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Loyens M, Van Bockstal L, Prims S, Van Cruchten S, Van Ginneken C. Thriving or Striving: Comparing Intra-Uterine Growth Restricted, Low Birth Weight and Normal Birth Weight Piglets within the First 24 Hours. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:2508. [PMID: 39272295 PMCID: PMC11394454 DOI: 10.3390/ani14172508] [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: 07/09/2024] [Revised: 08/08/2024] [Accepted: 08/08/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024] Open
Abstract
This observational study explored the early-life challenges of intra-uterine growth restricted (IUGR), low birth body weight (LBW), and normal birth body weight (NBW) piglets. The aim was to understand the impact of birth weight and intra-uterine growth restriction phenotype on neonatal survival and behavior. Based on weight and phenotype, piglets were classified as IUGR (n = 32), LBW (n = 34), and NBW (n = 29) immediately after birth. The piglets were litter- and sex-matched. Vitality scores were assigned based on motor activity and breathing and complemented with an assessment of umbilical cord condition, rectal temperature, crown-rump length (CRL), time to reach the udder, time to suckle, colostrum intake, and weight gain over 24 h. Beyond the lower birth weight, reduced CRL, and higher mortality rate, IUGR piglets faced several other challenges compared with LBW and NBW piglets. Growth-impaired piglets often struggled to engage in early feeding behaviors and displayed consistently lower rectal temperatures at 1, 3 and 24 h after birth. IUGR piglets showed inadequate colostrum intake and weight loss, which were also observed for LBW counterparts. In contrast, no significant differences were observed in vitality scores and umbilical cord conditions across the groups. In conclusion, our findings underscore the impact of intra-uterine growth restriction on neonatal piglets, emphasizing the need for specialized care strategies to improve survival and health outcomes in IUGR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marlotte Loyens
- Comparative Perinatal Development, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Biomedical, Pharmaceutical and Veterinary Sciences, University of Antwerp, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Lieselotte Van Bockstal
- Comparative Perinatal Development, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Biomedical, Pharmaceutical and Veterinary Sciences, University of Antwerp, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Sara Prims
- Comparative Perinatal Development, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Biomedical, Pharmaceutical and Veterinary Sciences, University of Antwerp, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Steven Van Cruchten
- Comparative Perinatal Development, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Biomedical, Pharmaceutical and Veterinary Sciences, University of Antwerp, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Chris Van Ginneken
- Comparative Perinatal Development, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Biomedical, Pharmaceutical and Veterinary Sciences, University of Antwerp, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium
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Ruggeri R, Bee G, Trevisi P, Ollagnier C. Morphometric traits to estimate brain and liver weight and their ratio for the diagnosis of intrauterine growth restriction in newborn piglets. Animal 2024; 18:101262. [PMID: 39121722 DOI: 10.1016/j.animal.2024.101262] [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: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 07/09/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is defined as inadequate foetal growth during gestation. In response to placenta insufficiency, IUGR piglets prioritise brain development as a survival mechanism. This adaptation leads to a higher brain-to-liver weight ratio (BrW/LW) at birth. This study assessed the potential of using morphometric traits to estimate brain (BrW) and liver (LW) weights, enabling non-invasive diagnosis of IUGR in newborn piglets. At birth, body weight (BtW) of individual piglets (n = 144) was recorded. One day (± 1) after birth, BrW and LW were measured with computed tomography (n = 94) or by weighing the organs after natural death or euthanasia (n = 50). Additionally, 20 morphometric traits were captured from images of each piglet and correlated with the BrW and LW. The morphometric traits that showed a r ≥ 0.70 in linear correlation with the BrW or LW were selected. Each selected trait was combined as an independent variable with BtW to develop multiple linear regression models to predict the BrW and LW. Six models were chosen based on the highest adjusted R2 value: three for estimating BrW and three for LW. The dataset was then randomly divided into a training (75% of the data) and a testing (remaining 25%) subsets. Within the training subset, three equations to predict the BrW and three to predict the LW were extrapolated from the six selected models. The equations were then applied to the testing subset. The accuracy of the equations in predicting organ weight was assessed by calculating mean absolute and mean absolute percentage error (MAE and MAPE) between predicted and actual BrW and LW. To predict the BrW/LW, an equation including BtW and the two morphometric traits which better predicted BrW and LW was used. In the testing dataset, the equation combining ear distance and BtW better estimated the BrW. The equation performed with a MAE of 1.95 and a MAPE of 0.06 between the true and estimated weight of the brain. For the liver, the equation combining the abdominal area delimited by a square and BtW displayed the best performance, with a MAE of 9.29 and a MAPE of 0.17 between the true and estimated weight. Finally, the MAE and MAPE between the actual and estimated BrW/LW were 0.14 and 0.17, respectively. These findings suggest that specific morphometric traits can be used to estimate brain and liver weights, facilitating accurate and non-invasive identification of IUGR in newborn piglets.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Ruggeri
- Swine Research Unit, Agroscope, Route de la Tioleyre 4, 1725 Posieux, Switzerland; Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences (DISTAL), University of Bologna, viale G Fanin 44, 40127 Bologna, Italy
| | - G Bee
- Swine Research Unit, Agroscope, Route de la Tioleyre 4, 1725 Posieux, Switzerland
| | - P Trevisi
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences (DISTAL), University of Bologna, viale G Fanin 44, 40127 Bologna, Italy
| | - C Ollagnier
- Swine Research Unit, Agroscope, Route de la Tioleyre 4, 1725 Posieux, Switzerland.
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Buchallik-Schregel J, Kiene F, Buchallik J, Marahrens H, Ossowski N, Schumacher CV, Gerstel B, Reimers U, Ganter M, Wagener MG. Relationships between body condition score, body weight and body measurements in alpacas. Ir Vet J 2024; 77:11. [PMID: 38816833 PMCID: PMC11138088 DOI: 10.1186/s13620-024-00274-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The nutritional status in alpacas is often masked by their dense fibre coat. Its assessment is commonly approached by different body condition scores (BCS) that rely on manual palpation of defined anatomical regions. However, BCS is an important diagnostic tool to aid recognition of diseased South American camelids (SACs) and low BCS has been associated with conditions like anaemia and neutrophilia. For dose-dependent veterinary treatment, body weight (BW), that should be as accurate as possible, is required. As on-site weighing with scales is often not possible, BW can mostly only be roughly estimated. To date, it remains unclear whether BCS in alpacas provides reliable information on BW or the ratios of BW to body length commonly known as Body Mass Index (BMI) or Ponderal Index (PI). Equations to estimate BW based on body measurements are available in the literature. Nonetheless, respective equations were developed in growing alpacas or adult llamas and BCS was not included. RESULTS To compare six different BCS approaches and to examine the relationship between BCS and BW, body measurements and BCS scores were recorded in a herd of 105 alpacas. The examined BCS approaches showed significant (p < 0.05) but poor to moderate positive correlations to BW, BMI or PI. A solely visual inspection of BCS, in contrast, was not correlated with BW, BMI or PI. Equations previously developed in other studies provided an accurate estimation of BW. Multiple linear regression showed that the accuracy in predicting BW could be further increased by adding BCS data and sex. CONCLUSION Our observations indicate that most selected BCS approaches are not only important measures of nutritional status but can also be used to create more accurate models for BW calculation in alpacas. The study also supports the claim that a purely visual inspection of alpacas is not an adequate method to evaluate the nutritional status of these animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Buchallik-Schregel
- Clinic for Swine and Small Ruminants, Forensic Medicine and Ambulatory Service, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany.
| | - Frederik Kiene
- Clinic for Swine and Small Ruminants, Forensic Medicine and Ambulatory Service, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Juliane Buchallik
- Clinic for Swine and Small Ruminants, Forensic Medicine and Ambulatory Service, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Hannah Marahrens
- Clinic for Swine and Small Ruminants, Forensic Medicine and Ambulatory Service, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Nina Ossowski
- Clinic for Swine and Small Ruminants, Forensic Medicine and Ambulatory Service, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Carolin Viktoria Schumacher
- Clinic for Swine and Small Ruminants, Forensic Medicine and Ambulatory Service, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Berit Gerstel
- Clinic for Swine and Small Ruminants, Forensic Medicine and Ambulatory Service, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Ulla Reimers
- Clinic for Swine and Small Ruminants, Forensic Medicine and Ambulatory Service, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Martin Ganter
- Clinic for Swine and Small Ruminants, Forensic Medicine and Ambulatory Service, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Matthias Gerhard Wagener
- Clinic for Swine and Small Ruminants, Forensic Medicine and Ambulatory Service, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
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Ao Z, Wu Z, Hu G, Gong T, Zhang C, Yang Z, Zhang Y. Implications for miR-339-5p regulation of trophoblast proliferation and migration in placentas associated with porcine intrauterine growth retardation using integrated transcriptome sequencing analysis. Theriogenology 2024; 216:127-136. [PMID: 38181538 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.12.035] [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: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2024]
Abstract
Placental dysfunction is considered as one of the main etiologies of fetal intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR). MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been demonstrated to be a vital epigenetic modification involved in regulating the placental function and pregnancy outcomes in mammals. However, the mechanisms underlying placenta-specific miRNAs involved in the occurrence and development of pig IUGR remain unclear. In this work, we compared the placental morphologies of piglets with IUGR and normal birth weight (NBW) by using histomorphological analysis and performed a miRNA-mRNA integrative analysis of the gene expression profiles of IUGR and NBW placentas through RNA sequencing. We also investigated the role of differentially expressed ssc-miR-339-5p/GRIK3 through an in vitro experiment on porcine trophoblast cells (PTr2). IUGR piglets had significantly lower birth weight, placental weight, placental efficiency, and placental villus and capillary densities compared with the NBW piglets (P < 0.05). A total of 81 differentially expressed miRNAs and 726 differentially expressed genes in the placentas were screened out between the IUGR and NBW groups. The miRNA-mRNA interaction networks revealed the key core miRNA (ssc-miR-339-5p) and its corresponding target genes. Subsequently, we found that upregulation of ssc-miR-339-5p significantly inhibited the migration and proliferation of PTr2 cells (P < 0.05). The dual-luciferase reporter system showed that GRIK3 was the target gene of ssc-miR-339-5p, and the transcription level of GRIK3 may be negatively regulated by ssc-miR-339-5p. Additionally, overexpression of ssc-miR-339-5p significantly increased (P < 0.05) the mRNA expression levels of genes involved in the cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction pathway. These results indicate that ssc-miR-339-5p may affect the migration and proliferation of trophoblast cells by regulating the expression of GRIK3 and altering the placental inflammatory response, resulting in a suboptimal morphology and function of the placenta and the development of pig IUGR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Ao
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in the Plateau Mountainous Region, Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, China; Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, China
| | - Zhimin Wu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in the Plateau Mountainous Region, Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, China; Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, China
| | - Guangling Hu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in the Plateau Mountainous Region, Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, China; Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, China
| | - Ting Gong
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in the Plateau Mountainous Region, Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, China; Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, China
| | - Caizai Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in the Plateau Mountainous Region, Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, China; Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, China
| | - Zhenqing Yang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in the Plateau Mountainous Region, Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, China; Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, China
| | - Yiyu Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in the Plateau Mountainous Region, Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, China; Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, China.
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Schregel J, Schulze Holthausen J, Sciascia QL, Görs S, Li Z, Tuchscherer A, Albrecht E, Zentek J, Metges CC. Acute and persistent effects of oral glutamine supplementation on growth, cellular proliferation, and tight junction protein transcript abundance in jejunal tissue of low and normal birthweight pre-weaning piglets. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0296427. [PMID: 38165864 PMCID: PMC10760696 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0296427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Breeding for higher fertility has resulted in a higher number of low birthweight (LBW) piglets. It has been shown that LBW piglets grow slower than normal birthweight (NBW) littermates. Differences in growth performance have been associated with impaired small intestinal development. In suckling and weaning piglets, glutamine (Gln) supplementation has been associated with improved growth and intestinal development. This study was designed to examine the effects of oral Gln supplementation on growth and small intestinal parameters in LBW and NBW suckling piglets. At birth (day 0), a total of 72 LBW (1.10 ± 0.06 kg) and 72 NBW (1.51 ± 0.06) male piglets were selected. At day 1, litters were standardized to 12 piglets, and experimental piglets supplemented daily with either Gln (1 g/kg BW) or isonitrogenous amounts of Alanine (Ala) as control (1.22 g/kg BW) until day 12. Creep feed was offered from day 14 onward. Subgroups of piglets were euthanized at days 5, 12, and 26 for the analyses of jejunal morphometry, cellular proliferation, glutathione concentration and transcript abundance of tight junction proteins. From age day 11 to 21, Gln supplemented LBW (LBW-Gln) piglets were heavier than Ala supplemented LBW (LBW-Ala) littermates (P = 0.034), while NBW piglets were heavier until age day 26 compared to LBW littermates. Villus height was higher in LBW-Gln compared to LBW-Ala on age day 12 (P = 0.031). Sporadic differences among supplementation and birthweight groups were detected for jejunal cellular proliferation, cellular population and glutathione concentration, whereas age was the most dominant factor. These results show that Gln supplementation improved the growth of LBW piglets compared to LBW-Ala beyond the termination of Gln supplementation, but this was not associated with consistent effects on selected parameters of jejunal development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Schregel
- Research Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), Institute of Nutritional Physiology, Dummerstorf, Germany
| | | | - Quentin L. Sciascia
- Research Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), Institute of Nutritional Physiology, Dummerstorf, Germany
| | - Solvig Görs
- Research Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), Institute of Nutritional Physiology, Dummerstorf, Germany
| | - Zeyang Li
- Research Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), Institute of Nutritional Physiology, Dummerstorf, Germany
| | - Armin Tuchscherer
- Research Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), Institute of Genetics and Biometry, Dummerstorf, Germany
| | - Elke Albrecht
- Institute of Muscle Biology and Growth, Research Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), Dummerstorf, Germany
| | - Jürgen Zentek
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Institute of Animal Nutrition, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Cornelia C. Metges
- Research Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), Institute of Nutritional Physiology, Dummerstorf, Germany
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Ruggeri R, Bee G, Trevisi P, Ollagnier C. Intrauterine growth restriction defined by increased brain-to-liver weight ratio affects postnatal growth and protein efficiency in pigs. Animal 2024; 18:101044. [PMID: 38128172 DOI: 10.1016/j.animal.2023.101044] [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: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) refers to impaired foetal growth during gestation, resulting in permanent stunting effects on the offspring. This study aimed to investigate the effects of IUGR on growth performance, body composition, blood metabolites, and meat quality of pigs from birth (n = 268) to slaughter (n = 93). IUGR piglets have prioritised brain development as a foetal adaptive reaction to placental insufficiency. This survival mechanism results in a higher brain-to-liver weight ratio (BrW/LW). One day (±1) after birth, computed tomography (CT) was performed on each piglet to assess their brain and liver weights. A threshold value of 0.78 (mean + SD) was chosen to divide the piglets into two categories - NORM (BrW/LW < 0.78) and IUGR (BrW/LW > 0.78). Moreover, each piglet was classified as either normal (score 1), mild IUGR (score 2), or severe IUGR (score 3) based on the head morphology. BW was recorded weekly, and average daily gain (ADG) was calculated for lactation, starter, grower, and finisher periods. Body composition was assessed after weaning (29.6 ± 0.7 d), at 20 kg (64 ± 7.2 d), 100 kg (165 ± 12.3 d), and on the carcasses using Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Content and deposition rates of single nutrients, as well as energy and CP efficiency, were measured at 20 and 100 kg. Feed intake was recorded from 20 kg to slaughter. Meat quality was assessed on the carcasses. A total of 70% of the piglets assigned a score of 3 were NORM according to their BrW/LW. The IUGR category showed a lower ADG in the lactation (P < 0.01), starter (P = 0.07), and grower phases (P < 0.05) and a reduced CP efficiency in the grower-finisher period (P < 0.01) compared to the NORM group. IUGR pigs had a lower gain-to-feed ratio in the finisher period (P = 0.01) despite similar average daily feed intake, and they required more days (P < 0.01) to reach the slaughter weight. Additionally, their meat was darker (P = 0.01) than that of NORM pigs. The BrW/LW was inversely proportional to the ADG from birth to slaughter and negatively correlated with the CP deposition rate and efficiency in the grower-finisher period (P < 0.01). Furthermore, the higher the BrW/LW, the longer it took the pigs to reach the slaughter weight (P < 0.01). In conclusion, the identification of IUGR piglets based on the head morphology does not always agree with an increased BrW/LW. IUGR affects growth performance from birth to slaughter, CP efficiency in the grower-finisher period and meat quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Ruggeri
- Swine Research Unit, Agroscope, Route de la Tioleyre 4, 1725 Posieux, Switzerland; Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences (DISTAL), University of Bologna, viale G Fanin 44, 40127 Bologna, Italy
| | - G Bee
- Swine Research Unit, Agroscope, Route de la Tioleyre 4, 1725 Posieux, Switzerland
| | - P Trevisi
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences (DISTAL), University of Bologna, viale G Fanin 44, 40127 Bologna, Italy
| | - C Ollagnier
- Swine Research Unit, Agroscope, Route de la Tioleyre 4, 1725 Posieux, Switzerland.
