Healthy Pigs Research Articles

Within-Host Diversity of Coagulase-Negative Staphylococci Resistome from Healthy Pigs and Pig Farmers, with the Detection of cfr-Carrying Strains and MDR-S. borealis.

The ecology and diversity of resistome in coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS) from healthy pigs and pig farmers are rarely available as most studies focused on the livestock-associated methicillin-resistant S. aureus. This study aims to characterize the antimicrobial resistance (AMR) mechanisms, intra-host species diversity (more than one species in a host), and intra-species AMR diversity (same species with more than one AMR profile) in CoNS recovered from the nasal cavities of healthy pigs and pig farmers. One-hundred-and-one CoNS strains previously recovered from 40 pigs and 10 pig farmers from four Spanish pig farms were tested to determine their AMR profiles. Non-repetitive strains were selected (n = 75) and their AMR genes, SCCmec types, and genetic lineages were analyzed by PCR/sequencing. Of the non-repetitive strains, 92% showed a multidrug resistance (MDR) phenotype, and 52% were mecA-positive, which were associated with SCCmec types V (46.2%), IVb (20.5%), and IVc (5.1%). A total of 28% of the pigs and pig farmers had intra-host species diversity, while 26% had intra-species AMR diversity. High repertoires of AMR genes were detected, including unusual ones such as tetO, ermT, erm43, and cfr. Most important was the detection of cfr (in S. saprophyticus and S. epidermidis-ST16) in pigs and pig farmers; whereas MDR-S. borealis strains were identified in pig farmers. Pig-to-pig transmission of CoNS with similar AMR genes and SCCmec types was detected in 42.5% of pigs. The high level of multidrug, within-host, and intra-species resistome diversity in the nasal CoNS highlights their ability to be AMR gene reservoirs in healthy pigs and pig farmers. The detection of MDR-S. borealis and linezolid-resistant strains underscore the need for comprehensive and continuous surveillance of MDR-CoNS at the pig farm level.

Effect of Doun Palm Mesocarp Meal (Hyphaene Thebaica) As Partial Replacement for Maize on Growth Performance and Haematological Indices of Weaned Pigs

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of Doum palm mesocarp meal (DPMM) as partial replacement for maize on the growth performance and heamatological indices of weaned pigs. A total of 50 crossbred pigs with an initial weight of 7.12 ± 0.01 kg and weaned at 21 days of age were individually housed in pens and fed five experimental diets. Diet 1 (Corn based diet without doum palm mesocarp meal, DPMM was used to partially replace maize at 5 %, 10 %, 15 % and 2% in diet 2, 3, 4 and 5 respectively. The experimental diet were adequate in all nutrients and fed ad libitum for 56 days in a completely randomized design. DPPM contained crude protein (6.09 %), crude fibre (11.49 %), ether extract (1.75 %), ash (6.26 %) and energy (2933.7 kcal/kg). Average weight gain, average daily feed intake and feed conversion ratio were not influenced (P>0.05) by dietary treatments. Pack cell volume, red blood cell, platelet, mean platelet volume, mean corpuscular volume, mean corpuscular haemoglobin, mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration, white blood cell, neutrophils, basophils, monocytes and lymphocytes were higher (P>0.05) in T3, T4 and T5 than in T1 and T2. All values were within optimum ranges for healthy pigs. Result showed that DPMM can be used to partially replace maize up to 20 % without negatively affecting the performance and health status of weaned pigs.

Influence of the circadian cycle, sex and production stage on the reference values of parameters related to stress and pathology in porcine saliva

