Acta Veterinaria Scandinavica最新文献

Background: Neonatal enteritis is a major cause of losses in dairy calves and bovine norovirus (BNoV) and nebovirus (NeV) are underdiagnosed contributors to this disease. In this study, we report for the first time molecular characteristics of bovine norovirus (BNoV) and nebovirus (NeV) detected in calves in Swedish dairy herds. 700 samples from preweaned calves with and without diarrhea were analysed.

Results: BNoV was more prevalent (19%) than NeV (4.5%), and among BNoV, the GIII.P2 genotype was more frequently detected than the GIII.P1 genotype. These viruses were detected at similar frequencies in calves with and without diarrhea. The 17 NeV partial polymerase gene sequences all clustered with the Bo/NB/80/ USA prototype strain. Also, the molecular epidemiology of BNoV GIII.P1 in a longitudinal study in one dairy herd is reported.

Conclusions: In this study, we describe for the first time molecular characteristics of BNoV and NeV from Swedish dairy herds. The genotypes detected in Swedish dairy calves were similar to those detected in most of the studies from other countries within and outside Europe. Phylogenetic clustering of Swedish virus strains was detected and discussed in relation to virus transmission.

Background: Cleaning and disinfection (C&D) in slaughterhouses and meat processing facilities is essential to avoid cross-contamination of the meat and thereby prevent food-borne illness and decreased shelf-life of the food product. To determine C&D efficacy, environmental monitoring should be performed. The food business operator must decide which activities to apply in their facility, which can be a challenging task. Ten slaughterhouses, six red meat and four poultry, with associated meat processing facilities participated in this interview study. The animals slaughtered in these slaughterhouses represented approximately 32% and 90% of the annual slaughter in Sweden, respectively. Quality assurance managers of the slaughterhouses were asked 27 questions using digital interviews about their C&D procedures and environmental monitoring. Additionally, the managers could freely elaborate on the difficulties and challenges related to C&D.

Results: Daily C&D was performed in all slaughterhouses and nine hired external cleaning companies. The same type of chemicals were used in all ten slaughterhouses, which primarily included alkaline detergents with or without chlorine for cleaning and chlorine-based agents for disinfection. The most common methods used for monitoring C&D efficacy were the sampling of surfaces by dipslides and ATP-bioluminescence, while one slaughterhouse used swabbing. Only half of the slaughterhouses based thresholds to determine if a surface was sufficiently clean on their own risk-analysis. The remaining slaughterhouses did not provide the information, or the respondent did not know. Quality assurance managers expressed difficulties in determining C&D efficacy, identified several surfaces as difficult to clean and noted reliance on externally provided hygiene thresholds. Four thematic challenges emerged in the thematic analysis: microbial composition on surfaces; efficacy of C&D procedures; competence and management; and production and competitiveness.

Conclusions: Slaughterhouses face notable challenges in C&D, and environmental monitoring, including procedural deficiencies, knowledge gaps, and limited science-based guidelines. Hygiene outcomes are strongly influenced by personnel competence and management support. Limited collaboration between slaughterhouses further impedes the sharing of effective practices. Strengthened partnerships with the scientific community, improved training, risk-based monitoring, and hygienic facility design are essential to enhance C&D standards and reduce microbial contamination risks at slaughterhouses and meat processing facilities.

Background: To safeguard dairy calf welfare, European legislative recommendations on milk feeding practices and minimum standards on housing of calves exist. However, studies providing a general overview of common practices on milk-fed calf rearing across European countries are sparse. The aim of this study was to provide an overview of current milk feeding and housing practices for dairy calves in conventional and organic herds across European countries. Forty-five respondents with extensive knowledge about dairy production and calf rearing from 25 countries and regions were invited to an online questionnaire regarding farm demographics, management of the newborn calves, milk feeding and housing practices of calves 1-4 weeks of age and 5-8 weeks of age, and weaning practices.