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Palumbo F, Bee G, Trevisi P, Girard M. Decreasing the level of hemicelluloses in sow’s lactation diet affects the milk composition and post-weaning performance of low birthweight piglets. ITALIAN JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCE 2023. [DOI: 10.1080/1828051x.2023.2181108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Palumbo
- Agroscope, Swine Research Group, Posieux, Switzerland
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Agro-alimentari (DISTAL), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Bee
- Agroscope, Swine Research Group, Posieux, Switzerland
| | - Paolo Trevisi
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Agro-alimentari (DISTAL), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Marion Girard
- Agroscope, Swine Research Group, Posieux, Switzerland
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8
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Bruun TS, Madsen AH, Handberg ER, Dall J, Jensen SK, Østrup E, Strathe AV. The effect of dietary omega-3 fatty acid supplementation on fetal growth, piglet birth weight and plasma fatty acid concentrations, using docosahexaenoic acid in early gestation in sows. Anim Reprod Sci 2023; 259:107380. [PMID: 38006638 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2023.107380] [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: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/27/2023]
Abstract
The objective of the study was to test the effect of the omega-3 fatty acid docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) on fetal and placental development as well as the birth weight of piglets. A total of 238 multiparous sows were allocated to either a control diet group or a DHA diet group with an omega-6 to omega-3 ratio of 9.8 and 2.4, respectively, from mating to day 43 of gestation. A blood sample was collected and back fat thickness was measured prior to mating, on days 14, 42 and 112 of gestation. On day 43 of gestation, 14 sows were slaughtered and measurements of fetuses and placentas were taken. Piglets in some litters were weighed individually at farrowing. Dietary treatment did not affect fetal characteristics and back fat thickness (P > 0.05). Dietary treatment increased the plasma concentrations of total omega-3 fatty acids in sows (P < 0.05). Sows fed the DHA diet had a shorter gestation length compared to the control sows (P < 0.05), but the number of born piglets was not affected (P > 0.05). The average piglet birth weight and the within-litter variation in birthweight were unaffected by dietary DHA (P > 0.05), however, sows fed DHA diet had fewer piglets under 800 g at birth compared to control sows (P < 0.05). In conclusion, addition of DHA decreased the dietary ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids, increased plasma n-3 fatty acid concentrations in sows and decreased the number of piglets weighing under 800 g at birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas S Bruun
- SEGES Innovation, Agro Food Park 15, 8200 Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Anja H Madsen
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Grønnegårdsvej 3, 1870 Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Emilie R Handberg
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Grønnegårdsvej 3, 1870 Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Jacob Dall
- Vilofoss, Ballesvej 2, 7000 Fredericia, Denmark
| | - Søren K Jensen
- Department of Animal Science, Aarhus University, Blichers Allé 20, 8830 Tjele, Denmark
| | - Esben Østrup
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Grønnegårdsvej 3, 1870 Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Anja V Strathe
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Grønnegårdsvej 3, 1870 Frederiksberg, Denmark.
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Amdi C, Larsen C, Jensen KMR, Tange EØ, Sato H, Williams AR. Intrauterine growth restriction in piglets modulates postnatal immune function and hepatic transcriptional responses independently of energy intake. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1254958. [PMID: 37916220 PMCID: PMC10617784 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1254958] [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: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Insufficient prenatal nutrition can affect fetal development and lead to intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR). The aim of this study was to investigate hepatic transcriptional responses and innate immune function in piglets suffering from IUGR compared to normal-sized piglets at 3 days of age and explore whether the provision of an energy-rich supplement at birth could modulate these parameters. Methods: A total of 68 piglets were included in the study. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were harvested for LPS stimulation, and organs were harvested post-mortem to quantify relative weights. Liver tissue was utilized for RNA sequencing coupled with gene-set enrichment analysis. Results: IUGR resulted in increased expression of genes such as PDK4 and substantial alterations in transcriptional pathways related to metabolic activity (e.g., citric acid and Krebs cycles), but these changes were equivalent in piglets given an energy-rich supplement or not. Transcriptomic analysis and serum biochemistry suggested altered glucose metabolism and a shift toward oxidation of fatty acids. IUGR piglets also exhibited suppression of genes related to innate immune function (e.g., CXCL12) and pathways related to cell proliferation (e.g., WNT and PDGF signaling). Moreover, they produced less IL-1β in response to LPS stimulation and had lower levels of blood eosinophils than normal-sized piglets. Discussion: Taken together, our results indicate that IUGR results in early-life alterations in metabolism and immunity that may not be easily restored by the provision of exogenous energy supplementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- C. Amdi
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Zhang C, Wu Z, Hu G, Zhang Y, Ao Z. Exploring characteristics of placental transcriptome and cord serum metabolome associated with low birth weight in Kele pigs. Trop Anim Health Prod 2023; 55:340. [PMID: 37770796 DOI: 10.1007/s11250-023-03733-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023]
Abstract
The neonate with low birth weight (LBW) resulted from intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR) exists a substantial risk of postpartum death. Placental insufficiency is responsible for inadequate fetal growth; however, the pathological mechanisms of placental dysfunction-induced IUGR in pigs remain unclear. In this study, the characteristics of placental morphology, placental transcriptome, and cord serum metabolome were explored between the Kele piglets with LBW and the ones with normal birth weight (NBW). Results showed that LBW was a common occurrence in Kele piglets. The LBW placentas showed inferior villus development and lower villi density compared to NBW placentas. There were 1024 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) identified by transcriptome analysis between the LBW and NBW placentas, of which 218 and 806 genes were up- and down-regulated in the LBW placentas, respectively. PPI network analysis showed that ITGB2, CD4, IL6, ITGB3, LCK, RAC2, CD8A, JAK3, TYROBP, and CXCR4 were hub genes in all DEGs. From GO and KEGG enrichment analysis, DEGs were primarily enriched in immunological response, cell adhesion, immune response, cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction, and PI3K-Akt signaling pathway. By using metabolomic analysis, a total of 115 differential metabolites in the cord serum of LBW and NBW piglets were found, mostly linked to amino acid metabolism and sphingolipid metabolism. In comparison to NBW piglets, LBW piglets had lower levels of arginine, isoleucine, and aspartic acid in the cord. Taken together, these data revealed dysplasia of the placental villus, insufficient supply of nutrients, and abnormal immune function of the placenta may be associated with the occurrence and development of LBW in Kele pigs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caizai Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in the Plateau Mountainous Region, Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, China
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, China
| | - Zhimin Wu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in the Plateau Mountainous Region, Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, China
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, China
| | - Guangling Hu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in the Plateau Mountainous Region, Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, China
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, China
| | - Yiyu Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in the Plateau Mountainous Region, Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, China
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, China
| | - Zheng Ao
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in the Plateau Mountainous Region, Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, China.
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, China.
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11
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Aerts P, Mielke F, Vanden Hole C, Van Gorp MJW, Van Ginneken C. Early Development of Locomotion in the Term Piglet Model: Does Size Matter? Integr Comp Biol 2023; 63:610-624. [PMID: 37309027 PMCID: PMC10503477 DOI: 10.1093/icb/icad054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Intrauterine undernutrition in humans typically results in low birth weight ([small for gestational age] SGA) and delayed postnatal neuromotor maturation. Since SGA and intrauterine growth retardation are also common in domestic pigs, piglets are premised as models to study delayed motor development. Applied to the locomotor paradigm, however, questions emerge: (i) how to map the developmental time scale of the precocial model onto the altricial target species and (ii) how to distinguish size from maturation effects? Gait data were collected at self-selected voluntary walking speed during early development (0-96 hours postpartum; pp) for SGA- and normal ([appropriate for gestational age] AGA) piglets. Dimensionless spatiotemporal gait characteristics (according to dynamic similarity) become invariant already after 4 hours pp, suggesting rapid postnatal neuromotor maturation. Moreover, dimensionless gait data are largely identical for SGA- and AGA-siblings, indicating that primarily size effects explain absolute locomotor differences. This is further supported by (i) normalized force-generating capacity of limb muscles, (ii) joint kinematics (<10 hours pp), and (iii) normalized ground reaction forces (<5 days pp) being indifferent between SGA- and AGA- piglets. Furthermore, predictive modeling based on limb joint kinematics is unable to discern the majority of SGA- from AGA-piglets (<10 hours pp). All this leads to the conclusion that, although smaller than the AGA piglets in absolute terms, SGA-piglets mature (neuromechanically speaking) just like, and equally fast as their AGA littermates. Yet, it remains a fact that early SGA piglets are reported to be less mobile, less vital, and less competitive than their AGA siblings (even often die before day 3 pp). This conspicuous difference likely results from the energy level (blood glucose and glycogen) and its mobilization being considerably different between the piglet categories during early development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Aerts
- Laboratory of Functional Morphology, Biology, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium
- Movement and Sports Sciences, University of Ghent, Watersportlaan 2, Belgium
| | - Falk Mielke
- Laboratory of Functional Morphology, Biology, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium
- Laboratory of Comparative Perinatal development, Veterinary Sciences, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Charlotte Vanden Hole
- Laboratory of Comparative Perinatal development, Veterinary Sciences, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Merel J W Van Gorp
- Laboratory of Functional Morphology, Biology, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Chris Van Ginneken
- Laboratory of Comparative Perinatal development, Veterinary Sciences, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium
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12
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Lagoda ME, O’Driscoll K, Galli MC, Cerón JJ, Ortín-Bustillo A, Marchewka J, Boyle LA. Indicators of improved gestation housing of sows. Part II: Effects on physiological measures, reproductive performance and health of the offspring. Anim Welf 2023; 32:e52. [PMID: 38487422 PMCID: PMC10936399 DOI: 10.1017/awf.2023.48] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
Prenatal stress is the mechanism through which poor welfare of pregnant sows has detrimental effects on the health and resilience of their piglets. We compared two gestation housing systems (IMPROVED versus [conventional] CONTROL) in terms of sow stress and welfare indicators and sought to determine whether potential benefits to the sows would translate into improved offspring health. Sows were mixed into 12 stable groups (six groups per treatment, 20 sows per group) 29 days post-service in pens with free-access, full-length individual feeding/lying-stalls. CONTROL pens had fully slatted concrete floors, with two blocks of wood and two chains suspended in the group area. IMPROVED pens were the same but with rubber mats and manila rope in each stall, and straw provided in three racks in the group area. Saliva was collected from each sow on day 80 of pregnancy and analysed for haptoglobin. Hair cortisol was measured in late gestation. Sows' right and left eyes were scored for tear staining in mid lactation and at weaning. Numbers of piglets born alive, dead, mummified, and total born were recorded. Piglets were weighed and scored for vitality and intra-uterine growth restriction (IUGR) at birth. Presence of diarrhoea in farrowing pens was scored every second day throughout the suckling period. IMPROVED sows had lower haptoglobin levels and tear-stain scores during lactation. IMPROVED sows produced fewer mummified piglets, and these had significantly lower IUGR scores, and scored lower for diarrhoea than piglets of CONTROL sows. Hence, improving sow welfare during gestation improved the health and performance of their offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martyna E Lagoda
- Pig Development Department, Animal & Grassland Research & Innovation Centre, Teagasc Moorepark, Fermoy, Co Cork, Ireland
- Institute of Genetics and Animal Biotechnology of the Polish Academy of Sciences, Department of Animal Behaviour, ul. Postępu 36A, Jastrzębiec 05-552
| | - Keelin O’Driscoll
- Pig Development Department, Animal & Grassland Research & Innovation Centre, Teagasc Moorepark, Fermoy, Co Cork, Ireland
| | - Maria C Galli
- Department of Animal Medicine, Production and Health, University of Padova, Viale dell’Università 16, 35020, Legnaro (PD), Italy
| | - José J Cerón
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Clinical Analysis of the University of Murcia (Interlab-UMU), Regional Campus of International Excellence ‘Campus Mare Nostrum’, University of Murcia, Campus de Espinardo s/n, 30100Murcia, Spain
| | - Alba Ortín-Bustillo
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Clinical Analysis of the University of Murcia (Interlab-UMU), Regional Campus of International Excellence ‘Campus Mare Nostrum’, University of Murcia, Campus de Espinardo s/n, 30100Murcia, Spain
| | - Joanna Marchewka
- Institute of Genetics and Animal Biotechnology of the Polish Academy of Sciences, Department of Animal Behaviour, ul. Postępu 36A, Jastrzębiec 05-552
| | - Laura A Boyle
- Pig Development Department, Animal & Grassland Research & Innovation Centre, Teagasc Moorepark, Fermoy, Co Cork, Ireland
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13
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Van Ginneken C, Ayuso M, Van Bockstal L, Van Cruchten S. Preweaning performance in intrauterine growth-restricted piglets: Characteristics and interventions. Mol Reprod Dev 2023; 90:697-707. [PMID: 35652465 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23614] [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: 01/15/2022] [Revised: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is frequently observed in pig production, especially when using highly prolific sows. IUGR piglets are born with low body weight and shape indicative of differences in organ growth. Insufficient uteroplacental nutrient transfer to the fetuses is the leading cause of growth restriction in the pig. Supplementing the sow's gestation diet with arginine and/or glutamine improves placenta growth and functionality and consequently is able to reduce IUGR incidence. IUGR piglets are at higher risk of dying preweaning and face higher morbidity than their normal-weight littermates. A high level of surveillance during farrowing and individual nutrient supplementation can reduce the mortality rates. Still, these do not reverse the long-term consequences of IUGR, which are induced by persistent structural deficits in different organs. Dietary interventions peri-weaning can optimize performance but these are less effective in combating the metabolic changes that occurred in IUGR, which affect reproductive performance later in life. IUGR piglets share many similarities with IUGR infants, such as a poorer outcome of males. Using the IUGR piglet as an animal model to further explore the structural and molecular basis of the long-term consequences of IUGR and the potential sex bias could aid in fully understanding the impact of prenatal undernutrition and finding solutions for both species and sexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chris Van Ginneken
- Comparative Perinatal Development (CoPeD), Faculty of Pharmaceutical, Biomedical and Veterinary Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Miriam Ayuso
- Comparative Perinatal Development (CoPeD), Faculty of Pharmaceutical, Biomedical and Veterinary Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Lieselotte Van Bockstal
- Comparative Perinatal Development (CoPeD), Faculty of Pharmaceutical, Biomedical and Veterinary Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Steven Van Cruchten
- Comparative Perinatal Development (CoPeD), Faculty of Pharmaceutical, Biomedical and Veterinary Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