BackgroundThe concentration of biomarkers in saliva could be influenced by several factors not related to the specific condition under analyses, which should be considered for proper clinical interpretation. In the present study, the circadian rhythm of C-reactive protein (CRP), haptoglobin (Hp), Pig-MAP, S100A12, Cu, Zn, Adenosine deaminase (ADA), total protein (TP), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), total oxidant status (TOS), oxidative stress index (OSI), cortisol and α-amylase in saliva of 20 female and 20 male pigs was investigated. Moreover, the influence of sex and production phase (post-weaning, fattening and finishing) on the concentrations of biomarkers in a total of 414 healthy pigs was studied and the reference intervals for all salivary biomarkers were calculated accordingly.ResultsAll parameters except Pig-MAP, OSI and α-amylase varied significantly along the daytime, and most of them peak around early afternoon (13–15 h). The cosinor analysis described the temporal dynamics of circadian rhythms for all parameters. The range values showed differences between male and female pigs in 8 out of the 13 biomarkers, with higher concentrations in females in comparison to male pigs. The influence of the production phase on the salivary concentrations was observed for all the biomarkers. The highest concentrations were observed for Pig-MAP, S100A12 and α-amylase in post-weaning animals, for TP in growing pigs and for OSI in finishing animals. Most of the sex-influenced biomarkers showed the highest concentrations at growing stages with some exceptions such as ADA or Hp that showed the peak at finishing and post-weaning stages respectively.ConclusionsIt is necessary to establish the optimal daytime for routine saliva sampling to avoid circadian variations and for that end, the time interval between 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. is highly recommended. The factors sex and production phase influence the concentration of biomarkers and should be considered for proper biomarker interpretation. The reference intervals presented here for each salivary biomarker will help to correctly interpret the results of these analytes and contribute to the use of saliva as a non-invasive sample for the diagnosis and monitoring of the health status of swine farms.

Optimizing tylosin dosage for co-infection of Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae and Pasteurella multocida in pigs using pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic modeling.

Formulating a therapeutic strategy that can effectively combat concurrent infections of Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae (A. pleuropneumoniae) and Pasteurella multocida (P. multocida) can be challenging. This study aimed to 1) establish minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC), time kill curve, and post-antibiotic effect (PAE) of tylosin against A. pleuropneumoniae and P. multocida pig isolates and employ the MIC data for the development of epidemiological cutoff (ECOFF) values; 2) estimate the pharmacokinetics (PKs) of tylosin following its intramuscular (IM) administration (20mg/kg) in healthy and infected pigs; and 3) establish a PK-pharmacodynamic (PD) integrated model and predict optimal dosing regimens and PK/PD cutoff values for tylosin in healthy and infected pigs. The MIC of tylosin against both 89 and 363 isolates of A. pleuropneumoniae and P. multocida strains spread widely, ranging from 1 to 256μg/mL and from 0.5 to 128μg/mL, respectively. According to the European Committee on Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing (EUCAST) ECOFFinder analysis ECOFF value (≤64µg/mL), 97.75% (87 strains) of the A. pleuropnumoniae isolates were wild-type, whereas with the same ECOFF value (≤64µg/mL), 99.72% (363 strains) of the P. multicoda isolates were considered wild-type to tylosin. Area under the concentration time curve (AUC), T1/2, and Cmax values were significantly greater in healthy pigs than those in infected pigs (13.33h × μg/mL, 1.99h, and 5.79μg/mL vs. 10.46h × μg/mL, 1.83h, and 3.59μg/mL, respectively) (p < 0.05). In healthy pigs, AUC24h/MIC values for the bacteriostatic activity were 0.98 and 1.10h; for the bactericidal activity, AUC24h/MIC values were 1.97 and 1.99h for A. pleuropneumoniae and P. multocida, respectively. In infected pigs, AUC24h/MIC values for the bacteriostatic activity were 1.03 and 1.12h; for bactericidal activity, AUC24h/MIC values were 2.54 and 2.36h for A. pleuropneumoniae and P. multocida, respectively. Monte Carlo simulation lead to a 2μg/mL calculated PK/PD cutoff. Managing co-infections can present challenges, as it often demands the administration of multiple antibiotics to address diverse pathogens. However, using tylosin, which effectively targets both A. pleuropneumoniae and P. multocida in pigs, may enhance the control of bacterial burden. By employing an optimized dosage of 11.94-15.37mg/kg and 25.17-27.79mg/kg of tylosin can result in achieving bacteriostatic and bactericidal effects in 90% of co-infected pigs.

Porcine Astrovirus Detection and Characterization in Healthy and Diarrheic Pigs from Haryana, India

Background: Porcine astrovirus (PAstV) is an emerging pathogen detected from the feces of both healthy and diarrheic pigs with limited studies comparing the presence of PAstV and diarrhea in pigs. PAstV has been reported worldwide with a few reports from India. In addition, there are limited reports on variation in the amino acid sequence of the ORF2 region, which codes for viral capsid protein. The present study was aimed to study the presence of PAstV, association with diarrhea in pigs of various age groups and its molecular characterization from Haryana, a northern Indian state. Methods: A total of 176 rectal swabs of pigs were collected from different parts of Haryana. The samples were screened for PAstV by RT-PCR of the partial ORF1b/ORF2 genomic region. The positive samples were characterized by molecular typing and phylogenetic analysis. Result: In the present study, PAstV was detected in pigs in 16.47% of fecal samples, including 21/127 (16.53%) diarrheic and 8/49 (16.32%) non-diarrheic. The results indicated that weaning piglets were more susceptible to PAstV infection followed by suckling piglets. The phylogenetic analysis revealed the circulation of PAstV4 and PAstV2 lineages in Haryana. The study revealed endemic presence of virus in the region with high genetic diversity among the PAstV strains, suggesting a wide range of heterogeneity.

