Partnerships for policy: initiating a Global Burden of Animal Diseases case study in Indonesia.

The Global Burden of Animal Diseases (GBADs) programme aims to quantify the economic and broader societal costs of animal disease, providing information to policy-makers and other stakeholders to inform investments in animal health. Within this context, GBADs'Indonesian case study brings together a multidisciplinary and multi-national team to pilot the GBADs methodology in the Asiaâ€"Pacific region. This article describes the process of building a case study and, based on that experience, summarises key learnings to inform the development of future case studies and similar projects. Recommendations focus on the steps required to build successful partnerships to deliver a complex programme of work; the authors highlight the need to consider the local context in aligning project and country priorities, the importance of early engagement with a range of stakeholders, and the need for regular and clear communication within the project team.

Le programme " Impact mondial des maladies animales " (GBADs) vise à quantifier les coûts économiques et plus largement sociétaux des maladies animales, de manière à fournir aux décideurs politiques et aux autres parties prenantes l'information nécessaire pour étayer leurs décisions sur les investissements à réaliser en santé animale. Dans ce contexte, l'étude de cas lancée par le GBADs en Indonésie a réuni une équipe multidisciplinaire et internationale qui a eu pour tâche de piloter l'application de la méthode du GBADs dans la région Asie-Pacifique. Les auteurs décrivent le processus d'élaboration d'une étude de cas ; ils résument ensuite les principaux enseignements tirés de cette expérience, qui apporteront un éclairage précieux lors de la conception de futures études de cas et de projets similaires. Les recommandations portent principalement sur les étapes nécessaires à la mise en place de partenariats réussis et capables d'obtenir des résultats à travers un programme de travail complexe ; les auteurs soulignent ainsi la nécessité de prendre en compte le contexte local afin d'adapter les projets aux priorités du pays, l'importance de nouer des liens dès le départ avec une diversité de parties prenantes et l'exigence d'une communication claire et régulière au sein de l'équipe du projet.

El programa sobre el Impacto Global de las Enfermedades Animales (GBADs) tiene como objetivo cuantificar los costos económicos y sociales de las enfermedades animales, proporcionando información a los encargados de formular políticas y a otras partes interesadas para orientar las inversiones en sanidad animal. En este contexto, el estudio de caso del GBADs en Indonesia reúne a un equipo multidisciplinario y multinacional para poner a prueba la metodología del GBADs en la región de Asia y el Pacífico. En este artículo se describe el proceso de elaboración de un estudio de caso y, a partir de dicha experiencia, se resumen las principales enseñanzas que servirán de base para el desarrollo de futuros estudios de caso y proyectos similares. Las recomendaciones se centran en los pasos necesarios para crear alianzas fructíferas que permitan llevar adelante un programa de trabajo complejo. Los autores destacan la necesidad de tener en cuenta el contexto local a la hora de alinear las prioridades del proyecto y las del país, la importancia de establecer una pronta colaboración con diversas partes interesadas y la necesidad de que haya una comunicación regular y clara dentro del equipo del proyecto.

Effects of dietary Brevibacillus laterosporus BL1 supplementation on meat quality, antioxidant capacity, and the profiles of muscle amino acids and fatty acids in finishing pigs.

Consumer demand for tastier and higher-quality pork is increasing. Probiotics have been reported to improve meat quality, but the species of probiotics are limited, and efficacy is discrete. This study investigated the effects of dietary Brevibacillus laterosporus BL1 (live and heat-killed form) supplementation on the meat quality of finishing pigs. Results revealed that both live and heat-killed B. laterosporus BL1 supplementation increased pH24h and decreased drip loss (P < 0.05) compared to the control group (CON). Moreover, compared to the CON group, heat-killed B. laterosporus BL1 supplementation exhibited a stronger ability to improve meat quality (redness, shear force, inosine monophosphate, and intramuscular fat content, P < 0.05), antioxidant capacity, and free amino acid profiles of longissimus thoracis (LT) than live bacteria without impairing porcine growth performance. Further, heat-killed B. laterosporus BL1 supplementation favored up-regulating the expression of genes related to oxidative-type fiber in LT (P < 0.05). Proteomic analysis confirmed that Gene Ontology items related to oxidative metabolism were subsequently enriched with heat-killed B. laterosporus BL1 treatment in LT (P < 0.05). Overall, dietary heat-killed B. laterosporus BL1 supplementation may improve the meat quality of finishing pigs, which provides application guidance for B. laterosporus BL1 in producing higher-quality pork.