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14
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Bruun TS, Pedersen TF, Thorup F, Strathe AV. Selecting the optimal strategies when using nurse sows for supernumerous piglets. Mol Reprod Dev 2023; 90:546-560. [PMID: 37210733 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23688] [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: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Hyper-prolific sows frequently do not have a sufficient number of functional teats for their piglets to nurse which has led to the use of nurse sows to manage these surplus piglets. This review discusses strategies for using nurse sows and factors that influence preweaning survival and weight gain of their litters, as well as those that affect their subsequent rebreeding performance. Rearing piglets using a nurse sow can be as successful as piglets reared with their biological mother and is thus a powerful management tool to decrease preweaning piglet mortality. Selecting a young sow as nurse sow is beneficial for piglet survival; however, piglets nursing first parity sows often have a lower daily weight gain than piglets nursing multiparous sows. A litter of uniform surplus piglets is preferably handled using the two-step nurse sow strategy. A consequence of nonuniform litters will most likely be an increased mortality and decreased weaning weight among the smallest piglets within a litter. The subsequent fertility of nurse sows is not compromised. There is an increased risk of lactational oestrus when using nurse sows leading to an increased weaning-to-oestrus interval; however, litter size in nurse sows is identical or even moderately higher in the subsequent parity compared with nonnurse sows.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Anja Varmløse Strathe
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
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15
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Parada Sarmiento M, Lanzoni L, Sabei L, Chincarini M, Palme R, Zanella AJ, Vignola G. Lameness in Pregnant Sows Alters Placental Stress Response. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:1722. [PMID: 37889627 PMCID: PMC10251993 DOI: 10.3390/ani13111722] [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: 04/09/2023] [Revised: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Pregnant sows from commercial pig farms may experience painful states, such as lameness, an essential indicator in assessing sow welfare. We investigated the effect of lameness during the last third of pregnancy on reproductive performance and placental glucocorticoid concentrations in sows. Periodic locomotion assessments were carried out on two commercial pig farms using a validated 0-5 scoring system (from 0: normal locomotion; to 5: a downer animal). Sows from both farms (N = 511) were grouped based on their average locomotion scores. On Farm 1, 30 sows were selected and grouped as either Not Lame (NL = 16; X¯ = 0-1) or Lame (L = 14; X¯ > 1). On Farm 2, 39 sows were selected and grouped as either Not Lame (G1 = 12; X¯ = 0-1), Moderately Lame (G2 = 13; X¯ = 1.1-2), or Severely Lame (G3 = 14; X¯ ≥ 2.1). Reproductive data (gestation length, litter weight, average piglet weight, litter size, and the number of piglets born alive/mummified/stillborn) were recorded on both farms. Moreover, on Farm 2, piglet intrauterine growth restriction score and the number of piglets dead during the first week were also recorded, and placenta samples were collected to determine their cortisol/cortisone concentrations. A linear mixed model was used to analyze the data. The proportion of lameness in pregnant sows (N = 511) was >40%, and the gestation length tended to decrease with the presence of lameness (p < 0.1) in both farms. G2 sows had a higher placental cortisol/cortisone ratio than G1 and G3 sows (p < 0.01). In conclusion, lameness was high in the sows assessed, which may decrease sow gestation length and reduce placental efficiency in protecting the offspring from the sows' stress response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marisol Parada Sarmiento
- Center for Comparative Studies in Sustainability, Health and Welfare, Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine and Animal Health, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga CEP 13635-900, SP, Brazil;
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Loc. Piano d’Accio, 64100 Teramo, Italy; (L.L.); (M.C.); (G.V.)
| | - Lydia Lanzoni
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Loc. Piano d’Accio, 64100 Teramo, Italy; (L.L.); (M.C.); (G.V.)
| | - Leandro Sabei
- Center for Comparative Studies in Sustainability, Health and Welfare, Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine and Animal Health, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga CEP 13635-900, SP, Brazil;
| | - Matteo Chincarini
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Loc. Piano d’Accio, 64100 Teramo, Italy; (L.L.); (M.C.); (G.V.)
| | - Rupert Palme
- Unit of Physiology, Pathophysiology and Experimental Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Veterinary Medicine, Veterinärpl. 1, 1210 Wien, Austria;
| | - Adroaldo José Zanella
- Center for Comparative Studies in Sustainability, Health and Welfare, Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine and Animal Health, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga CEP 13635-900, SP, Brazil;
| | - Giorgio Vignola
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Loc. Piano d’Accio, 64100 Teramo, Italy; (L.L.); (M.C.); (G.V.)
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16
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Bruun TS, Østrup E, Lyderik KK, Dall J, Strathe AV. Effect of increasing dietary methionine-to-lysine ratio during early gestation on fetal development and piglet birth weight. Anim Reprod Sci 2023; 252:107251. [PMID: 37148749 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2023.107251] [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: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
It was hypothesized that increasing dietary methionine (Met) for sows in early gestation would have a positive effect on fetal and placental growth and development, thereby also increasing the birth weight of piglets. The objective of the study was to investigate the effect of increasing the total dietary methionine-to-lysine ratio (Met:Lys) from 0.29 (Control diet) to 0.41 (Met diet) from mating to day 50 of gestation. A total of 349 multiparous sows were allocated to either the Control or Met diet group. The sows' backfat thickness was measured pre-farrowing, post-farrowing, and at weaning in the previous cycle and on days 14, 50 and 112 of gestation in the current cycle. On day 50, three Control and six Met sows were slaughtered. In 116 litters, piglets were weighed and measured individually at farrowing. The dietary treatment did not affect the sows' backfat thickness before or during gestation (P > 0.05). The number of liveborn and stillborn piglets at farrowing were similar in both groups (P > 0.05) and no differences in average piglet birth weight, total litter weight at birth or within-litter variation in birth weight (P > 0.05) were observed. In conclusion, increasing the dietary Met:Lys ratio for sows in early gestation had no effect on piglet birth weight.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Esben Østrup
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Grønnegårdsvej 3, 1870 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Kimmie Kyed Lyderik
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Grønnegårdsvej 3, 1870 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Jacob Dall
- Vilofoss, Ballesvej 2, 7000 Fredericia, Denmark
| | - Anja Varmløse Strathe
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Grønnegårdsvej 3, 1870 Frederiksberg C, Denmark.
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17
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Mielke F, Van Ginneken C, Aerts P. A workflow for automatic, high precision livestock diagnostic screening of locomotor kinematics. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1111140. [PMID: 36960143 PMCID: PMC10028250 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1111140] [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: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Locomotor kinematics have been challenging inputs for automated diagnostic screening of livestock. Locomotion is a highly variable behavior, and influenced by subject characteristics (e.g., body mass, size, age, disease). We assemble a set of methods from different scientific disciplines, composing an automatic, high through-put workflow which can disentangle behavioral complexity and generate precise individual indicators of non-normal behavior for application in diagnostics and research. For this study, piglets (Sus domesticus) were filmed from lateral perspective during their first 10 h of life, an age at which maturation is quick and body mass and size have major consequences for survival. We then apply deep learning methods for point digitization, calculate joint angle profiles, and apply information-preserving transformations to retrieve a multivariate kinematic data set. We train probabilistic models to infer subject characteristics from kinematics. Model accuracy was validated for strides from piglets of normal birth weight (i.e., the category it was trained on), but the models infer the body mass and size of low birth weight (LBW) piglets (which were left out of training, out-of-sample inference) to be "normal." The age of some (but not all) low birth weight individuals was underestimated, indicating developmental delay. Such individuals could be identified automatically, inspected, and treated accordingly. This workflow has potential for automatic, precise screening in livestock management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Falk Mielke
- Functional Morphology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
- Comparative Perinatal Development, Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Chris Van Ginneken
- Comparative Perinatal Development, Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Peter Aerts
- Functional Morphology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
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18
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Tang T, Gerrits WJJ, van der Peet-Schwering CMC, Soede NM, Reimert I. Effects of Birthweight of Piglets in a Multi-Suckling System on Mortality, Growth Rate, Catch-Up Growth, Feed Intake and Behaviour. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:297. [PMID: 36670837 PMCID: PMC9855195 DOI: 10.3390/ani13020297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Multi-suckling systems aim to improve animal welfare, but in these systems, a large variation is seen in piglet growth rate. Birthweight (BiW) plays an important role in explaining the variation in body weight (BW) gain of piglets. This study aims to investigate the relationships between BiW and piglet traits up to day 44 postpartum (p.p.). A total of 55 sows were used. The growth rate and mortality were assessed for all piglets. Feed and milk intake, behaviours, and skin lesions were assessed in four focal piglets per litter. Focal piglets were divided into four groups based on their BiW class (high BiW (HBiW) vs. low BiW (LBiW)) and growth rate class (fast vs. slow). Results showed that increased mortality was observed in piglets with a BiW below 1.1 kg. Birthweight was positively related with the number of sucklings (β = 2.8 no./kg of BiW per 7.5 h), corresponding to milk intake (β = 102 g/kg of BiW per day), and to a lesser extent, to the intake of sow feed (β = 44 g/kg of BiW per day) in week 6. Birthweight was positively related with the number of skin lesions (β = 4.3 no./kg of BiW) in week 4. We found no indications that fast-growing LBiW piglets differed from fast-growing HBiW piglets, however, fast-growing piglets of both HBiW and LBiW tended to eat more feed (485 ± 18 vs. 420 ± 17 g/day, p = 0.068), were present less often at teats of alien sows (1.1 ± 0.2 vs. 1.8 ± 0.3, p = 0.010), and had more skin lesions (9.0 ± 0.6 vs. 7.4 ± 0.4, p = 0.047), compared to slow growing piglets. Our study, thus, provides little insight into the traits that affect catchup growth in a multi-suckling environment but increases insight into the differences between fast-growing and slow-growing piglets, regardless of their birthweight class.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianyue Tang
- Animal Nutrition Group, Department of Animal Sciences, Wageningen University & Research, P.O. Box 338, 6700 AH Wageningen, The Netherlands
- Adaptation Physiology Group, Department of Animal Sciences, Wageningen University & Research, P.O. Box 338, 6700 AH Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Walter J. J. Gerrits
- Animal Nutrition Group, Department of Animal Sciences, Wageningen University & Research, P.O. Box 338, 6700 AH Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | | | - Nicoline M. Soede
- Adaptation Physiology Group, Department of Animal Sciences, Wageningen University & Research, P.O. Box 338, 6700 AH Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Inonge Reimert
- Adaptation Physiology Group, Department of Animal Sciences, Wageningen University & Research, P.O. Box 338, 6700 AH Wageningen, The Netherlands
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19
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Spörri-Vontobel C, Simmler M, Wechsler B, Scriba MF. Risk factors differ for viable and low viable crushed piglets in free farrowing pens. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1172446. [PMID: 37152692 PMCID: PMC10160680 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1172446] [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: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Newborn piglets have a high risk of being crushed by the sow, and this risk implies welfare and economic consequences. The aim of this study was to investigate the importance of differentiating between low viable (secondary crushing losses) and viable crushed (primary crushing losses) piglets for the evaluation of risk factors for crushing related to characteristics of the sow, the litter, and the environment. Eleven Swiss farmers recorded sows' production data (parity class, gestation length, numbers of live-born and stillborn piglets), data (age, sex, weight, cause of death, and signs of weakness) for every live-born piglet that died in the first week after birth (piglet loss), and ambient temperature. Piglet losses were assigned to five categorical events: piglet loss, subdivided into not crushed and crushed, the latter being further subdivided into low viable crushed and viable crushed. Piglets recorded by the farmer as crushed were assigned to the events low viable crushed and viable crushed based on the piglet's body weight and signs of weakness (diseases, malformations). Data of 9,543 live-born piglets from 740 litters were eventually used to statistically model the hazard of dying at any given time in the first week after birth due to one of these events (mixed-effects Cox model). Five potential risk factors were analyzed as co-variates: parity class, gestation length, number of live-born piglets, number of stillborn piglets, and daily number of hours with ambient temperature >30°C. We identified two risk factors for dying from the event viable crushed that were not identified as risk factors for low viable crushed, namely shorter gestation length and higher daily number of hours with ambient temperature > 30°C. Vice-versa, we identified additional live-born piglets in the litter as risk factor for low viable crushed, but not for viable crushed. Our results show the importance of differentiating between low viable and viable crushed piglets for the interpretation of risk factors for crushing losses. Therefore, we suggest that for breeding purposes and in research, this differentiation should be made.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cornelia Spörri-Vontobel
- Centre for Proper Housing of Ruminants and Pigs, Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office, Ettenhausen, Switzerland
- *Correspondence: Cornelia Spörri-Vontobel,
| | - Michael Simmler
- Digital Production Group, Agroscope, Ettenhausen, Switzerland
| | - Beat Wechsler
- Centre for Proper Housing of Ruminants and Pigs, Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office, Ettenhausen, Switzerland
| | - Madeleine F. Scriba
- Centre for Proper Housing of Ruminants and Pigs, Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office, Ettenhausen, Switzerland
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20
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Glutamine supplementation moderately affects growth, plasma metabolite and free amino acid patterns in neonatal low birth weight piglets. Br J Nutr 2022; 128:2330-2340. [PMID: 35144703 PMCID: PMC9723486 DOI: 10.1017/s0007114522000459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Low birth weight (LBW) neonates show impaired growth compared with normal birth weight (NBW) neonates. Glutamine (Gln) supplementation benefits growth of weaning piglets, while the effect on neonates is not sufficiently clear. We examined the effect of neonatal Gln supplementation on piglet growth, milk intake and metabolic parameters. Sow-reared pairs of newborn LBW (0·8-1·2 kg) and NBW (1·4-1·8 kg) male piglets received Gln (1 g/kg body mass (BM)/d; Gln-LBW, Gln-NBW; n 24/group) or isonitrogenous alanine (1·22 g/kg BM/d; Ala-LBW; Ala-NBW; n 24/group) supplementation at 1-5 or 1-12 d of age (daily in three equal portions at 07:00, 12:00 and 17:00 by syringe feeding). We measured piglet BM, milk intake (1, 11-12 d), plasma metabolite, insulin, amino acid (AA) and liver TAG concentrations (5, 12 d). The Gln-LBW group had higher BM (+7·5%, 10 d, P = 0·066; 11-12 d, P < 0·05) and milk intake (+14·7%, P = 0·015) than Ala-LBW. At 5 d, Ala-LBW group had higher plasma TAG (+34·7%, P < 0·1) and lower carnosine (-22·5%, P < 0·05) than Ala-NBW and Gln-LBW, and higher liver TAG (+66·9%, P = 0·029) than Ala-NBW. At 12 d, plasma urea was higher (+37·5%, P < 0·05) with Gln than Ala supplementation. Several proteinogenic AA in plasma were lower (P < 0·05) in Ala-NBW v. Gln-NBW. Plasma arginine was higher (P < 0·05) in Gln-NBW v Ala-NBW piglets (5, 12 d). Supplemental Gln moderately improved growth and milk intake and affected lipid metabolism in LBW piglets and AA metabolism in NBW piglets, suggesting effects on intestinal and liver function.