Results: A total of 21 respondents from 15 countries and regions responded to the survey. The survey suggests that in conventional herds most calves spent a limited time with the dam after birth (≤ 12 h) with longer durations found in organic herds (> 2 days). Calves 1-4 weeks of age are reported to be commonly housed in individual pens and fed 6-8 L/day in two daily feedings. In most countries and regions, less than 25% of the herds are reported to be practicing ad libitum milk feeding. In most countries and regions, teat buckets or teat bars are reported to be used for milk feeding. In countries and regions where open buckets or troughs are more common, access to permanently mounted artificial dry teats (dummy teats) was typically provided. Calves 5-8 weeks of age are reported to be predominantly group housed and fed 8-10 L/day in two daily feedings with once a day milk feeding occurring more frequently in calves within this age group. Weaning was reported to be most frequently initiated between 8 and 10 weeks.

Conclusions: Based on the respondents' evaluations the survey suggests that there are discrepancies between recommendations based on research and the current practices regarding milk allowance and feeding frequency, and weaning. Legislative or industry regulations on timing of separation from the dam, milk type, or weaning age are primarily implemented for organic production systems in a smaller proportion of countries.

Background: Despite advancements in pancarpal arthrodesis implants, the postoperative complication rate remains high, and implant removal is often required. This study assessed the implant removal rate following pancarpal arthrodesis and identified its associated factors. Case records of 52 pancarpal arthrodesis procedures performed on 42 dogs at three veterinary centres between 2017 and 2023 were reviewed. The collected data included signalment, medical history, surgical techniques, and postoperative follow-up, which were categorised into perioperative, short-term, mid-term, and long-term periods. Additionally, the timing and indications for implant removal were documented. Univariable logistic regression analysis was performed to analyse the data and identify factors associated with implant removal.

Results: The implant removal rate was 36.5%. The presence of orthopaedic injuries in the contralateral limb was not associated with implant removal. The interval between diagnosis and pancarpal arthrodesis was significantly associated with implant removal (mean delay: 368.5 and 47.5 days for explantation and non-explantation cases, respectively). Carpal arthrodesis angle showed a statistically significant association with explantation (median angle: 8.58° and 11.73° for explantation and non-explantation cases, respectively). Perioperative and short-term surgical site infections, perioperative and short-term cultures and sensitivities, and the need for additional perioperative antibiotic therapy showed a statistically significant association with explantation.

Conclusions: This study confirms the high implant removal rate following pancarpal arthrodesis. Although infection may contribute to this, prompt intervention and careful attention to the carpal arthrodesis angle intraoperatively may reduce this risk.

Background: Research on cancer in wild animals provides important insights into the mechanisms of carcinogenesis. Histiocytic sarcomas comprise a rare malignant macrophage-dendritic cell lineage neoplasm in wildlife. This study reports a case of histiocytic sarcoma in the small intestine of a collared peccary (Pecari tajacu), describing its clinical, anatomopathological, and immunohistochemical aspects.

Case presentation: A six-year-old male collared peccary maintained in captivity at a facility in Northeastern Brazil presented progressive weight loss, diarrhea, anorexia, dyspnea, lethargy, abdominal distension, bristled fur, and pale mucous membranes. A complete blood count indicated a mild degree of anemia and moderate leukocytosis. Treatment included anti-inflammatories and antibiotics; however, on the 18th day after initial presentation, the animal was found dead in its enclosure. An anatomopathological examination revealed that the animal exhibited poor body condition, scant body fat with a gelatinous appearance, hydrothorax, pulmonary edema, and ascites. Thickening of the duodenal wall was observed, along with the presence of a yellowish-white tumor. Histopathological examination of the affected intestinal segment revealed a neoplastic proliferation of round cells with large, hyperchromatic nuclei, prominent nucleoli, and a high mitotic index (20 mitoses per high-power field). Numerous multinucleated and binucleated giant cells were present. The neoplastic cells extensively infiltrated all layers of the intestinal wall, from the mucosa to the serosa. Immunohistochemical analysis showed strong positivity for macrophage/mononuclear phagocytic lineage markers (CD18, IBA-1, and lysozyme), while negative for T-cell (CD3), B-cell (CD79), and plasma cell (MUM1) markers. The proliferation index assessed by Ki-67 was approximately 60%.

Conclusions: The histopathological and immunohistochemical findings confirmed the diagnosis of intestinal histiocytic sarcoma in a collared peccary, representing the first documented case of this neoplasm in this species.

