Now showing items 1-20 of 161

    • Study on the Association between Tail Lesion Score, Cold Carcass Weight, and Viscera Condemnations in Slaughter Pigs

      Teixeira, Dayane Lemos; Harley, Sarah; Hanlon, Alison; O’Connell, Niamh Elizabeth; More, Simon John; Manzanilla, Edgar Garcia; Boyle, Laura Ann; Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine; RSF 11/S/107 (Frontiers Media SA, 2016-03-14)
      The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between tail lesions, cold carcass weight, and viscera condemnations in an Irish abattoir. The following data were collected at the evisceration point from every third pig slaughtered over 7 days: farm identification, sex, tail lesion score, viscera inspection outcome, and cold carcass weight. Tail lesions were scored according to a 5-point scale. Disease lesions responsible for lung (pleurisy, pneumonia, and abscess), heart (pericarditis), and liver (ascariasis) condemnation were recorded based on the decision of the veterinary inspector (VI). Data on 3,143 pigs from 61 batches were available. The relationship between disease lesions, tail lesion score, and cold carcass weight was studied at individual carcass level, while the relationship between disease lesions and tail lesion score was studied at both carcass and batch level. Tail lesions (score ≥1) were found in 72% of the study population, with 2.3% affected by severe tail lesions (scores ≥3). Pleurisy (13.7%) followed by pneumonia (10.4%) showed the highest prevalence, whereas the prevalence of ascariasis showed the greatest variation between batches (0–75%). Tail lesion score, pleurisy, pleuropneumonia, and pericarditis were associated with reductions in carcass cold weight (P ≤ 0.05) ranging from 3 to 6.6 kg. Tail lesion score was associated with condemnations for pleurisy, pneumonia, and pleuropneumonia (P ≤ 0.05) at a batch level. VI shift was associated with condemnations for pneumonia, pleuropneumonia, and pericarditis (P ≤ 0.05) at a carcass level and with pneumonia at a batch level. Sex was not associated with viscera condemnations but males were more likely to be affected by tail lesions. The relationship between overall tail lesion score and the lung diseases at batch level supports the relationship between poor health and poor welfare of pigs on farms. The inclusion of tail lesion scores at post-mortem meat inspection should be considered as a health and welfare diagnostic tool.
    • Effect of Freezing Conditions on Fecal Bacterial Composition in Pigs

      Metzler-Zebeli, Barbara; Lawlor, Peadar; Magowan, Elizabeth; Zebeli, Qendrim; European Union; 311794 (Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute, 2016-02-25)
      Sample preservation and recovery of intact DNA from gut samples may affect the inferred gut microbiota composition in pigs. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of the freezing process and storage temperature prior to DNA extraction on DNA recovery and bacterial community composition in pig feces using quantitative PCR. Fresh fecal samples from six growing pigs were collected and five aliquots of each prepared: (1) total DNA extracted immediately; (2) stored at −20 °C; (3) snap frozen and stored at −20 °C; (4) stored at −80 °C; and (5) snap frozen and stored at −80 °C. Results showed that DNA yields from fresh fecal samples were, on average, 25 to 30 ng higher than those from the various stored samples. The DNA extracted from fresh samples had more gene copies of total bacteria and all targeted bacterial groups per gram feces compared to DNA extraction from frozen samples. Data presentation also modified the observed effect of freeze storage; as results for Lactobacillus group, Enterococcus spp., Streptococcus spp., Clostridium cluster IV, Bacteroides-Prevotella-Porphyromonas and Enterobacteriaceae showed the opposite effect when expressed as relative abundance, by being greater in freeze stored feces than in fresh feces. Snap freezing increased the relative proportion of Clostridium cluster IV by 24%. In conclusion, the freezing process affected DNA yield and bacterial abundances, whereas snap freezing and storage temperature had only little influence on abundances of bacterial populations in pig feces.
    • Thermoregulation at birth differs between piglets from two genetic lines divergent for residual feed intake

      Schmitt, O.; Reigner, S.; Bailly, J.; Ravon, L.; Billon, Y.; Gress, L.; Bluy, L.; Canario, L.; Gilbert, H.; Bonnet, A.; et al. (Elsevier, 2021-01)
      Thermoregulation is essential to piglets' neonatal survival. This study used infrared thermography (IRT) to assess thermoregulation abilities of piglets from two lines divergent for residual feed intake (RFI). At birth, morphology (weight, length, width and circumference), vigour (respiration, mobility and vocalisation), and rectal temperature were recorded from piglets of the 11th generation of the low RFI (LRFI, more efficient; n = 34) and the high RFI (HRFI, less efficient; n = 28) lines. Infrared thermography images were taken at 8, 15, 30 and 60 min post partum. Temperatures of the ear base and tip, and of the back (i.e. shoulders to rumps) were extracted (Thermacam Researcher Pro 2.0) and analysed with linear mixed models (SAS 9.4). Piglets had different average hourly weight gain (HRFI = 7.1 ± 1.3 g/h, LRFI = 3.6 ± 1.3 g/h; P < 0,001) but did not differ in morphology or vigour. All temperatures increased overtime. At birth, piglets' rectal temperature was correlated with the initial temperature of the ear base and the maximum back temperature (0.37 and 0.33, respectively; P < 0.05). High residual feed intake piglets had lower ear tip temperatures than LRFI piglets at 15 (24.7 ± 0.37 °C vs. 26.3 ± 0.36 °C, respectively; F1, 63.5 = 9.11, P < 0.005) and 30 min post partum (26.2 ± 0.47 °C vs. 27.6 ± 0.44 °C, respectively; F1, 66.9 = 4.52, P < 0.05). Moreover, thermal pattern of the ear tip differed between the two genetic lines. In conclusion, IRT allowed non-invasive assessment of piglets' thermoregulation abilities and indicated an influence of genetic selection for RFI on neonatal thermoregulation abilities.
    • Managing respiratory disease in finisher pigs: Combining quantitative assessments of clinical signs and the prevalence of lung lesions at slaughter