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Mugnier A, Chastant S, Lyazrhi F, Saegerman C, Grellet A. Definition of low birth weight in domestic mammals: a scoping review. Anim Health Res Rev 2022; 23:157-164. [PMID: 36636803 DOI: 10.1017/s146625232200007x] [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] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
In people and animals, low birth weight (LBW) is recognized as highly predictive of health trajectory from the neonatal period to elderly ages. Regarding the neonatal period, although LBW is recognized as a major risk factor for neonatal mortality, there does not appear to be a clear definition of 'when a birth weight should be considered low' in all species. The aim of this work was to use the scientific literature available to map the various thresholds proposed to define LBW in domestic mammals. Using a standardized methodology, a scoping review was conducted through a literature search in three different bibliographic databases. After a two-step screening of 1729 abstracts and full-text publications by two independent reviewers, eleven studies met the inclusion criteria. Selected publications represented six mammalian species (rat, mouse, dog, pig, cow, and rabbit). Birth weight thresholds were identified through six different methods. In addition to the scarcity of scientific literature about the definition of LBW, this scoping review revealed the lack of standardization for the description, evaluation or the pertinence these definitions. Because the health consequences of LBW could be preventable, providing early identification of at-risk neonates, a consensus for the standardized definition of LBW is required.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Faouzi Lyazrhi
- Biostatistiques, Université de Toulouse, ENVT, Toulouse, France
| | - Claude Saegerman
- UREAR-ULiège, FARAH, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Liège, Liège, Belgium
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22
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Ponsuksili S, Murani E, Hadlich F, Iqbal MA, Fuchs B, Galuska CE, Perdomo-Sabogal A, Sarais F, Trakooljul N, Reyer H, Oster M, Wimmers K. Prenatal transcript levels and metabolomics analyses reveal metabolic changes associated with intrauterine growth restriction and sex. Open Biol 2022; 12:220151. [PMID: 36102059 PMCID: PMC9471991 DOI: 10.1098/rsob.220151] [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: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The metabolic changes associated with intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) particularly affect the liver, which is a central metabolic organ and contributes significantly to the provision of energy and specific nutrients and metabolites. Therefore, our aim was to decipher and elucidate the molecular pathways of developmental processes mediated by miRNAs and mRNAs, as well as the metabolome in fetal liver tissue in IUGR compared to appropriate for gestational age groups (AGA). Discordant siblings representing the extremes in fetal weight at day 63 post conception (dpc) were selected from F2 fetuses of a cross of German Landrace and Pietrain. Most of the changes in the liver of IUGR at midgestation involved various lipid metabolic pathways, both on transcript and metabolite levels, especially in the category of sphingolipids and phospholipids. Differentially expressed miRNAs, such as miR-34a, and their differentially expressed mRNA targets were identified. Sex-specific phenomena were observed at both the transcript and metabolite levels, particularly in male. This suggests that sex-specific adaptations in the metabolic system occur in the liver during midgestation (63 dpc). Our multi-omics network analysis reveals interactions and changes in the metabolic system associated with IUGR and identified an important biosignature that differs between IUGR and AGA piglets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siriluck Ponsuksili
- Research Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), Institute for Genome Biology, Wilhelm-Stahl-Allee 2, 18196 Dummerstorf, Germany
| | - Eduard Murani
- Research Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), Institute for Genome Biology, Wilhelm-Stahl-Allee 2, 18196 Dummerstorf, Germany
| | - Frieder Hadlich
- Research Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), Institute for Genome Biology, Wilhelm-Stahl-Allee 2, 18196 Dummerstorf, Germany
| | - Muhammad Arsalan Iqbal
- Research Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), Institute for Genome Biology, Wilhelm-Stahl-Allee 2, 18196 Dummerstorf, Germany
| | - Beate Fuchs
- Research Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), Core Facility Metabolomics, 18196 Dummerstorf, Germany
| | - Christina E Galuska
- Research Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), Core Facility Metabolomics, 18196 Dummerstorf, Germany
| | - Alvaro Perdomo-Sabogal
- Research Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), Institute for Genome Biology, Wilhelm-Stahl-Allee 2, 18196 Dummerstorf, Germany
| | - Fabio Sarais
- Research Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), Institute for Genome Biology, Wilhelm-Stahl-Allee 2, 18196 Dummerstorf, Germany
| | - Nares Trakooljul
- Research Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), Institute for Genome Biology, Wilhelm-Stahl-Allee 2, 18196 Dummerstorf, Germany
| | - Henry Reyer
- Research Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), Institute for Genome Biology, Wilhelm-Stahl-Allee 2, 18196 Dummerstorf, Germany
| | - Michael Oster
- Research Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), Institute for Genome Biology, Wilhelm-Stahl-Allee 2, 18196 Dummerstorf, Germany
| | - Klaus Wimmers
- Research Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), Institute for Genome Biology, Wilhelm-Stahl-Allee 2, 18196 Dummerstorf, Germany.,Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, University Rostock, 18059 Rostock, Germany
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23
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Skovbo DKF, Hales J, Kristensen AR, Moustsen VA. Comparison of management strategies for confinement of sows around farrowing in Sow Welfare And Piglet protection pens. Livest Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.livsci.2022.105026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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24
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Nielsen SS, Alvarez J, Bicout DJ, Calistri P, Canali E, Drewe JA, Garin‐Bastuji B, Gonzales Rojas JL, Schmidt G, Herskin M, Michel V, Miranda Chueca MÁ, Mosbach‐Schulz O, Padalino B, Roberts HC, Stahl K, Velarde A, Viltrop A, Winckler C, Edwards S, Ivanova S, Leeb C, Wechsler B, Fabris C, Lima E, Mosbach‐Schulz O, Van der Stede Y, Vitali M, Spoolder H. Welfare of pigs on farm. EFSA J 2022; 20:e07421. [PMID: 36034323 PMCID: PMC9405538 DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2022.7421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
This scientific opinion focuses on the welfare of pigs on farm, and is based on literature and expert opinion. All pig categories were assessed: gilts and dry sows, farrowing and lactating sows, suckling piglets, weaners, rearing pigs and boars. The most relevant husbandry systems used in Europe are described. For each system, highly relevant welfare consequences were identified, as well as related animal-based measures (ABMs), and hazards leading to the welfare consequences. Moreover, measures to prevent or correct the hazards and/or mitigate the welfare consequences are recommended. Recommendations are also provided on quantitative or qualitative criteria to answer specific questions on the welfare of pigs related to tail biting and related to the European Citizen's Initiative 'End the Cage Age'. For example, the AHAW Panel recommends how to mitigate group stress when dry sows and gilts are grouped immediately after weaning or in early pregnancy. Results of a comparative qualitative assessment suggested that long-stemmed or long-cut straw, hay or haylage is the most suitable material for nest-building. A period of time will be needed for staff and animals to adapt to housing lactating sows and their piglets in farrowing pens (as opposed to crates) before achieving stable welfare outcomes. The panel recommends a minimum available space to the lactating sow to ensure piglet welfare (measured by live-born piglet mortality). Among the main risk factors for tail biting are space allowance, types of flooring, air quality, health status and diet composition, while weaning age was not associated directly with tail biting in later life. The relationship between the availability of space and growth rate, lying behaviour and tail biting in rearing pigs is quantified and presented. Finally, the panel suggests a set of ABMs to use at slaughter for monitoring on-farm welfare of cull sows and rearing pigs.
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Manriquez D, Poudevigne G, Roche E, Waret-Szkuta A. Association between Head-to-Chest Circumference Ratio and Intrauterine Growth-Retardation Related Outcomes during Preweaning and Postweaning. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12121562. [PMID: 35739898 PMCID: PMC9219466 DOI: 10.3390/ani12121562] [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] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The objective of this study is to evaluate the association between the head-to-chest circumference ratio (HCR) and birth weight (BW), colostrum intake, and average daily weight gain (ADG) at preweaning and postweaning periods. Additionally, associations between HCR and PCV-2 serum antibody titers and the PCV-2 seroconversion ratio (SCR) were assessed. Head and chest circumferences were measured at birth, and HCR was calculated from 110 piglets born from 8 pregnant sows randomly selected from maternity pens. Linear mixed models were used to test whether changes in HCR were associated with fluctuations of BW, colostrum intake, and ADG. In addition, HCR least-square means were compared between piglets classified as lower or greater BW, colostrum intake, and ADG. Finally, receiving operating characteristic curve analyses were performed to estimate HCR thresholds for discriminating between lower and greater performance piglets during preweaning and postweaning periods. Increments in HCR were associated with lower BW, colostrum intake, and ADG. An HCR threshold of 0.82 maximized sensibility and specificity for the classification of lower and greater performance piglets regarding BW, colostrum intake, and ADG during the periods of 0 to 7 and 0 to 69 days of life. When piglets were categorized into HCR ≤ 0.82 and HCR > 0.82 groups, piglets with HCR ≤ 0.82 had lower (log10) PCV-2 serum antibody titers at 26 days of life compared with piglets with HCR > 0.82 (3.30 ± 0.05 vs. 3.47 ± 0.05 g/dL). On the other hand, piglets that showed low SCR between 26 and 69 days of life had greater HCRs compared with piglets with high SCRs (0.83 ± 0.008 vs. 0.8 ± 0.008). The use of HCRs allowed us to identify piglets with lower performance and impaired immune response against PCV-2. The HCR indicator could be used as a selection criterion for preventive management for piglets showing delayed performance potentially associated with IUGR.