Gaining knowledge about biomarkers of the immune system and inflammation in the saliva of pigs: The case of myeloperoxidase, S100A12, and ITIH4

An assay for the measurement of myeloperoxidase (Mpx) in porcine saliva was developed and validated, and factors influencing Mpx and another two biomarkers of inflammation and immune system, the protein S100A12 and the inter-alpha-trypsin inhibitor heavy chain 4 (ITIH4), were studied. The spectrophotometric method for Mpx measurement validated in this assay showed an adequate analytical performance including precision and accuracy. When a group of twenty healthy pigs was sampled every 4 h from 8 a.m. until 8 p.m., Mpx and S100A12 showed significant increases at 4 p.m., whereas ITIH4 concentration showed a significant decrease at 12 a.m. Increases were also seen in salivary Mpx, S100A12, and ITIH4 levels 24 h after the intramuscular administration of Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide in five pigs; whereas in a non-septic inflammation after the subcutaneous administration of turpentine oil to five pigs changes were seen in S100A12 at 3 h and in ITIH4 at 48 h. When a stressful situation consisting of the transportation and stay of 4 h to a slaughterhouse of 24 pigs was performed, all analytes were increased after 4 h of lairage in the slaughterhouse compared with the values that were obtained the day before at the same time of the day. Mpx can be measured in the saliva of pigs with the automated assay described in this report. Mpx, S100A12, and ITIH4 salivary levels can change depending on the hour of the day in which the sample is taken, and increases can be produced due to sepsis, non-septic inflammation and stress.

Effects of Dietary Chlorogenic Acid Supplementation on Growth Performance, Meat Quality, and Muscle Flavor Substances in Finishing Pigs.

With the prohibition of antibiotics in feed, certain phytocompounds have been widely studied as feed additives. Chlorogenic acid (CGA), a natural polyphenol found in plants, possesses anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and metabolic regulatory features. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of dietary chlorogenic acid supplementation on growth performance and carcass traits, as well as meat quality, nutrient value and flavor substances of Duroc × Landrace × Yorkshire (DLY) pigs. Forty healthy DLY pigs (initial body weight (BW): 26.69 ± 0.37) were allotted to four treatment groups and were fed with the control diet, which was supplemented with 25 mg kg-1, 50 mg kg-1, and 100 mg kg-1 CGA, respectively. The trial lasted 100 days. The results suggested that dietary CGA supplementation had no effect (p < 0.05) on the average daily gain (ADG) and feed conversion ratio (FC). Herein, it was found that 50 mg kg-1 CGA-containing diet not only increased the dressing percentage and perirenal fat, but also reduced the rate of muscular pH decline (p < 0.05). In the longissimus thoracis (LT) muscle, the myofiber-type-related genes such as the MyHC IIa and MyHC IIX mRNA levels were increased by 100 mg kg-1 CGA. The results also indicated that the 100 mg kg-1 CGA-containing diet increased the content of crude fat, glycogen, total amino acids, and flavor amino acids, but decreased the inosine and hypoxanthine concentration in LT (p < 0.05). Meanwhile, the lipogenic gene ACC1 mRNA level was elevated by 50 mg kg-1 CGA. Instead, 100 mg kg-1 CGA downregulated the expression level of NT5C2, an enzyme responsible for inosine-5'-monophosphate (IMP) degradation. Additionally, 100 mg kg-1 CGA decreased the malondialdehyde (MDA) content, but increased the glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) content as well as antioxidant gene (HO-1, NQO-1, NRF2) mRNA levels in LT muscle. These findings showed that dietary CGA could partly improve carcass traits and muscle flavor without negatively affecting growth performance, and the underlying mechanism may be due to the antioxidant properties induced by CGA.