      Pessoa, Joana; Rodrigues da Costa, Maria; García Manzanilla, Edgar; Norton, Tomas; McAloon, Conor; Boyle, Laura; Teagasc Walsh Scholarship; Meat Industry Ireland; Irish Farmer’s Association (Elsevier, 2021-01)
      This study aimed to assess the relationship between quantitative assessments of clinical signs of respiratory disease (recorded manually and automatically) and the prevalence of lung lesions at slaughter to validate the use of both in the management of respiratory disease on farm. This was an observational study where pigs (n = 1573) were monitored from 25 ± 5.3 kg (week 12) to slaughter at 114 ± 15.4 kg (week 24). Pigs were housed in eight rooms divided into six pens on a wean-to-finish farm. A manual pen-based coughing (CF) and sneezing (SF) frequency was recorded weekly, for ten consecutive weeks, and a SOMO box (SoundTalks®) was installed in each room, issuing a daily respiratory distress index (RDI) for 13 weeks. Lungs were individually scored for pneumonia, scarring and dorsocaudal (DC) and cranial (CP) pleurisy lesions at slaughter. Relationship between prevalence of lung lesions and weekly RDI and CF and SF was assessed using Spearman’s rank correlations and multivariable linear and logit-normal models. Both coughing and lung lesions were largely pen-specific, which fit the disease presentation of Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae. Results showed agreement between RDI and CF (rs = 0.5, P < 0.001), measuring higher levels of coughing at the beginning (weeks 13–14) and end (weeks 21–24, and weeks 21–22, respectively) of the finisher period. Positive associations were found between the prevalence of pneumonia and CF on week 21 and 22 (P < 0.001 and P = 0.011, respectively) and RDI on week 21–24 (rs > 0.70; P < 0.050); the prevalence of DC and CP, and CF on week 22 (P < 0.001); and prevalence of scar lesions and CF on week 17 and 21 (P = 0.013 and P = 0.004, respectively), and RDI on week 21–24 (rs > 0.70; P < 0.050). In the earlier weeks of the finisher stage, coughing was recorded but was not reflected in a higher prevalence of lung lesions at slaughter. These findings highlight the benefit of including measurements of coughing frequency to complement post mortem findings, to improve the management of respiratory disease on farm.
    • Effect of multicarbohydrase enzymes containing α-galactosidase on the growth and apparent metabolizable energy digestibility of broiler chickens: a meta-analysis

      Llamas-Moya, S.; Higgins, N.F.; Adhikari, R.; Lawlor, P.G.; Lacey, S. (Elsevier, 2021-07)
      Exogenous enzyme supplementation is a valid strategy to improve nutrient availability and growth performance in broilers. Traditional carbohydrases, such as xylanase and β-glucanase, are well-researched solutions to increase the nutritional value of cereal grains, whilst reducing any negative impact of associated viscous polysaccharides. The feeding value of soybean meal and other protein rich oilcakes may not be fully exploited with traditional enzymes, as structures such as galacto-oligosaccharides and pectins require specific α-galactosidase, mannanase and other hemicellulolytic enzymes. This study aimed to summarize, in a meta-analysis, the results from independently run randomized controlled studies in various global locations that evaluated the effect of two distinct multicarbohydrase formulations, in which an α-galactosidase was combined with either xylanase (AGX) or β-glucanase (AGB). Through meta-regression analysis, the mean difference effects of AGX and AGB supplementation on broiler final body weight (BW), feed conversion ratio (FCR) and nitrogen-corrected apparent metabolizable energy (AMEN) were calculated for each relevant study. Fixed and random-effects models were used to compute the standardized mean difference (SMD) and confidence intervals, with corrective actions taken to ensure compliance with publication bias and heterogeneity by the Egger test and the Cochran Q test. Adjusted models showed that the AGX supplementation increased broiler BW (SMD=+30 g; 95 % CI: 0.08_0.48; P = 0.006) and improved FCR (SMD=−0.01 g/g; 95 % CI: -0.51_-0.11; P = 0.002). A composite evaluation of independent studies showed increased AMEN in broilers supplemented with AGX (SMD=+58 kcal/kg; 95 % CI: 0.45_1.10; P < 0.001). Furthermore, meta-analysis confirms that AGB supplementation increased BW (SMD=+56 g; 95 % CI: 0.32_0.91; P < 0.001), improved FCR (SMD=−0.04 g/g; 95 % CI: −0.76_−0.20; P = 0.006) and increased AMEN (SMD=+49 kcal/kg; 95 % CI: 0.30_1.07; P < 0.001). Overall, this meta-analysis found that dietary supplementation of broiler diets with the multicarbohydrases containing α-galactosidase considered in this evaluation, improved broiler growth during rearing periods of 35 days or more. These improvements may be supported by increases in energy utilization, as found in this study.
    • Mixing aggression intensity is associated with age at first service and floor type during gestation, with implications for sow reproductive performance