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Geiping L, Hartmann M, Kreienbrock L, Grosse Beilage E. Killing underweighted low viable newborn piglets: Which health parameters are appropriate to make a decision? Porcine Health Manag 2022; 8:25. [PMID: 35681215 PMCID: PMC9178864 DOI: 10.1186/s40813-022-00265-y] [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: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The aim of this study was to estimate the mortality risk and associated factors within the first days of life for underweight or low-vital neonatal piglets. This risk estimation should start a discussion concerning the preconditions for timely killing of compromised newborn piglets to prevent unnecessary pain and suffering. In an observational study, various clinical and laboratory variables were examined in 529 piglets out of four farms. Body weight, crown-rump-length, rectal temperature, a 4-stage vitality score, an intrauterine-growth-retardation score, glucose, lactate, haemoglobin and immunocrit were assessed on the first day of life. Vitality was scored by three factors: movement, abdominal palpation, and colour of the skin. Afterwards the death of the piglets (by killing or spontaneously) was monitored until day 5 of age. Results Body weight, rectal temperature and vitality score were significantly associated with probability of death. Piglets with rectal temperatures ≤ 37.5 °C, a body weight < 0.86 kg and impaired vitality scores were found to have the highest probability of death until day 5 of age. Conclusion The clinical findings, identified by this model, allow a first estimation of mortality risk for newborn piglets within the first days of life. In a further step veterinarians, farmers and ethicians now need to clarify what probability of death should justifiy the killing of a newborn piglet. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40813-022-00265-y.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukas Geiping
- Field Station for Epidemiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bakum, Germany
| | - Maria Hartmann
- Institute for Biometry, Epidemiology and Information Processing (IBEI), University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Lothar Kreienbrock
- Institute for Biometry, Epidemiology and Information Processing (IBEI), University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Elisabeth Grosse Beilage
- Field Station for Epidemiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bakum, Germany.
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27
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Farmer C, Edwards SA. Review: Improving the performance of neonatal piglets. Animal 2022; 16 Suppl 2:100350. [PMID: 34801424 DOI: 10.1016/j.animal.2021.100350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Revised: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Newborn piglets have a high incidence of preweaning mortality that is not only associated with low birth weights but also with the presence of intra-uterine growth-restricted (IUGR) piglets. Such IUGR piglets are commonly seen in litters from hyperprolific sows as a result of insufficient placental transfer of nutrients. Nutritional strategies can be used prior to and during gestation to enhance foetal development and can also be implemented in the transition period to reduce the duration of farrowing and increase colostrum yield. Recent findings showed that the energy status of sows at the onset of farrowing is crucial to diminish stillbirth rate. Newborn piglets often fail to consume enough colostrum to promote thermostability and subsequent growth, and this is particularly problematic in very large litters when there are fewer available teats than the number of suckling piglets. One injection of 75 IU of oxytocin approximately 14 h after farrowing can prolong the colostral phase, hence increasing the supply of immunoglobulins to piglets. Nevertheless, assistance must be provided to piglets after birth in order to increase their chance of survival. Various approaches can be used, such as: (1) optimising the farrowing environment, (2) supervising farrowing and assisting newborn piglets, (3) using cross-fostering techniques, (4) providing nurse sows, and 5) providing artificial milk. Although research advances have been made in developing feeding and management strategies for sows that increase performance of their newborn piglets, much work still remains to be done to ensure that maximal outcomes are achieved.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Farmer
- Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Sherbrooke R & D Centre, 2000 College St., Sherbrooke, QC J1M 0C8, Canada.
| | - S A Edwards
- Newcastle University, School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, Agriculture Building, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7RU, UK
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28
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Effects of oral glutamine supplementation on jejunal morphology, development, and amino acid profiles in male low birth weight suckling piglets. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0267357. [PMID: 35476806 PMCID: PMC9045636 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0267357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background It has been shown that small intestine development in low birth weight (LBW) piglets is impaired. Glutamine (Gln) has been reported to improve piglet health and intestinal function in weaned piglets, but data is scarce in suckling piglets. This study was conducted to investigate the effects of oral Gln supplementation compared to Alanine (Ala) on jejunal development and function in 5 and 12 d old male LBW and normal birth weight (NBW) suckling piglets. Results Gln had no effect on the jejunal morphology, development, tissue and digesta amino acid profiles and mRNA abundance of genes involved in amino acid transport, metabolism, glutathione synthesis in LBW piglets when compared to Ala supplementation and birth weight controls at 5 and 12 d. Only the concentration of Gln in jejunal tissue was higher in NBW piglets supplemented with Gln compared to Ala at 5 d (P < 0.05). A comparison of the birth weight groups showed no differences between LBW and NBW piglets at 5 and 12 d in any parameter. Jejunal crypt depth, villus height / width, tunica muscularis thickness, number of goblet and IgA positive cells, the ratio of jejunal RNA to DNA and the concentration of DNA, protein and RNA changed (P < 0.05) from 5 compared to 12 d. The concentrations of several free, and protein bound amino acids as well as amino metabolites differed between age groups in jejunal tissue but the digesta concentrations were affected to a lesser extent. Conclusions Oral Gln supplementation to suckling male piglets over the first 12 d of life was not associated with changes in jejunal parameters measured in this study. The absence of effects may indicate that Gln is absorbed as well as metabolized in the upper intestinal tract and thus could benefit intestinal development at a more proximal location.
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29
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Chand KK, Pannek K, Colditz PB, Wixey JA. Brain outcomes in runted piglets: a translational model of fetal growth restriction. Dev Neurosci 2022; 44:194-204. [PMID: 35263744 DOI: 10.1159/000523995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
etal growth restriction (FGR) is associated with long-term neurodevelopmental disabilities including learning and behavioural disorders, autism, and cerebral palsy. Persistent changes in brain structure and function that are associated with developmental disabilities are demonstrated in FGR neonates. However, the mechanisms underlying these changes remain to be determined. There are currently no therapeutic interventions available to protect the FGR newborn brain. With the wide range of long-term neurodevelopmental disorders associated with FGR, the use of an animal model appropriate to investigating mechanisms of injury in the FGR newborn is crucial for the development of effective and targeted therapies for babies. Piglets are ideal animals to explore how perinatal insults affect brain structure and function. FGR occurs spontaneously in the piglet, unlike other animal models that require surgical or chemical intervention, allowing brain outcomes to be studied without the confounding impacts of experimental interventions. The FGR piglet mimics many of the human pathophysiological outcomes associated with FGR including asymmetrical growth restriction with brain sparing. This review will discuss the similarities observed in brain outcomes between the human FGR and FGR piglet from a magnetic resonance imaging in the living and a histological perspective. FGR piglet studies provide the opportunity to determine and track mechanisms of brain injury in a clinically relevant animal model of FGR. Findings from these FGR piglet studies may provide critical information to rapidly translate neuroprotective interventions to clinic to improve outcomes for newborn babies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirat K Chand
- UQ Centre for Clinical Research, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Kerstin Pannek
- The Australian E-Health Research Centre, CSIRO, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Paul B Colditz
- UQ Centre for Clinical Research, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Perinatal Research Centre, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Julie A Wixey
- UQ Centre for Clinical Research, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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30
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Piglet Morphology: Indicators of Neonatal Viability? Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12050658. [PMID: 35268226 PMCID: PMC8909469 DOI: 10.3390/ani12050658] [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: 01/13/2022] [Revised: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The morphological measures, crown-to-rump length (CR), and abdominal circumference (AC) have been suggested to be as good, if not better, than birth weight for predicting piglet performance. We explored the relationships between CR and AC, and piglet weights at birth and 24 h, to investigate their predictive value for piglet survival. Piglet weight and AC at birth and 24 h, and CR at 24 h were recorded for 373 piglets born to 31 sows. Morphological measures were categorised into two levels for weight and three levels for AC and CR. Further, AC and CR groupings were concatenated to create a new variable (PigProp) to describe the proportionality of piglet morphology. Proportionate piglets had equal CR and AC levels, and disproportionate piglets had contrasting levels. Birth AC was a good predictor of colostrum intake (p < 0.001) when accounting for birth weight, but 24 h weight and PigProp were good indicators of actual colostrum intake (p < 0.001 for both). The significant interaction of colostrum and PigProp showed that within the smaller piglet groups, those who had greater than 200 g of colostrum had higher 24 h weight and survival (p < 0.001 both). As expected, as body weight and colostrum intake increased, so did weight change to d 21 (P = 0.03 and trend at p = 0.1, respectively). A similar pattern was seen with increasing PigProp group (p < 0.001); however, piglets from the disproportionate group 1,3 had the greatest observed weight change (5.15 ± 0.06 kg). Our data show morphological measures may be more predictive of piglet viability in terms of both performance and survival than weight and there may be subgroups that have higher than expected chances of survival.
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31
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Henriksen NL, Asmussen KS, Pan X, Jiang PP, Mori Y, Christiansen LI, Sprenger RR, Ejsing CS, Pankratova S, Thymann T. Brain lipidomics and neurodevelopmental outcomes in intrauterine growth restricted piglets fed dairy or vegetable fat diets. Sci Rep 2022; 12:3303. [PMID: 35228576 PMCID: PMC8885751 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-07133-3] [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: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast milk has neurodevelopmental advantages compared to infant formula, especially in low-birth-weight infants, which may in part relate to the fat source. This study compared neurodevelopmental outcomes in three-day-old normal birth weight (NBW) and intrauterine growth restricted (IUGR) piglets fed a formula diet with either vegetable oil (VEG) or bovine milk fat sources (MILK) for three weeks in a 2 × 2 factorial design. Behavioural tests, lipidomics, MRI and RNA sequencing analyses of plasma and brain tissue were conducted. The absolute levels of 82% and 11% of lipid molecules were different between dietary groups in plasma and hippocampus, respectively. Of the lipid molecules with differential abundance in the hippocampus, the majority were upregulated in MILK versus VEG, and they mainly belonged to the group of glycerophospholipids. Lower absolute brain weights, absolute grey and white matter volumes and behaviour and motor function scores, and higher relative total brain weights were present in IUGR compared to NBW with minor influence of diet. Cognitive function and cerebellar gene expression profiles were similar for dietary and weight groups, and overall only minor interactive effects between diet and birth weight were observed. Overall, we show that the dietary fat source influences the plasma and to a lesser degree the hippocampal lipidome and is unable to improve on IUGR-induced brain structural and functional impairments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole L Henriksen
- Section of Comparative Pediatrics and Nutrition, Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Dyrlægevej 68, 1870, Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Karina S Asmussen
- Section of Comparative Pediatrics and Nutrition, Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Dyrlægevej 68, 1870, Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Xiaoyu Pan
- Section of Comparative Pediatrics and Nutrition, Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Dyrlægevej 68, 1870, Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Ping-Ping Jiang
- Section of Comparative Pediatrics and Nutrition, Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Dyrlægevej 68, 1870, Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Yuki Mori
- Center for Translational Neuromedicine, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3B, 2200, Copenhagen N, Denmark
| | - Line I Christiansen
- Section of Comparative Pediatrics and Nutrition, Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Dyrlægevej 68, 1870, Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Richard R Sprenger
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, VILLUM Center for Bioanalytical Sciences, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, 5230, Odense M, Denmark
| | - Christer S Ejsing
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, VILLUM Center for Bioanalytical Sciences, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, 5230, Odense M, Denmark
| | - Stanislava Pankratova
- Section of Comparative Pediatrics and Nutrition, Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Dyrlægevej 68, 1870, Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Thomas Thymann
- Section of Comparative Pediatrics and Nutrition, Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Dyrlægevej 68, 1870, Frederiksberg C, Denmark.
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32
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Jahn L, Schuepbach-Regula G, Nathues H, Grahofer A. Effect of 1,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D3-Glycosides on the Farrowing Process and Piglet Vitality in a Free Farrowing System. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12050611. [PMID: 35268180 PMCID: PMC8909625 DOI: 10.3390/ani12050611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Vitamin D improves the reproductive efficiency in animals. This study aimed to examine the effects of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3-gylcosides (1,25-vitD) on the farrowing process in sows and the vitality of their piglets. In total, 100 sows were allocated into two groups at insemination (‘1,25-vitD’ and ‘negative control’). The 1,25-vitD group received 260−300 mg/sow/day 1,25-vitD in their feed during the gestation period. Backfat thickness, fecal score, and the farrowing process was evaluated. The piglets were categorized into live born or stillborn, and vitality was evaluated by assessing the umbilical cord and the meconium score. The number of total-born piglets in sows of ‘1,25-vitD’ was higher and the farrowing duration was shorter than in the negative control group without showing significance in the univariable analysis. In a linear multiple regression model including the variables ‘farrowing duration’, ‘total born piglets’ and ‘1,25-vitD’ differences became evident. We found that 1,25-vitD was associated with a reduced farrowing duration (p = 0.055). Moreover, significantly more mummies (p < 0.01) and short ruptured umbilical cords (p < 0.05) were observed in the 1,25-vitD group. This study showed an effect of 1,25-vitD on the farrowing process. However, more research is needed to better describe the mechanism of 1,25-vitD in detail.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Jahn
- Clinic for Swine, Department for Clinical Veterinary Medicine, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland; (L.J.); (H.N.)
| | - Gertraud Schuepbach-Regula
- Department of Clinical Research and Veterinary Public Health, Vetsuisse Faculty, Veterinary Public Health Institute, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland;
| | - Heiko Nathues
- Clinic for Swine, Department for Clinical Veterinary Medicine, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland; (L.J.); (H.N.)