Background: Antibiotic treatment of piglets after birth is commonly carried out due to concern for development of omphalitis leading to umbilical outpouchings and/or systemic infections. Among others, the portal of entry for bacterial infections includes the umbilical cord at birth. The aim was to characterise the histological and bacteriological pattern of manifestations in the umbilicus of piglets with omphalitis that died during the suckling period in a Danish herd.

Results: A total of 37 piglets found dead or euthanised due to sickness before weaning were included. Histopathological omphalitis was diagnosed in 13 of these piglets, and umbilical lesions and bacteria were most often observed in association with the umbilical blood vessels. Neutrophilic granulocyte infiltrations were observed in association with both umbilical arteries and the vein, occurring most frequently in the arteries. Escherichia coli and Trueperella pyogenes were the most commonly isolated bacteria from piglets with histopathological omphalitis.

Conclusions: Omphalitis in piglets was characterized by inflammation and presence of bacteria in the umbilical arteries and to a lesser extent the umbilical vein. Inflammation in urachus was not present.

Background: Veterinarians are key stakeholders in fighting African Swine Fever (ASF), yet their awareness, perceptions and attitudes of ASF are often unknown. This is crucial, especially in Estonia where ASF has persisted for almost 10 years. We conducted five focus groups involving 11 farm veterinarians and 4 assistants working on Estonian commercial pig farms. Using participatory methods, we revealed their awareness of ASF signs, transmission routes, and preventive measures. Furthermore, we identified perceived obstacles to the implementation and maintenance of ASF biosecurity measures and their acceptance of control measures. Finally, we investigated veterinarians' awareness of stakeholders in ASF control, their role and trust to fulfil these roles.

Results: Haemorrhages on skin, mucosa and organs, along with fever, loss of appetite, and increased mortality were frequently mentioned as first signs that would lead veterinary staff to suspect ASF infection in the herd. The highest risk of virus introduction into the herd was designated to humans, transport vehicles, and bedding. Training of people and disinfection with movement restrictions were considered the most effective measures for preventing ASF. The motivation and attitude of farm employees, and financial constraints were perceived as major obstacles impacting implementation and maintenance of ASF biosecurity measures. Herd-level ASF eradication measures were generally accepted, except for culling. The majority acknowledged its necessity, while others advocated for a case-by-case approach or suggested using the animals for food. Establishing restricted zones I, II, and III received the least acceptance, with concerns over market access, product prices, economic hardships for farmers, and inconsistencies in zoning practices across the EU. Pigkeepers and veterinary authorities were seen as the key stakeholders in ASF control, with veterinarians and pigkeepers being the most trusted to fulfil their roles.

Conclusions: Veterinary staff demonstrated good awareness of ASF signs, transmission routes, and preventive measures. Further training in ASF control measures remains relevant in areas related to the EU and national legislation, involved parties and their roles, to ensure effective implementation and collaboration with stakeholders. This study provides insights into refining ASF communication strategies and identifying potential blind spots in biosecurity practices in Estonia.

Background: Domestic ruminants are common hosts of Cryptosporidium spp. and Giardia spp. Although both protozoan parasites are known to circulate among lambs in Norway, their epidemiology is largely unknown. This longitudinal study investigated the occurrence of both parasites in different age groups of lambs, with molecular characterisation of some isolates. Faecal samples (n = 394) were collected from lambs from 17 different flocks on three occasions. At first sampling, lambs were approximately 2-3 days old, and 160 samples were collected. On the two subsequent occasions, no additional lambs were included and samples collected were from among the lambs sampled on the first occasion. At second sampling, lambs were 14-21 days old, and 134 samples were collected. At the final sampling, lambs were 40-42 days old, and 100 samples were collected. Samples were analysed using immunofluorescent antibody staining (IFAT), with molecular characterisation of selected positive samples by PCR and sequencing.

Results: In total, 66 samples (17%) were positive for Cryptosporidium oocysts and 61 (16%) positive for Giardia cysts by IFAT. Cryptosporidium was detected most often at the second sampling, occurring significantly more often than in younger lambs (P < 0.0001). Longitudinal investigation indicated that around 20% of lambs shedding Cryptosporidium oocysts at one sampling occasion were still infected, or had been reinfected, at the next sampling occasion. A significant increase in Giardia infection occurred with age, with a higher occurrence at the second sampling occasion than the first (P < 0.0001), and a greater occurrence at the third sampling occasion than both the first (P < 0.0001) and second (P = 0.052). For Giardia, persistent infection, or reinfection between sampling occasions, was between 25 and 40%. Associations were detected between infection status and location (Vestland or Rogaland), infection status and diarrhoea, and intensity of infection and diarrhoea. Molecular methods identified two species of Cryptosporidium (C. parvum (subtypes IIaA13G1R2 (4 samples) and IIdA20G1 (1 sample)) and C. ubiquitum, subtype XIIa (3 samples). Giardia isolates were identified as G. bovis (G. duodenalis, Assemblage E).