Monitoring pressure changes in the inner ear induced by middle ear pressure therapy with an EFET01 device in guinea pigs

Background As a low-cost, portable, handheld air pressure generation tool not requiring a ventilation tube, the EFET01 device has shown clinical effectiveness for intractable Ménière’s disease (MD) patients in Japan. However, no animal studies have investigated changes in inner ear pressure (PI) when applying this device. Objective To determine the PI properties in response to middle ear pressure therapy (MEPT) induced by the EFET01 in guinea pigs. Material and Methods In seven healthy guinea pigs, bi-phasic pressure pulses from −5 to 12 cm H2O were delivered to the external ear canal and transmitted to the middle and inner ear cavities with an intact tympanic membrane. Hydrostatic pressure change in the inner ear perilymphatic compartment was measured by a servo-controlled micropipette system. Results From eight successful ears, pressure changes in the middle ear slightly decreased and were instantly transferred to the inner ear. The EFET01 produces a bi-phasic positive/negative pressure pulse, which is approximately twice as large as the monophasic pressure pulse. Conclusion Our study clarified the EFET01’s ability to transmit pressure and verified its effectiveness in MD patients as observed in clinical studies. Significance The PI properties in guinea pig response to MEPT with the EFET01 device were investigated.

The comparison of anastomosis strength and leakage between double-layer full-thickness and single-layer extramucosal intestine anastomosis.

This experimental study was performed in 20 randomized healthy male pigs, to be included either in Group A (Single-layer extramucosal intestine anastomosis) or Group B (Double-layer full-thickness intestine anastomosis). Enterotomy followed by an end-to-end anastomosis suture was performed in the jejunum. Fourteen days after the operation, any anastomosis leakage and its location was documented. The anastomosis strength was evaluated using manometry. Data were compared between groups using the Mann-Whitney U and Fischer Exact test, considering a significance level of P<0.05. The overall mean intraluminal anastomotic bursting pressure was 4,257±1,185. Group A had a higher intraluminal anastomotic bursting pressure but was not statistically significant compared to group B (4.726±0.952 vs. 3.787±1.252 kilopascals, P=0.063). One leakage (5%, antimesenteric area) occurred in Group A and three leakages (15%, antimesenteric and mesenteric area) occurred in Group B. However, statistical analysis with Fischer exact showed no significant difference of leakage rate between those groups (P=0.291). The anastomosis strength and leakage did not differ significantly between the single-layer extramucosal intestine anastomosis group and the double-layer full-thickness anastomosis group. However, the location of leakage was most common in the antimesenteric area in the double-layer full-thickness anastomosis group.

Changes in salivary biomarkers of stress, inflammation, redox status, and muscle damage due to Streptococcus suis infection in pigs

BackgroundStreptococcus suis (S. suis) is a Gram-positive bacteria that infects pigs causing meningitis, arthritis, pneumonia, or endocarditis. This increases the mortality in pig farms deriving in severe economic losses. The use of saliva as a diagnostic fluid has various advantages compared to blood, especially in pigs. In this study, it was hypothesized that saliva could reflect changes in different biomarkers related to stress, inflammation, redox status, and muscle damage in pigs with S. suis infection and that changes in these biomarkers could be related to the severity of the disease.ResultsA total of 56 growing pigs from a farm were selected as infected pigs (n = 28) and healthy pigs (n = 28). Results showed increases in biomarkers related to stress (alpha-amylase and oxytocin), inflammation (haptoglobin, inter-alpha-trypsin inhibitor heavy chain 4 (ITIH4), total protein, S100A8-A9 and S100A12), redox status (advanced oxidation protein producs (AOPP)) and muscle damage (creatine kinase (CK), CK-MB, troponin I, lactate, aspartate aminotransferase, and lactate dehydrogenase). An increase in adenosine deaminase (ADA), procalcitonin, and aldolase in infected animals were also observed, as previously described. The grade of severity of the disease indicated a significant positive correlation with total protein concentrations, aspartate aminotransferase, aldolase, and AOPP.ConclusionsThis report revealed that S. suis infection caused variations in analytes related to stress, inflammation, redox status, and muscle damage in the saliva of pigs and these can be considered potential biomarkers for this disease.