| | - Alexander Grahofer
- Clinic for Swine, Department for Clinical Veterinary Medicine, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland; (L.J.); (H.N.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +41-31684-25-68
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Boyle LA, Edwards SA, Bolhuis JE, Pol F, Šemrov MZ, Schütze S, Nordgreen J, Bozakova N, Sossidou EN, Valros A. The Evidence for a Causal Link Between Disease and Damaging Behavior in Pigs. Front Vet Sci 2022; 8:771682. [PMID: 35155642 PMCID: PMC8828939 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.771682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Damaging behaviors (DB) such as tail and ear biting are prevalent in pig production and reduce welfare and performance. Anecdotal reports suggest that health challenges increase the risk of tail-biting. The prevalence of tail damage and health problems show high correlations across batches within and between farms. There are many common risk factors for tail-biting and health problems, notably respiratory, enteric and locomotory diseases. These include suboptimal thermal climate, hygiene, stocking density and feed quality. The prevalence of tail damage and health problems also show high correlations across batches within and between farms. However, limited evidence supports two likely causal mechanisms for a direct link between DB and health problems. The first is that generalized poor health (e.g., enzootic pneumonia) on farm poses an increased risk of pigs performing DB. Recent studies indicate a possible causal link between an experimental inflammation and an increase in DB, and suggest a link between cytokines and tail-biting. The negative effects of poor health on the ingestion and processing of nutrients means that immune-stimulated pigs may develop specific nutrient deficiencies, increasing DB. The second causal mechanism involves tail-biting causing poor health. Indirectly, pathogens enter the body via the tail lesion and once infected, systemic spread of infection may occur. This occurs mainly via the venous route targeting the lungs, and to a lesser extent via cerebrospinal fluid and the lymphatic system. In carcasses with tail lesions, there is an increase in lung lesions, abscessation, arthritis and osteomyelitis. There is also evidence for the direct spread of pathogens between biters and victims. In summary, the literature supports the association between poor health and DB, particularly tail-biting. However, there is insufficient evidence to confirm causality in either direction. Nevertheless, the limited evidence is compelling enough to suggest that improvements to management and housing to enhance pig health will reduce DB. In the same way, improvements to housing and management designed to address DB, are likely to result in benefits to pig health. While most of the available literature relates to tail-biting, we suggest that similar mechanisms are responsible for links between health and other DB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura A. Boyle
- Teagasc Animal and Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Cork, Ireland
- *Correspondence: Laura A. Boyle
| | - Sandra A. Edwards
- School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - J. Elizabeth Bolhuis
- Adaptation Physiology Group, Department of Animal Sciences, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
| | | | - Manja Zupan Šemrov
- Biotechnical Faculty, Department of Animal Science, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Sabine Schütze
- Chamber of Agriculture of North Rhine-Westphalia, Animal Health Services, Bad Sassendorf, Germany
| | - Janicke Nordgreen
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Paraclinical Sciences, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Oslo, Norway
| | - Nadya Bozakova
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Trakia University, Stara Zagora, Bulgaria
| | - Evangelia N. Sossidou
- Ellinikos Georgikos Organismos-DIMITRA (ELGO-DIMITRA), Veterinary Research Institute, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Anna Valros
- Department of Production Animal Medicine, Research Centre for Animal Welfare, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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Almeida FRCL, Dias ALNA. Pregnancy in pigs: the journey of an early life. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2022; 78:106656. [PMID: 34474228 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2021.106656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Revised: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Embryo mortality is responsible for greater losses in litter size in pigs. It is well known that pregnancy establishment is a complex process, and important changes occur continuously in both the corpora lutea and the endometrium, which varies depending on the pre-natal development phase: embryonic, pre-implantation or fetal stages. The placenta is a key organ responsible for the exchange of nutrients, metabolites and respiratory gases between mother and fetuses. The porcine placenta is diffuse, epitheliochorial, and placentation begins with implantation, which involves specialized cell adhesion and cell migration, leading to the attachment of the trophectoderm to the uterine endometrial lumen epithelium. The efficiency with which the placenta provides adequate amounts of nutrients and oxygen to the fetus is crucial for proper fetal growth and development. In the last decades, emphasis on selection for sow prolificacy has resulted in a substantial increase in the number of piglets born per litter, which had a direct effect on piglet quality, compromising birth weight and litter uniformity. Placental insufficiency will lead to fetal intrauterine growth restriction. This review addresses the main events of early embryo development, including preimplantation and implantation periods. In addition, placentation and its role on fetal development are covered, as well as intrauterine growth restriction, as it is a natural condition in the pig, with long lasting detrimental effects to the production chain.
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Affiliation(s)
- F R C L Almeida
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Science, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Av. Antônio Carlos, 6627, CEP 31207-901, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.
| | - A L N Alvarenga Dias
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Uberlandia, Rodovia BR-050, km 78 - CEP 38410-337, Uberlandia, MG, Brazil
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ZIMMER FERNANDO, GALLI GABRIELAM, MARCON HIAMJ, ALBA DAVIF, GRISS LUIZ, MURAMATSU KEYSUKE, SILVA ALEKSANDROSDA, PAIANO DIOVANI. Different protocols for piglet creep feeding in the farrowing stage and residual effects in the nursery phase. AN ACAD BRAS CIENC 2022; 94:e20201500. [DOI: 10.1590/0001-3765202220201500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - HIAM J. MARCON
- Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina (UDESC), Brazil
| | - DAVI F. ALBA
- Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina (UDESC), Brazil
| | - LUIZ GRISS
- Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina (UDESC), Brazil
| | | | | | - DIOVANI PAIANO
- Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina (UDESC), Brazil
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Vande Pol KD, Bautista RO, Harper H, Shull CM, Brown CB, Ellis M. Effect of rearing cross-fostered piglets in litters of either uniform or mixed birth weights on preweaning growth and mortality. Transl Anim Sci 2021; 5:txab030. [PMID: 34841203 PMCID: PMC8611808 DOI: 10.1093/tas/txab030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Cross-fostering is a practice commonly used in the swine industry to equalize litter
sizes, however, there is limited understanding of the optimum cross-fostering methods that
will maximize piglet preweaning growth and survival. This study evaluated the effects of
within-litter variation in birth weight after cross-fostering on piglet preweaning
mortality (PWM) and weaning weight (WW) using litters of 15 piglets. A hierarchical
incomplete block design was used (blocking factors: day of farrowing and sow parity, body
condition score, and number of functional teats) with a 3 × 2 factorial arrangement of
treatments: 1) Birth Weight Category (BWC): Light (<1.0 kg), Medium (1.0 to 1.5 kg), or
Heavy (1.5 to 2.0 kg); 2) Litter Composition: UNIFORM (all 15 piglets in each litter of
the same BWC), or MIXED (five piglets in each litter from each BWC, i.e., five Light, five
Medium, and five Heavy piglets). At 24 h after birth, piglets were weighed and randomly
allotted to litter composition treatments from within BWC. The experimental unit was five
piglets of the same BWC; there were three experimental units within each Litter
Composition treatment litter. There were 17 blocks, each of six litters (one UNIFORM
litter of each BWC; three MIXED litters) and 51 replicates (three replicates per block of
six litters) for a total of 102 cross-fostered litters and 1,530 piglets. Piglets were
weaned at 19.7 ± 0.46 d of age; WW and PWM were measured. PROC GLIMMIX and MIXED of SAS
were used to analyze PWM and WW, respectively. Models included BWC, Litter Composition,
the interaction, and replicate within the block. There were BWC by Litter Composition
treatment interactions (P ≤ 0.05) for PWM and WW. Preweaning mortality
was greater (P ≤ 0.05) for Light piglets in MIXED than UNIFORM litters.
In contrast, for Heavy piglets, PWM was greater (P ≤ 0.05) and WW was
lower (P ≤ 0.05) in UNIFORM than MIXED litters. Medium piglets had
similar (P > 0.05) PWM and WW in UNIFORM and MIXED litters. The
results of this study, which involved large litter sizes typical of current commercial
production, suggested that for piglet survival to weaning, using cross-fostering to form
litters of piglets of similar birth weight was beneficial for light piglets, detrimental
for heavy piglets, and neutral for medium piglets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine D Vande Pol
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, IL 61801, USA
| | - Raphael O Bautista
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, IL 61801, USA
| | - Heath Harper
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, IL 61801, USA
| | | | | | - Michael Ellis
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, IL 61801, USA
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Spießberger M, Hoelzl F, Smith S, Vetter S, Ruf T, Nowack J. The tarnished silver spoon? Trade-off between prenatal growth and telomere length in wild boar. J Evol Biol 2021; 35:81-90. [PMID: 34687577 PMCID: PMC9298079 DOI: 10.1111/jeb.13954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Revised: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Life-history theory predicts a trade-off between growth rates and lifespan, which is reflected by telomere length, a biomarker of somatic state. We investigated the correlation between telomere length and early-life growth of wild boar piglets, Sus scrofa, kept under semi-natural conditions with high food availability to examine our hypothesis that increased pre- and postnatal growth will lead to telomere length attrition, but that a high supply of nutrient may provide the possibility to compensate telomere loss via telomere repair mechanisms. As predicted, our data showed a clear negative correlation between birth body mass and initial telomere length: heavier neonates had shorter telomeres at birth, and we did not find an influence of the mother on initial telomere length. Body mass at birth correlated with body mass later in life and postnatal growth rate did not affect telomere length. We observed an increase in telomere length during postnatal development, suggesting that high food availability allowed piglets to invest into both, growth and telomere restoration. The increase in telomere length over the duration of the study was not accompanied by telomerase activity; thus, telomere elongation was caused either by alternative mechanisms or by short pulses of telomerase activity that we missed. Taken together, this study suggests a trade-off between investment into growth and telomere maintenance even before birth and the possibility to compensate telomere attrition during growth under high amounts of available energy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Spießberger
- Department of Interdisciplinary Life Sciences, Research Institute of Wildlife Ecology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria.,Institute of Zoology, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna, Austria
| | - Franz Hoelzl
- Department of Interdisciplinary Life Sciences, Konrad Lorenz Institute of Ethology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria
| | - Steve Smith
- Department of Interdisciplinary Life Sciences, Konrad Lorenz Institute of Ethology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria
| | - Sebastian Vetter
- Department of Interdisciplinary Life Sciences, Research Institute of Wildlife Ecology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria
| | - Thomas Ruf
- Department of Interdisciplinary Life Sciences, Research Institute of Wildlife Ecology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria
| | - Julia Nowack
- Department of Interdisciplinary Life Sciences, Research Institute of Wildlife Ecology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria.,School of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK
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Eriksen EØ, Kudirkiene E, Christensen AE, Agerlin MV, Weber NR, Nødtvedt A, Nielsen JP, Hartmann KT, Skade L, Larsen LE, Pankoke K, Olsen JE, Jensen HE, Pedersen KS. Post-weaning diarrhea in pigs weaned without medicinal zinc: risk factors, pathogen dynamics, and association to growth rate. Porcine Health Manag 2021; 7:54. [PMID: 34627400 PMCID: PMC8501929 DOI: 10.1186/s40813-021-00232-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Porcine post-weaning diarrhea (PWD) has reemerged as an important topic in pig production, as common control strategies based on prophylactic use of antimicrobials and zinc oxide have been deemed unsustainable. The objectives of this study were to estimate the cumulative incidence of porcine post-weaning diarrhea with different etiologies in production systems weaning without zinc oxide and prophylactic antimicrobials, to assess risk factors for post-weaning diarrhea, and to estimate the impact of post-weaning diarrhea on growth rate. A cohort study was conducted at two commercial indoor producers weaning without medicinal zinc oxide and prophylactic antimicrobials. RESULTS Piglets were included at birth (n = 300) and 272 survived until weaning. After insertion to the nursery units, the piglets were clinically examined every day for 14 days, and rectal swabs were collected and analyzed for enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) and rotavirus A. The cumulative incidences of PWD the first 14 days after insertion to the nursery units were 41.8% (CI 33.6, 50.4) and 51.1% (CI 42.3, 60.0) at the two producers, respectively. We found a low incidence of cases associated to ETEC, and detected a substantial proportion of cases associated to rotavirus. We observed a biphasic pattern in the assumed etiology with rotavirus occurring first, and then a shift towards cases associated to ETEC/non-ETEC hemolytic E. coli. Being offspring of older sows was a protective factor for the development of PWD (Hazard ratio = 0.88 [CI 0.78, 0.99] per unit increase in parity of the dam). Low birth weight reduced the post-weaning growth rate (- 5.2 g/day [CI - 7.5, - 2.9] per 100 g decrease in birthweight) and increased the hazard of developing PWD (Hazard ratio for birthweight below 1100 g: 2.30 [CI 1.41-3.74]). The combined effect of having diarrhea for 2 days or more and receiving antimicrobial treatment was associated with an increased average daily weight gain. CONCLUSIONS This study suggests novel insights regarding pathogen dynamics and risk factors for PWD in productions not using prophylactic antimicrobials and medicinal zinc. The findings may have important implications for both antimicrobial usage and prevention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Egle Kudirkiene
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | | | | | - Ane Nødtvedt
- Department of Production Animal Clinical Sciences, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Ås, Norway
| | - Jens Peter Nielsen
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Katrine Top Hartmann
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lotte Skade
- SEGES Danish Pig Research Centre, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lars Erik Larsen
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Karen Pankoke
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - John Elmerdahl Olsen
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Henrik Elvang Jensen
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ken Steen Pedersen
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Ø-Vet A/S, Næstved, Denmark
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Piglet Viability: A Review of Identification and Pre-Weaning Management Strategies. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11102902. [PMID: 34679923 PMCID: PMC8532860 DOI: 10.3390/ani11102902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Revised: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Neonatal piglet viability is decreasing in concert with the selection for ever-greater numbers of piglets born per sow per year. Their survival depends on the early intervention and management strategies used by production staff. This paper will review current and novel methods used to identify these piglets, some of the factors affecting their viability, and management strategies commonly used within production systems to improve their survival. Abstract Increased attention on the effects of the global push for a larger litter size has focused on the increased occurrence of piglets with decreased viability, which have lighter birthweights and a reduced ability to thrive in early life. To improve their odds of survival, interventions must be timely and targeted. This requires the early identification of low-viability pigs and appropriate strategies to manage them. Using novel measures such as abdominal circumference and crown to the rump length in conjunction with birth weight may provide an improved protocol for the identification of those at most risk of preweaning mortality. Further, identifying these at-risk piglets allows interventions to increase their colostrum intake and heat provisions shortly following birth. The appropriate management of the pre- and post-partum sows will improve the chances of decreasing the number of piglets born with lower viability. However, this outcome is constrained by limitations in resources such as technology and staffing. If these challenges can be overcome, it will allow for greater control and increased effectiveness in the implementation of current and new management strategies.