      Lagoda, M.E.; Boyle, L.A.; Marchewka, J.; Calderón Díaz, J.A.; Teagasc Walsh Fellowship; Enterprise Ireland; EasyFix Rubber Products; 0370 (Elsevier, 2021-03)
      Aggression resulting from mixing to establish a dominance hierarchy is a major welfare concern for group-housed sows. The associated stress can negatively impact aspects of reproductive performance. Objectives of this study were to investigate associations between 1) age at first service (AFS) and mixing aggression intensity in first parity sows, 2) mixing aggression intensity and reproductive performance within and between parity one and parity two, and 3) mixing aggression intensity, floor type during gestation and reproductive performance. Gilts (n = 160, hereafter referred to as sows) were mixed into stable groups of eight unfamiliar individuals approximately 4 days after artificial insemination, housed on fully slatted concrete (CON; n = 80) floor uncovered or covered with rubber slat mats (RUB; n = 80), and followed through two parities. Skin lesions (SLMIX; a proxy for the intensity of mixing aggression), were scored post mixing in each parity according to severity (0 = no lesions to 5 = severe lesions) on five body regions (ear, neck, hindquarter, rump, and belly) on the left and right sides, and at the tail/anogenital region. Total SLMIX score was calculated for each sow. Data on reproductive performance traits were acquired retrospectively from farm records for both parities. Two analyses were performed: 1) data from each parity were analysed separately and 2) SLMIX score in parity one was used to predict reproductive performance in parity two. Lower AFS was associated with a lower SLMIX score in parity one (P = 0.031). There was no association between SLMIX score and reproductive performance in parity one, while sows with higher SLMIX score in parity two had a higher proportion of piglets dead during lactation (P = 0.027) and a longer cycle length (P = 0.003) in parity two. Sows with higher SLMIX scores in parity one had more non-productive days (P < 0.001) in parity two. Concrete sows had a higher SLMIX score than RUB sows in parity one (P = 0.015), but not in parity two. In addition, CON sows had a higher proportion of piglets born dead (P = 0.013) compared with RUB sows in parity two. Mixing aggression has a negative influence on reproductive performance within parities, and it may also have a long-term negative carry-over effect on reproductive performance in subsequent parities. Serving gilts at younger ages could help to minimize the intensity of aggression at mixing, while housing on rubber flooring has beneficial implications for their reproductive performance.
    • Nurse sow strategies in the domestic pig: II. Consequences for piglet growth, suckling behaviour and sow nursing behaviour

      Schmitt, O.; Baxter, E.M.; Boyle, L.A.; O’Driscoll, K.; Irish Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine; 13S428 (Elsevier, 2019-12-31)
      Nurse sow strategies are used to manage large litters on commercial pig farms. However, new-born piglets transferred to nurse sows in late lactation might be compromised in terms of growth and survival. We investigated the effects of two nurse sow strategies on piglet growth, suckling behaviour and sow nursing behaviour. At 1-day post-farrowing, the four heaviest piglets from large litters were transferred to a nurse sow either 21 (1STEP21, n=9 litters) or 7 (2STEP7, n=10 litters) days into lactation. The remainder of the litter remained with their mother and was either kept intact (remain intact (RI), n=10 litters) or had some piglets cross-fostered to equalise birth weights (remain equalised (RE), n=9 litters). The 7-day-old piglets from 2STEP7 were transferred onto a sow 21 days into lactation (2STEP21, n=10 litters). The growth of new-born piglets on 1STEP21 and 2STEP7 nurse sows was initially lower than in RI litters (F3,33.8=4.61; P<0.01), but weaning weights did not significantly differ (F4,32.7=0.78; P>0.5). After the 1st week of lactation, the weights and growth rates did not differ between treatments. Fighting behaviour during nursing bouts decreased over time. The frequency of fights was higher in 1STEP21 and 2STEP21 litters compared with RI litters (t122=3.06 and t123=3.00, respectively, P<0.05). The 2STEP21 litters had shorter nursing bouts than RI and 1STEP21 litters (t107=−2.81 and t81.7=2.8, respectively, P<0.05), which were more frequently terminated by 2STEP21 than RI sows (t595=2.93; P<0.05). Transferring heaviest piglets from RI and RE litters to nurse sows reduced the percentage of teat changes during nursing bouts (RI: F1,275=16.61; RE: F1,308=43.59; P<0.001). In conclusion, nurse sow strategies do not appear to compromise piglet growth. However, new-born piglets transferred onto sows in late lactation experienced more competition at the udder, suggesting that the sows’ stage of lactation is of importance to how achievable nurse sow strategies are. Thus, the two-step nurse sow strategy is likely the best option (in relation to growth and suckling behaviour), as it minimises the difference between piglet age and sow stage of lactation.
    • Nurse sow strategies in the domestic pig: I. Consequences for selected measures of sow welfare