Effects of replacing soybean meal with enzymolysis-fermentation compound protein feed on growth performance, apparent digestibility of nutrients, carcass traits, and meat quality in growing-finishing pigs.

BACKGROUND: Addressing the shortage of high-quality protein resources, this study was conducted to investigate the effects of replacing soybean meal (SBM) with different levels of enzymolysis-fermentation compound protein feed (EFCP) in the diets of growing-finishing pigs, focusing on growth performance, nutrients digestibility, carcass traits, and meat quality. METHODS: Sixty DLY (Duroc × Landrace × Yorkshire) pigs with an initial body weight of 42.76 ± 2.05 kg were assigned to 5 dietary treatments in a 2 × 2 + 1 factorial design. These dietary treatments included a corn-soybean meal diet (CON), untreated compound protein feed (UCP) substitution 50% (U50) and 100% SBM (U100) diets, and EFCP substitution 50% (EF50) and 100% SBM (EF100) diets. Each treatment had 6 pens (replicates) with 2 pigs per pen, and the experiment lasted 58 d, divided into phase I (1-28 d) and phase II (29-58 d). Following phase I, only the CON, U50, and EF50 groups were continued for phase II, each with 5 replicate pens. On d 59, a total of 15 pigs (1 pig/pen, 5 pens/treatment) were euthanized. RESULTS: During phase I, the EF50 group had a higher average daily gain (ADG) in pigs (P < 0.05) compared to the CON group, whereas the U50 group did not have a significant difference. As the substitution ratio of UCP and EFCP increased in phase I, there was a noticeable reduction in the final body weight and ADG (P < 0.05), along with an increase in the feed-to-gain ratio (F/G) (P < 0.05). In phase II, there were no significant differences in growth performance among the treatment groups, but EF50 increased the apparent digestibility of several nutrients (including dry matter, crude protein, crude fiber, acid detergent fiber, ash, gross energy) compared to U50. The EF50 group also exhibited significantly higher serum levels of neuropeptide Y and ghrelin compared to the CON and U50 groups (P < 0.05). Moreover, the EF50 group had higher carcass weight and carcass length than those in the CON and U50 groups (P < 0.05), with no significant difference in meat quality. CONCLUSIONS: The study findings suggest that replacing 50% SBM with EFCP during the growing-finishing period can improve the growth performance, nutrient digestibility, and carcass traits of pigs without compromising meat quality. This research offers valuable insights into the modification of unconventional plant protein meals and developing alternatives to SBM.

Dietary supplementation of valine, isoleucine, and tryptophan may overcome the negative effects of excess leucine in diets for weanling pigs containing corn fermented protein.

BACKGROUND: Diets with high inclusion of corn co-products such as corn fermented protein (CFP) may contain excess Leu, which has a negative impact on feed intake and growth performance of pigs due to increased catabolism of Val and Ile and reduced availability of Trp in the brain for serotonin synthesis. However, we hypothesized that the negative effect of using CFP in diets for weanling pigs may be overcome if diets are fortified with crystalline sources of Val, Trp, and (or) Ile. METHODS: Three hundred and twenty weanling pigs were randomly allotted to one of 10 dietary treatments in a completely randomized design, with 4 pigs per pen and 8 replicate pens per treatment. A corn-soybean meal diet and 2 basal diets based on corn and 10% CFP or corn and 20% CFP were formulated. Seven additional diets were formulated by fortifying the basal diet with 20% CFP with Ile, Trp, Val, Ile and Val, Ile and Trp, Trp and Val, or Ile, Trp and Val. A two-phase feeding program was used, with d 1 to 14 being phase 1 and d 15 to 28 being phase 2. Fecal scores were recorded every other day. Blood samples were collected on d 14 and 28 from one pig per pen. On d 14, fecal samples were collected from one pig per pen in 3 of the 10 treatments to determine volatile fatty acids, ammonium concentration, and microbial protein. These pigs were also euthanized and ileal tissue was collected. RESULTS: There were no effects of dietary treatments on any of the parameters evaluated in phase 1. Inclusion of 10% or 20% CFP in diets reduced (P < 0.05) final body weight on d 28, and average daily gain (ADG) and average daily feed intake (ADFI) in phase 2 and for the entire experimental period. However, pigs fed the CFP diet supplemented with Val, Ile, and Trp had final body weight, ADFI, ADG and gain to feed ratio in phase 2 and for the entire experiment that was not different from pigs fed the control diet. Fecal scores in phase 2 were reduced (P < 0.05) if CFP was used. CONCLUSIONS: Corn fermented protein may be included by up to 20% in diets for weanling pigs without affecting growth performance, gut health, or hindgut fermentation, if diets are fortified with extra Val, Trp, and Ile. Inclusion of CFP also improved fecal consistency of pigs.