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Aubé L, Guay F, Bergeron R, Bélanger G, Tremblay GF, Edwards SA, Guy JH, Devillers N. Feed restriction and type of forage influence performance and behaviour of outdoor gestating sows. Animal 2021; 15:100346. [PMID: 34547549 DOI: 10.1016/j.animal.2021.100346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2020] [Revised: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Forages can contribute to the nutrient supply for sows but the extent to which they can replace concentrate feeding is not well known. The objective of this study was to assess the effect of level of feed restriction and type of forage on the performance and activity of gestating sows under outdoor conditions. A total of 45 sows were distributed among three treatments, with five replicates of three sows/treatment, from week 5 of gestation until farrowing. Treatments differed in the daily level of concentrate feed provided and the type of forage offered during gestation: 90% of metabolisable energy (ME) requirements provided by concentrates and free access to a pasture (P90); 40% of ME requirements provided by concentrates and free access to a pasture (P40); and 40% of ME requirements provided by concentrates and free access to a bare paddock with hay ad libitum (H40). From farrowing to weaning (5 weeks), concentrate feed was offered to all sows ad libitum. Body weight and backfat thickness (BF) were measured seven times during gestation and lactation. Postures of sows and time spent in the pasture were assessed at the beginning, middle and end of gestation. Forage intake was estimated with a method based on sow performance using the InraPorc® model. At farrowing, P90 sows were heavier and had greater BF than P40 and H40 sows. At weaning, P90 sows maintained a higher BW and tended to have greater BF than H40 sows, but no longer differed from P40 sows. Treatments did not influence litter size, but piglets from P40 sows were lighter at birth than those from P90 sows (1.44 vs. 1.69 kg, P = 0.004). In late gestation, P90 sows spent less time standing over 24 h and less time in the pasture during daytime than P40 sows, suggesting less foraging behaviour. Sows fed concentrates to meet 40% of ME requirements during gestation did not consume enough forage to maintain the same body condition as sows fed at 90% of ME requirements. Despite their inability to fully compensate for concentrate restriction during gestation by consuming more forage, P40 sows reached a similar body condition to P90 sows at weaning. In conclusion, forage intake for outdoor gestating sows can compensate a concentrate feed reduction of 10% and possibly more, but not as much as 60%.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Aubé
- Sherbrooke Research and Development Centre, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Sherbrooke, 2000 College Street, Sherbrooke J1M 1Z3, QC, Canada; Department of Animal Science, Université Laval, 2325, rue de l'Université, G1V 0A6 Quebec City, QC, Canada.
| | - F Guay
- Department of Animal Science, Université Laval, 2325, rue de l'Université, G1V 0A6 Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - R Bergeron
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East ON, N1G 2W1 Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - G Bélanger
- Quebec Research and Development Centre, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, 2560, Boulevard Hochelaga, G1V 2J3 Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - G F Tremblay
- Quebec Research and Development Centre, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, 2560, Boulevard Hochelaga, G1V 2J3 Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - S A Edwards
- School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, Newcastle University, NE1 7RU Newcastle, United Kingdom
| | - J H Guy
- School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, Newcastle University, NE1 7RU Newcastle, United Kingdom
| | - N Devillers
- Sherbrooke Research and Development Centre, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Sherbrooke, 2000 College Street, Sherbrooke J1M 1Z3, QC, Canada
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Riddersholm KV, Bahnsen I, Bruun TS, de Knegt LV, Amdi C. Identifying Risk Factors for Low Piglet Birth Weight, High Within-Litter Variation and Occurrence of Intrauterine Growth-Restricted Piglets in Hyperprolific Sows. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11092731. [PMID: 34573697 PMCID: PMC8468730 DOI: 10.3390/ani11092731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Revised: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Piglet mortality is an ongoing concern for pig production worldwide. Piglets that have a low piglet birth weight (PBW), suffer from intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) or are born from litters with a high within-litter variation in PBW (CVPBW) have an increased risk of dying before weaning. IUGR piglets, CVPBW and a low PBW might be connected by the same risk factors, and in order to optimize fetal development in the litter, these risk factors should be identified. Free-access stall feeding, floor feeding and electronic sow feeding systems are commonly used feeding systems for gestating sows in Denmark. These systems differ in several points, including in sow competition at feeding. The nutritional status of the sow is important for fetal development, and so the feeding method during gestation is also expected to affect such development. Of the risk factors identified in this study, increasing litter size was considered the most critical. Only small differences were found between the feeding systems and these differed amongst groups. The results should inspire further investigation of those risk factors to clarify causes of the observed effects and what drives individual herd differences. Abstract This study aimed to identify risk factors affecting PBW, high CVPBW and the occurrence of IUGR piglets in 12 commercial Danish herds with hyperprolific sows using free-access stalls, floor or electronic sow feeding systems in the gestation unit. The following factors were investigated: the duration of previous lactation, the length of the interval from weaning to insemination, the length of gestation, litter size, parity, sow backfat thickness in late gestation and the type of feeding system in the gestation unit. The study included newborn piglets from 452 litters with the following production indicator averages: 21.3 piglets/L, 1235 g PBW, 22.9% CVPBW and 10.9% and 11.8% within-litter occurrence of severe and mild IUGR piglets, respectively. Increasing length of weaning-to-insemination interval decreased PBW by 25.8 g/day. For 2nd to 9th parity sows, each additional piglet in the litter increased CVPBW by 0.38%, the occurrence of severe IUGR piglets by 0.68% and mild IUGR piglets by 0.50%. Sows of 5th parity and older had a 1.39% higher CVPBW and 49.1 g lighter piglets compared with sows of 2nd to 4th parity. PBW was lower in one ESF herd, suggesting complex interactions that need to be further elucidated. The main critical risk factor observed was litter size.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristina V. Riddersholm
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 1870 Frederiksberg, Denmark; (K.V.R.); (I.B.); (L.V.d.K.)
| | - Ida Bahnsen
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 1870 Frederiksberg, Denmark; (K.V.R.); (I.B.); (L.V.d.K.)
| | | | - Leonardo V. de Knegt
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 1870 Frederiksberg, Denmark; (K.V.R.); (I.B.); (L.V.d.K.)
| | - Charlotte Amdi
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 1870 Frederiksberg, Denmark; (K.V.R.); (I.B.); (L.V.d.K.)
- Correspondence:
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Vande Pol KD, Bautista RO, Harper H, Shull CM, Brown CB, Ellis M. Effect of within-litter birth weight variation after cross-fostering on piglet preweaning growth and mortality. Transl Anim Sci 2021; 5:txab039. [PMID: 34723136 PMCID: PMC8552483 DOI: 10.1093/tas/txab039] [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: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cross-fostering is commonly used in commercial swine production to equalize litter sizes and/or adjust piglet birth weights within litters. However, there is limited published information on optimum cross-fostering procedures. This study evaluated the effects of within-litter birth weight variation after cross-fostering (using litters of 14 piglets) on piglet preweaning mortality (PWM) and weaning weight (WW). An RCBD was used (blocking factors were day of farrowing and sow parity, body condition score, and functional teat number) with an incomplete factorial arrangement of the following two treatments: 1) birth weight category (BWC): light (<1.0 kg), medium (1.0 to 1.5 kg), or heavy (1.5 to 2.0 kg); 2) litter composition: uniform, all piglets in the litter of the same BWC [uniform light (14 light piglets); uniform medium (14 medium piglets); uniform heavy (14 heavy piglets)]; mixed, piglets in the litter of two or more BWC [L+M (seven light and seven medium piglets); M+H (seven medium and seven heavy piglets); L+M+H (three light, six medium, and five heavy piglets)]. Piglets were weighed at 24 h after birth and randomly allotted to litter composition treatment from within BWC; all piglets were cross-fostered. There were 47 blocks of six litters (total 282 litters and 3,948 piglets). Weaning weights were collected at 18.7 ± 0.64 d of age; all PWM was recorded. Individual piglet WW and PWM data were analyzed using PROC MIXED and PROC GLIMMIX of SAS, respectively; models included fixed effects of BWC, litter composition, and the interaction, and random effects of sow within the block. There was litter composition by BWC interactions (P ≤ 0.05) for WW and PWM. Within each BWC, WW generally increased and PWM generally decreased as littermate weight decreased. For example, WW was greatest (P ≤ 0.05) for light piglets in uniform light litters, for medium piglets in L+M litters, and for heavy piglets in L+M+H litters. Preweaning mortality was lowest (P ≤ 0.05) for medium piglets in L+M litters, and for heavy piglets in L+M+H litters; however, litter composition had no effect (P > 0.05) on PWM of light piglets. In conclusion, increasing the average birth weight of littermates after cross-fostering generally decreased WW and increased PWM for piglets of all birth weight categories. This implies that the optimum approach to cross-fostering that maximizes piglet preweaning growth and survival is likely to vary depending on the birth weight distribution of the population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine D Vande Pol
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of
Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, IL 61801, USA
| | - Rafael O Bautista
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of
Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, IL 61801, USA
| | - Heath Harper
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of
Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, IL 61801, USA
| | | | | | - Michael Ellis
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of
Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, IL 61801, USA
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Bahnsen I, Riddersholm KV, de Knegt LV, Bruun TS, Amdi C. The Effect of Different Feeding Systems on Salivary Cortisol Levels during Gestation in Sows on Herd Level. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11041074. [PMID: 33918923 PMCID: PMC8070664 DOI: 10.3390/ani11041074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Revised: 04/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Physiological stress increases the activity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and the secretion of cortisol, which might cross the placenta and affect foetal development. Stress in sows can be affected by management factors such as enrichment, different feed systems of the housing accommodation, and is reflected in the salivary cortisol concentration. It is unclear how stressed the sow must be before there is an impact on foetal growth, but higher levels of cortisol might affect the maturity of piglets at birth as well as their birth weight. Therefore, it could be beneficial to accommodate gestating sows in the least stressful manner, not only for piglet performance but also for sow welfare. Cortisol concentration in sows seems to be influenced by a combination of parity and feed systems, but its connection to those factors, as well as to foetal development, warrants further investigation. Abstract The aim of this study was to investigate herd cortisol levels as an indicator of stress during gestation in three different feeding systems. Twelve commercial Danish herds with 800 to 3050 sows were included, with either free-access feeding stall (Stall), floor feeding (Floor), or electronic sow feeding (ESF; n = 4 herds per system). Saliva samples were collected from 30 sows/herd in the gestation unit for cortisol analysis with an average of 67.2 gestation days for ESF, 72.4 days for Floor, and 68.6 days for Stall. Data on piglet birth weight (PBW) and the percentage of intrauterine growth restricted (IUGR) piglets from 452 litters (9652 piglets, 8677 liveborn) from all 12 herds were obtained on the saliva collection days. The cortisol levels in saliva increased throughout gestation (p < 0.01), and lower concentrations were observed among sows belonging to Stall (4.80 nmol/L), compared to Floor (7.03 nmol/L) and ESF (7.87 nmol/L), and that difference was significant as an independent effect in the case of ESF (p < 0.01). There was no difference between Floor and ESF or Stall and Floor (p > 0.05). An interaction was observed between parity and feeding system, with parities 4–5 in ESF herds having lower levels than other parities within the ESF system (p = 0.02).
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Affiliation(s)
- Ida Bahnsen
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Grønnegårdsvej 2, 1870 Frederiksberg, Denmark; (I.B.); (K.V.R.); (L.V.d.K.)
| | - Kristina V. Riddersholm
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Grønnegårdsvej 2, 1870 Frederiksberg, Denmark; (I.B.); (K.V.R.); (L.V.d.K.)
| | - Leonardo V. de Knegt
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Grønnegårdsvej 2, 1870 Frederiksberg, Denmark; (I.B.); (K.V.R.); (L.V.d.K.)
| | - Thomas S. Bruun
- SEGES Danish Pig Research Centre, Axeltorv 3, 1609 Copenhagen, Denmark;
| | - Charlotte Amdi
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Grønnegårdsvej 2, 1870 Frederiksberg, Denmark; (I.B.); (K.V.R.); (L.V.d.K.)
- Correspondence:
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Lagoda ME, O'Driscoll K, Marchewka J, Foister S, Turner SP, Boyle LA. Associations between skin lesion counts, hair cortisol concentrations and reproductive performance in group housed sows. Livest Sci 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.livsci.2021.104463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Differences in Intestinal Barrier Development between Intrauterine Growth Restricted and Normal Birth Weight Piglets. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11040990. [PMID: 33916133 PMCID: PMC8065605 DOI: 10.3390/ani11040990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2021] [Revised: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Animals with intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) are defined as neonates born at term but with low birth weight and a characteristic shape of the head. A number of structural and functional modifications in the IUGR intestine affecting its digestive and absorptive function and impairing intestinal barrier function have been reported in the past. Far less is known about the immune system in the gut of IUGR pigs. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the structures of the immune system of the gut mucosa in IUGR neonates. We found that the immune deficiency in the gut mucosa that results from restricted intrauterine development occurs at postnatal day (PD) 7, but it disappears thereafter within a week. However, all examined IUGR piglets had an increased number of intraepithelial leukocytes in the gut mucosa on PD 14. We have shown that the immune system of the gut of IUGR piglets is able to quickly compensate for the immunological deficiency postnatally and hardly shows any morphological disabilities in later life. Abstract Intrauterine growth restricted (IUGR) piglets are born at term but have low birth mass and a characteristic shape of the head. Impaired general condition, especially in intestinal function, leads to an increase in the occurrence of diarrhoea and high mortality in the first days of life. So far, the mechanical and immunological gut barrier functions in IUGR are poorly understood. The aim of this study was to microscopically evaluate the early postnatal changes in the gut mucosa occurring in IUGR piglets. Whole-tissue small intestine samples were collected from littermate pairs (IUGR and normal) on postnatal day (PD) 7, 14 and 180 and analysed by light microscopy. We found that in the IUGR piglets, the percentage of intraepithelial leukocytes was reduced in the duodenum on PD 7, but it increased in the proximal and middle jejunum both on PD 7 and PD 14, which suggested the development of an inflammatory process. The number of goblet cells was also reduced on PD 14. The average size of the Peyer’s patches in the distal jejunum and ileum showed significant reduction on PD 7 as compared to normal pigs; however, on PD 14, it returned to normal. On PD 180, we did not find any differences in the measured parameters between the IUGR and the normal pigs. In conclusion, we found that in one-week-old IUGR pig neonates, the gut barrier and the immune system structures display signs of retarded development but recover within the second postnatal week of life.