      Schmitt, O.; Baxter, E.M.; Boyle, L.A.; O'Driscoll, K.; Irish Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine; 13S428 (Elsevier, 2019-12-31)
      Management strategies are needed to optimise the number of piglets weaned from hyper-prolific sows. Nurse sow strategies involve transferring supernumerary new-born piglets onto a sow whose own piglets are either weaned or fostered onto another sow. Such ‘nurse sows’ have extended lactations spent in farrowing crates, which could have negative implications for their welfare. This study used 47 sows, 20 of which farrowed large litters and had their biggest piglets fostered onto nurse sows which were either 1 week (2STEP7, n=9) or 3 weeks into lactation (1STEP21, n=10). Sows from which piglets were removed (R) were either left with the remainder of the litter intact (I) (remain intact (RI) sows, n=10), or had their litters equalised (E) for birth weight using piglets of the same age from non-experimental sows (remain equalised (RE) sows, n=9). Piglets from 2STEP7 were fostered onto another nurse sow which was 3 weeks into lactation (2STEP21, n=9). Back-fat thickness was measured at entry to the farrowing house, at fostering (nurse sows only) and weaning. Sows were scored for ease of locomotion and skin and claw lesions at entry to the farrowing house and weaning. Salivary cortisol samples were collected and tear staining was scored at 0900 h weekly from entry until weaning. Saliva samples were also taken at fostering. Data were analysed using GLMs with appropriate random and repeated factors, or non-parametric tests were applied where appropriate. Back-fat thickness decreased between entry and weaning for all sows (F1,42=26.59, P<0.001) and tended to differ between treatments (F4,16=2.91; P=0.06). At weaning RI sows had lower limb lesion scores than 2STEP7 and RE sows (χ24=10.8, P<0.05). No treatment effects were detected on salivary cortisol concentrations (P>0.05) and all nurse sows had a higher salivary cortisol concentration at fostering, compared with the other days (F10,426=3.47; P<0.05). Acute effects of fostering differed between nurse sow treatments (F2,113=3.45, P<0.05); 2STEP7 sows had a higher salivary cortisol concentration than 1STEP21 and 2STEP21 sows on the day of fostering. 2STEP7 sows had a higher salivary cortisol concentration at fostering, compared with 1STEP21 and 2STEP21 sows. Tear staining scores were not influenced by treatment (P>0.05). In conclusion, no difference was detected between nurse sows and non-nurse sows in body condition or severity of lesions. Although some nurse sows experienced stress at fostering, no long-term effect of the nurse sow strategies was detected on stress levels compared with sows that raised their own litter.
    • Differences in intestinal size, structure, and function contributing to feed efficiency in broiler chickens reared at geographically distant locations

      Metzler-Zebeli, B.U.; Magowan, E.; Hollmann, M.; Ball, M.E.E.; Molnár, A.; Witter, K.; Ertl, R.; Hawken, R.J.; Lawlor, P.G.; O’Connell, N.E.; et al. (Elsevier, 2018-02-01)
      The contribution of the intestinal tract to differences in residual feed intake (RFI) has been inconclusively studied in chickens so far. It is also not clear if RFI-related differences in intestinal function are similar in chickens raised in different environments. The objective was to investigate differences in nutrient retention, visceral organ size, intestinal morphology, jejunal permeability and expression of genes related to barrier function, and innate immune response in chickens of diverging RFI raised at 2 locations (L1: Austria; L2: UK). The experimental protocol was similar, and the same dietary formulation was fed at the 2 locations. Individual BW and feed intake (FI) of chickens (Cobb 500FF) were recorded from d 7 of life. At 5 wk of life, chickens (L1, n = 157; L2 = 192) were ranked according to their RFI, and low, medium, and high RFI chickens were selected (n = 9/RFI group, sex, and location). RFI values were similar between locations within the same RFI group and increased by 446 and 464 g from low to high RFI in females and males, respectively. Location, but not RFI rank, affected growth, nutrient retention, size of the intestine, and jejunal disaccharidase activity. Chickens from L2 had lower total body weight gain and mucosal enzyme activity but higher nutrient retention and longer intestines than chickens at L1. Parameters determined only at L1 showed increased crypt depth in the duodenum and jejunum and enhanced paracellular permeability in low vs. high RFI females. Jejunal expression of IL1B was lower in low vs. high RFI females at L2, whereas that of TLR4 at L1 and MCT1 at both locations was higher in low vs. high RFI males. Correlation analysis between intestinal parameters and feed efficiency metrics indicated that feed conversion ratio was more correlated to intestinal size and function than was RFI. In conclusion, the rearing environment greatly affected intestinal size and function, thereby contributing to the variation in chicken RFI observed across locations.
    • An investigation into the effectiveness of compressed straw blocks in reducing abnormal behaviour in growing pigs

      Haigh, A.; Yun-Chou, J.; O’Driscoll, K.; Department of Agriculture, Food and Marine (Elsevier, 2019-12-31)
      The provision of manipulable material to pigs is a legal requirement to ensure their good welfare. Loose straw is edible, chewable, investigable and manipulable, and has been proven to be effective in reducing abnormal behaviour. However, it is incompatible with slatted systems and therefore not a viable option for many intensive units. Thus, there is a need to identify enrichment materials that are as effective as loose straw and compatible with slatted floors. This study investigated the viability of using compressed straw blocks on a commercial farm in terms of cost and effectiveness in reducing biting relative to plastic hanging toys. A total of 880 slaughter pigs were used, among which half (n = 440, 8 groups) were provided with commercial pig toys (TOY) and the other half (n = 440, 8 groups) were provided compressed straw blocks (STRAW BLOCK). Animals were separated according to sex to investigate whether there was a higher propensity to tail and ear bite depending on sex. Pigs were monitored from weaning to slaughter, with tails being examined post scalding and any condemnations recorded at the abattoir. Throughout their life, the tails and ears of all pigs were examined individually, and behavioural observations of each pig group were conducted fortnightly. Salivary cortisol was also obtained from a subsample of pigs from each group every fortnight to monitor stress levels. The highest straw usage was recorded in the second weaner stage (39 to 67 days after weaning). Enrichment type or sex had no effect on tail lesion scores or cold carcass weight recorded at the abattoir. There was also no effect of enrichment type or sex on body, tail, or ear lesion scores during either the weaner (0 to 39 days after weaning) or finisher stage (67 to145 days after weaning). Female pigs showed more biting behaviour than males, and female pigs that were provided STRAW BLOCK performed better than those provided TOY. In both the weaner and finisher accommodation, more instances of interaction were recorded with TOY pens as enrichment than with STRAW BLOCK, but the interaction duration was not recorded. There was no effect of sex on either stage. More instances of aggression were observed with the TOY than with STRAW BLOCK in the weaner stage (P < 0.05). Enrichment type or sex had no effect on cortisol levels. Thus, relative to plastic hanging toys, compressed straw blocks provided in this manner did not benefit pig welfare.
    • Pig carcass tail lesions: the influence of record keeping through an advisory service and the relationship with farm performance parameters

