS) and the immune system has gained much attention for its fundamental role in the development of chronic and pathological pain in humans and rodent models. Following peripheral nerve injury, neuroimmune signaling within the CNS plays an important role in the pathophysiological changes in pain sensitivity that lead to chronic pain. In production animals, routine husbandry procedures such as tail docking and castration, often involve some degree of inflammation and peripheral nerve injury and consequently may lead to chronic pain. Our understanding of chronic pain in animals is limited by the difficulty in measuring this pathological pain state. In light of this, we have reviewed the current understanding of chronic pain in production animals. We discuss our ability to measure pain and the implications this has on animal welfare and production outcomes. Further research into the neuroimmune interface in production animals will improve our fundamental understanding of chronic pain and better inform human clinical pain management and animal husbandry practices and interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte H. Johnston
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Alexandra L. Whittaker
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA, Australia
| | - Samantha H. Franklin
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA, Australia
- Equine Health and Performance Centre, University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA, Australia
| | - Mark R. Hutchinson
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Nanoscale BioPhotonics, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Davies Livestock Research Centre, University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA, Australia
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13
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Balasopoulou V, Zablotski Y, Zerbe H, Voigt K. Retrospective analysis of 302 ovine dystocia cases presented to a veterinary hospital with particular attention to uterine torsion. Vet Med Sci 2022; 8:1683-1693. [PMID: 35478299 PMCID: PMC9297778 DOI: 10.1002/vms3.820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Dystocia is common in sheep, and foetal causes are predominant. Among maternal causes, insufficient cervical dilatation is the most frequent problem. Uterine torsion has been considered rare by many authors. Objectives This study was conducted to investigate causes of dystocia in sheep presented for veterinary attention, and particular focus was set on the description of uterine torsion and analysis of potentially predisposing factors for this condition. Methods Clinical records of 302 sheep treated for dystocia were evaluated retrospectively. Known and proposed risk factors for uterine torsion in cattle were analysed regarding their potential importance in sheep. These included lamb birth weights, ewe age, parity, season, nutrition, breed type, litter size and husbandry. Results Maternal causes of dystocia accounted for 67.2% (203/302) of the presented cases. Of these, insufficient cervical dilatation (121/203, 59.6%) was the most frequent diagnosis. Another substantial proportion of maternal causes (60/203, 29.6%) was identified as uterine torsion. Husbandry, breed type and litter size showed significance in univariate analyses, with lower odds for meat breeds (OR 0.22; p < 0.001), twin‐ (OR 0.49; p = 0.020) or multiple‐bearing ewes (OR 0.19; p = 0.013) and higher odds for fully housed animals (OR 17.87; p < 0.001). Year‐round housing was identified as the most influential factor in a subsequent multivariate analysis. Conclusions Uterine torsion was identified as a relevant cause of dystocia in our case load. The condition is likely to be underdiagnosed in sheep, and increased farmer and veterinary awareness is necessary to ensure adequate treatment of affected animals and to prevent unnecessary suffering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viktoria Balasopoulou
- Clinic for Ruminants with Ambulatory and Herd Health Services, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Oberschleissheim, Germany
| | - Yury Zablotski
- Clinic for Ruminants with Ambulatory and Herd Health Services, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Oberschleissheim, Germany
| | - Holm Zerbe
- Clinic for Ruminants with Ambulatory and Herd Health Services, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Oberschleissheim, Germany
| | - Katja Voigt
- Clinic for Ruminants with Ambulatory and Herd Health Services, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Oberschleissheim, Germany
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14
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Gardella B, Scatigno AL, Belli G, Gritti A, Visoná SD, Dominoni M. Aging of Pelvic Floor in Animal Models: A Sistematic Review of Literature on the Role of the Extracellular Matrix in the Development of Pelvic Floor Prolapse. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:863945. [PMID: 35492348 PMCID: PMC9051040 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.863945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) affects many women and contributes significantly to a decrease in their quality of life causing urinary and/or fecal incontinence, sexual dysfunction and dyspareunia. To better understand POP pathophysiology, prevention and treatment, many researchers resorted to evaluating animal models. Regarding this example and because POP affects principally older women, our aim was to provide an overview of literature on the possible biomechanical changes that occur in the vaginas of animal models and their supportive structures as a consequence of aging. Papers published online from 2000 until May 2021 were considered and particular attention was given to articles reporting the effects of aging on the microscopic structure of the vagina and pelvic ligaments in animal models. Most research has been conducted on rodents because their vagina structure is well characterized and similar to those of humans; furthermore, they are cost effective. The main findings concern protein structures of the connective tissue, known as elastin and collagen. We have noticed a significant discordance regarding the quantitative changes in elastin and collagen related to aging, especially because it is difficult to detect them in animal specimens. However, it seems to be clear that aging affects the qualitative properties of elastin and collagen leading to aberrant forms which may affect the elasticity and the resilience of tissues leading to pelvic floor disease. The analysis of histological changes of pelvic floor tissues related to aging underlines how these topics appear to be not fully understood so far and that more research is necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Gardella
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Annachiara Licia Scatigno
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Giacomo Belli
- Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Andrea Gritti
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Silvia Damiana Visoná
- Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Mattia Dominoni
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
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15
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Clune T, Lockwood A, Hancock S, Thompson AN, Bruce M, Beetson S, Campbell AJ, Glanville E, Brookes D, Trengove C, O’Handley R, Jacobson C. Toxoplasma gondii is not an important contributor to poor reproductive performance of primiparous ewes from southern Australia: a prospective cohort study. BMC Vet Res 2022; 18:109. [PMID: 35305646 PMCID: PMC8933891 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-022-03211-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Toxoplasma gondii causes reproductive losses in sheep worldwide, including Australia. The reproductive performance of primiparous ewes is typically lower than for mature, multiparous ewes, and younger ewes are more likely to be immunologically naïve and therefore more susceptible to reproductive disease if T. gondii infection occurs during pregnancy. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of infection with T. gondii on the reproductive performance of primiparous ewes in southern Australia using a prospective cohort study. This will inform the need for targeted control strategies for T. gondii in Australian sheep. Results Toxoplasma gondii seropositivity using indirect ELISA was detected at 16/28 farms located across southern Australia. Apparent seropositivity to T. gondii was lower in primiparous ewes (1.1, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.6, 1.8) compared to mature, multiparous ewes (8.1, 95% CI 6.0, 10.5; P < 0.001). Toxoplasma gondii seroconversion during the gestation and lambing period was confirmed for 11/1097 (1.0, 95% CI 0.5, 1.7) of pregnant primiparous ewes that failed to raise a lamb, and 1/161 (0.6, 95% CI 0.1, 2.9) primiparous ewes with confirmed mid-pregnancy abortion. Conclusions Low frequency of detection of T. gondii seroconversion during gestation and low frequency of seropositivity to T. gondii suggests that toxoplasmosis was not an important contributor to reproductive losses in primiparous ewes on farms located over a wide geographical area in southern Australia. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12917-022-03211-w.