Muscle growth differences in Lijiang pigs revealed by ATAC-seq multi-omics.

As one of the largest tissues in the animal body, skeletal muscle plays a pivotal role in the production and quality of pork. Consequently, it is of paramount importance to investigate the growth and developmental processes of skeletal muscle. Lijiang pigs, which naturally have two subtypes, fast-growing and slow-growing, provide an ideal model for such studies by eliminating breed-related influences. In this study, we selected three fast-growing and three slow-growing 6-month-old Lijiang pigs as subjects. We utilized assay for transposase-accessible chromatin with sequencing (ATAC-seq) combined with genomics, RNA sequencing, and proteomics to screen for differentially expressed genes and transcription factors linked to increased longissimus dorsi muscle volume in Lijiang pigs. We identified 126 genes through ATAC-seq, including PPARA, TNRC6B, NEDD1, and FKBP5, that exhibited differential expression patterns during muscle growth. Additionally, we identified 59 transcription factors, including Foxh1, JunB, Mef2 family members (Mef2a/b/c/d), NeuroD1, and TEAD4. By examining open chromatin regions (OCRs) with significant genetic differentiation, genes such as SAV1, CACNA1H, PRKCG, and FGFR4 were found. Integrating ATAC-seq with transcriptomics and transcriptomics with proteomics, we identified differences in open chromatin regions, transcription, and protein levels of FKBP5 and SCARB2 genes in fast-growing and slow-growing Lijiang pigs. Utilizing multi-omics analysis with R packages, we jointed ATAC-seq, transcriptome, and proteome datasets, identifying enriched pathways related to glycogen metabolism and skeletal muscle cell differentiation. We pinpointed genes such as MYF6 and HABP2 that exhibit strong correlations across these diverse data types. This study provides a multi-faceted understanding of the molecular mechanisms that lead to differences in pig muscle fiber growth.

Airway Serous Cells: A Comparative Study of Spatial Distribution and Abundance among Species.

The conducting airways of the respiratory system play a crucial role in filtering, humidifying, and directing air into the lungs. Among the specialized cell types within these airways, airway serous cells are notable for their secretion of watery, protein-rich fluids and enzymes, which contribute to maintaining airway surface liquid homeostasis and defending against pathogens. However, the distribution and abundance of serous cells across different species in the conducting airways remain poorly understood. In this study, we addressed this gap by investigating the spatial distribution of the airway serous cell-specific marker BPI fold containing family A member 1 (BPIFA1) in humans, pigs, and mice. Our findings demonstrate significant variations in the distribution and abundance of serous cells among these species, potentially reflecting their different respiratory anatomy and evolutionary adaptations to diverse environmental challenges and respiratory demands. In humans and pigs, airway serous cells are predominantly found in the submucosal glands of the trachea and segmental bronchi, frequently overlapping with lysozyme-positive secretory cells. In contrast, rodents like mice exhibit a distinct pattern where serous cells are scarce in submucosal glands. Instead, rodent serous cells are primarily located at the epithelial surface from the trachea to the main bronchi, where many co-express the Club cell-specific protein SCGB1A1. The abundance of serous cells diminishes progressively in the intrapulmonary airways. Given that rodent models are widely utilized in respiratory research, understanding anatomical and cellular differences in airway serous cells is critical for interpreting experimental outcomes and translating findings to human respiratory diseases and therapeutic strategies. This comparative analysis enhances our understanding of airway biology across species and informs the selection and interpretation of animal models in respiratory studies.

Decreased in Mitochondrial Complex I Subunit NDUFS2 Is Critical for Oocyte Quality During Postovulatory Aging in Pigs.