Non-invasive central nervous system assessment of a porcine model of neuropathic pain demonstrates increased latency of somatosensory-evoked potentials

BackgroundThe study of chronic pain and its treatments requires a robust animal model with objective and quantifiable metrics. Porcine neuropathic pain models have been assessed with peripheral pain recordings and behavioral responses, but thus far central nervous system electrophysiology has not been investigated. This work aimed to record non-invasive, somatosensory-evoked potentials (SEPs) via electroencephalography in order to quantitatively assess chronic neuropathic pain induced in a porcine model.New method: Peripheral neuritis trauma (PNT) was induced unilaterally in the common peroneal nerve of domestic farm pigs, with the contralateral leg serving as the control for each animal. SEPs were generated by stimulation of the peripheral nerves distal to the PNT and were recorded non-invasively using transcranial electroencephalography (EEG). The P30 wave of the SEP was analyzed for latency changes. ResultsP30 SEPs were successfully recorded with non-invasive EEG. PNT resulted in significantly longer P30 SEP latencies (p < 0.01 [n = 8]) with a median latency increase of 14.3 [IQR 5.0 – 17.5] ms. Histological results confirmed perineural inflammatory response and nerve damage around the PNT nerves.Comparison with existing method(s): Control P30 SEPs were similar in latency and amplitude to those previously recorded invasively in healthy pigs. Non-invasive recordings have numerous advantages over invasive measures. ConclusionsP30 SEP latency can serve as a quantifiable neurological measure that reflects central nervous system processing in a porcine model of chronic pain. Advancing the development of a porcine chronic pain model will facilitate the translation of experimental therapies into human clinical trials.

Genomic characterization and virulence of Streptococcus suis serotype 4 clonal complex 94 recovered from human and swine samples.

Streptococcus suis is a zoonotic pathogen that causes invasive infections in humans and pigs. Herein, we performed genomic analysis of seven S. suis serotype 4 strains belonging to clonal complex (CC) 94 that were recovered from a human patient or from diseased and clinically healthy pigs. Genomic exploration and comparisons, as well as in vitro cytotoxicity tests, indicated that S. suis CC94 serotype 4 strains are potentially virulent. Genomic analysis revealed that all seven strains clustered within minimum core genome group 3 (MCG-3) and had a high number of virulence-associated genes similar to those of virulent serotype 2 strains. Cytotoxicity assays showed that both the human lung adenocarcinoma cell line and HeLa cells rapidly lost viability following incubation for 4 h with the strains at a concentration of 106 bacterial cells. The human serotype 4 strain (ID36054) decreased cell viability profoundly and similarly to the control serotype 2 strain P1/7. In addition, strain ST1689 (ID34572), isolated from a clinically healthy pig, presented similar behaviour in an adenocarcinoma cell line and HeLa cells. The antimicrobial resistance genes tet(O) and ermB that confer resistance to tetracyclines, macrolides, and lincosamides were commonly found in the strains. However, aminoglycoside and streptothricin resistance genes were found only in certain strains in this study. Our results indicate that S. suis CC94 serotype 4 strains are potentially pathogenic and virulent and should be monitored.

Exploring and targeting potential druggable antimicrobial resistance targets ArgS, SecY, and MurA in Staphylococcus sciuri with TCM inhibitors through a subtractive genomics strategy.

Staphylococcus sciuri (also currently Mammaliicoccus sciuri) are anaerobic facultative and non-motile bacteria that cause significant human pathogenesis such as endocarditis, wound infections, peritonitis, UTI, and septic shock. Methicillin-resistant S. sciuri (MRSS) strains also infects animals that include healthy broilers, cattle, dogs, and pigs. The emergence of MRSS strains thereby poses a serious health threat and thrives the scientific community towards novel treatment options. Herein, we investigated the druggable genome of S. sciuri by employing subtractive genomics that resulted in seven genes/proteins where only three of them were predicted as final targets. Further mining the literature showed that the ArgS (WP_058610923), SecY (WP_058611897), and MurA (WP_058612677) are involved in the multi-drug resistance phenomenon. After constructing and verifying the 3D protein homology models, a screening process was carried out using a library of Traditional Chinese Medicine compounds (consisting of 36,043 compounds). The molecular docking and simulation studies revealed the physicochemical stability parameters of the docked TCM inhibitors in the druggable cavities of each protein target by identifying their druggability potential and maximum hydrogen bonding interactions. The simulated receptor-ligand complexes showed the conformational changes and stability index of the secondary structure elements. The root mean square deviation (RMSD) graph showed fluctuations due to structural changes in the helix-coil-helix and beta-turn-beta changes at specific points where the pattern of the RMSD and root mean square fluctuation (RMSF) (< 1.0Å) support any major domain shifts within the structural framework of the protein-ligand complex and placement of ligand was well complemented within the binding site. The β-factor values demonstrated instability at few points while the radius of gyration for structural compactness as a time function for the 100-ns simulation of protein-ligand complexes showed favorable average values and denoted the stability of all complexes. It is assumed that such findings might facilitate researchers to robustly discover and develop effective therapeutics against S. sciuri alongside other enteric infections.