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16
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Deprest JA, Cartwright R, Dietz HP, Brito LGO, Koch M, Allen-Brady K, Manonai J, Weintraub AY, Chua JWF, Cuffolo R, Sorrentino F, Cattani L, Decoene J, Page AS, Weeg N, Varella Pereira GM, Mori da Cunha de Carvalho MGMC, Mackova K, Hympanova LH, Moalli P, Shynlova O, Alperin M, Bortolini MAT. International Urogynecological Consultation (IUC): pathophysiology of pelvic organ prolapse (POP). Int Urogynecol J 2022; 33:1699-1710. [PMID: 35267063 DOI: 10.1007/s00192-022-05081-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS This manuscript is the International Urogynecology Consultation (IUC) on pelvic organ prolapse (POP) chapter one, committee three, on the Pathophysiology of Pelvic Organ Prolapse assessing genetics, pregnancy, labor and delivery, age and menopause and animal models. MATERIALS AND METHODS An international group of urogynecologists and basic scientists performed comprehensive literature searches using pre-specified terms in selected biomedical databases to summarize the current knowledge on the pathophysiology of the development of POP, exploring specifically factors including (1) genetics, (2) pregnancy, labor and delivery, (3) age and menopause and (4) non-genetic animal models. This manuscript represents the summary of three systematic reviews with meta-analyses and one narrative review, to which a basic scientific comment on the current understanding of pathophysiologic mechanisms was added. RESULTS The original searches revealed over 15,000 manuscripts and abstracts which were screened, resulting in 202 manuscripts that were ultimately used. In the area of genetics the DNA polymorphisms rs2228480 at the ESR1 gene, rs12589592 at the FBLN5 gene, rs1036819 at the PGR gene and rs1800215 at the COL1A1 gene are significantly associated to POP. In the area of pregnancy, labor and delivery, the analysis confirmed a strong etiologic link between vaginal birth and symptoms of POP, with the first vaginal delivery (OR: 2.65; 95% CI: 1.81-3.88) and forceps delivery (OR: 2.51; 95% CI: 1.24-3.83) being the main determinants. Regarding age and menopause, only age was identified as a risk factor (OR : 1.102; 95% CI: 1.02-1.19) but current data do not identify postmenopausal status as being statistically associated with POP. In several animal models, there are measurable effects of pregnancy, delivery and iatrogenic menopause on the structure/function of vaginal support components, though not on the development of POP. CONCLUSIONS Genetics, vaginal birth and age all have a strong etiologic link to the development of POP, to which other factors may add or protect against the risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan A Deprest
- Department Development and Regeneration, Cluster Urogenital Surgery, Biomedical Sciences, and Clinical Department Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospitals Leuven, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49, B-3000, Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Rufus Cartwright
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Imperial College London, Norfolk Place, London and Department of Urogynaecology, LNWH NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Hans Peter Dietz
- Sydney Medical School Nepean, Nepean Hospital, Penrith, NSW, 2750, Australia
| | - Luiz Gustavo Oliveira Brito
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Marianne Koch
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Kristina Allen-Brady
- Department of Internal Medicine, Genetic Epidemiology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Jittima Manonai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Adi Y Weintraub
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Soroka University Medical Center, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - John W F Chua
- Department of Gynecology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Romana Cuffolo
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Felice Sorrentino
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Laura Cattani
- Department Development and Regeneration, Cluster Urogenital Surgery, Biomedical Sciences, and Clinical Department Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospitals Leuven, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49, B-3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Judith Decoene
- Department Development and Regeneration, Cluster Urogenital Surgery, Biomedical Sciences, and Clinical Department Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospitals Leuven, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49, B-3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Anne-Sophie Page
- Department Development and Regeneration, Cluster Urogenital Surgery, Biomedical Sciences, and Clinical Department Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospitals Leuven, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49, B-3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Natalie Weeg
- Sydney Medical School Nepean, Nepean Hospital, Penrith, NSW, 2750, Australia
| | - Glaucia M Varella Pereira
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Marina Gabriela M C Mori da Cunha de Carvalho
- Department Development and Regeneration, Cluster Urogenital Surgery, Biomedical Sciences, and Clinical Department Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospitals Leuven, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49, B-3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Katerina Mackova
- Department Development and Regeneration, Cluster Urogenital Surgery, Biomedical Sciences, and Clinical Department Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospitals Leuven, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49, B-3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Lucie Hajkova Hympanova
- Department Development and Regeneration, Cluster Urogenital Surgery, Biomedical Sciences, and Clinical Department Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospitals Leuven, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49, B-3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Pamela Moalli
- Division of Urogynecology & Pelvic Reconstructive Surgery, UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Oksana Shynlova