The levels of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) dehydrogenase [ubiquinone] iron-sulfur protein 2 (NDUFS2, a subunit of NADH dehydrogenase) decrease in aged tissues, and these reductions may be partly associated with age-related conditions such as Parkinson's disease. Aging leads to many mitochondrial defects, such as biogenesis disruption, dysfunction, defects in the mitochondrial membrane potential, and production of reactive oxygen species, that may be highly related to NDUFS2 expression. The relationship between NDUFS2 and postovulatory oocyte aging in pigs remains unknown. In this study, we investigated changes in NDUFS2 expression during postovulatory aging (POA). Furthermore, NDUFS2 was knocked down via dsRNA microinjection at the MII stage to evaluate the effects on mitochondrial-related processes during POA. The mRNA expression of NDUFS2 decreased significantly after 48-h aging compared with that in fresh oocytes. NDUFS2 knockdown (KD) significantly impaired the maintenance of oocyte morphology and blastocyst development of embryos after POA. The levels of PGC1α (mitochondrial biogenesis-related proteins) decreased significantly after NDUFS2 KD, while the level of GSNOR, a protein denitrosylase, was reduced by NDUFS2 KD after 48 h of aging. These data suggest that NDUFS2 is vital for maintaining the oocyte quality during POA in pigs.

Prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in domestic pigs from family farms in northeastern Argentina.

Domestic pigs serve as significant hosts and reservoirs for multiple parasite species, some specific to pigs and many others of zoonotic importance. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of intestinal parasites in pigs within a rural area in northeastern Argentina. We also examined demographic information, breeding conditions, and exposure factors associated with parasite presence. Pig feces were subjected to coprological examination through flotation and sedimentation techniques. Modified Ziehl-Neelsen technique was employed to examine oocysts of Cryptosporidium spp. In total, 29 family farms with pig pens were analyzed, and 42 stool samples were collected from pigs on these farms. At the farm level, the presence of at least one parasite species was recorded in 27 rural houses (93.1%). We found that 90.4% of pigs were parasitized, with a specific parasitoses of 10 species, with a maximum of six species in a single host. The most prevalent protozoa were Entamoeba spp. (57.1%) and Blastocystis sp. (45.2%), followed by Iodamoeba butschlii (33.3%), Neobalantidium coli (21.4%), coccidia (14.2%), Cryptosporidium spp. (9.5%) and Giardia spp. (2.3%). The most prevalent helminths were Strongylidae eggs (52.3%), Ascaris spp. (14.2%) and Trichuris spp. (2.3%). We advocate for an urgent need to implement a comprehensive prophylaxis program prioritizing general hygiene practices such as regular cleaning, removal of fecal material and renewal of drinking water. Additionally, vaccination and deworming protocols should be implemented. Furthermore, this study highlights the necessity for molecular-level evaluations to detect potential zoonotic genotypes of the identified protozoa.

Determining underlying influences of data variability in the novel object recognition paradigm as used with young pigs.

The novel object recognition (NOR) paradigm is a cognitive test that has been used with many species to detect differences in ability. Various iterations of the paradigm have been implemented, making it difficult to compare results both within and across species. Interpretations of the results are equally diverse, threatening the integrity of the paradigm. These inconsistencies have prompted a deeper dive into the variability of the resultant data. For the purposes of this meta-analysis, data originated from 12 studies involving 367 pigs that were subjected to the same NOR paradigm beginning between postnatal days 21 and 24. The main cognitive measure from the NOR paradigm is recognition index (RI), which was the focus of most of the analyses in this meta-analysis. RI was chosen as the main outcome as it determines a pig's preference for novelty, an innate behavior of cognitively intact pigs. A histogram of RI values (range 0 to 1) showed a bimodal distribution skewed to the right, suggesting that the interpretation of positive performance on the task may need to be stricter. Correlational analyses proved that the number of investigations and investigation time with both the novel and familiar objects were the strongest predictors of resultant RI values. Objective data inclusion criteria were then considered to eliminate non-compliant pigs. Results indicated that requiring at least 5 s of investigation over a minimum of 3 investigations with the novel object reduced overall variability for RI with a concomitant increase in the mean. Further analyses showed that pigs preferred to spend more time with and interact more with the novel object across the entire testing trial, especially in the first minute. Together, these findings suggest that future interpretations of NOR should consider applying stricter statistical analyses as well as additional data processing, such as binning, with emphasis on novel object and familiar object investigation. Overall, modifications to the existing iterations of the NOR paradigm are necessary to improve paradigm reliability.

Revealing the lethal effects of Pasteurella multocida toxin on multiple organ systems.