Growth performance and physiological response of weaned pigs fed diet supplemented with novel a phytogenics

The aim of this experiment was to investigate the growth performance and physiological response of weaned pigs fed diets supplemented with a novel phytogenics (FCTNC). A total of 100 cross bred male pigs (Landrace × Duroc) with an initial weight of 6.31 ± 0.25 kg and weaned at 21 days were individually housed in a semi-open sided pens. Pigs were distributed into five treatments groups with five replicates, each replicates comprises of 20 pigs. Experimental diets were adequate in all nutrients recommended by NRC (2012). Treatment one (T1): basal diet without antibiotics; T2 (basal diet with neomycin at 1.5 g/kg-1); T3, T4 and T5 were fed basal diet with 5 g/kg-1, 10 g/kg-1 and 15 g/kg-1 respectively. Feed and water were offered unrestricted throughout the 56 days trial. Result revealed that there was effect of treatments (P ˂ 0.05) in average body weight gain (ADG), daily feed intake (ADFI), mortality and feed conversion ratio (FCR). Pigs in T4 (24.54 kg) and T5 (24.22 kg) had the highest weight gain, intermediate in T2 (21.55 kg) and T3 (22.51 kg) and lowest in T1 (12.83 kg) (P ˂ 0.05). There was a remarkable improvement in all the immune parameters examined among pigs fed FCTNC (P ˂ 0.05). Microbial population of Escherichia coli and Salmonella spp decreased as the level of FCTNC increases (P ˂ 0.05). Conversely, Lactobacillus spp count were highest in T4 and T5 relative to the other treatments. Haematological parameters were significantly influenced (P ˂ 0.05) by the treatments. However, all values were within the normal range for a clinically healthy pigs. The study established that FCTNC could be fed to weaned pigs up to 15 g/kg-1 without having any negative effect on the health of animals.

Porcine Forebrain Vacuolization Associated with Wasting in Pigs: A Novel Pathological Outcome Associated with Vitamin-Mineral Deficiency?

The term wasting refers to a clinical sign used to describe a physical condition characterized by growth retardation, usually of multifactorial origin. The objective of the present study was to describe for the first time a pathological process characterized by forebrain neuropil vacuolization in pigs showing wasting without conspicuous neurological signs. To characterize the lesions pathologically, affected and non-affected pigs from eight of these farms were investigated. Histologically, the most consistent lesion was neuropil vacuolization of the prosencephalon, mainly located in the thalamic nuclei and in the transition between the white and grey matter of the neocortex (40/56 in sick and 4/30 in healthy pigs). In the most severe cases, the vacuolation also involved the midbrain, cerebellar nuclei and, to a lesser extent, the medulla oblongata. Vacuolization of the forebrain was associated with pigs experiencing marked emaciation and growth retardation. Although the specific cause of the present case remained unknown, the preventive use of multivitamin and mineral complexes in drinking water ameliorated the condition, strongly suggesting a metabolic origin of the observed condition.

Serological detection of foot and mouth disease antibodies in apparenty healthy pigs within federal capital territory, Abuja

Swine production contributes significantly to the economic wealth of most farmers in developing nations including Nigeria. Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) has been a highly contagious viral disease of agricultural importance in domestic ruminants and pigs, hampering livestock productivity in countries where the disease is still endemic. The study aimed to determine the swine FMD occurrence in order to elucidate the disease burden within Federal Capital Territory, Abuja and its environs. One hundred (100) sera were collected from Pigs and subjected to 3ABC ELISA test at the FMD Laboratory in National Veterinary Research Institute (NVRI), Vom. The result showed that out of 100 sera samples tested for FMD antibodies, 26 (26%) were positive and 74 (74%) were negative. Sero-positive distribution showed sow/gilt (32.7%), younger pigs (57.7%) and local breeds (50%) were more exposed to FMD. Although, this was not significant (P&gt;0.05). Questionnaire report further showed knowledge attitude and practice (KAP) of farmers was good, however, the absence of vaccination could be a contributing factor to FMD spread to other susceptible and between carrier livestock within the study area. This finding suggests an increasing occurrence of FMD in pigs within the Guinea Savanna Zone of North-Central Nigeria. In conclusion, FMD antibodies were detected in apparently healthy, unvaccinated pigs of all breeds, ages and sex slaughtered and reared in the FCT. Control efforts should be put in place to prevent possible transmission of Foot and Mouth Disease between pigs and cattle and other ruminants within and between herds, market and slaughter slabs.