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Physiology, Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Marianna Alperin
- Division of Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Diego, School of Medicine, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Maria Augusta T Bortolini
- Department of Gynecology, Sector of Urogynecology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
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Regueiro M, Jorge-Smeding E, Saravia A, López-Mazz C, Banchero G. Comparison between pulse oximetry and venous blood gas analyses to assess lamb asphyxia at parturition. Small Rumin Res 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2022.106665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Hutchison D, Clarke BE, Hancock S, Thompson AN, Bowen E, Jacobson C. Lower Reproductive Rate and Lamb Survival Contribute to Lower Lamb Marking Rate in Maiden Ewes Compared to Multiparous Ewes. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12040513. [PMID: 35203221 PMCID: PMC8868299 DOI: 10.3390/ani12040513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2022] [Revised: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The reproductive performance of ewes in their first breeding season (maiden ewes) can be poorer and more variable than at subsequent breeding seasons. However, the extent and causes of the poorer reproductive performance of maiden ewes on Australian sheep farms are not well understood. We used a survey of Australian sheep farmers to compare the reproductive performance of maiden ewes in their first breeding season to multiparous ewes (ewes that have been bred two or more times) on the same farms. We found that the difference in lamb marking rate between non-Merino ewe lambs and multiparous ewes on the same farm was 58%, and for maiden Merino two-tooth ewes, the difference in marking rate compared to multiparous ewes was 22% lower. Poorer reproduction in maiden ewes was due to a combination of poorer reproductive success to mid-pregnancy (reproductive rate), plus poorer survival of lambs between mid-pregnancy and lamb marking. Reproductive performance for maiden Merino two-tooth ewes was correlated with multiparous ewes on the same farm, whereas the reproductive performance of non-Merino ewe lambs was more variable and not associated with the reproductive performance of their multiparous counterparts. The reproductive efficiency of maiden ewes could be improved by addressing factors that improve the reproductive rate and lamb survival between scanning and lamb marking. Abstract Suboptimal reproductive performance of maiden (primiparous) ewes remains a source of inefficiency for the Australian sheep industry. However, the extent and causes of the poorer reproductive performance of maiden ewes on Australian sheep farms are not well understood. Here, we show the reproductive performance of maiden ewes relative to their multiparous counterparts on the same farms across Australia using a cohort survey. The difference in marking rate for non-Merino maiden ewe lambs compared to multiparous ewes was 58% (74 vs. 132%; p < 0.001), and this was attributable to a 50% difference in reproductive rate (109 vs. 159%; p < 0.001) and 16% difference in lamb survival to marking (67 vs. 83%; p < 0.001). The difference in marking rate for maiden Merino two-tooth ewes lambing at approximately 2 years-of-age compared to mature multiparous ewes was 22% (80 vs. 102%; p < 0.001) and this was attributable to a 24% difference in reproductive rate (108 vs. 132%; p < 0.001) and 3% difference for lamb survival (75 vs. 78%; p < 0.05). Positive correlations for reproduction traits (reproductive rate, lamb survival and marking rate) between maidens and multiparous ewes were observed for maiden Merino two-tooth ewes (p < 0.001), but these correlations were weak or non-existent for non-Merino ewe lambs. Strategies to improve both reproductive rate and lamb survival can address the poorer and more variable reproductive performance of maiden ewes.
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Factors Associated with Mortality of Lambs Born to Ewe Hoggets. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12030319. [PMID: 35158644 PMCID: PMC8833723 DOI: 10.3390/ani12030319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Revised: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Pre-weaning lamb deaths limit the production performance from ewes that are bred as hoggets (at 6–9 months of age). The present study aimed to investigate factors that are associated with increased likelihood of lamb death and the cause of that death, in lambs and in ewe hoggets over the lambing period. This was also compared to rates in mature-age ewes and their lambs. Lambs with low birthweights or that were born as twins were more likely to die, as were lambs whose dams had greater live weight changes during pregnancy. Ewes deaths during the lambing period accounted for approximately 11% of lamb deaths. The most common cause of hogget lamb deaths was stillbirth (lamb born dead) but this was an uncommon cause of death in lambs born to mature-age ewes. Management tools to increase lamb birthweights, and supervision of ewe hoggets at lambing time, are recommended. Abstract The reproductive performance of ewe hoggets is poorer than that of mature-age ewes due to production of fewer lambs with poorer survival. Scant data are available on the risk factors for, and causes of, the mortality for lambs born to ewe hoggets, the impact of ewe deaths on lamb loss, and the causes of death for lambs born to ewe hoggets vs. mature-age ewes lambing in the same circumstances. In this study, 297 lambs born to 1142 ewe hoggets were necropsied along with 273 lambs born to 1050 mature-age ewes. Low lamb birthweight, multiple litter size, and increasing ewe hogget average daily gain from breeding to late pregnancy were risk factors for lamb mortality. The most common cause of mortality for lambs born to ewe hoggets was stillbirth and the risk factors for stillbirth were similar to those for lamb mortality generally. Approximately 11% of ewe hoggets’ lamb deaths were due to the death of the dam. Causes of mortality differed between lambs born to ewe hoggets vs. those born to mature-age ewes. Management practices to increase ewe hogget lambs’ birthweights (particularly those from multiple litters) and supervision of ewe hoggets at lambing time are recommended.