Pasteurella multocida toxin (PMT) is one of the most important virulence factors of Pasteurella multocida type D. Pasteurella multocida infection has caused enormous economic losses in the pig farming industry. Although it is well known that this bacterial infection causes progressive atrophic rhinitis, its effects on other organ tissues in pigs are unclear. In this study, PMT was expressed and purified, and the cytotoxic effects of PMT on four types of swine cells, LLC-PK1, PAM, IPEC, and ST, were investigated. LLC-PK1 exhibited the highest sensitivity to the cytotoxic effects of PMT. Our studies revealed that a PMT concentration of 0.1 µg/kg can lead to weight loss, whereas a PMT concentration of 0.5 µg/kg can lead to death in mice. PMT causes damage to the intestines, kidneys, lungs, livers, and spleens of mice. Furthermore, PMT caused acute death in pigs at treatment concentrations greater than 5 µg/kg; at PMT concentration of 2.5 µg/kg, weight loss occurred until death. PMT mainly caused damage to the hearts, lungs, livers, spleens and kidneys of pigs. The organ coefficient showed that damage to the heart and kidneys was the most severe and caused the renal pelvis and renal pyramid to dissolve and become cavitated. Pathology revealed hemorrhage in the lungs, liver, and spleen, and the kidneys were swollen and vacuolated, which was consistent with the damaged target organs in the mice. In conclusion, these findings demonstrate that PMT is extremely toxic in vitro and in vivo, causing damage to various organs of the body, especially the kidneys and lungs. This study provides a theoretical basis for the in-depth exploration of the cytotoxic effects of PMT on target organs.

Effects of sanitary conditions with lipopolysaccharide injection and dietary valine supplementation on growth performance, immune response, bacterial profile, and microbial metabolites in weaned pigs.

This study investigated the effects of dietary L-valine (Val) supplementation and sanitary conditions with lipopolysaccharide injection on growth performance, immune response, and intestinal bacterial profiles and metabolites in weaned pigs. Thirty-two weaned pigs (6.98 ± 0.47 kg) were randomly assigned to treatments in a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement based on dietary Val levels and sanitary conditions (low or high). The pigs were fed either a basal diet containing the standard levels of Val suggested by (NRC), (2012) or a basal diet supplemented with 0.1% L-Val. A room designated as a high sanitary room was washed weekly, whereas the designated low sanitary room was not washed throughout the experiment and 5 kg of manure from the nursery pig barn was spread on the pen floors on day 1. All data were analysed using a mixed procedure of SAS, with the individual pen as the experimental unit. The pigs raised in low sanitary conditions exhibited a lower (p < 0.05) average daily gain, average daily feed intake, and gain-to-feed ratio and a higher (p < 0.05) incidence of diarrhoea than those raised in high sanitary conditions during the 14-d experimental period. The pigs in the low sanitary group also had a lower (p < 0.05) concentration of butyrate in the jejunum and a higher (p < 0.05) concentration of NH3-N in the colon than those in the high sanitary group. Dietary Val supplementation was reduced (p < 0.05) plasma interleukin (IL)-1ß and IL-1 receptor antagonist concentrations as well as isovalerate and NH3-N concentrations in the colon, regardless of sanitary conditions. Interactions between dietary Val supplementation and sanitary conditions were observed in the abundances of mRNA-encoding ß-defensins 113, 125 and 129 (p < 0.05). In conclusion, dietary Val supplementation beneficially modulates inflammatory responses and microbial metabolites regardless of sanitary conditions while transcriptional levels of ß-defensins are regulated by dietary Val supplementation in a manner dependent on housing hygiene conditions.

Genetic parameters for pelvic organ prolapse in purebred and crossbred sows.

This study aimed to investigate genetic parameters for sow pelvic organ prolapse in purebred and crossbred herds. Pelvic organ prolapse was recorded as normal or prolapsed on the individual sow level across 32 purebred and 8 crossbred farms. In total, 75,162 purebred Landrace sows from a single maternal line were recorded between 2018 and 2023, while 18,988 commercial two-way crossbred (Landrace x Large White) sows were available between 2020 and 2023. There were 5,122,005 animals included in the pedigree. The prolapse in purebreds and crossbreds was considered two different traits in the model. Pedigrees of the crossbred sows were determined based on genotypes through parentage assignment. The average incidence rates were 1.81% and 3.93% for purebreds and crossbreds, respectively. The bivariate model incorporated fixed effects of parity group and region with random effects of contemporary group (farm and mating year and month at the first parity), additive genetic, and residual. Genetic parameter estimates were obtained using BLUPF90+ with the AIREML option. The estimated additive variance was larger in crossbreds than in purebreds. Estimates of heritability in the observed scale were 0.09 (0.006) for purebreds and 0.11 (0.014) for crossbreds, with a genetic correlation of 0.83 using a linear model. Results suggested that including data from crossbreds with higher incidence rate is beneficial and selection to reduce the prolapse incidence in purebred sow herds would also benefit commercial crossbred sow herds.