      van Staaveren, N.; Teixeira, D.L.; Hanlon, A.; Boyle, L.A.; Irish Department of Agriculture, Food and Marine; 11/S/107 (Elsevier, 2017-12-31)
      Tail lesions are important pig welfare indicators that could be recorded during meat inspection as they are more visible on the carcass than on the live animal. Tail biting is associated with reduced performance in the bitten pig, but it is not clear whether problems with tail biting are reflected in general farm performance figures. Farm advisory services aim to improve farm productivity which could be associated with improvements in pig welfare. Record keeping forms an integral part of such advisory services. The aim of this study was to examine the influence of record keeping in the Teagasc eProfit Monitor (ePM herds) on the prevalence of tail lesion severity scores in Irish slaughter pigs. In addition, we investigated associations between the prevalence of tail lesion scores and production parameters at farm level in ePM herds. Pigs were observed after scalding/dehairing and tail lesion score (0 to 4), sex and farm identification were recorded. Tail lesion scores were collapsed into none/mild lesions (score ⩽1), moderate lesions (score 2) and severe lesions (score ⩾3). The effect of record keeping (ePM herd) on the different tail lesion outcomes was analysed at batch level using the events/trials structure in generalized linear mixed models (PROC GLIMMIX). Spearman’s rank correlations were calculated between average tail lesion score of a batch and production parameters. A total of 13 133 pigs were assessed from 73 batches coming from 61 farms. In all, 23 farms were identified as ePM herds. The average prevalence of moderate tail lesions was 26.8% and of severe tail lesions was 3.4% in a batch. Batches coming from ePM herds had a lower prevalence of moderate tail lesions than non-ePM herds (P<0.001). Average tail lesion score was negatively associated with age (P<0.05) and weight (P<0.05) at sale/transfer of weaners, and tended to be positively associated with the number of finishing days (P=0.06). In addition, the prevalence of severe tail lesions was negatively associated with average daily gain in weaners (P<0.05) and tended to do so with average daily gain in finishers (P=0.08). This study provides the first indication that record keeping through an advisory service may help to lower the risk of tail biting, which is associated with improved farm performance.
    • Objective evaluation of female feet and leg joint conformation at time of selection and post first parity in swine

      Stock, Joseph D; Calderón Díaz, Julia A; Rothschild, Max F; Mote, Benny E; Stalder, Kenneth J; Iowa State University; State of Iowa; hatch funds (PubMed Central, 2018-06-09)
      Feet and legs of replacement females were objectively evaluated at selection, i.e., approximately 150 d of age (n = 319) and post first parity, i.e., any time after weaning of first litter and before second parturition (n = 277) to 1) compare feet and leg joint angle ranges between selection and post first parity; 2) identify feet and leg joint angle differences between selection and first 3 wk of second gestation; 3) identify feet and leg joint angle differences between farms and gestation days during second gestation; and 4) obtain genetic variance components for conformation angles for the two time points measured. Angles for carpal joint (knee), metacarpophalangeal joint (front pastern), metatarsophalangeal joint (rear pastern), tarsal joint (hock), and rear stance were measured using image analysis software. Between selection and post first parity, significant differences were observed for all joints measured (P < 0.05). Knee, front and rear pastern angles were less (more flexion), and hock angles were greater (less flexion) as age progressed (P < 0.05), while the rear stance pattern was less (feet further under center) at selection than post first parity (only including measures during first 3 wk of second gestation). Only using post first parity leg conformation information, farm was a significant source of variation for front and rear pasterns and rear stance angle measurements (P < 0.05). Knee angle was less (more flexion; P < 0.05) as gestation age progressed. Heritability estimates were low to moderate (0.04–0.35) for all traits measured across time points. Genetic correlations between the same joints at different time points were high (>0.8) between the front leg joints and low (<0.2) between the rear leg joints. High genetic correlations between time points indicate that the trait can be considered the same at either time point, and low genetic correlations indicate that the trait at different time points should be considered as two separate traits. Minimal change in the front leg suggests conformation traits that remain between selection and post first parity, while larger changes in rear leg indicate that rear leg conformation traits should be evaluated at multiple time periods.
    • Effects of pen faeces and feed contamination in biomarkers determination in oral fluid of pigs

      Franco-Martínez, Lorena; Ortín-Bustillo, Alba; Rubio, Camila P.; Escribano, Damián; López-Arjona, Marina; García-Manzanilla, Edgar; Cerón, José J.; Martínez-Subiela, Silvia; Tvarijonaviciute, Asta; Tecles, Fernando; et al. (Elsevier, 2022-12-20)
      The present study aims to evaluate the possible effects of the presence of pen faeces and feed on the measurement of a panel of biomarkers in porcine oral fluid. For this, clean porcine oral fluid was pooled and incubated with two different concentrations of pen faeces or feed representing a high or low level of contamination with each material. In addition, these pools were aliquoted and subjected to centrifugation, filtration or chemical clarification to evaluate if these techniques could revert the effects of those contaminants in biomarker evaluation. A panel of 21 biomarkers that assessed stress, inflammation, immune system and redox homeostasis among others, were measured for all aliquots. Changes of statistical relevance (p < 0.05) in oral fluid contaminated with pen faeces or feed versus untreated samples were observed for all methods employed with the exception of adenosine deaminase (ADA) and creatine kinase (CK) in oral fluid contaminated with pen faeces or feed. Pen faeces did not affect the measurement of haptoglobin, superoxide dismutase, CK, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), ADA and cortisol (when the latter is measured by chemiluminescence); while uric acid, LDH, CK, ADA, and hydrogen peroxide methods were not affected by the presence of feed in oral fluid. The effects of centrifugation, filtration or chemical clarification with chitosan in these contaminated samples were modest and for most cases did not caused baseline levels on the measured biomarkers. In conclusion, the presence of pen faeces or feed in porcine oral fluid can interfere with the results obtained when analytes are measured.
    • Use of infrared thermography to noninvasively assess neonatal piglet temperature