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Redfearn A, McNally J, Brewer H, Doyle E, Schmoelzl S. Using Pen-Side Measurable Blood Parameters to Predict or Identify Dystocic Lambing Events. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11020206. [PMID: 35205072 PMCID: PMC8869090 DOI: 10.3390/biology11020206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary Prolonged or non-progressive labour is the greatest risk factor for loss of newborn lambs in Australia and poses significant welfare and economic concerns worldwide. In this study, we set out to investigate whether pen-side technology could be used to predict which ewes would be at risk of prolonged labour. In our pilot trial, we found potentially useful markers. We next developed a sampling protocol by looking at changes in candidate markers over time in normal lambing events. Finally, we searched for blood markers that could distinguish between normal and difficult lambing events, sampling pre-birth (estimated one week before birth), at birth (within 3 h) and post-birth (16–26 h). Possible predictors of lambing difficulty were chloride, haematocrit and haemoglobin, sampled one week before birth; creatinine, sampled at birth; and acid–base related parameters after birth. In conclusion, we found that pen-side analysis of blood markers showed promise in identifying dystocic lambing events. More information is required to decide whether pen-side diagnostics could be useful to identify and predict dystocic lambing in the future. Abstract Dystocia is the greatest contributor to neonatal lamb mortality in Australia and poses significant welfare and economic concerns worldwide. In this study, we set out to investigate whether pen-side analysis technology could be employed to detect blood parameters predictive of dystocic labour events in sheep. In a pilot trial, we collected and analysed blood samples in pen-side assays for glucose, lactate, pH, pCO2, pO2, base excess, HCO3, TCO2, sO2, lactate, sodium, potassium, chloride, calcium, urea nitrogen, creatinine, haematocrit, haemoglobin and anion gap. From the pilot data, we identified creatinine, TCO2, chloride and calcium as potentially useful markers. To develop a time course and to establish variability of the selected blood parameters, a time series of samples was collected from 12 ewes, from mid-gestation to 48 h after birth. For the main trial, blood samples were collected at mid- and late gestation for glucose determination and for the full set of blood parameters at three time points before, at and after birth. Possible predictors of lambing difficulty were chloride, haematocrit and haemoglobin, sampled one week before birth; creatinine, sampled at birth; and blood pH and base excess after birth. In conclusion, we found that pen-side analysis of blood markers showed promise in identifying dystocic lambing events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amellia Redfearn
- FD McMaster Laboratory, Agriculture and Food, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Armidale, NSW 2350, Australia; (A.R.); (J.M.); (H.B.)
- School of Environmental and Rural Science, University of New England, Armidale, NSW 2351, Australia;
| | - Jody McNally
- FD McMaster Laboratory, Agriculture and Food, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Armidale, NSW 2350, Australia; (A.R.); (J.M.); (H.B.)
| | - Heather Brewer
- FD McMaster Laboratory, Agriculture and Food, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Armidale, NSW 2350, Australia; (A.R.); (J.M.); (H.B.)
| | - Emma Doyle
- School of Environmental and Rural Science, University of New England, Armidale, NSW 2351, Australia;
| | - Sabine Schmoelzl
- FD McMaster Laboratory, Agriculture and Food, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Armidale, NSW 2350, Australia; (A.R.); (J.M.); (H.B.)
- School of Environmental and Rural Science, University of New England, Armidale, NSW 2351, Australia;
- Correspondence:
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Abortion and Lamb Mortality between Pregnancy Scanning and Lamb Marking for Maiden Ewes in Southern Australia. Animals (Basel) 2021; 12:ani12010010. [PMID: 35011116 PMCID: PMC8749747 DOI: 10.3390/ani12010010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2021] [Revised: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The reproductive efficiency of ewes in their first breeding season (maiden ewes) can be inconsistent and disappointing. The frequency of abortion and its relative contribution to lamb losses in maiden ewe flocks in Australia has not been well studied. This study measured abortion and lamb mortality occurring between pregnancy diagnosis (scanning) and lamb marking in 30 flocks of maiden ewes on Australian sheep farms. The study included flocks of ewe lambs that had lambed for the first time at approximately one-year-old (n = 19) and two-tooth ewes that had lambed for the first time at two-years-old (n = 11). Abortion was detected in 14/19 flocks of ewe lambs and 6/11 flocks of two-tooth ewes using repeated scans. On average 5.7% of ewe lambs and 0.9% of two-tooth ewes aborted; however, abortion rates between flocks ranged from 0–50% for ewe lambs and 0–4.4% for two-tooth ewes. Lamb mortality from birth to marking represented the greatest contributor to overall lamb mortality occurring after pregnancy scanning but abortions were an important contributor to the overall losses in some ewe lamb flocks. This study highlights the variability in reproductive performance for maiden ewes and indicates that addressing losses due to abortion may improve reproductive performance in some ewe lamb flocks. Abstract The contribution of abortions to the overall mortality of lambs born to maiden (primiparous) ewes in Australia remains unclear. This cohort study aimed to quantify abortion and lamb mortality for ewe lambs and maiden Merino two-tooth ewes. Lamb mortality from pregnancy scanning to marking were determined for 19 ewe lamb and 11 Merino two-tooth ewe flocks across southern Australia. Average lamb mortality from scanning to marking was 35.8% (range 14.3–71.1%) for the ewe lambs and 29.4% (range 19.7–52.7%) for the two-tooth ewes. Mid-pregnancy abortion was detected in 5.7% of ewes (range 0–50%) in the ewe lamb flocks and 0.9% of ewes (range 0–4.4%) in the two-tooth ewe flocks. Mid-pregnancy abortion affecting ≥2% of ewes was observed in 6/19 ewe lamb flocks and 2/11 two-tooth ewe flocks. Lamb mortality from birth to marking represented the greatest contributor to foetal and lamb mortality after scanning, but mid-pregnancy abortion was an important contributor to lamb mortality in some ewe lamb flocks. Variability between the flocks indicates scope to improve the overall reproductive performance for maiden ewes by reducing foetal and lamb losses. Addressing mid-pregnancy abortion may improve the reproductive performance in some flocks.