Berberine Improves Histopathological Changes of Allergic Airway Inflammation in Guinea Pigs

&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Background and Objective:&lt;/strong&gt; Berberine has anti-inflammatory properties through pathways that are also involved in asthma. Therefore, it is postulated that it will be effective in reducing airway inflammation in the allergic asthmatic model. The objective of the current study was to observe the effects of berberine on the histopathology of lungs in sensitized Guinea pigs and compare the changes with that of the standard drug, dexamethasone.&lt;/p&gt;&#x0D; &lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Methods:&lt;/strong&gt; This experimental study was conducted at the Postgraduate Medical Institute, Lahore, Pakistan, from February 2016 to April 2016. Twenty-four healthy Guinea pigs were divided randomly into four groups: normal control, Ovalbumin (OVA ) group, OVA + berberine group, and OVA + dexa group. The last three groups were sensitized on days 0 and 14 and challenged on days 25, 26, and 27 with OVA. Berberine and dexamethasone were administered intraperitoneally to the respective groups before each challenge. The animals were then sacrificed on day 28 under anesthesia, lungs were dissected, and tissue samples were assessed microscopically for morphology and status of inflammation in each group. Data were analyzed by applying the Kruskal-Wallis analysis of variance test followed by the Mann Whitney U test using SPSS 20.&lt;/p&gt;&#x0D; &lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Results:&lt;/strong&gt; The comparison of histopathological changes revealed that the infiltration of inflammatory cells in the lung airways was significantly higher (p-value &amp;le;0.01) in the OVA group as compared to the normal control group. Both OVA + berberine and OVA + dexa groups showed a reduction in total lung inflammation (p-value &amp;le;0.01 vs. OVA group) equally. The effect of berberine on epithelial changes was nonsignificant (p-value 0.206 vs. OVA group), while dexamethasone showed significant improvement as compared to the OVA group (p-value 0.007). However, the difference between berberine and dexamethasone treatment was nonsignificant (p-value &amp;le;0.05).&lt;/p&gt;&#x0D; &lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Conclusion: &lt;/strong&gt;It was concluded that berberine improved the histopathological score of lung inflammation in sensitized Guinea pigs, equivalent to that of dexamethasone, with lesser effects on epithelial changes.&lt;/p&gt;

Regenerative Effect of Mesenchymal Stem Cell on Cartilage Damage in a Porcine Model.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a major public and animal health challenge with significant economic consequences. Cartilage degradation plays a critical role in the initiation and progression of degenerative joint diseases, such as OA. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have become increasingly popular in the field of cartilage regeneration due to their promising results. The objective of this preclinical study was to evaluate the regenerative effects of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in the repair of knee cartilage defects using a porcine model. Seven healthy LYD breed white pigs, aged 9-10 weeks and weighing approximately 20 ± 3 kg, were used in the experimental protocol. Full-thickness defects measuring 8 mm in diameter and 5 mm in depth were induced in the lateral femoral condyle of the posterior limbs in both knee joints using a sterile puncture technique while the knee was maximally flexed. Following a 1-week induction phase, the pig treatment groups received a 0.3 million/kg MSC transplant into the damaged knee region, while the placebo group received a control solution as a treatment. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computerized tomography (CT), visual macroscopic examination, histological analysis, and cytokine concentration analysis were used to assess cartilage regeneration. The findings revealed that human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hADSCs) were more effective in repairing cartilage than pig umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells (pUCMSCs). These results suggest that MSC-based treatments hold promise as a treatment option for cartilage repair, which aid in the treatment of OA. However, further studies with larger sample sizes and longer follow-up periods are required to fully demonstrate the safety and efficacy of these therapies in both animals and humans.