Macrogenomes reveal microbial-mediated microplastic degradation pathways in the porcine gut: a hope for solving the environmental challenges of microplastics.

It is increasingly recognized that microplastics (MPs) are being transmitted through the food chain system, but little is known about the microorganisms involved in MP degradation, functional biodegradation genes, and metabolic pathways of degradation in the intestinal tract of foodborne animals. In this study, we explored the potential flora mainly involved in MP degradation in the intestinal tracts of Taoyuan, Duroc, and Xiangcun pigs by macrogenomics, screened relevant MP degradation genes, and identified key enzymes and their mechanisms. The pig colon was enriched with abundant MP degradation-related genes, and gut microorganisms were their main hosts. The fiber diet did not significantly affect the abundance of MP degradation-related genes but significantly reduced their diversity. We identified a total of 94 functional genes for MP degradation and classified them into 27 categories by substrate type, with polystyrene (PS), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) were the most predominant degradation types. The MP degradation functional genes were widely distributed in a variety of bacteria, mainly in the phylum Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes. Based on the identified functional genes for MP degradation, we proposed a hypothetical degradation mechanism for the three major MP pollutants, namely, PS, PET, and DEHP, which mainly consist of oxidoreductase, hydrolase, transferase, ligase, laccase, and isomerase. The degradation process involves the breakdown of long polymer chains, the oxidation of short-chain oligomers, the conversion of catechols, and the achievement of complete mineralization. Our findings provide insights into the function of MP degradation genes and their host microorganisms in the porcine colon.

Imputation strategies for low-coverage whole-genome sequencing data and their effects on genomic prediction and genome-wide association studies in pigs.

The uncertainty resulting from missing genotypes in low-coverage whole-genome sequencing (LCWGS) data complicates genotype imputation. The aim of this study is to find out an optimal strategy for accurately imputing LCWGS data and assess its effectiveness for genomic prediction (GP) and genome-wide association study (GWAS) on economically important traits of Large White pigs. The LCWGS data of 1 423 Large White pigs were imputed using three different strategies: (1) using the high-coverage whole-genome sequencing (HCWGS) of 30 key progenitors as the reference panel (Ref_LG); (2) mixing HCWGS of key progenitors with LCWGS (Mix_HLG) and (3) self-imputation in LCWGS (Within_LG). Additionally, to compare the imputation effects of LCWGS, we also imputed SNP chip data of 1 423 Large White pigs to the whole-genome sequencing level using the reference panel consisting of key progenitors (Ref_SNP). To evaluate effects of the imputed sequencing data, we compared the accuracies of GP and statistical power of GWAS for four reproductive traits based on the chip data, sequencing data imputed from chip data and LCWGS data using an optimal strategy. The average imputation accuracies of the Within_LG, Ref_LG and Mix_HLG were 0.9893, 0.9899 and 0.9875, respectively, which were higher than that of the Ref_SNP (0.8522). Using the imputed sequencing data from LCWGS with the Ref_LG imputation strategy, the accuracies of GP for four traits improved by approximately 0.31-1.04% compared to the chip data, and by 0.7-1.05% compared to the imputed sequencing data from chip data. Furthermore, by using the sequence data imputed from LCWGS with the Ref_LG, 18 candidate genes were identified to be associated with the four reproductive traits of interest in Large White pigs: total number of piglets born - EPC2, MBD5, ORC4 and ACVR2A; number of piglets born healthy - IKBKE; total litter weight of piglets born alive - HSPA13 and CPA1; gestation length - GTF2H5, ITGAV, NFE2L2, CALCRL, ITGA4, STAT1, HOXD10, MSTN, COL5A2 and STAT4. With the exception of EPC2, ORC4, ACVR2A and MSTN, others represent novel candidates. Our findings can provide a reference for the application of LCWGS data in livestock and poultry.