      Schmitt, Oceane; O’Driscoll, Keelin; Irish Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine; 13S428 (Oxford University Press (OUP), 2020-11-18)
      Hypothermia is risk factor for piglet neonatal mortality, especially for low birth weight piglets. Piglets with intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR) also have a higher mortality risk at birth. This study aimed to validate infrared thermography (IRT) as an alternative to rectal temperature (RT) to measure piglet temperature in the hour postpartum, and to identify piglets with thermoregulation difficulties. At birth (6.3 ± 0.35 min postpartum), 67 piglets were dried, weighed, scored for growth retardation (IUGR; 0–3), and isolated in a plastic box where IRT images were taken, followed by RT. Piglets were then returned to the farrowing pen, and the process repeated at 15, 30, and 60 min postpartum. Piglets were ranked according to their weight (quartiles: 0.57–1.27 kg, 1.27–1.5 kg, 1.5–1.74 kg, 1.74–2.44 kg). Temperatures (ear base and tip; minimum, maximum and average of back) were extracted from IRT images (Thermacam Researcher Pro 2.0). Pearson correlations between temperature measures were calculated, and the effect of time, IUGR score, and weight were included in linear mixed models (SAS 9.4). RT was correlated with all IRT data across time points (P < 0.05); correlations were strongest with the ear base, and weakest with the ear tip and minimum back temperature. Both IUGR score and weight rank affected ear base (P < 0.05) and RTs (P < 0.05). The lightest piglets, and piglets with severe IUGR had the lowest temperature, relative to their counterparts. Indeed, differences between all weights categories were significant for RT. Piglets with the lowest weight (0.27–1.27 kg) had lower ear base temperatures than piglets in the third quartile (1.5–1.74 kg; 35.2 ± 0.36 °C vs. 36.5 ± 0.35 °C, t64.9 = −4.51, P < 0.001) and the heaviest piglets (1.74–2.44 kg; 35.2 ± 0.36 °C vs. 36.4 ± 0.36 °C, t70.4 = −3.97, P < 0.005). Overall, piglets with severe IUGR (score 3) had a lower RT than normal piglets (score 0; 35.8 ± 0.46 °C vs. 37.2 ± 0.42 °C, t43.1 = 3.16, P < 0.05) and piglets with mild IUGR (score 1; 35.8 ± 0.46 °C vs. 37.1 ± 0.40 °C, t45.3 = 2.92, P < 0.05); and they also had lower temperature at the base of the ear than normal piglets (35.1 ± 0.42 °C vs. 36.3 ± 0.36 °C, t63.1 = 3.01, P < 0.05). These results confirmed that IRT is an interesting noninvasive tool for assessing neonatal piglets’ thermoregulatory abilities and could be used in research investigating successful interventions for piglets at risk of hypothermia.
    • Optimisation of a bead-beating procedure for simultaneous extraction of bacterial and fungal DNA from pig faeces and liquid feed for 16S and ITS2 rDNA amplicon sequencing

      Cullen, J.T.; Lawlor, P.G.; Cormican, P.; Crispie, F.; Gardiner, G.E.; Waterford Institute of Technology; Irish Research Council; GOIPG/2021/331 (Elsevier, 2022-12-31)
      Efficient cell lysis is critical for the extraction of DNA from difficult-to-lyse microorganisms such as Gram-positive bacteria and filamentous fungi. A bead-beating (BB) step is usually included in DNA extraction protocols to improve cell lysis. However, there is no consensus on the duration of BB that is necessary for complete lysis of the microbial communities present in complex microbial ecosystems, but which will still maintain the integrity of DNA released from easy-to-lyse microbes. Another consideration is that most protocols are tailored to one particular target group of microbes, typically either bacteria or fungi, in a given sample matrix. In this study, we investigated the impact of five BB durations (0, 3, 10, 15 and 20 min) during DNA extraction with the QIAamp® Fast DNA Stool Mini Kit, on the bacterial and fungal communities of single pig faecal and liquid feed samples, extracted in triplicate, with the objective of determining a suitable ‘catch-all’ method. Both sample types were subjected to the BB durations in triplicate, followed by 16S (bacterial) and ITS2 (fungal) rDNA amplicon sequencing. The performance of the different BB durations was assessed based on the quantity of total DNA extracted, alpha- and beta-diversity analyses of the resultant microbial communities and differential abundance of bacterial and fungal taxa. Our results suggest that 20 min of BB is most appropriate for maximising the lysis of difficult-to-lyse bacteria and fungi in both pig faeces and liquid feed, while minimising the negative impact on easier-to-lyse microbes. Total DNA yield increased with BB duration for both sample types; however, the yield from faeces decreased after 20 min of BB. Despite this, DESeq2 analysis indicated that changes in the differential abundances of the dominant taxa at this point were limited, which was supported by the Shannon diversity results. Maximising the BB duration appeared to be necessary in order to obtain a representative profile of the Gram-positive bacteria, particularly in liquid feed, and of the filamentous fungi present in both sample types. However, considering the small sample size, along with the reliance on differential as opposed to absolute abundances to validate increases or decreases in taxa, a larger-scale study is necessary to verify the findings of the present study.
    • Mixing aggression intensity is associated with age at first service and floor type during gestation, with implications for sow reproductive performance