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Perinatal complications and maximising lamb survival in an adolescent paradigm characterised by premature delivery and low birthweight. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0259890. [PMID: 34780509 PMCID: PMC8592415 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0259890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The competition for nutrients in overnourished and still-growing adolescent sheep negatively impacts gestation length, colostrum supply and lamb birthweight, all of which may affect neonatal morbidity and survival to weaning. Herein perinatal complications and the requirement for supplementary feeding were analysed in relation to gestational-intake, and the degree of premature delivery and prenatal growth-restriction exhibited. Pregnancies were established by embryo transfer and the mean/standard deviation (SD) gestation length and birthweight of the optimally-fed control group (n = 100) was used to define early delivery and reduced birthweight categories (1.5 and 3.0 SDs below the control mean for each aspect). Control lambs were largely delivered at term (94%), and had a normal birthweight (92%), while very preterm (≤139days, 18.5%) and preterm delivery (140-142days, 54.8%), extremely low birthweight (ELBW; females ≤2838g and males ≤3216g, 21.1%) and low birthweight (LBW; females 2839 to ≤4001g and males 3217 to ≤4372g, 32.2%), were common in the overnourished group (n = 270, P<0.001). Accordingly, overnourished dams were more likely to lamb without assistance while the incidence of major dystocia was greater in controls. Initial lamb vigour at birth was independent of gestational-intake, delivery or birthweight category but both ELBW and very premature lambs required more assistance with feeding in the first 24h postnatal, primarily reflecting low colostrum availability. Indeed, relative to normal, ELBW lambs had a greater risk of experiencing mismothering, and enhanced likelihood of requiring supplementary feeding throughout the neonatal period (P<0.001). ELBW lambs also had a greater possibility of respiratory issues at birth (P<0.01) and renal complications (P<0.001), while very preterm delivery was associated with an increased risk of gastrointestinal tract problems (P<0.01). In spite of these complications, all-cause mortality was low (5.4%) suggesting that our proactive neonatal care regime can overcome many of the issues associated with extreme prematurity and low birthweight.
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McLoda S, Anderson NC, Earing J, Lugar D. Effect of Light Regiment on Farrowing Performance and Behavior in Sows. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11102858. [PMID: 34679879 PMCID: PMC8532603 DOI: 10.3390/ani11102858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Revised: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary When sows approach birthing in most commercial farms, they are often exposed to continuous light to help farm workers monitor pig health and progress. Being in constant lighting may have a negative effect on sows as mammals often prefer a quiet environment with low stimulation during birthing. In our study, we placed 15 sows in a 12 h light/12 h dark environment, and 15 sows in 24 h light. Sows were watched for ease of farrowing (measured in total time farrowing, birthing interval, and behavior during farrowing). We also measured total piglets born alive and stillborn piglets. Overall, we observed that sows who received darkness gave birth earlier in gestation. Light availability had no effect on total piglets born alive, farrowing behavior, or total length of time giving birth. It was observed that there were more stillborn animals for the sows who received darkness. Overall, it is possible that light availability could have an impact on farrowing behavior and health; however, more factors should be considered in the environment. Abstract The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of light exposure on farrowing performance in sows. Thirty sows were moved to the farrowing unit at d 110 of gestation and assigned a treatment: 12 h light/12 h dark cycle (Dark) or 24 h light (Light). Treatments began upon entry into the farrowing unit. Video was recorded continuously from initiation of the treatments until completion of farrowing. Data collected included duration of farrowing, birthing interval, and behavior during farrowing. Additionally, the number of total born, liveborn, and stillborn piglets was recorded. Gestation length was different between treatments, with a shorter gestation in Dark treatment sows than Light treatment sows (116.4 vs. 117.1 ± 0.2 d, respectively; p = 0.027). The total duration of parturition and number of liveborn did not differ (p = 0.393). Number of stillborn piglets between treatments did differ (p = 0.018). Dark had more stillborns compared to Light treatment sows (1.5 vs. 0.7 ± 0.2 piglets, respectively). Neither the interval between piglets nor farrowing behavior differed between treatments (p > 0.100). The results from this experiment indicate that a sudden change in photoperiod has the potential to impact the gestation length of sows and number of stillborn pigs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shelby McLoda
- Department of Agriculture, Illinois State University, Normal, IL 61761, USA; (S.M.); (J.E.)
| | - Nichole C. Anderson
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Texas Tech University, 7671 Evans Drive, Amarillo, TX 79106, USA;
| | - Jennifer Earing
- Department of Agriculture, Illinois State University, Normal, IL 61761, USA; (S.M.); (J.E.)
| | - Drew Lugar
- Department of Agriculture, Illinois State University, Normal, IL 61761, USA; (S.M.); (J.E.)