Assessment of the feed additive consisting of endo-1,4-beta-xylanase (produced with Trichoderma reesei MUCL 49755) and endo-1,3(4)-beta-glucanase (produced with T. reesei MUCL 49754) (AveMix® XG 10) for pigs for fattening, minor porcine species for fattening and turkeys for fattening for the renewal of its authorisation (AVEVE BV).

Following a request from the European Commission, EFSA was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the assessment of the feed additive consisting of endo-1,4-beta-xylanase (produced with Trichoderma reesei MUCL 49755) and endo-1,3(4)-beta-glucanase (produced with T. reesei MUCL 49754) (AveMix® XG 10/AveMix® XG 10 L) for the renewal of its authorisation as zootechnical feed additive for pigs for fattening, minor porcine species for fattening and turkeys for fattening. The applicant declared a change in the carrier material used in AveMix® XG 10 from soybean meal to calcium carbonate + wheat flour or calcium carbonate + sepiolite. The applicant provided evidence that the additive Avemix® XG 10 with calcium carbonate + wheat flour and Avemix® XG 10 L comply with the conditions of the authorisation. The EFSA Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) noted that no data were submitted to support compliance of the formulation of Avemix® XG 10 with calcium carbonate + sepiolite with the conditions of the authorisation. The FEEDAP Panel concluded that both forms of the additive remain safe for pigs for fattening, minor porcine species for fattening and turkeys for fattening, consumers and the environment. Regarding the safety for the user, Avemix® XG 10 formulated with calcium carbonate + sepiolite and Avemix® XG 10 L are not irritant to skin and eyes. No conclusions on the irritation potential of Avemix® XG 10 formulated with calcium carbonate + wheat flour could be drawn. The additive in all its formulations is considered a respiratory and skin sensitiser. There was no need for assessing the efficacy of the additive in the context of the renewal of the authorisation.

Influences on the Decision to Euthanize a Compromised Pig.

The decision to euthanize a compromised pig can be challenging for pig farmers and veterinarians. To understand more about the challenges in Germany, a cross-sectional online survey was conducted. Based on a hybrid design, the responses of 39 veterinarians and 62 pig farmers were analyzed to generate a list of common clinical signs associated with the euthanasia of sows, fatteners, and piglets. Moreover, a set of influences on the farm, due to economic and personal considerations, were found to shape the decision-making process. The two most salient reasons outlined for the delay of timely euthanasia were uncertainty and misinterpretation of the chance for healing. The lack of valid clinical signs or a sound justification was most frequently mentioned as a challenge to the general decision-making process. In summation, this study highlights the need to generate a valid taxonomy for clinical signs that includes their development in a compromised pig over time. Future studies should elaborate on the justification of euthanasia decisions to facilitate the resolution of ethical dilemmas among the involved pig farmers and veterinarians. Lastly, the results suggest that clinical reasoning and consultation skills should be included when decision-making behavior is to be trained.

Addition of Spray-Dried Plasma in Phase 2 Diets for Weanling Pigs Improves Growth Performance, Reduces Diarrhea Incidence, and Decreases Mucosal Pro-Inflammatory Cytokines.

The hypothesis that pigs fed a low crude protein (CP) diet with 6% spray-dried plasma (SDP) in phase 1 will have improved growth and intestinal health if the phase-2 diet contains 2.5% SDP was tested. Three hundred weaned pigs were used. Growth performance, feces, blood, and intestinal tissue were evaluated. Pigs fed 6% SDP in phase 1 had improved average daily gain (ADG) and final body weight (BW), but had reduced villus-height-to-crypt-depth ratio in phase 2 if 2.5% SDP was included in the normal-CP diet (p < 0.05), but not in the low-CP diet. Diarrhea incidence was less (p < 0.05) with 2.5% SDP in the phase 2 diet and for the low-CP diet. Ileal mucosa interleukin-1α (IL-1α) and IL-1ß decreased (p < 0.05) for pigs fed the phase-1 diet with 6% SDP compared with pigs fed the diet without SDP. Addition of 2.5% SDP in phase 2 reduced (p < 0.05) IL-1ß compared with the diet without SDP. Although the combination of SDP and low CP did not affect intestinal health in phase 2, diarrhea incidence and pro-inflammatory cytokines were reduced in pigs fed SDP in phase 1 or phase 2 or if a low-CP diet was fed.