      Lagoda, M.E.; Boyle, L.A.; Marchewka, J.; Calderón Díaz, J.A.; Teagasc Walsh Fellowship; ref. 0370 (Elsevier, 2021-03-31)
      Aggression resulting from mixing to establish a dominance hierarchy is a major welfare concern for group-housed sows. The associated stress can negatively impact aspects of reproductive performance. Objectives of this study were to investigate associations between 1) age at first service (AFS) and mixing aggression intensity in first parity sows, 2) mixing aggression intensity and reproductive performance within and between parity one and parity two, and 3) mixing aggression intensity, floor type during gestation and reproductive performance. Gilts (n =160, hereafter referred to as sows) were mixed into stable groups of eight unfamiliar individuals approximately 4 days after artificial insemination, housed on fully slatted concrete (CON; n =80) floor uncovered or covered with rubber slat mats (RUB; n =80), and followed through two parities. Skin lesions (SLMIX; a proxy for the intensity of mixing aggression), were scored post mixing in each parity according to severity (0=no lesions to 5=severe lesions) on five body regions (ear, neck, hindquarter, rump, and belly) on the left and right sides, and at the tail/anogenital region. Total SLMIX score was calculated for each sow. Data on reproductive performance traits were acquired retrospectively from farm records for both parities. Two analyses were performed: 1) data from each parity were analysed separately and 2) SLMIX score in parity one was used to predict reproductive performance in parity two. Lower AFS was associated with a lower SLMIX score in parity one (P =0.031). There was no association between SLMIX score and reproductive performance in parity one, while sows with higher SLMIX score in parity two had a higher proportion of piglets dead during lactation (P =0.027) and a longer cycle length (P =0.003) in parity two. Sows with higher SLMIX scores in parity one had more non-productive days (P <0.001) in parity two. Concrete sows had a higher SLMIX score than RUB sows in parity one (P =0.015), but not in parity two. In addition, CON sows had a higher proportion of piglets born dead (P =0.013) compared with RUB sows in parity two. Mixing aggression has a negative influence on reproductive performance within parities, and it may also have a long-term negative carry-over effect on reproductive performance in subsequent parities. Serving gilts at younger ages could help to minimize the intensity of aggression at mixing, while housing on rubber flooring has beneficial implications for their reproductive performance.
    • Effect of multicarbohydrase enzymes containing α-galactosidase on the growth and apparent metabolizable energy digestibility of broiler chickens: a meta-analysis

      Llamas-Moya, S.; Higgins, N.F.; Adhikari, R.; Lawlor, P.G.; Lacey, S. (Elsevier, 2021-07-31)
      Exogenous enzyme supplementation is a valid strategy to improve nutrient availability and growth performance in broilers. Traditional carbohydrases, such as xylanase and β-glucanase, are well-researched solutions to increase the nutritional value of cereal grains, whilst reducing any negative impact of associated viscous polysaccharides. The feeding value of soybean meal and other protein rich oilcakes may not be fully exploited with traditional enzymes, as structures such as galacto-oligosaccharides and pectins require specific α-galactosidase, mannanase and other hemicellulolytic enzymes. This study aimed to summarize, in a meta-analysis, the results from independently run randomized controlled studies in various global locations that evaluated the effect of two distinct multicarbohydrase formulations, in which an α-galactosidase was combined with either xylanase (AGX) or β-glucanase (AGB). Through meta-regression analysis, the mean difference effects of AGX and AGB supplementation on broiler final body weight (BW), feed conversion ratio (FCR) and nitrogen-corrected apparent metabolizable energy (AMEN) were calculated for each relevant study. Fixed and random-effects models were used to compute the standardized mean difference (SMD) and confidence intervals, with corrective actions taken to ensure compliance with publication bias and heterogeneity by the Egger test and the Cochran Q test. Adjusted models showed that the AGX supplementation increased broiler BW (SMD=+30 g; 95 % CI: 0.08_0.48; P = 0.006) and improved FCR (SMD=−0.01 g/g; 95 % CI: -0.51_-0.11; P = 0.002). A composite evaluation of independent studies showed increased AMEN in broilers supplemented with AGX (SMD=+58 kcal/kg; 95 % CI: 0.45_1.10; P < 0.001). Furthermore, meta-analysis confirms that AGB supplementation increased BW (SMD=+56 g; 95 % CI: 0.32_0.91; P < 0.001), improved FCR (SMD=−0.04 g/g; 95 % CI: −0.76_−0.20; P = 0.006) and increased AMEN (SMD=+49 kcal/kg; 95 % CI: 0.30_1.07; P < 0.001). Overall, this meta-analysis found that dietary supplementation of broiler diets with the multicarbohydrases containing α-galactosidase considered in this evaluation, improved broiler growth during rearing periods of 35 days or more. These improvements may be supported by increases in energy utilization, as found in this study.
    • Effect of multicarbohydrase enzymes containing α-galactosidase on the growth and apparent metabolizable energy digestibility of broiler chickens: a meta-analysis