1495-P: Bionic Pancreas-3D Bioprinting of Pancreatic Tissue Petals—Results of Transplantation in Large Animals

The first milestone of a new therapy for the treatment of T1D is the development of 3D bioprinted petals consisting of: pancreatic islets and biomaterials. The aim of the study was to demonstrate the functionality of pancreatic islets in in vivo studies on large animals. Material and Methods: Domestic pigs were the research model. The animals were divided into 4 groups:(1)healthy pigs (Control; n=3);(2) animals with T1D after pancreatectomy, treated with insulin (T1D;n=3);(3) animals after pancreatectomy and autotransplantation of pancreatic islets to the liver (LIVER; n=3);(4) animals with T1D after pancreatectomy, which were autotransplanted with bionic petals (3D-PETALS; n=3). The effectiveness of the transplantation (TX) was assessed by the concentration of glucose, insulin intake and C-peptide. The observation lasted 1 month. Results: The results showed that in the LIVER group, insulin intake within 3 weeks decreased by 71% compared to the demand before TX. Whereas 1 month after TX, the demand was lower by 62%. The 3D-PETALS group showed that the insulin intake in 3 weeks after TX decreased by 65%, and within a month decreased by 84%. In the 4th week after TX, the insulin intake average in the T1D group was 8.17U, while in the LIVER group=2.44U and in the 3D-PETALS group=1.06U. Islet TX significantly reduced insulin intake (T1D vs LIVER; p=0.0001 and T1D vs 3D-PETALS; p&amp;lt;0.0001). Glucose measurement showed significant changes. After 1 month of follow-up, glucose levels were significantly lower in the LIVER vs T1D (265.8mg% vs 310.2mg%; p&amp;lt;0.0001) and 3D-PETALS &amp; T1D (198.3mg% vs 310.2mg%; p=0.0354). Most importantly, glycemic levels were also significantly lower between the LIVER &amp; 3D PETALS groups (265.8mg% vs 198.3mg%; p=0.0021). The concentration of C-peptide during the study was 0.14ng/ml. Conclusion: Bioprinted petals with dECM-based bioink significantly reduces diabetic parameters. Thus, it seems to be an effective therapy for people with T1D. Disclosure M.Klak: Employee; Polbionica Sp. z o.o., Stock/Shareholder; Polbionica Sp. z o.o. A.Berman: Board Member; Polbionica Ltd., Stock/Shareholder; Polbionica Ltd. O.Janowska: Employee; POLBIONICA Sp. z o.o. S.Domanski: Employee; Polbionica. D.Szkopek: None. K.I.Roszkowicz-ostrowska: None. A.Kondej: None. J.Wolinski: None. M.Wszola: Board Member; Polbionica Ltd., Stock/Shareholder; Polbionica Ltd.

Endothelial and Hemodynamic Function in a Large Animal Model in Relation to Different Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Cannulation Strategies and Intra-Aortic Balloon Pumping.

The use of simultaneous veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) with or without an Intra-Aortic Balloon Pump (IABP) is a widely used tool for mechanical hemodynamic support. Endothelial function, especially in relation to different cannulation techniques, is rarely investigated in the setting of extracorporeal life support (ECLS). In this study, we analyzed endothelial function in relation to hemodynamic and laboratory parameters for central and peripheral ECMO, with or without concomitant IABP support in a large animal model to gain a better understanding of the underlying basic mechanisms. In this large animal model, healthy female pigs with preserved ejection fraction were divided into the following groups related to cannulation strategy for ECMO and simultaneous IBAP support: control (no ECMO, no IABP), peripheral ECMO (pECMO), central ECMO (cECMO), pECMO and IABP or cECMO and IABP. During the experimental setting, the blood flow in the ascending aorta, left coronary artery and arteria carotis was measured. Afterwards, endothelial function was investigated after harvesting the right coronary artery, arteria carotis and renal artery. In addition, laboratory markers, such as creatine kinase (CK), creatine kinase muscle-brain (CK-MB), troponin, creatinine and endothelin were analyzed. The blood flow in the ascending aorta and the left coronary artery was significantly lower in all discussed experimental settings compared to the control group. Of note, the cECMO cannulation strategy generated favorable hemodynamic circumstances with higher blood flow in the coronary arteries than pECMO regardless of flow circumstances in the ascending aorta. The concomitant usage of IABP did not result in an improvement of the coronary blood flow, but partially showed a negative impact on the endothelial function of coronary arteries in comparison to the control. These findings correlate to higher CK/CK-MB levels in the setting of cECMO + IABP and pECMO + IABP. The usage of mechanical circulatory support with concomitant ECMO and IABP in a large animal model might have an influence on the endothelial function of coronary arteries while not improving the coronary artery perfusion in healthy hearts with preserved ejection.