Affective Implications of Human-Animal Relationship on Pig Welfare: Integrating Non-Linear Heart Rate Variability Measures.

The human-animal relationship is crucial for animal welfare. Gentle handling enhances pigs' comfort while rough handling causes fear and stress. This study examined how different human-animal relationship qualities affect the behavior and heart rate variability (linear and non-linear parameters) of 36 nursery pigs. Over six weeks, pigs experienced positive (n = 12), minimal (n = 12), or negative (n = 12) human handling. Their responses to handlers were then assessed in an experimental arena with four phases: habituation, exposure to the handler standing and sitting, and forced interaction. Pigs subjected to negative handling exhibited increased fear-related behaviors, spending less time in contact with the handler. They also exhibited heightened stress responses, with greater LF/HF ratio and Lmean values compared with positively handled pigs. Conversely, gently handled pigs displayed affiliative behaviors, accepting more strokes, and higher parasympathetic activation, indicated by greater RMSSD/SDNN and SampEn values, suggesting a more positive affective state. Minimally handled pigs exhibited some behavioral similarities to gently handled pigs, although physiological data indicated that the interaction was likely more rewarding for the gently handled pigs. These results emphasize the impact of human-animal relationships on pig welfare and highlight the value of incorporating non-linear heart rate variability parameters in such evaluations.

Ultraviolet radiation protection factors of livestock shade cloths for free-range pigs.

BACKGROUND: Protection from solar ultraviolet radiation (UVR) is paramount in light-skinned pig breeds such as Yorkshire or Landrace to avoid sunburn. OBJECTIVES: Determination of the UVR exposure of a pig and the sun protection abilities of shade cloths with different shade rates. ANIMALS: Life-sized plastic model of a Landrace pig. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The model was equipped with 20 UVR meters at various anatomical positions that recorded the erythemal effective solar irradiance. A turntable enabled irradiation from different directions. Solar irradiance was measured in direct sunlight as well as under three shade cloths with different shade rates (50%, 75% and 90%) and a camouflage net. The sun protection factors (SPF) were determined as the ratio of unshaded-to-shaded measurements at the same solar elevation. The exposure ratio to ambient (ERTA) was calculated for each body site with respect to ambient irradiance. It allows determination of when pigs are at risk of sunburn and protection is needed. RESULTS: The calculated ERTA values show that some body parts may receive higher values than ambient UVR. Measurements showed that the SPF of shade cloths depends on textile denseness. Selected shade cloths reached values of 3.5 (shade rate 50%), 4.2 (75%) and 5.8 (90%). Protection by the camouflage net was poor. The highest SPF was gained on body sides where ERTA was highest. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Shade cloths can protect all body sites effectively and vulnerable sites in particular. The results of our study enable an estimation of when pigs are at risk of sunburn and provide quantitative metrics for sun protection. This allows effective prevention of UVR-caused skin damage and secondary disorders.

Pharmacokinetics of single dose levobupivacaine after peri-incisional subcutaneous infiltration in anaesthetized domestic pigs.

Increasing use of pigs as models in translational research, and growing focus on animal welfare are leading to better use of effective analgesics and anaesthetics when painful procedures are performed. However, there is a gap in basic knowledge such as pharmacokinetics of different anaesthetics in these species. The main objective of our study was to determine the pharmacokinetics of levobupivacaine in domestic pigs. Twelve female grower pigs weighing 31.17 ± 4.6 kg were subjected to general anaesthesia and experimental surgery, at the end of which they received 1 mg/kg levobupivacaine via peri-incisional subcutaneous infiltration. Plasma samples were collected before administration of levobupivacaine and at 0.5, 1, 2, 4, 8, 12, 24 and 48 h thereafter. Concentrations of levobupivacaine were determined by liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry. Following single dose of levobupivacaine, all animals had measurable plasma concentrations 0.5 h after drug administration, with most peak concentrations observed at the 1-h time point. In all 12 animals, levobupivacaine was below the limit of quantification 48 h after drug administration. The mean maximum plasma concentration, area under the curve and half-life were determined to be 809.98 µg/l, 6552.46 µg/l h and 6.25 h, respectively. Plasma clearance, volume of distribution and weight-normalized volume of distribution were 4.41 l/h, 35.57 l and 1.23 l/kg, respectively. Peak plasma concentrations in our study were well below concentrations that were found to produce toxicity in pigs.