Conclusions: Cryptosporidium and Giardia infections occurred commonly in lambs in the three different age groups, with more positives detected at the second and third sampling (when the lambs were older) than at the first. As some lambs were positive for one or other of the parasites on two sampling occasions, prolonged infection or reinfection may occur. Molecular characterisation indicated that although the Cryptosporidium in these lambs can be of public health importance, the Giardia species identified are not considered zoonotic.

Introduction: Botulism, a severe neuroparalytic disease caused by the botulinum toxin produced by Clostridium botulinum, poses significant threats to wild birds. This study describes a natural outbreak of type C botulism in waterfowl in the surroundings of a lagoon in Saavedra, Buenos Aires province, Argentina, during January 2021. The outbreak, affecting approximately 300 birds, was attributed to environmental conditions that allowed the proliferation of C. botulinum. Clinical signs included progressive weakness, paresis, flaccid paralysis, difficulties in locomotion and swimming, "limbing neck", and nictitating membrane protrusion. No gross lesions were observed during autopsies, but mild congestion, hemorrhage, and pulmonary edema were noted microscopically. Toxin type C was detected in feces, serum samples, and lagoon water, confirming the diagnosis. This is the first documented report of waterfowl botulism in central Argentina and highlights the impact that delayed detection can have on bird populations.

Background: Botulism, a severe neuroparalytic disease caused by Clostridium botulinum neurotoxins, poses a significant risk to wild birds, especially waterfowl and their ecosystems. Recent trends show an increase in botulism outbreaks in wild birds, likely influenced by climate change impacting environmental factors. Unlike in humans, there is often a lack of regulation and surveillance of botulism in wild birds worldwide.

Case presentation: In January 2021, an outbreak of neurological disease characterized by locomotion difficulties, led to the deaths of approximately 300 waterfowl. Results confirmed BoNTs type C establishing the cause of the mortality.

Conclusions: This botulism outbreak underscores the critical need for early detection and intervention to prevent significant losses in wild bird populations.

Background: Swedish animal welfare requirements exceed those of EU, which may have contributed to decreased pig production in Sweden since joining EU. On request from stakeholders, the Swedish Board of Agriculture allowed testing effects of reduced welfare demands on pig production for one year. This included weaning before 28 days at individual level, temporary confinements of sows during farrowing and mating, and increased stocking density of growers. The intervention period lasted for one year, and the productivity was compared with the preceding year.

Results: A reduced mean weaning age from 32 to 27 days did not have a significant effect on piglet welfare measures but the annual number of piglets weaned per sow increased by 1.3. Temporary confinement of sows at farrowing had no significant effect on piglet mortality or productivity, but the confinement reduced sow welfare. Temporary confinement of sows during mating did not improve sow productivity. Instead, hygiene and welfare decreased due to the confinement. Decreased stocking density by 10% compared with Swedish requirements had no significant effect on welfare measures. Nor did weight gain differ from the previous year. However, increased batch size of fatteners increased the incidence of respiratory lesions at slaughter, impaired growth and feed conversion.

Conclusions: Simulations assured that over 90% of the piglets were older than 25 days in batches weaned at a mean age of 28 days. As piglets mature from three to four weeks of age, this was important for piglet welfare. Short-term confinement of sows at farrowing or mating decreased sow welfare due to the confinement while no significant increase in piglet productivity was found. An increased stocking density by 10% of weaners and growers did not affect welfare measures but increased the number of potential disease transmissions between pigs by 22% due to increased batch sizes. When batch size increased, respiratory lesions at slaughter increased and productivity decreased. Based on the results, the Board of Agriculture allowed herds to wean at a mean age of 28 days provided they complied with special requirements. Except for this, the minimal legal requirements of pig welfare in Sweden remained unchanged.