- Correspondence:
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Bruce M, Young JM, Masters DG, Refshauge G, Thompson AN, Kenyon PR, Behrendt R, Lockwood A, Miller DW, Jacobson C. The impact of lamb and ewe mortality associated with dystocia on Australian and New Zealand sheep farms: A systematic review, meta-analysis and bio-economic model. Prev Vet Med 2021; 196:105478. [PMID: 34487918 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2021.105478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Revised: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Dystocia contributes to lamb and ewe mortality in the periparturient period but impacts for extensive sheep production systems remain poorly understood. Here we show that lamb and ewe mortality associated with dystocia has important impacts on sheep production in Australia and New Zealand, and quantify financial impacts for the Australian sheep industry. A systematic review of the literature identified 11 publications published since 1990 that reported sheep mortality due to dystocia in Australia or New Zealand. Assumptions for ewe breeding flock structure and reproductive performance were based on Australian sheep industry data. The proportion of lamb mortality attributable to dystocia (including stillbirths and perinatal deaths with evidence of hypoxic injury) pooled across all studies (pooled proportional mortality ratio) was 47 % (95 % Confidence Interval (CI): 38, 55). Pooled proportional mortality ratio for Australian studies was 53 % (95 %CI: 47, 60), and for New Zealand studies was 35 % (95 %CI: 19, 51). Pooled proportional mortality ratio was similar for lambs born to Merino and non-Merino ewes, although more data are needed to determine effects of ewe breed independent of other factors. Pooled proportional mortality ratio was higher for single lambs (59 %; 95 % CI: 55, 63) than twin (47 %; 41, 54) or triplet (49 %; 46, 52) lambs. However, the number of dystocia-associated mortalities is higher for twin-born lambs than for singles because total mortality is higher for twin-born lambs. It is estimated that approximately 7.7 million lamb deaths and 297,500 ewe deaths per year are attributable to dystocia in Australia for the national flock of 38 million breeding ewes. The whole-farm bio-economic Model of an Integrated Dryland Agricultural System (MIDAS) was used to determine the impacts of dystocia-associated ewe and lamb mortality on Australian farm profit. Dystocia is estimated to reduce Australian national farm profit by AU$780 million or $23.00 per ewe mated based on an assumed lamb sale price of AU$6.50 per kg carcass weight. These estimates do not include the costs of reduced productivity for surviving ewes and lambs, intervention, post-farmgate impacts, delayed genetic progress, or impacts on animal welfare and access into sheep meat and wool markets. Reducing dystocia through improved genetics and sheep management will improve animal welfare and farm profit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mieghan Bruce
- Centre for Animal Production and Health, Murdoch University, 90 South Street, Murdoch, WA, 6150, Australia
| | - John M Young
- Farming Systems Analysis Service, 476 Tindale Rd, Kentdale, WA, 6333, Australia
| | - David G Masters
- School of Agriculture and Environment, M085, University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Hwy, Crawley, WA, 6009, Australia
| | - Gordon Refshauge
- New South Wales Department of Primary Industries, Cowra Agricultural Research and Advisory Station, Cowra, NSW, 2794, Australia
| | - Andrew N Thompson
- Centre for Animal Production and Health, Murdoch University, 90 South Street, Murdoch, WA, 6150, Australia
| | - Paul R Kenyon
- International Sheep Research Centre, Massey University, Palmerston North, 4410, New Zealand
| | - Ralph Behrendt
- Agriculture Victoria Research, Department of Jobs, Precincts and Regions, Hamilton, Victoria, 3300, Australia
| | - Amy Lockwood
- Centre for Animal Production and Health, Murdoch University, 90 South Street, Murdoch, WA, 6150, Australia
| | - David W Miller
- Centre for Animal Production and Health, Murdoch University, 90 South Street, Murdoch, WA, 6150, Australia
| | - Caroline Jacobson
- Centre for Animal Production and Health, Murdoch University, 90 South Street, Murdoch, WA, 6150, Australia.
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Clune T, Besier S, Hair S, Hancock S, Lockwood A, Thompson A, Jelocnik M, Jacobson C. Chlamydia pecorum detection in aborted and stillborn lambs from Western Australia. Vet Res 2021; 52:84. [PMID: 34116730 PMCID: PMC8196467 DOI: 10.1186/s13567-021-00950-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Lamb survival is an important welfare and productivity issue for sheep industries worldwide. Lower lamb survival has been reported for primiparous ewes, but the causes of this are not well studied. The aim of this study was to determine causes of perinatal deaths for lambs born to primiparous ewes in Western Australia, and identify if infectious diseases are implicated. Lamb mortality from birth to marking were determined for 11 primiparous ewe flocks on 10 farms in Western Australia. Lamb mortality from birth to marking averaged 14% for single-born and 26% for multiple-born lambs. Lamb necropsies (n = 298) identified starvation–mismosthering–exposure (34%), dystocia (24%) and stillbirth (15%) as the most common causes of perinatal lamb death. There was no evidence of exotic abortigenic pathogens in aborted and stillborn lambs (n = 35). Chlamydia pecorum was detected by qPCR in 15/35 aborted and stillborn lambs on 5/6 farms. Preliminary molecular characterisation of C. pecorum detected in samples from aborted and stillborn lambs (n = 8) using both Multilocus Sequence Typing and ompA genotyping indicated all strains were genetically identical to previously described pathogenic livestock strains, denoted ST23, and dissimilar to gastrointestinal strains. High frequency of detection of a pathogenic C. pecorum strains ST23 associated with ovine abortion and stillbirth on multiple farms located across a wide geographic area has not been previously reported. Chlamydia pecorum may contribute to reproductive wastage for primiparous sheep in Western Australia. Further investigation to understand C. pecorum epidemiology and impact on sheep reproduction is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tom Clune
- Centre for Animal Production and Health, Murdoch University, South Street, Murdoch, WA, 6150, Australia
| | - Shane Besier
- Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, South Perth, WA, 6151, Australia
| | - Sam Hair
- Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, South Perth, WA, 6151, Australia
| | - Serina Hancock
- Centre for Animal Production and Health, Murdoch University, South Street, Murdoch, WA, 6150, Australia
| | - Amy Lockwood
- Centre for Animal Production and Health, Murdoch University, South Street, Murdoch, WA, 6150, Australia
| | - Andrew Thompson
- Centre for Animal Production and Health, Murdoch University, South Street, Murdoch, WA, 6150, Australia
| | - Martina Jelocnik
- Genecology Research Centre, University of the Sunshine Coast, 90 Sippy Downs Drive, Sippy Downs, QLD, 4557, Australia
| | - Caroline Jacobson
- Centre for Animal Production and Health, Murdoch University, South Street, Murdoch, WA, 6150, Australia.