      Llamas-Moya, S.; Higgins, N.F.; Adhikari, R.; Lawlor, P.G.; Lacey, S. (Elsevier, 2021-07-31)
      Exogenous enzyme supplementation is a valid strategy to improve nutrient availability and growth performance in broilers. Traditional carbohydrases, such as xylanase and β-glucanase, are well-researched solutions to increase the nutritional value of cereal grains, whilst reducing any negative impact of associated viscous polysaccharides. The feeding value of soybean meal and other protein rich oilcakes may not be fully exploited with traditional enzymes, as structures such as galacto-oligosaccharides and pectins require specific α-galactosidase, mannanase and other hemicellulolytic enzymes. This study aimed to summarize, in a meta-analysis, the results from independently run randomized controlled studies in various global locations that evaluated the effect of two distinct multicarbohydrase formulations, in which an α-galactosidase was combined with either xylanase (AGX) or β-glucanase (AGB). Through meta-regression analysis, the mean difference effects of AGX and AGB supplementation on broiler final body weight (BW), feed conversion ratio (FCR) and nitrogen-corrected apparent metabolizable energy (AMEN) were calculated for each relevant study. Fixed and random-effects models were used to compute the standardized mean difference (SMD) and confidence intervals, with corrective actions taken to ensure compliance with publication bias and heterogeneity by the Egger test and the Cochran Q test. Adjusted models showed that the AGX supplementation increased broiler BW (SMD=+30 g; 95 % CI: 0.08_0.48; P = 0.006) and improved FCR (SMD=−0.01 g/g; 95 % CI: -0.51_-0.11; P = 0.002). A composite evaluation of independent studies showed increased AMEN in broilers supplemented with AGX (SMD=+58 kcal/kg; 95 % CI: 0.45_1.10; P < 0.001). Furthermore, meta-analysis confirms that AGB supplementation increased BW (SMD=+56 g; 95 % CI: 0.32_0.91; P < 0.001), improved FCR (SMD=−0.04 g/g; 95 % CI: −0.76_−0.20; P = 0.006) and increased AMEN (SMD=+49 kcal/kg; 95 % CI: 0.30_1.07; P < 0.001). Overall, this meta-analysis found that dietary supplementation of broiler diets with the multicarbohydrases containing α-galactosidase considered in this evaluation, improved broiler growth during rearing periods of 35 days or more. These improvements may be supported by increases in energy utilization, as found in this study.
    • Intestinal microbiota modulation and improved growth in pigs with post‑weaning antibiotic and ZnO supplementation but only subtle microbiota efects with Bacillus altitudinis

      Crespo‑Piazuelo, Daniel; Lawlor, Peadar; Ranjitkar, Samir; Cormican, Paul; Villodre, Carmen; Bouwhuis, Meike A.; Marsh, Alan; Crispie, Fiona; Rattigan, Ruth; Gardiner, Gillian E.; et al. (Nature, 2011)
      The objective was to evaluate the efect of dietary Bacillus altitudinis spore supplementation during day (D)0–28 post-weaning (PW) and/or D29–56 PW compared with antibiotic and zinc oxide (AB+ZnO) supplementation on pig growth and gut microbiota. Eighty piglets were selected at weaning and randomly assigned to one of fve dietary treatments: (1) negative control (Con/Con); (2) probiotic spores from D29–56 PW (Con/Pro); (3) probiotic spores from D0–28 PW (Pro/Con); (4) probiotic spores from D0–56 PW (Pro/Pro) and (5) AB+ZnO from D0–28 PW. Overall, compared with the AB+ZnO group, the Pro/Con group had lower body weight, average daily gain and feed intake and the Pro/Pro group tended to have lower daily gain and feed intake. However, none of these parameters difered between any of the probiotic-treated groups and the Con/Con group. Overall, AB+ZnO-supplemented pigs had higher Bacteroidaceae and Prevotellaceae and lower Lactobacillaceae and Spirochaetaceae abundance compared to the Con/Con group, which may help to explain improvements in growth between D15–28 PW. The butyrate-producing genera Agathobacter, Faecalibacterium and Roseburia were more abundant in the Pro/Con group compared with the Con/Con group on D35 PW. Thus, whilst supplementation with B. altitudinis did not enhance pig growth performance, it did have a subtle, albeit potentially benefcial, impact on the intestinal microbiota.
    • Microbial Quality of Liquid Feed for Pigs and Its Impact on the Porcine Gut Microbiome

      T. Cullen, James; G. Lawlor, Peadar; Cormican, Paul; E. Gardiner, Gillian; Waterford Institute of Technology Ph.D. Scholarship Programme; Irish Research Council Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship Programme; GOIPG/2021/331 (Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute, 2021-10-16)
      There is evidence that spontaneous fermentation frequently occurs in liquid pig feed that is intended to be delivered as fresh liquid feed, often with a resultant deterioration in the microbial and nutritional quality of the feed, which can negatively affect pig health and growth. Strategies including controlled fermentation with microbial inoculants, pre-fermentation or soaking of the cereal fraction of the diet, enzyme supplementation and dietary acidification have been employed to inhibit pathogens and prevent deterioration of feed nutritional quality, with promising results obtained in many cases. This review evaluates the impact of these strategies on the microbial quality of liquid feed and discusses how they can be further improved. It also investigates if/how these strategies impact the pig gut microbiota and growth performance of liquid-fed pigs. Finally, we review liquid feed system sanitisation practices, which are highly variable from farm to farm and discuss the impact of these practices and whether they are beneficial or detrimental to liquid feed microbial quality. Overall, we provide a comprehensive review of the current state of knowledge on liquid feed for pigs, focusing on factors affecting microbial quality and strategies for its optimisation, as well as its impact on the pig gut microbiome.