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Peralvo-Vidal JM, Weber NR, Nielsen JP, Bache JK, Haugegaard S, Pedersen AØ. Risk factors for gastric ulceration in nursery pigs. Prev Vet Med 2021; 189:105298. [PMID: 33652350 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2021.105298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2020] [Revised: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Pars oesophageal gastric ulceration is a prevalent condition in swine production and often observed in finisher pigs at slaughter, with reported prevalence ranging from 32 % to 65 %. Although feeding practices in nursery and finisher pigs are similar, little is known about the prevalence and risk factors associated with this condition in nursery pigs. This prospective cohort study aimed to identify risk factors for gastric ulceration in nursery pigs. The objectives were: (1) to estimate the association of inherent pig characteristics (birth weight, sex, parity of sow, litter size, and pen fouling behavior) and management characteristics (antibiotic treatment during suckling and post weaning, piglet rotation during lactation, weaning age and weight) with pars oesophageal lesions; (2) to assess differences in gastric dry matter content, pH, and percentage of solid particles in the sediment in relation to pars oesophageal lesions. A total of 58 piglets tracked from birth to 20 days of age and 210 nursery pigs from birth to 10 weeks of age were euthanized and assessed for pars oesophageal gastric lesions. All nursery pigs were fed finely ground pelleted feed ad libitum. Based on a macroscopic assessment, the pigs' stomachs were categorized as either LPO "lesions in the Pars oesophagea" or NLPO "no lesions in the Pars oesophagea". We observed an overall prevalence of 26.2 % (CI 95 % 0.67 - 0.79) for LPO in nursery pigs at 10 weeks of age, while no lesion were observed in piglets at 20 days of age. A mixed multivariable logistic regression model showed that piglets with a birthweight ≤ 1.11 kg had a 2.11 times higher odds of LPO (CI 95 % 1.02-4.37, p = 0.04) than their heavier counterparts. There was a weak association of LPO in nursery pigs from pens with pen fouling with a 2.14 times higher odds (CI 95 % 0.97-4.72 p = 0.05). Nursery pigs with LPO presented an increased gastric content fluidity with a reduced (p ≤ 0.01) gastric dry matter content (18.7 %), solid phase (74.7 %), and pH (3.22) compared to NLPO nursery pigs (20.5 %, 85.09 %, 3.56, respectively). We have demonstrated that LPO are present in nursery pigs as early as 10 weeks of age. We observed that low birth weight is associated with higher odds for LPO in nursery pigs. These observations might help explain differences between individual pigs in terms of LPO development when groups are exposed to similar environments, management, and feeding conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Miguel Peralvo-Vidal
- Section for Production, Nutrition and Health, Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Grønnegårdsvej 2, Frederiksberg, DK-1870, Denmark
| | - Nicolai Rosager Weber
- SEGES Danish Pig Research Centre, Danish Agriculture and Food Council, Axeltorv 3, DK-1609, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jens Peter Nielsen
- Section for Production, Nutrition and Health, Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Grønnegårdsvej 2, Frederiksberg, DK-1870, Denmark
| | - Julie Krogsdahl Bache
- SEGES Danish Pig Research Centre, Danish Agriculture and Food Council, Axeltorv 3, DK-1609, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Svend Haugegaard
- Laboratory for Pig Diseases, SEGES Danish Pig Research Centre, Danish Agriculture and Food Council, Vinkelvej 13, 8620, Kjellerup, Denmark
| | - Anni Øyan Pedersen
- Section for Production, Nutrition and Health, Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Grønnegårdsvej 2, Frederiksberg, DK-1870, Denmark.
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Lynegaard JC, Larsen I, Hansen CF, Nielsen JP, Amdi C. Performance and risk factors associated with first antibiotic treatment in two herds, raising pigs without antibiotics. Porcine Health Manag 2021; 7:18. [PMID: 33597035 PMCID: PMC7888151 DOI: 10.1186/s40813-021-00198-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Antibiotic (AB) consumption in production animals has a high awareness among politicians and consumers due to the risk of selection for AB resistance among potentially zoonotic bacteria. However, AB treatment of animals is at times necessary to treat diseases and ensure the wellbeing of the animals we take into our care. Raised without antibiotics (RWA) is a concept where pigs are individually ear-tagged for tracking, and if pigs are AB treated, they lose their RWA status. At slaughter, the farmer receives an additional price for non-AB treated pigs. The objective of this study was to identify risk factors for AB treatment and to investigate growth performance of pigs in two Danish RWA herds. Results A total of 518 pigs in herd A and 436 pigs in herd B, were individually ear-tagged and subjected to weekly investigations of AB treatment status from birth to 12 weeks of age. Bodyweight was recorded at birth, 2, 4 and 12 weeks of age. The results showed, that at 12 weeks of age, 82 of 518 liveborn pigs were AB treated in herd A and 31 of 436 liveborn pigs were AB treated in herd B. Individual pigs that required AB treatment had a reduced average daily gain from day 0 to 28 in both herds (herd A, P < 0.001; herd B, P = 0.062) and from day 0 to 84 in herd A (P < 0.001). Additionally, significant risk factors for AB treatment were identified as a low bodyweight in herd A, whereas barrows and litters with less than 19 piglets were the main risk factors in herd B. Conclusion The results suggests that in order to reduce AB treatments particular attention should be addressed to smaller pigs and barrows in RWA herds. In these two Danish RWA herds from this study it was possible for 64 and 68% pigs to reach 12 weeks of life without any AB treatments. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40813-021-00198-y.
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Affiliation(s)
- J C Lynegaard
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Grønnegårdsvej 2, DK-1870 Frederiksberg C, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - I Larsen
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Grønnegårdsvej 2, DK-1870 Frederiksberg C, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - C F Hansen
- Danish Pig Research Centre SEGES, Danish Agriculture and Food Council, Axeltorv 3, DK-1609, Copenhagen V, Denmark
| | - J P Nielsen
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Grønnegårdsvej 2, DK-1870 Frederiksberg C, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - C Amdi
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Grønnegårdsvej 2, DK-1870 Frederiksberg C, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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Using Nutritional Strategies to Shape the Gastro-Intestinal Tracts of Suckling and Weaned Piglets. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11020402. [PMID: 33562533 PMCID: PMC7914898 DOI: 10.3390/ani11020402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Revised: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
This is a comprehensive review on the use of nutritional strategies to shape the functioning of the gastro-intestinal tract in suckling and weaned piglets. The progressive development of a piglet's gut and the associated microbiota and immune system offers a unique window of opportunity for supporting gut health through dietary modulation. This is particularly relevant for large litters, for which sow colostrum and milk are insufficient. The authors have therefore proposed the use of supplemental milk and creep feed with a dual purpose. In addition to providing nutrients to piglets, supplemental milk can also serve as a gut modulator in early life by incorporating functional ingredients with potential long-term benefits. To prepare piglets for weaning, it is important to stimulate the intake of solid feed before weaning, in addition to stimulating the number of piglets eating. The use of functional ingredients in creep feed and a transition diet around the time of weaning helps to habituate piglets to solid feed in general, while also preparing the gut for the digestion and fermentation of specific ingredients. In the first days after weaning (i.e., the acute phase), it is important to maintain high levels of feed intake and focus on nutritional strategies that support good gastric (barrier) function and that avoid overloading the impaired digestion and fermentation capacity of the piglets. In the subsequent maturation phase, the ratio of lysine to energy can be increased gradually in order to stimulate piglet growth. This is because the digestive and fermentation capacity of the piglets is more mature at this stage, thus allowing the inclusion of more fermentable fibres. Taken together, the nutritional strategies addressed in this review provide a structured approach to preparing piglets for success during weaning and the period that follows. The implementation of this approach and the insights to be developed through future research can help to achieve some of the most important goals in pig production: reducing piglet mortality, morbidity and antimicrobial use.
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Blavi L, Solà-Oriol D, Llonch P, López-Vergé S, Martín-Orúe SM, Pérez JF. Management and Feeding Strategies in Early Life to Increase Piglet Performance and Welfare around Weaning: A Review. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:302. [PMID: 33503942 PMCID: PMC7911825 DOI: 10.3390/ani11020302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The performance of piglets in nurseries may vary depending on body weight, age at weaning, management, and pathogenic load in the pig facilities. The early events in a pig's life are very important and may have long lasting consequences, since growth lag involves a significant cost to the system due to reduced market weights and increased barn occupancy. The present review evidences that there are several strategies that can be used to improve the performance and welfare of pigs at weaning. A complex set of early management and dietary strategies have been explored in sows and suckling piglets for achieving optimum and efficient growth of piglets after weaning. The management strategies studied to improve development and animal welfare include: (1) improving sow housing during gestation, (2) reducing pain during farrowing, (3) facilitating an early and sufficient colostrum intake, (4) promoting an early social interaction between litters, and (5) providing complementary feed during lactation. Dietary strategies for sows and suckling piglets aim to: (1) enhance fetal growth (arginine, folate, betaine, vitamin B12, carnitine, chromium, and zinc), (2) increase colostrum and milk production (DL-methionine, DL-2-hydroxy-4-methylthiobutanoic acid, arginine, L-carnitine, tryptophan, valine, vitamin E, and phytogenic actives), (3) modulate sows' oxidative and inflammation status (polyunsaturated fatty acids, vitamin E, selenium, phytogenic actives, and spray dried plasma), (4) allow early microbial colonization (probiotics), or (5) supply conditionally essential nutrients (nucleotides, glutamate, glutamine, threonine, and tryptophan).
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Affiliation(s)
- Laia Blavi
- Department of Animal and Food Sciences, Animal Nutrition and Welfare Service, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain; (D.S.-O.); (P.L.); (S.L.-V.); (S.M.M.-O.); (J.F.P.)
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Matyba P, Florowski T, Dasiewicz K, Ferenc K, Olszewski J, Trela M, Galemba G, Słowiński M, Sady M, Domańska D, Gajewski Z, Zabielski R. Performance and Meat Quality of Intrauterine Growth Restricted Pigs. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11020254. [PMID: 33498468 PMCID: PMC7909567 DOI: 10.3390/ani11020254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Pigs with intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) are neonates born at term but having low birth weight and a characteristic head shape. IUGR is observed in 6-10% of pig neonates. IUGR causes problems in livestock farms due to high mortality of the piglets in the first days of life and slower postnatal growth. Tracing the surviving IUGR piglets is difficult, so the data on their post-weaning growth, performance, and carcass quality is scanty. This study shows that the post-weaning performance of IUGR pigs is poorer than that of their normal littermates. However, the growers’/fatteners’ morbidity and meat quality is not different, and the consumer preference tests clearly show that the meat of the IUGR pigs is more readily accepted than that of the normal pigs. Consumers indicated better taste, smell, and consistency of this meat. The basis of consumers preference is in a slightly different chemical composition and structure of the muscle tissue. This study shows that efforts toward reducing high mortality among IUGR neonates may be beneficial. Abstract Intrauterine growth restricted (IUGR) pigs are characterized by high perinatal mortality and dysfunction of internal organs, adipose, and muscle tissues. However, little is known about the post-weaning performance and meat quality of the IUGR pigs. The aim of this study was to compare normal pigs and pigs with IUGR from birth until slaughter, also with respect to their meat quality. Pigs with the IUGR achieved lower slaughter weight but did not differ significantly from normal pigs in terms of their meat content. The IUGR did not negatively affect the culinary quality of the obtained meat, including its content of basic chemical components and energy value, as well as hardness, chewiness, cohesiveness, elasticity, and penetration force. The meat of the IUGR pigs, when compared to the meat of normal pigs, was characterized by higher pH, lower EC (Electrical Conductivity) and drip loss; it was also tenderer and obtained higher scores in sensory evaluation of taste, smell, and general desirability. Therefore, such raw material can be appreciated by the consumers and can be used for the production of culinary portions similarly to the raw material obtained from normal pigs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piotr Matyba
- Center for Biomedicine Research, Center for Regenerative Medicine, Department of Large Animal Diseases and Clinic, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Veterinary Research Centre, 02-797 Warsaw, Poland; (P.M.); (K.F.); (J.O.); (M.T.); (M.S.); (D.D.); (Z.G.)
| | - Tomasz Florowski
- Department of Food Technology and Assessment, Institute of Food Sciences, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, 02-776 Warsaw, Poland; (T.F.); (K.D.); (M.S.)
| | - Krzysztof Dasiewicz
- Department of Food Technology and Assessment, Institute of Food Sciences, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, 02-776 Warsaw, Poland; (T.F.); (K.D.); (M.S.)
| | - Karolina Ferenc
- Center for Biomedicine Research, Center for Regenerative Medicine, Department of Large Animal Diseases and Clinic, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Veterinary Research Centre, 02-797 Warsaw, Poland; (P.M.); (K.F.); (J.O.); (M.T.); (M.S.); (D.D.); (Z.G.)
| | - Jarosław Olszewski
- Center for Biomedicine Research, Center for Regenerative Medicine, Department of Large Animal Diseases and Clinic, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Veterinary Research Centre, 02-797 Warsaw, Poland; (P.M.); (K.F.); (J.O.); (M.T.); (M.S.); (D.D.); (Z.G.)
| | - Michał Trela
- Center for Biomedicine Research, Center for Regenerative Medicine, Department of Large Animal Diseases and Clinic, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Veterinary Research Centre, 02-797 Warsaw, Poland; (P.M.); (K.F.); (J.O.); (M.T.); (M.S.); (D.D.); (Z.G.)
| | | | - Mirosław Słowiński
- Department of Food Technology and Assessment, Institute of Food Sciences, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, 02-776 Warsaw, Poland; (T.F.); (K.D.); (M.S.)
| | - Maria Sady
- Center for Biomedicine Research, Center for Regenerative Medicine, Department of Large Animal Diseases and Clinic, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Veterinary Research Centre, 02-797 Warsaw, Poland; (P.M.); (K.F.); (J.O.); (M.T.); (M.S.); (D.D.); (Z.G.)
| | - Dominika Domańska
- Center for Biomedicine Research, Center for Regenerative Medicine, Department of Large Animal Diseases and Clinic, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Veterinary Research Centre, 02-797 Warsaw, Poland; (P.M.); (K.F.); (J.O.); (M.T.); (M.S.); (D.D.); (Z.G.)
| | - Zdzisław Gajewski
- Center for Biomedicine Research, Center for Regenerative Medicine, Department of Large Animal Diseases and Clinic, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Veterinary Research Centre, 02-797 Warsaw, Poland; (P.M.); (K.F.); (J.O.); (M.T.); (M.S.); (D.D.); (Z.G.)
| | - Romuald Zabielski
- Center for Biomedicine Research, Center for Regenerative Medicine, Department of Large Animal Diseases and Clinic, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Veterinary Research Centre, 02-797 Warsaw, Poland; (P.M.); (K.F.); (J.O.); (M.T.); (M.S.); (D.D.); (Z.G.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-603757933
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