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Mori da Cunha MGMC, Mackova K, Hympanova LH, Bortolini MAT, Deprest J. Animal models for pelvic organ prolapse: systematic review. Int Urogynecol J 2021; 32:1331-1344. [PMID: 33484287 PMCID: PMC8203535 DOI: 10.1007/s00192-020-04638-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS We aimed to summarize the knowledge on the pathogenesis of pelvic organ prolapse (POP) generated in animal models. METHODS We searched MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane and the Web of Science to establish what animal models are used in the study of suggested risk factors for the development of POP, including pregnancy, labor, delivery, parity, aging and menopause. Lack of methodologic uniformity precluded meta-analysis; hence, results are presented as a narrative review. RESULTS A total of 7426 studies were identified, of which 51 were included in the analysis. Pregnancy has a measurable and consistent effect across species. In rats, simulated vaginal delivery induces structural changes in the pelvic floor, without complete recovery of the vaginal muscular layer and its microvasculature, though it does not induce POP. In sheep, first vaginal delivery has a measurable effect on vaginal compliance; measured effects of additional deliveries are inconsistent. Squirrel monkeys can develop POP. Denervation of their levator ani muscle facilitates this process in animals that delivered vaginally. The models used do not develop spontaneous menopause, so it is induced by ovariectomy. Effects of menopause depend on the age at ovariectomy and the interval to measurement. In several species menopause is associated with an increase in collagen content in the longer term. In rodents there were no measurable effects of age apart of elastin changes. We found no usable data for other species. CONCLUSION In several species there are measurable effects of pregnancy, delivery and iatrogenic menopause. Squirrel monkeys can develop spontaneous prolapse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Gabriela M C Mori da Cunha
- Centre for Surgical Technologies, Group Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Woman and Child, Group Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Katerina Mackova
- Centre for Surgical Technologies, Group Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Woman and Child, Group Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Institute for the Care of Mother and Child, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Lucie Hajkova Hympanova
- Institute for the Care of Mother and Child, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Maria Augusta T Bortolini
- Department of Gynecology, Sector of Urogynecology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Jan Deprest
- Centre for Surgical Technologies, Group Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Woman and Child, Group Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
- Pelvic Floor Unit, University Hospitals, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Center of Surgical Technologies UZ Herestraat, Herestraat49, B3000, Leuven, Belgium.
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27
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Viscardi AV, Reppert EJ, Kleinhenz MD, Wise P, Lin Z, Montgomery S, Daniell H, Curtis A, Martin M, Coetzee JF. Analgesic Comparison of Flunixin Meglumine or Meloxicam for Soft-Tissue Surgery in Sheep: A Pilot Study. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11020423. [PMID: 33562143 PMCID: PMC7914688 DOI: 10.3390/ani11020423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Pain management is lacking in U.S. commercial sheep production systems. This is, in part, due to the limited amount of scientific data evaluating sheep pain responses after analgesia treatment. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as meloxicam (MEL) and flunixin meglumine (FLU), are the most common drug class provided to livestock species to manage pain. Pain assessment tools, such as facial grimace scales, which use changes in facial expression to monitor pain, are also needed to improve pain management and sheep welfare. In this study, sheep undergoing a laparotomy (a surgical procedure where an incision is made into the abdominal cavity) were treated with either MEL or FLU to manage pain. A third group of ewes did not undergo surgery and served as study controls (CON). Behavior and physiologic outcome measures were collected pre-procedure and up to 48 h post-procedure. The results suggest that MEL and FLU were equally effective at providing post-operative analgesia; however, even with NSAID administration, acute pain and inflammation were still present in surgical sheep compared to non-surgical controls. The facial grimace scale results were not consistent with the other outcome measures taken in this study and it should not be used as a stand-alone pain assessment tool. Abstract The amount of scientific data evaluating sheep pain responses after analgesia treatment is limited. The aims of this study were to compare the efficacy of flunixin meglumine (FLU) and meloxicam (MEL) at relieving post-surgical pain in sheep and to evaluate the utility of the Sheep Grimace Scale (SGS). Thirty ewes were assigned to one of three treatment groups: oral MEL or intravenous FLU to manage pain associated with a laparotomy procedure, or a non-surgical control (CON) group. Behavior and physiologic outcome measures were collected pre-procedure and up to 48 h post-procedure. There were no significant differences in behavior, gait, degree of inflammation or pain around the surgical site when MEL and FLU sheep were compared, suggesting that both drugs provided similar levels of analgesia. Significant differences in behavior, gait, abdominal inflammation and pain were found when surgical sheep were compared to non-surgical controls. More work is needed to characterize the amount of pain relief provided by MEL and FLU. The SGS had moderate reliability between scorers; however, the results were inconsistent with the other study outcome measures. The SGS may have some utility as a pain assessment tool but should be used in conjunction with other pain measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abbie V. Viscardi
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA; (P.W.); (Z.L.); (S.M.); (A.C.); (M.M.); (J.F.C.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Emily J. Reppert
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA; (E.J.R.); (M.D.K.)
| | - Michael D. Kleinhenz
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA; (E.J.R.); (M.D.K.)
| | - Payton Wise
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA; (P.W.); (Z.L.); (S.M.); (A.C.); (M.M.); (J.F.C.)
| | - Zhoumeng Lin
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA; (P.W.); (Z.L.); (S.M.); (A.C.); (M.M.); (J.F.C.)
- Institute of Computational Comparative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA
| | - Shawnee Montgomery
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA; (P.W.); (Z.L.); (S.M.); (A.C.); (M.M.); (J.F.C.)
| | - Hayley Daniell
- Animal Sciences and Industry, College of Agriculture, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA;
| | - Andrew Curtis
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA; (P.W.); (Z.L.); (S.M.); (A.C.); (M.M.); (J.F.C.)
| | - Miriam Martin
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA; (P.W.); (Z.L.); (S.M.); (A.C.); (M.M.); (J.F.C.)
| | - Johann F. Coetzee
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA; (P.W.); (Z.L.); (S.M.); (A.C.); (M.M.); (J.F.C.)
- Institute of Computational Comparative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA
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Kuchtík J, Konečná L, Šeligová M, Kopec T. Effect of Gender on Growth and Carcass Traits of Romney Marsh Lambs. ACTA UNIVERSITATIS AGRICULTURAE ET SILVICULTURAE MENDELIANAE BRUNENSIS 2020. [DOI: 10.11118/actaun202068060959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
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Kopp K, Hernandez-Jover M, Robertson S, Abuelo A, Friend M. A Survey of New South Wales Sheep Producer Practices and Perceptions on Lamb Mortality and Ewe Supplementation. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10091586. [PMID: 32899558 PMCID: PMC7552230 DOI: 10.3390/ani10091586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2020] [Revised: 09/03/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary High lamb mortality rates following birth reduce on-farm profitability and contribute to perceived lower animal welfare standards of the sheep industry. The aim of this study was to understand producer knowledge of lamb mortality rates, causes of lamb mortality, and to investigate practices and perceptions of producers that may contribute to lamb deaths. Approximately 50% of producers estimated less than 10% lamb mortality between birth and marking, compared to published data in Australia reporting around 20–25% mortality rate. Clostridial vaccination of lambs was undertaken by 96% of producers; however, 17% of Merino and 23% of crossbred lamb producers indicated only one vaccination was administered, instead of the recommended initial vaccination plus booster. This lower estimated mortality rate and misuse of vaccination may lead to producers underestimating the perceived benefits of management strategies, as the number of lambs lost is of less concern. It is important producers are aware of the actual on-farm lamb losses to allow accurate determination of the benefits of management strategies, such as pre-lambing supplementation and vaccination. Abstract High lamb mortality rates reduce profitability and reduce the perceived animal welfare standards of the industry. This study aimed to understand producer knowledge of lamb mortality rates and causes of lamb mortality, and to investigate various practices and perceptions of producers that may contribute to lamb deaths. Postal and online surveys gathered data on Australian sheep producer’s knowledge and practices around lambing and management practices. Based on results, approximately 50% of producers estimated less than 10% mortality of lambs between birth and marking, compared to published data estimates of 20–25% mortality. Pre-lambing vaccination of ewes was not undertaken by 10–20% of producers. Ninety-six percent of producers vaccinated lambs; however, 17% of Merino and 23% of crossbred lamb producers only gave a single vaccination instead of the recommended initial vaccine and booster. The lower estimated mortality impacts producer’s perceived benefits of management strategies being undertaken. Research undertaken needs to be more effectively distributed to producers via extension services to ensure producers understand the causes of mortality. Important messages to convey to producers include the limited impact of predation in most cases and the total costs of lamb mortality on-farm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kayla Kopp
- Graham Centre for Agricultural Innovation (NSW Department of Primary Industries and Charles Sturt University), Albert Pugsley Place, Wagga Wagga, NSW 2650, Australia; (M.H.-J.); (S.R.)
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Locked Bag 588, Wagga Wagga, NSW 2678, Australia
- Correspondence:
| | - Marta Hernandez-Jover
- Graham Centre for Agricultural Innovation (NSW Department of Primary Industries and Charles Sturt University), Albert Pugsley Place, Wagga Wagga, NSW 2650, Australia; (M.H.-J.); (S.R.)
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Locked Bag 588, Wagga Wagga, NSW 2678, Australia
| | - Susan Robertson
- Graham Centre for Agricultural Innovation (NSW Department of Primary Industries and Charles Sturt University), Albert Pugsley Place, Wagga Wagga, NSW 2650, Australia; (M.H.-J.); (S.R.)
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Locked Bag 588, Wagga Wagga, NSW 2678, Australia
| | - Angel Abuelo
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, 784 Wilson Road, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA;
| | - Michael Friend
- Office of the Pro-Vice Chancellor, Research and Innovation, Charles Sturt University, Locked Bag 588, Wagga Wagga, NSW 2678, Australia;
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