Knowledge bank https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/ Wind damages expected to increase in a warmer climate In spite of elks, spruce beetles and pathogenic fungi, wind is probably the largest cause of economic loss for European forestry. A number of reports in recent years investigates how the risk of wind damage can be expected to develop during the rest of the century, and how forest owners themselves can affect risks by making active decisions. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/2024/wind-damages-expected-to-increase-in-a-warmer-climate/ 714937 Thu, 28 Mar 2024 09:33:23 +0100 Phytophthora in Sweden Species from the genus Phytophthora are predicted to cause increasing problems related to plant health in the future, also in Sweden. To protect us and our trading partners, up-to-date knowledge is needed regarding the species that has already been established in the country. The present status of Phytophthora in Sweden has now been described in a review article by Audrius Menkis and Iryna Matsiakh, analysts at the SLU Forest Damage Centre. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/a2023/phytophthora-in-sweden/ 693512 Tue, 24 Oct 2023 07:41:25 +0100 Mussels and yeast - alternative feed raw materials for arctic char Domestic feed raw materials that do not compete with our own food production are crucial for sustainably produce feed for farmed fish. Researchers at SLU have shown in a project that it is possible to use raw materials from the Baltic Sea, such as mussels and purified fishmeal, as well as baker's yeast as the main ingredients in fish feed for arctic char. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/vilt-fisk-och-renar/mussels-and-yeast---alternative-feed-raw-materials-for-arctic-char/ 355367 Wed, 10 Jan 2024 14:10:25 +0100 Fish stunning methods fail! In two studies, we evaluated existing and alternative stunning methods for farmed fish. We studied rainbow trout and the increasingly common warm-water species, the African catfish (Clarias gariepinus). https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/vilt-fisk-och-renar/fish-stunning-methods-fail/ 453422 Tue, 12 Sep 2023 10:57:19 +0100 Save the rainforest with oil and protein from yeast Yeast protein and yeast oil produced from wood and straw cellulose can be used as alternative protein and fat sources in fish feed. Aquaculture is a rapidly growing industry and fish is an important food source. Fishmeal and fish oil are still the most common feed raw materials in fish farming, but other feed alternatives are needed for sustainable aquaculture growth. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/vilt-fisk-och-renar/save-the-rainforest-with-oil-and-protein-from-yeast/ 436989 Tue, 12 Sep 2023 10:17:28 +0100 No-take zones fish Banning fishing has positive effects on fish stocks but also helps to restore the marine environment. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/miljoanalys/no-take-zones-fish/ 676631 Mon, 07 Aug 2023 11:13:01 +0100 Common murres and heatwaves More extreme and prolonged heat waves can cause seabirds to lose their eggs and chicks. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/aqua/common-murres-and-heatwaves/ 676534 Tue, 05 Mar 2024 14:35:13 +0100 Stop the amount of PFAS in circulation PFAS are chemicals that are both harmful to human health and difficult to break down. People can be exposed to PFAS in several different ways, including by drinking tap water. Since drinking water is our most important foodstuff, it is important to try to reduce the level of PFAS in water. At SLU, researchers have developed methods that improve the purification of PFAS in drinking water. But they are also working towards solutions that prevent these unwanted substances from ending up in drinking water at all. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/a2023/Stop-the-amount-of-PFAS-in-circulation/ 644176 Fri, 30 Jun 2023 19:15:35 +0100 Awaiting the next summer of fires SMHI, the Swedish Meteorological Institute, has forecasted that persistent high pressure systems may dominate the weather of Scandinavia for most of June, July and August (2023), and bring us a warm or very warm summer. Additionally, SMHI considers it possible that several thunderstorms originating in Central Europe may find their way to Scandinavia. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/a2023/awaiting-the-next-summer-of-fires/ 645146 Mon, 12 Jun 2023 15:23:54 +0100 Human-animal interactions during on-farm truck loading of finishing pigs for slaughter transport Finishing pigs and transport drivers (TDs) interact closely when pigs are loaded for transport, which can be very stressful for both. in this study, researchers at SLU aimed to investigate relationships between TD handling actions and pig behaviours during loading for slaughter transport. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/notiser-om-lantbrukets-djur/human-animal-interactions-during-on-farm-truck-loading-of-finishing-pigs-for-slaughter-transport/ 633551 Wed, 31 May 2023 10:48:53 +0100 Survival of Campylobacter jejuni in frozen chicken meat and risks associated with handling contaminated chicken in the kitchen Most Campylobacter infections in humans are sporadic cases, often connected to private households. Chicken meat is believed to be the main source of human exposure to Campylobacter and there are significant risks of cross-contamination when handling Campylobacter-contaminated chicken in the kitchen. One post-harvest preventive measure to reduce Campylobacter concentrations on chicken meat is freezing. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/fjaderfa/survival-of-campylobacter-jejuni-in-frozen-chicken-meat-and-risks-associated-with-handling-contaminated-chicken-in-the-kitchen/ 633549 Wed, 31 May 2023 10:45:16 +0100 Age, weight and circulating concentrations of total testosterone are associated with the relative prostatic size in adult intact male dogs Prostatic hyperplasia (PH) is an androgen-dependent condition associated with increased prostatic size that is common in intact dogs, and similar to the condition in men. In dogs, the increase in prostatic size is most prominent the first years, and after approximately four years (in beagles), a plateau is reached, and further growth is slower. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/age-weight-and-circulating-concentrations-of-total-testosterone-are-associated-with-the-relative-prostatic-size-in-adult-intact-male-dogs/ 637800 Wed, 31 May 2023 10:42:40 +0100 The costs of chronic mastitis: A simulation study of an automatic milking system farm Mastitis is a production disease in dairy farming that causes economic losses. Especially chronic mastitis (i.e., mastitis cases continuing longer than 28 days) can substantially affect the risk of transmission of intramammary infections (IMI) and total milk production losses. Insights into the impact of chronic mastitis on production and farm economics are needed to guide chronic mastitis decision-making. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/notkreatur/the-costs-of-chronic-mastitis-a-simulation-study-of-an-automatic-milking-system-farm/ 633558 Wed, 31 May 2023 10:35:45 +0100 Veterinarians' perspectives on farmer-veterinarian relationships and use of antimicrobials for Swedish dairy cattle Studies have shown that farmer-veterinarian relationships influence antimicrobial use (AMU) in livestock, though how they do so is unclear. On the one hand, research shows that well-established veterinarian-farmer relationships are positive for implementation of antibiotic stewardship and restrictive AMU. On the other hand, studies also show that farmer demands can increase antimicrobial prescribing and that prescribing antimicrobials can strengthen the veterinarian's relationship with farmer clients. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/notkreatur/veterinarians-perspectives-on-farmer-veterinarian-relationships-and-use-of-antimicrobials-for-swedish-dairy-cattle/ 633547 Wed, 31 May 2023 10:30:15 +0100 Effectiveness of Cleaning and Sanitation of Stable Environment and Riding Equipment Following Contamination With Streptococcus equi Streptococcus equi subsp. equi (S. equi) is transmitted via contact with infected horses or fomites such as equipment or surfaces of the stable environment. Effective cleaning and sanitation is essential to minimize risk of fomite-associated infections. This study assessed the effectiveness of cleaning and sanitation of experimentally S. equi contaminated materials and equipment found in stables. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/effectiveness-of-cleaning-and-sanitation-of-stable-environment-and-riding-equipment-following-contamination-with-streptococcus-equi/ 637730 Wed, 31 May 2023 10:22:29 +0100 Identification of a Dominant Mucosal Mast Cell Population with Possible Inflammatory Functions in Airways of Asthmatic Horses Asthma is a chronic inflammatory airway disease and a serious health problem in horses as well as in humans. In humans and mice, mast cells (MCs) are known to be directly involved in asthma pathology and subtypes of MCs accumulate in different lung and airway compartments. The role and phenotype of MCs in equine asthma has not been well documented, although an accumulation of MCs in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) is frequently seen. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/identification-of-a-dominant-mucosal-mast-cell-population-with-possible-inflammatory-functions-in-airways-of-asthmatic-horses/ 637759 Wed, 31 May 2023 10:18:16 +0100 A novel surrogate biomarker for equine osteoarthritic sub-chondral bone sclerosis In a recent article, researchers from SLU, together with colleagues from other organizations, aimed to delineate a novel soluble Biglycan Neo-epitope-BGN262 in saliva from young reference and osteoarthritic horses in conjunction with the influence of short-term training exercise, riding surface hardness, circadian rhythm, and feeding on its soluble levels. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/lovande-biomarkor-for-att-pavisa-osteoartrit-hos-hastar/ 637740 Wed, 31 May 2023 10:13:23 +0100 Markpackning hotar daggmaskars grävning i jorden Earthworms are important “ecosystem engineers” that contribute to a range of vital soil ecosystem services, including food production. But earthworms are sensitive to disturbances in their environment. A new thesis has increased the quantifiable scientific evidence of the extent to which soil compaction impacts earthworm burrowing activity, also called bioturbation, and the amount of energy they need to burrow. It has implications for soil life, soil structure and soil functions that are essential to food production. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/soil-environment/markpackning-hotar-daggmaskars-gravning-i-jorden/ 642717 Wed, 17 May 2023 15:46:02 +0100 Advances in pine weevil resistance research may result in new weapons to battle the bugs In October 2023, the remaining exemptions to the ban on insecticides in pine weevil control will be discontinued in Swedish forestry. That is why a wide array of alternative control methods have been developed, which may provide just as good protection as the chemicals. In her thesis from SLU, Yayuan Chen shows that hormone treatment of conifer plants already in the nursery has potential to become yet another effective tool in the struggle against this costly pest. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/a2023/advances-in-pine-weevil-resistance-research-may-result-in-new-weapons-to-battle-the-bugs/ 638581 Wed, 19 Apr 2023 14:11:16 +0100 Difficult to reach consensus on how climate-smart it is to manage forests Should harvesting Swedish of forests increase or decrease for the sake of the climate? That is a question several scientific studies in recent years have examined. However, these studies came to different conclusions. Here is a review of some them, which all used information from the Swedish National Forest Inventory and Heureka, a forest decision support system. Some of the studies argue that harvesting should decrease, while others argue that it is better for the climate to use forests more intensively. Why do the conclusions differ? https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/a2023/difficult-to-reach-consensus-on-how-climate-smart-it-is-to-manage-forests/ 633232 Wed, 29 Mar 2023 08:35:02 +0100 Signs of multiple anthelmintic resistance in sheep gastrointestinal nematodes in Sweden Gastrointestinal nematodes in small ruminants are clinically and economically important parasites that often are controlled with anthelmintics. In this study, we compiled information on the anthelmintic efficacy collected on sheep farms according to routines established by Farm & Animal Health in Sweden. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/far-och-alpacka-i-sverige/signs-of-multiple-anthelmintic-resistance-in-sheep-gastrointestinal-nematodes-in-sweden/ 599455 Thu, 02 Mar 2023 16:01:25 +0100 Patellar ligament desmopathy in the horse – a review and comparison to human patellar tendinopathy (‘Jumper’s knee’) Patellar ligament desmopathy in horses is regarded as an uncommon condition with unclear aetiology. Of the three patellar ligaments in the horse, the intermediate is the one most often diagnosed with desmopathy in horses presenting with chronic lameness. This structure corresponds to the patellar tendon in humans. As diagnostic imaging modalities continuously improve, changes in echogenicity of the patellar ligaments are identified ultrasonographically with increasing frequency. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/patellar-ligament-desmopathy-in-the-horse/ 627599 Thu, 02 Mar 2023 15:54:08 +0100 Is Markerless More or Less? Comparing a Smartphone Computer Vision Method for Equine Lameness Assessment to Multi-Camera Motion Capture Computer vision is a subcategory of artificial intelligence focused on extraction of information from images and video. It provides a compelling new means for objective orthopaedic gait assessment in horses using accessible hardware, such as a smartphone, for markerless motion analysis. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/is-markerless-more-or-less2/ 627593 Thu, 02 Mar 2023 15:47:43 +0100 Timing of Vertical Head, Withers and Pelvis Movements Relative to the Footfalls in Different Equine Gaits and Breeds Movement symmetry of the head and pelvis are used to measure lameness in horses in trot. Although head, pelvis and limb movements have been described, less is known about the temporal relationships between them. This information is needed to understand how the movements change with lameness. This is particularly relevant in gaited horses, such as the Icelandic horse that perform gaits such as tölt and pace, which are challenging to evaluate. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/timing-of-vertical-head/ 627605 Thu, 02 Mar 2023 15:47:22 +0100 Mystery of fatal ‘staggering disease’ unravelled ‘Staggering disease’ is a neurological disease entity considered a threat to European domestic cats (Felis catus) for almost five decades. However, its aetiology has remained obscure. Rustrela virus (RusV), a relative of rubella virus, has recently been shown to be associated with encephalitis in a broad range of mammalian hosts. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/katt/mystery-of-fatal-staggering-disease-unravelled/ 627575 Thu, 02 Mar 2023 15:36:24 +0100 Survival, remission, and quality of life in diabetic cats Remission is documented in a substantial proportion of cats with diabetes. The effects of diabetes mellitus (DM) on the lives of cats and their owners should be considered when evaluating treatment success. The objective of the current study was to study outcome in cats with DM and the impact DM has on the life situation of cat and owner. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/katt/survival-remission-and-quality-of-life-in-diabetic-cats/ 627609 Thu, 02 Mar 2023 15:33:11 +0100 Healthier pigs = better economy? Ante- and post-mortem inspections of food-producing animals at slaughter are mandatory activities carried out in many countries to ensure public health, animal health, and meat quality. In finishing pigs, lung lesions are the most frequent defects found in meat inspections. It is possible to implement managerial strategies on-farm to reduce the occurrence and spread of respiratory diseases, but such strategies come with additional costs that could impede implementation. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/notiser-om-lantbrukets-djur/healthier-pigs--better-economy/ 599457 Thu, 02 Mar 2023 15:28:04 +0100 Inbreeding and pedigree analysis of the European red dairy cattle Red dairy cattle breeds have an important role in the European dairy sector because of their functional characteristics and good health. Extensive pedigree information is available for these breeds and provides a unique opportunity to examine their population structure, such as effective population size, depth of the pedigree, and effective number of founders and ancestors, and inbreeding levels. Animals with the highest genetic contributions were identified. Pedigree data included 9,073,403 animals that were born between 1900 and 2019 from Denmark, Finland, Germany, Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, and Sweden, and covered 32 breeds. The numerically largest breeds were Red Dairy Cattle and Meuse-Rhine-Yssel. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/notkreatur/inbreeding-and-pedigree-analysis-of-the-european-red-dairy-cattle/ 599461 Thu, 02 Mar 2023 15:22:11 +0100 Temperature, productivity, and heat tolerance: Evidence from Swedish dairy production This study aims to identify the effects of temperature on dairy production and the heat tolerance of different dairy breeds under heat stress. Using farm and animal-level data from 1435 dairy farms throughout Sweden for 4 years (from 2016 to 2019), we find that a 7-day average of daily maximum temperatures above ~ 20 ºC is associated with sharp declines in milk production. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/notkreatur/temperature-productivity-and-heat-tolerance-evidence-from-swedish-dairy-production/ 599484 Thu, 02 Mar 2023 15:19:51 +0100 Is it possible to breed for better colostrum? A sufficient IgG content in the colostrum is essential for the newborn calf, as it provides passive immunity which substantially affects the probability of survival during rearing. Failure of passive transfer (FPT) occurs when a calf does not absorb enough antibodies from the colostrum and is defined by an IgG concentration in calf serum lower than 10 g/L. Apart from delayed access to colostrum, FPT can be due to a low production of IgG in the mother or poor IgG absorption by the calf. The aim of this study was to estimate the genetic background of antibody levels and indicator traits for antibodies in the colostrum and calf serum, and their correlation with milk production. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/notkreatur/is-it-possible-to-breed-for-better-colostrum/ 600133 Thu, 02 Mar 2023 15:20:04 +0100 ICP Forests: pioneers on tree health monitoring A fear of dying and declining forests kickstarted ICP Forests – a 40-year-old programme for monitoring air pollution, and a great example of how global programmes can be harmonised with national ones. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/2022/icp-forests-pioneers-on-tree-health-monitoring/ 602893 Mon, 20 Feb 2023 15:16:57 +0100 How the Swedish NFI handles open data The Swedish national forest inventory – Riksskogstaxeringen – with its uniquely long time series, has developed its own way of working with open data, combining openness with confidentiality.  https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/2022/how-the-swedish-nfi-handles-open-data/ 598143 Tue, 21 Feb 2023 16:38:22 +0100 New knowledge on phosphorus in forest soils and the benefits of wood ash fertilization Whole-tree harvesting for biofuel production and natural phenomena such as weathering and podzolization, affect soil nutrient availability for tree uptake. A new doctoral thesis reveals new knowledge on what forms of phosphorus that are present in boreal forest soils, and to what extent they are available to trees. It also uncovers the effect of wood ash fertilization on phosphorus availability. The results have relevance for the development of sustainable forestry. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/new-knowledge-on-phosphorus-in-forest-soils-and-the-benefits-of-wood-ash-fertilization/ 595151 Thu, 04 Jan 2024 10:04:21 +0100 Deworm correctly for reduced resistance Read the full article in Swedish. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/far-och-alpacka-i-sverige/deworm-correctly-for-reduced-resistance/ 528144 Tue, 11 Oct 2022 11:33:05 +0100 Helcom klimatrapport Warmer water and less ice, but also fewer seals and more perch. These are some of the climate effects that we may see more of in the future. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/miljoanalys/helcom-klimatrapport/ 528333 Wed, 24 Aug 2022 11:23:10 +0100 Genetic mapping of Arctic charr – an important step for Swedish aquaculture The Swedish breeding program for Arctic charr has been run successfully for almost forty years. Historically, breeding has been based on classic selection methods where breeding fish are selected according to their characteristics and known family ties. Now a first step has been taken to update the Swedish breeding program with genomic methods. The results show good genetic status for the farmed charr and give hope for the future. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/vilt-fisk-och-renar/genetic-mapping-of-arctic-charr--an-important-step-for-swedish-aquaculture/ 498332 Wed, 11 May 2022 13:26:00 +0100 Ozon wastewater treatment potentiate pharmaceutical toxicity Sewage effluent ozonation can reduce concentrations of chemical pollutants including pharmaceutical residues. However, the formation of potentially toxic ozonation byproducts (OBPs) is a matter of concern. This study sought to elucidate toxicity mechanisms of ozonated carbamazepine (CBZ), an anti-epileptic drug frequently detected in sewage effluents and surface water, in zebrafish embryos (Danio rerio). https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/forsoksdjur/ozon-wastewater-treatment-potentiate-pharmaceutical-toxicity/ 491026 Mon, 27 Sep 2021 11:54:17 +0100 Milk_quality_factors Close monitoring of raw milk quality is vital, as high quality in the final product can only be achieved using high-quality raw milk. Hence, approaches to characterise the raw milk, factors influencing the quality of milk and the association with final product characteristics are of great interest. A group of researchers from SLU (Uppsala and Umeå), a dairy factory in northern Sweden and a dairy farm advisory organisation investigated causes behind observed variation in the ripening time of a traditional long-ripening Swedish cheese. The aim was to evaluate the variation in raw milk quality, reasons for its variation and how it influenced the ripening time of the resulting long-ripening cheese. For this purpose, the composition and properties of milk from participating dairy farms, used for cheese making by the dairy partner in this project, were evaluated, to determine the influence of various factors on dairy farms and the influence of season or month. The cheeses produced from the milk were then monitored until they acquired the characteristic flavours and texture defining their ripening time.  Since raw milk quality is of great importance in cheese making, an experiment was conducted to examine the effects of three selected milk quality parameters (casein micelle size, calcium content and citrate content), and their interactive effects, on milk coagulation, which is the first step in cheese making. Work was also carried out to develop a predictive tool for rapid monitoring of cheese maturation without having to destroy the cheese wheel. For this purpose, an image analysis technique, near-infrared hyperspectral (NIR-HS) imaging was applied. This technique can be used to relate the NIR spectrum of a sample with pixels in the image, by applying predictive models using advanced statistical methods. In industrial cheese making, calcium is added to the cheese milk and this will most likely induce interactions with citrate and casein micelles. The research group found that casein micelle size and citrate content interacted, influencing the resulting gel strength. Larger micelles with moderate citrate levels resulted in the formation of a firmer gel than small micelles with higher citrate levels. Field studies showed that casein micelle size was subject to seasonal variation, with smaller micelles during the summer months. Total proteolysis in farm milk showed higher values during the summer compared with the rest of the year. Dairy silo milk quality was also subject to monthly variation. Cheese ripening time showed a weak association with all milk quality parameters studied, but the sensory and texture scores of the cheeses were affected by the activity of plasmin and plasminogen in the silo milk. This illustrates the important role of the native proteolytic system in milk for the ripening of this Swedish long-ripening cheese. An impact of the milking system and dominant breed on-farm on milk quality attributes was demonstrated. Two major types of dairy farms were distinguished in the study region: (I) smaller tiestall farms with cows of Swedish Red Cattle and multiple other breed types and (II) larger farms with loose-housing, milking parlour or automatic milking and Swedish Holstein as the dominant breed. These dairy farm types resulted in milk that differed in composition and properties, with e.g., higher fat and protein content and lower cell count in milk from type I farms. Predicting and monitoring the cheese ripening process is crucial for the cheese industry, and for this, the use of non-invasive techniques is of great interest. Use of NIR-HS images in predicting and understanding the variation in cheese maturation (age-related) through visualising the maturity of cheeses was tested. The model developed achieved 76% accuracy in prediction of maturity and made it possible to visualise variation in cheese maturation both within and between cheeses. Cheese maturation was initiated in the core of the cheese wheel and then... https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/2021/milk_quality_factors/ 488873 Tue, 04 Jul 2023 14:15:59 +0100 Topical ophthalmic atropine in horses, pharmacokinetics and effect on intestinal motility Topical ophthalmic atropine sulfate is an important part of the treatment protocol in equine uveitis. Frequent administration of topical atropine may cause decreased intestinal motility and colic in horses due to systemic exposure. Atropine pharmacokinetics are unknown in horses and this knowledge gap could impede the use of atropine because of the presumed risk of unwanted effects. Additional information could therefore increase safety in atropine treatment. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/ogonbehandling-utan-kolik/ 481419 Thu, 08 Jul 2021 11:44:15 +0100 Faecal bacterial composition in horses with and without free faecal liquid Free faecal liquid (FFL) is a condition in horses which manifests as differential defecation of solid and liquid phases of faeces. The etiology of FFL is currently unknown, but deviances in the hindgut microbiota has been suggested to be of importance. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/fri-fekal-vatska-hos-hast--ett-tecken-pa-stord-grovtarm/ 481448 Thu, 08 Jul 2021 11:40:53 +0100 Introduction to automatic forage stations and measurement of forage intake rate in an active open barn for horses Interest in the use of open barns on Swedish horse farms is increasing as an alternative to keeping horses in box stalls and as a 2007 law requires phasing out of tie stalls. To provide adequate forage to satisfy welfare requirements for nutrition, gut health and behavioural needs, the use of automated feeding is also increasing. Studies on forage intake rate report wide variation but provide little information on how to introduce horses to an automatic forage station and on how forage intake rate varies in individual horses fed using an automatic forage station. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/sjalvservering-for-hastar/ 481442 Thu, 08 Jul 2021 11:36:11 +0100 Evaluation of fasting plasma insulin and proxy measurements to assess insulin sensitivity in horses Proxies are mathematical calculations based on fasting glucose and/or insulin concentrations developed to allow prediction of insulin sensitivity (IS) and β-cell response. These proxies have not been evaluated in horses with insulin dysregulation. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/metod-for-att-undersoka-manga-hastar-med-ems/ 481402 Thu, 08 Jul 2021 11:33:03 +0100 Attachment behaviour and the effect of training method on fear reactions and ease of handling Optimising horse–human relationships can promote positive experiences and advance the welfare and safety of both dyad members. Attachment and bonding are key components in such relationships, and horses are good candidate subjects for studying bonding processes due to their social nature, artificial selection for trainability and their dependence on human care in a domestic context. However, the factors that contribute to successful relationships remain unclear. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/hur-kanner-hasten-for-oss-manniskor/ 474971 Thu, 08 Jul 2021 11:30:56 +0100 Non-banked curved tracks influence movement symmetry in two-year-old Standardbred trotters Little is known regarding how trotting through curves affects locomotion symmetry in Standardbred trotters. The aim of the current study was to investigate differences in objectively measured Standardbred trotter vertical motion symmetry between straight and non-banked, curved sections of oval trotting tracks during exercise warm-up, using a wireless inertial measurement unit (IMU) system. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/hur-forandras-travhastars-rorelsemonster-i-kurvor/ 474967 Thu, 08 Jul 2021 11:27:43 +0100 Reliable and clinically applicable gait classification in walking and trotting horses Objectively assessing horse movement symmetry as an adjunctive to the routine lameness evaluation is on the rise with several commercially available systems on the market. Prerequisites for quantifying such symmetries include knowledge of the gait and gait events, such as hoof to ground contact patterns over consecutive strides. Extracting this information in a robust and reliable way is essential to accurately calculate many kinematic variables commonly used in the field. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/skritt-eller-trav-vanster-eller-hoger/ 474959 Thu, 08 Jul 2021 11:24:51 +0100 Prevalence of heterophilic antibodies in horse serum, and elimination of interference using chicken IgY Heterophilic antibodies in serum and plasma can interfere with mammalian antibodies in immunoassays and result in false test results, usually false positive. Although studies screening for heterophilic antibodies as well as elimination studies have been conducted in dogs and cats, knowledge of the presence of heterophilic antibodies in other species in veterinary medicine is limited. In this study, a 2-site sandwich-type interference assay that detects anti-mouse antibodies was used to detect heterophilic antibodies in a population of horses treated in an animal hospital. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/amnen-i-hastars-blod-kan-stora-laboratorieanalyser/ 474957 Thu, 08 Jul 2021 11:21:43 +0100 Speed of gaits in Icelandic horses and relationships to sex, age, conformation measurements and subjective judges’ scores The aim was to measure the mean and maximum speed and the range of speed in all gaits of Icelandic horses shown at a breed evaluation field test (BEFT). In addition, the effect of speed on scores for the gaits and whether speed was affected by age, sex and conformation measurements were investigated. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/avelsvardering-och-hastighet-i-islandshastens-gangarter/ 474872 Thu, 08 Jul 2021 11:17:40 +0100 Cytokine responses to larval stages of equine strongyles and modulatory effects of the adjuvant G3 The aims of the current study were to generate different larval stages of Strongylus vulgaris and to study cytokine responses in cultures of eqPBMC exposed to defined larval stages of S. vulgaris and cyathostomins with the aim to understand the early immune reaction to these parasites. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/kan-hastens-stora-blodmask-vilseleda-immunforsvaret/ 470350 Thu, 08 Jul 2021 11:14:11 +0100 Body behaviors and facial expressions associated with induced orthopedic pain in horses Pain scales are tools developed to improve pain assessment in horses. They are based on behaviors and/or facial expressions, and the observer allocates a score based on the character of the behavior or facial expression. Little is known about behaviors and facial expressions at rest in horses with orthopedic pain since pain is mainly assessed by lameness evaluation during movement. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/hastar-med-halta-andrar-ansiktsuttryck-och-beteende/ 470346 Thu, 08 Jul 2021 11:14:26 +0100 Interleukin 31 and targeted vaccination in a case series of six horses with chronic pruritus Chronic pruritus is defined as prolonged itching symptoms associated with a variety of skin conditions. These pruritic conditions clinically manifest in a dermatitis phenotype and commonly are of allergic origin with hypersensitivities towards environmental allergens. Interleukin-31 (IL-31) is a common player in allergic pruritus across species. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/nya-mojligheter-att-hjalpa-hastar-med-klada/ 470341 Thu, 08 Jul 2021 11:02:55 +0100 Does training style affect the human-horse relationship? Humans have shared a long history with horses and today we mainly consider horses as companions for sports and leisure activities. Previously, the human perspective of the human-horse relationship has been investigated but there has been little focus on the horse’s perspective. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/paverkar-traningsmetoderna-relationen-till-hasten/ 470331 Thu, 08 Jul 2021 10:59:49 +0100 Nerve growth factor in the equine joint Nerve growth factor (NGF) is a neurotrophin with many functions. In humans, it is involved in inflammation, nerve growth, apoptosis and pain signalling. Increased concentrations of NGF in synovial fluid has been shown in humans and dogs with osteoarthritis. Despite osteoarthritis being a common problem in horses, no studies have previously been published on NGF in the equine joint. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/signalsubstans-i-ledvatska-okar-vid-ledinflammation/ 470330 Thu, 08 Jul 2021 10:56:17 +0100 Eye temperature in horses when measured using infrared thermography in field conditions Infrared thermography (IRT) is a popular technology used for the detection of thermal changes given its non-invasive nature and lack of direct contact with the individual. Accordingly, the maximal eye temperature (MaxET) measured with IRT has been extensively applied in equine research. However, there is little information available about the potential limitations of the MaxET in field studies. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/hastens-ogontemperatur-matt-med-infrarod-teknik/ 470316 Thu, 08 Jul 2021 10:51:53 +0100 Inflammatory responses in horses with experimentally induced endotoxemia Endotoxemia is a common and severe disease of horses. Most previous studies have monitored changes caused by a bolus dose of endotoxin over short time periods. The objective of the current study was to describe inflammatory responses to endotoxin with inflammatory and hematologic markers monitored over a longer time than has been performed in the past using more prolonged endotoxin exposures. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/endotoxinemi-ger-utdraget-inflammationssvar-hos-hast/ 458588 Thu, 08 Jul 2021 10:53:38 +0100 Genomic divergence in Swedish Warmblood horses selected for equestrian disciplines The equestrian sport horse Swedish Warmblood (SWB) originates from versatile cavalry horses. Most modern SWB breeders have specialized their breeding either towards show jumping or dressage disciplines. The aim of this study was to explore the genomic structure of SWB horses to evaluate the presence of genomic subpopulations, and to search for signatures of selection in subgroups of SWB with high or low breeding values (EBVs) for show jumping. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/specialiserad-avel-delar-svenska-varmblodsrasen/ 458389 Thu, 08 Jul 2021 10:53:29 +0100 Improving gait classification in horses by using inertial measurement unit (IMU) generated data and machine learning For centuries humans have been fascinated by the natural beauty of horses in motion and their different gaits. Gait classification (GC) is commonly performed through visual assessment and reliable, automated methods for real-time objective GC in horses are warranted. In this study, we used a full body network of wireless, high sampling-rate sensors combined with machine learning to fully automatically classify gait. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/automatisk-klassificering-av-hastens-olika-gangarter/ 458387 Thu, 08 Jul 2021 10:53:21 +0100 Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) in Swedish household dust and exposure of pet cats Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are used in a wide range of products and have been found ubiquitously in our indoor environment, and there is evidence that exposure to PFAS can lead to adverse endocrine effects, such as thyroid hormone disruption. Pet cats have a high dust intake due to their grooming behavior and have been shown to be a suitable sentinel species for assessment of toddler’s exposure. Here we used paired household dust (n=46) and cat serum (n=27) samples to establish whether dust is a relevant exposure pathway to PFASs. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/katt/kemiska-fororeningar-i-kattblod-och-inomhusdamm/ 481436 Mon, 05 Jul 2021 13:45:16 +0100 Differences in metabolic profiles between three cat breeds with varying risk for diabetes mellitus Feline diabetes mellitus shares many features with type 2 diabetes in people, regarding clinical presentation, physiology, and pathology. A breed predisposition for type 2 diabetes has been identified, with the Burmese breed at a fivefold increased risk of developing the condition compared to other purebred cats. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/katt/amnesomsattningen-kan-visa-vilka-katter-som-far-diabetes/ 481418 Mon, 05 Jul 2021 13:40:45 +0100 Influence of clinical setting and cat characteristics on indirectly measured blood pressure and pulse rate in healthy cats Measured indirect blood pressure (BP) results in cats in a clinical environment might be affected by stress and characteristics of the cats. The aim of the present study was to investigate the influence of clinical setting, cat characteristics, and life situation on BP and pulse rate (PR) in healthy cats. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/katt/blodtrycksmatning-i-kattens-bur-ger-jamnare-blodtryck/ 474970 Mon, 05 Jul 2021 13:37:23 +0100 The epidemiology of stifle joint disease in an insured Swedish dog population Stifle joint diseases (SJD) are common in dogs and include a variety of diagnoses. The objective of the study was to provide an overview of the epidemiology of SJD in insured dogs. An historical single cohort study of dogs insured in Agria Pet Insurance (2011–2016) in Sweden was performed. Incidence and relative risk (RR) of SJD was calculated for the whole dog population and for subgroups divided by breed, breed group and sex. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/risken-for-knaledssjukdom-varierar-mellan-hundraser/ 481470 Mon, 05 Jul 2021 13:33:26 +0100 Evaluation of cryopreservation of dog semen in Tris extenders with soybean Egg yolk is widely used as a cryoprotectant in dog semen extenders, but there is a risk of contamination with animal pathogens. In addition, egg yolk may vary in composition, making it difficult to standardize the extender. Lecithin is an animal protein-free alternative to egg yolk for semen cryopreservation. Recently, it was shown that 1% of soybean lecithin type II-S was better than 2% for freezing canine semen. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/aggula-fortfarande-bast-for-fryskonserverad-hundsperma/ 481446 Mon, 05 Jul 2021 13:46:18 +0100 Overweight in Swedish show dogs–prevalence and association with performance in competition The prevalence of overweight and obesity is increasing in companion dogs, but little is known of these conditions in show dogs. This study assessed body condition score (BCS) of show dogs of six selected popular breeds at a major Swedish dog show event and examined the association between BCS and performance in competition. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/hull-och-premiering-hos-svenska-utstallningshundar/ 481438 Mon, 05 Jul 2021 13:46:28 +0100 Impact of equipment and handling on systolic blood pressure measurements in conscious dogs in an animal hospital environment Situational hypertension and differences between devices complicate interpretations of systolic blood pressure (SBP) measurements in dogs. The objective of the present situation was to evaluate if time point of in-clinic SBP measurement, type of oscillometric device, and operator affect SBP measurements in conscious dogs. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/blodtrycksmatning-hos-hund---kan-du-lita-pa-resultatet/ 474965 Mon, 05 Jul 2021 13:46:40 +0100 Interacting with a visiting dog increases fingertip temperature in elderly residents of nursing homes The aim of this study was to investigate whether interacting with a visiting dog influences fingertip temperature and cortisol levels in residents living in nursing homes for the elderly. The study included two groups, the dog group (n = 13) and the control group (n = 11–15) and lasted for 8 weeks for the dog group and 6 weeks for the control group. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/besok-av-vardhund-okar-temperaturen-hos-aldre/ 474964 Mon, 05 Jul 2021 13:46:50 +0100 Professional dental cleaning in dogs: clinical routines among Swedish veterinarians and veterinary nurses Dental disease is very common in dogs and veterinary professional dental cleaning and examination, together with daily dental home care, is the foundation for good dental health. To our knowledge, no previous study has investigated professional dental cleaning routines in small animal veterinary practice. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/kartlaggning-av-rutiner-vid-professionell-hundtandvard/ 470334 Mon, 05 Jul 2021 13:11:19 +0100 The chromogranin A-derived peptides catestatin and vasostatin in dogs with myxomatous mitral valve disease The protein chromogranin A (CgA) is stored and co-released with catecholamines from the stimulated adrenal glands. Increased plasma concentrations of CgA have been shown in people with heart disease. The aim of the study was to investigate whether plasma concentrations of the CgA-derived biologically active peptides catestatin and vasostatin were associated with the severity of myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD) in dogs and to assess potential associations between these blood variables and dog characteristics, echocardiographic variables, heart rate (HR), blood pressure (BP) and plasma N-terminal-proBNP (NT-proBNP) concentration. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/biomarkoren-catestatin-hos-hundar-med-hjartsjukdom/ 458359 Mon, 05 Jul 2021 13:47:07 +0100 Mast cells in an atopic dermatitis mouse model Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a complex, often lifelong allergic disease with severe pruritus affecting around 10% of both humans and dogs. To investigate the role of mast cells (MCs) and MC-specific proteases on the immunopathogenesis of AD, a vitamin D3-analog (MC903) was used to induce clinical AD-like symptoms in c-kit-dependent MC-deficient Wsh−/− and the MC protease-deficient mMCP-4−/−, mMCP-6−/−, and CPA3−/− mouse strains. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/mastcellernas-roll-vid-atopisk-dermatit/ 458336 Mon, 05 Jul 2021 13:51:01 +0100 A non-destructive tool for quality assurance of cheese ripening There is a drive towards automation and continuous quality control of cheeses through real-time analysis during the ripening process. Development of novel technologies enable this trend. We present two potential applications of NIR-hyperspectral (NIR-HS) imaging that can be used in cheese ripening facilities. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/2021/development-of-a-non-destructive-tool-for-quality-assurance-of-cheese-ripening/ 484255 Thu, 02 Sep 2021 08:34:26 +0100 Fish welfare at risk due to poor routines Maintaining good animal welfare for fish is a major challenge within aquaculture. One threat against fish welfare is poorly adapted routines that increase the risk of causing unnecessary and potentially detrimental stress in the animals. In the present study we assessed how the stress levels of European whitefish (Coregonus lavaretus) was affected by routines before and during the slaughter process. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/vilt-fisk-och-renar/the-fish-welfare-in-risk-due-to-poor-routines/ 479995 Tue, 09 Jan 2024 11:21:12 +0100 How milk quality is affected by dairy farming system and sampling month In two companion scientific publications in the Journal of Dairy Science, researchers at SLU report on how Swedish farm milk quality is affected by the dairy farming system (I) and the sampling month (II). https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/2021/how--milk-quality-is-affected-by--dairy-farming-system-and--sampling-month/ 481374 Thu, 02 Sep 2021 08:34:08 +0100 Favour pollinators and natural enemies More crops into crop rotations to increase landscape scale crop diversity and flower strips along field edges. Retain the remaining forest and grassland patches. Avoid supplementation of honey bee hives in landscapes with scarce floral resources to avoid resource competition between managed and wild pollinators. Prioritize water withdrawal for agricultural irrigation in crops, which are free from herbivores. These are Chloë Raderschall´s recommendations based on her PhD thesis. She studied agricultural diversification strategies and how they affect pollinators and natural enemies of insect pests. Read her popular scientific summary. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/ekologi/favor-pollinators-and-natural-enemies/ 475428 Thu, 15 Apr 2021 07:44:28 +0100 Development of a novel detection method for contagious sheep and goat disease Peste des petits ruminants (PPR) is a severe viral disease of sheep and goats. PPR is present in Africa, the Middle East and Asia, and seriously impacts the livelihoods and food security of poor and marginalized groups that often depend on their animals for daily survival. PPR is highly contagious, and the mortality can vary from 10% to around 90%. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/far-och-alpacka-i-sverige/development-of-a-novel-detection-method-for-contagious-sheep-and-goat-disease/ 469212 Wed, 10 Mar 2021 16:52:01 +0100 Environmental analysis data as a basis for research on large-scale changes in woodland vegetation Numbers are down for the forest’s blueberry bushes and up for herbs such as sorrel and several fern species. Using long data series from the permanent areas of the Swedish National Forest Inventory, vegetation ecologist Per-Ola Hedwall has been able to show a large-scale change in the forest’s ground cover. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/miljoanalys/environmental-analysis-data-as-a-basis-for-research-on-large-scale-changes-in-woodland-vegetation/ 442932 Thu, 14 Jan 2021 13:24:12 +0100 Insects as feed for trout A problem with fish farming is that commercial fish feed contains fishmeal and fish oil. These raw materials are expensive and not very sustainable, because the already high demand for fish risks leading to overfishing in order to produce fish feed. In addition, the caught fish could be used directly for human consumption instead. Could insects be an option? https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/vilt-fisk-och-renar/insects-as-feed-for-trout/ 453429 Tue, 02 Jan 2024 13:51:55 +0100 Old data series provide new answers about brown water Many scientists have tried to find out why the water in lakes and streams is becoming browner. At Lund University, limnologist and newly appointed professor Emma Kritzberg found interesting clues in historical data material, including from the Swedish National Forest Inventory – and they pointed in a new direction. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/miljoanalys/old-data-series-provide-new-answers-about-brown-water/ 448373 Wed, 25 Nov 2020 11:51:25 +0100 Resistance mechanisms in Parascaris univalens studied Parascaris univalens is a pathogenic parasite of foals and yearlings worldwide. In recent years, Parascaris spp. worms have developed resistance to several of the commonly used anthelmintics, though currently the mechanisms behind this development are unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate the transcriptional responses in adult P. univalens worms after in vitro exposure to different concentrations of three anthelmintic drugs, focusing on drug targets and drug metabolising pathways. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/mekanismer-vid-utveckling-av-resistens-hos-spolmask/ 452696 Thu, 08 Jul 2021 10:52:47 +0100 Equine adaptation strategies to induced forelimb lameness There is a paucity of research describing the gait pattern of lame horses at the walk. The objective of the current study was to describe the changes in motion pattern and vertical ground reaction forces (GRFz) in horses with induced forelimb lameness at the walk and compare those changes with the changes observed at the trot. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/hastens-rorelsemonster-i-skritt-vid-en-frambenshalta/ 452710 Thu, 08 Jul 2021 10:52:55 +0100 Genetic diversity in a native Italian horse breed Horses are nowadays mainly used for sport and leisure activities, and several local breeds, traditionally used in agriculture, have been exposed to a dramatic loss in population size and genetic diversity. The loss of genetic diversity negatively impacts individual fitness and reduces the potential long-term survivability of a breed. Recent advances in molecular biology and bioinformatics have allowed researchers to explore biodiversity one step further. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/forandringen-fran-draghast-till-ridhast-syns-i-arvsmassan/ 453313 Thu, 08 Jul 2021 10:53:04 +0100 Veterinarians’ skills in MI linked to client verbal behavior Veterinarians often give advice in a persuasive form, a style that has been shown to evoke resistance to change in clients experiencing psychological ambivalence (i.e. those who see both advantages and disadvantages to changing). With this style of communication, veterinarians run the risk of counteracting their purpose to encourage clients to follow recommendations. Motivational interviewing (MI) is a client-centered communication methodology that aims to facilitate clients’ internal motivation to change. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/notkreatur/motiverande-samtal-kan-forbattra-radgivning/ 452662 Thu, 26 Nov 2020 10:29:22 +0100 Zambian livestock trader perceptions of animal disease Trade in animals and animal products is a key factor in the transmission of infectious diseases. Livestock traders play an important role in this process, yet there is little knowledge of traders’ perceptions of animal disease or their associated actions. The aim of this study was to investigate perceptions and practices of Zambian small ruminant traders with regard to sheep and goat health and disease. It also analysed how existing perceptions and practices might affect risks of disease transmission through trade. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/globalt/riskmedvetenhet-hos-zambiska-djurhandlare/ 452723 Mon, 23 Nov 2020 12:40:58 +0100 Respiratory disease pathogens of swine in Africa Over the last two decades, the pig population in Africa has grown rapidly, reflecting the increased adoption of pig production as an important economic activity. Of all species, pigs are likely to constitute a greater share of the growth in the livestock subsector. However, constraints such as respiratory infectious diseases cause significant economic losses to the pig industry worldwide. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/globalt/luftvagssjukdom-hos-afrikanska-grisar/ 452715 Mon, 23 Nov 2020 15:41:53 +0100 Dog owners' perspectives on canine dental health Periodontal disease is one of the most common diseases affecting dogs, with a reported prevalence of at least 80% in dogs over 3 years of age. However, there is a lack of studies regarding dog owners' assessment of their dog's dental health, and whether they perceive clinical signs often associated with periodontal disease, i.e., dental calculus, halitosis or mobile or lost teeth. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/hundagares-syn-pa-hundens-tandhalsa/ 453317 Mon, 23 Nov 2020 15:59:17 +0100 Detection of atypical porcine pestivirus in Swedish piglets Congenital tremor (CT) type A-II is a neurological disorder characterized by tremor of the head and body of newborn piglets. The suggested causative agent of the disease is the recently found atypical porcine pestivirus (APPV). The virus has been detected in piglets suffering from congenital tremor in central Europe, South and North America and in China but no studies has so far been performed in the Nordic countries. The overarching goal of this study was to investigate if APPV is present in the brain tissue of Swedish piglets suffering from congenital tremor. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/notiser-om-lantbrukets-djur/nytt-virus-hittat-hos-griskultingar-med-skaksjuka/ 453319 Thu, 19 Nov 2020 14:56:18 +0100 Cytokine profile influence equine ACS treatment results Biologic’ therapies, such as autologous conditioned serum (ACS), are gaining popularity in treating orthopaedic conditions in equine veterinary medicine. Evidence is scarce regarding ACS constituents, and large inter-individual differences in cytokine and growth factor content have been demonstrated. The objective of the current study was to investigate the potential association between cytokine and growth factor content of ACS and clinical effect in harness racehorses with spontaneously occurring low-grade articular lameness. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/effekt-av-haltbehandling-med-autologt-konditionerat-serum/ 453323 Thu, 08 Jul 2021 10:53:12 +0100 Genetics underpinning dynamic laryngeal collapse Dynamic laryngeal collapse associated with poll flexion is the most common disorder of the upper respiratory tract in the Norwegian‐Swedish Coldblooded Trotter. The disorder, which has also been diagnosed in other breeds of trotters and gaited horses, appears to be related to anatomic phenotypes and only occurs during poll flexion when the horse is exercised ‘on the bit’. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/kartlaggning-av-gener-kopplade-till-kallblodssyndrom/ 447985 Thu, 08 Jul 2021 10:52:38 +0100 Parasite occurrence in horses with gastrointestinal disease All grazing horses are exposed to intestinal parasites, which have the potential to cause gastrointestinal disease. In Sweden, there is a concern about an increase in parasite-related equine gastrointestinal disease, in particular Strongylus vulgaris, since the implementation of prescription-only anthelmintics approximately 10 years ago. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/parasiter-hos-hast--en-vanlig-orsak-till-kolik/ 447981 Thu, 08 Jul 2021 10:52:30 +0100 The first confirmed case of canine TBE in Scandinavia Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a zoonotic neurological disease caused by tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV), a flavivirus endemic in parts of Europe and Asia. Seroconversion without signs of clinical disease is common in dogs and most of the cases previously described have been tentatively diagnosed by combining neurologic signs with serum antibody titres. Here, the first Scandinavian RT-qPCR-confirmed clinical case of TBE in a dog is reported. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/skandinaviens-forsta-bekraftade--tbe-fall--hos-hund/ 447970 Thu, 19 Nov 2020 08:50:45 +0100 Hormonal changes in the peripartum period of the bitch The aim of the work was to describe the profile of steroid hormones in the peripartum period of the bitch. Twenty-five healthy pregnant bitches presented for pregnancy monitoring and parturition assistance were included in the study. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/hormonforandringar-runt-valpning/ 447961 Tue, 17 Nov 2020 10:35:02 +0100 Streptococcus suis in Swedish grower pigs Streptococcus suis is a major cause of meningitis, arthritis, and pneumonia in pigs worldwide, and an emerging pathogen in humans. In Sweden, S. suis has previously received little attention but has in recent years become increasingly recognized as affecting the pig production. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/notiser-om-lantbrukets-djur/streptococcus-suis-hos-svenska-tillvaxtgrisar/ 447948 Mon, 17 May 2021 09:27:36 +0100 Are genomically enhanced breeding values valuable? This study compared the abilities of virgin heifer genomically enhanced breeding values and parent average breeding values to predict future cow performance. To increase confidence in genomic technology among farmers, a clear demonstration of the relationship between genomic predictions and future phenotypes is needed. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/notkreatur/fungerar-genomiska-avelsvarden-pa-riktigt/ 447974 Tue, 17 Nov 2020 14:17:22 +0100 Detection of Campylobacter in samples from dairy farms Livestock, domestic pets and wildlife can be intestinal carriers of thermotolerant Campylobacter species. These reservoirs can in turn contaminate the environment and food products, thus creating pathways to campylobacteriosis in human beings. The purposes of this study were to investigate sampling strategies applied for surveillance of Campylobacter on dairy cattle farms and to identify the presence and species of Campylobacter in different age groups. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/notkreatur/forekomst-av-campylobacter-i-mjolkkobesattningar/ 447997 Tue, 17 Nov 2020 10:15:25 +0100 Impact of negative energy balance on gene expression The severity of negative energy balance (NEB) in high-producing dairy cows has a high incidence among health diseases. The cow’s energy status during early lactation critically affects metabolic and reproductive parameters. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/notkreatur/fettvavnaden-paverkar-fortplantningen-hos-mjolkkor/ 448004 Tue, 17 Nov 2020 10:10:22 +0100 Changed routines for thinning could favor biodiversity Julian Klein has in his thesis showed that conventional thinning reduces the forest’s structural variety and has a strong influence on which and how many bird and lichen species can live in the young managed forests typical of Fennoscandia. His recommendation to foresters and policy makers would be small steps forward towards a more sustainable use of the planets resources. Read his popular scientific summary. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/ekologi/changed-routines-for-thinning-could-favor-biodiversity/ 447862 Tue, 06 Oct 2020 16:07:53 +0100 Genome-wide scan for candidate lethal variants Domestic animal populations are often characterised by high rates of inbreeding and low effective population sizes due to selective breeding practices. These practices can result in otherwise rare recessive deleterious alleles drifting to high frequencies, resulting in reduced fertility rates. This study aimed to identify potential recessive lethal haplotypes in the Thoroughbred horse breed, a closed population that has been selectively bred for racing performance. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/genetiska-studier-forbattrar-fruktsamhet-hos-fullblod/ 443776 Thu, 01 Oct 2020 12:44:19 +0100 MI training improves veterinarians’ herd health communication Communication skills to promote changes in management routines are especially important in veterinary herd health management (VHHM). Motivational interviewing (MI) is a communication methodology shown to be effective in stimulating client behaviour change. This study aimed to evaluate a 6-month MI-training programme for veterinarians. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/notkreatur/traning-i-motiverande-samtal-forbattrar-veterinar-radgivning/ 443775 Mon, 05 Oct 2020 09:28:47 +0100 Effect of obesity and pasture on blood pressure in horses Obesity is associated with insulin resistance, vascular dysfunction and altered cortisol metabolism both in humans and in horses. The objective of the current study was to evaluate the effect of weight gain induced by a haylage diet low in nonstructural carbohydrates (NSC) on insulin sensitivity, blood pressure and serum cortisol concentrations. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/fetma-ger-hogt-blodtryck-och-hoga-kortisolnivaer-hos-hast/ 443800 Mon, 05 Oct 2020 09:16:07 +0100 Gene deletion in horses linked to reproductive disorders Disorders of sex development (DSD) and reproduction are not uncommon among horses, though knowledge about their molecular causes is sparse. Here we characterized a ~200 kb homozygous deletion in chromosome 29 at 29.7–29.9 Mb. The region contains AKR1C genes which function as ketosteroid reductases in steroid hormone biosynthesis, including androgens and estrogens. Mutations in AKR1C genes are associated with human DSDs. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/nytt-gentest-kan-visa-hastars-fertilitet/ 443802 Tue, 06 Oct 2020 10:25:02 +0100 Dental disorders in Swedish sows Knowledge on dental disorders in commercial sows is limited although such conditions may have important animal welfare implications. In a pilot study, the dental and periodontal health of 58 sows (Landrace*Yorkshire-crosses) from 8 Swedish commercial pig herds, slaughtered at one abattoir, were investigated. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/notiser-om-lantbrukets-djur/tandhalsan-hos-suggor-fran-svenska-grisbesattningar/ 443762 Thu, 01 Oct 2020 12:59:31 +0100 Automatic hoof-on and -off detection in horses For gait classification, hoof-on and hoof-off events are fundamental locomotion characteristics of interest. These events can be measured with inertial measurement units (IMUs) which measure the acceleration and angular velocity in three directions. The aim of this study was to present two algorithms for automatic detection of hoof-events from the acceleration and angular velocity signals measured by hoof-mounted IMUs in walk and trot on a hard surface. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/automatisk-analys-av-hasthovens-isattning/ 443814 Thu, 01 Oct 2020 10:22:00 +0100 Litter size and medical treatment of sows Sow litter sizes have increased recently, and there is a lack of data on the effect of litter size on sow health and sow medical treatment. This study investigated associations between litter size and medical treatment of sows, using data for a 10-year period from one Swedish research farm. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/notiser-om-lantbrukets-djur/suggor-med-stora-kullar-behover-oftare-behandling/ 443832 Thu, 01 Oct 2020 10:22:22 +0100 Treatment of cranial cruciate ligament disease in cats The aim of this study was to describe the characteristics and long-term outcome of surgically and conservatively treated cats with cranial cruciate ligament disease (CCLD). A retrospective cohort study of cats with CCLD, diagnosed at two university animal hospitals between January 2011 and December 2016, was performed. Signalment, history, treatment and follow-up information were retrieved. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/katt/kronisk-smarta-vanligt-hos-katter-med-korsbandsskada/ 443781 Thu, 01 Oct 2020 13:19:44 +0100 Scientists crack the genetic code of the largest European freshwater fish, wels catfish SLU scientists together with Estonian and Czech researchers assembled and annotated the genome of Europe's largest freshwater fish, the wels catfish. By unravelling the genetic code of catfish, scientists hope to better understand the secrets of its rapid growth, stunning appetite and longevity. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/aqua/scientists-crack-the-genetic-code-of-the-largest-european-freshwater-fish-wels-catfish/ 446157 Thu, 02 Mar 2023 14:22:01 +0100 smallholder farmers Small-scale farmers in sub-Saharan Africa are highly vulnerable to climate change, but also have good potential to improve their sustainability and their production. These farmers struggle to make ends meet and in most cases live on less than one hectare of land. In her thesis, Ylva Nyberg has looked at how Kenyan smallholders manage their farms in order to adapt to rainfall variability, improve productivity and maintain ecosystem services for a sustainable livelihood. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vpe/smallholder-farmers/ 442617 Mon, 31 Aug 2020 11:52:26 +0100 Movement asymmetry in young Standardbred trotters Lameness evaluation of Standardbred trotters can be challenging due to discrepancies in observed movement asymmetry between in‐hand and track exercise, and between different trotting speeds. There are few studies on objective measurement of movement in Standardbreds, and little knowledge regarding biological variation and clinical significance of measured movement asymmetry in this breed. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/movement-asymmetry-in-young-standardbred-trotters/ 440698 Wed, 12 Aug 2020 10:06:11 +0100 Equine-assisted interventions to improve quality of life People with neurological disorders suffer from poor mobility, poor balance, fatigue, isolation and monotonous everyday activities. Studies show that equine-assisted interventions can improve their mobility and balance, but could these kinds of interventions also increase participants' activity repertoire and self-assessed health, and reduce their fatigue? https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/hastunderstodda-insatser-bra-for-neurologiskt-sjuka/ 440697 Tue, 11 Aug 2020 12:23:13 +0100 Spinal kinematics in sound horses at trot Clinical assessment of spinal motion in horses is part of many routine clinical exams but remains highly subjective. A prerequisite for the quantification of spinal motion is the assessment of the expected normal range of motion and variability of back kinematics. The aim of this study was to objectively quantify spinal kinematics and variation between measurements, days, and different surfaces and in sound horses. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/variation-i-ryggrorelser-hos-normala-hastar/ 440685 Thu, 13 Aug 2020 11:10:32 +0100 Why Swedish farmers follow, or not follow, the vet's advice The problem of nonadherence to advice is recognized in several professional relationships, including the veterinarian-client relationship. A better understanding of farmer perspectives may help to improve efficiency in veterinary herd health management. This study aimed to qualitatively and quantitatively describe farmers' reasons for adherence and nonadherence with veterinary recommendations regarding preventive herd health measures. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/notkreatur/darfor-foljer-mjolkbonder-veterinarens-rad-eller-inte/ 440695 Mon, 17 Aug 2020 08:59:44 +0100 Prevalence and risk factors of subclinical mastitis in Rwanda The objective of this cross-sectional study was to investigate prevalence, causative udder pathogens and their antimicrobial resistance (AMR), as well as cow and herd risk factors associated with subclinical mastitis (SCM = cows with at least one udder quarter with California mastitis test (CMT) score > 2) and intramammary infections (IMI) caused by Staphylococcus (S.) aureus or Non-aureus staphylococci (NAS) in dairy cows linked to Milk Collection Centers (MCCs) in Rwanda. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/globalt/risker-for-juverhalsan-hos-mjolkkor-i-rwanda/ 440700 Wed, 12 Aug 2020 13:26:25 +0100 Sentinel surveillance of Pakistani camel pathogens An extended range of host susceptibility including camel has been evidenced for some of the important veterinary and public health pathogens, such as brucellosis, peste des petits ruminants (PPR) and bluetongue (BT). However, in disease endemic settings across many parts of the globe, most of the disease control interventions accounts for small and large ruminants, whereas unusual hosts and/or natural reservoirs, such as camels, remain neglected for disease control measures including routine vaccination. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/globalt/viktiga-infektionssjukdomar-hos-pakistanska-kameler/ 440696 Wed, 12 Aug 2020 11:55:34 +0100 Genomic haplotypes of Avian coronavirus Avian coronavirus (AvCoV) is ubiquitously present on poultry as a multitude of virus lineages. Studies on AvCoV phenotypic traits are dependent on the isolation of field strains in chicken embryonated eggs, but the mutant spectrum on each isolate is not considered. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/fjaderfa/genetiskt-olika-varianter-av-aviart-coronavirus-funna/ 440699 Tue, 11 Aug 2020 09:36:13 +0100 Stress-related behaviour at mobile slaughter of cattle By avoiding animal transportation, mobile slaughter may have the potential to reduce animal stress. In a cross-sectional study with elements of cohort design, we investigated relationships between animal handling and stress-related animal behaviours in connection with slaughter at two Swedish slaughter plants: a newly started small-scale on-farm mobile abattoir and a relatively large-scale stationary slaughterhouse. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/notkreatur/djurhantering-och-stress-vid-mobil-slakt-av-notkreatur/ 437870 Mon, 06 Jul 2020 09:02:29 +0100 AMH concentrations in male donkeys Sertoli cells produce anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and number of these cells is associated with numbers of sperm produced. The study aim was to quantify AMH concentrations in serum and seminal plasma of donkeys during puberty, and to correlate the values with those for testicular width and semen quality of sexually mature males. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/far-och-alpacka-i-sverige/amh-hos-unga-asnehingstar-ar-kopplat-till-testikelstorlek/ 437921 Tue, 30 Jun 2020 12:40:42 +0100 Effect of LED-light on equine wound healing Light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) are commonly used for treating a variety of disorders in horses, including wounds. Despite its claim to shorten healing times, there is a lack of scientific documentation regarding its effects. The objective of the present study was to investigate if treatment with pulsating visible red light (λ ≈ 637 nm) and near‐infrared (NIR) light (λ ≈ 956 nm) affects wound healing. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/ljusbehandling-forbattrar-inte-sarlakning-hos-hast/ 437889 Tue, 30 Jun 2020 13:38:45 +0100 Filtering techniques effect analysis of motion symmetry Quantitative gait analysis in horses is rapidly gaining importance, both clinically and in research. The number of available systems is increasing, but the methods of signal analysis differ between systems and research groups. Our objectives are to describe and evaluate the effects of different methods of signal analysis for processing of data from equine kinematic gait analysis. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/rorelseanalysmetoden-kan-paverka-haltbedomningen/ 437876 Tue, 30 Jun 2020 12:01:29 +0100 Benefits and risks of barefoot harness racing There is a lack of research on the benefits and risks of shoeing conditions in harness racing. Thus, our objectives were to: (a) investigate whether velocity times (s/km) are affected by racing unshod (N = 76,932 records on 5,247 horses); (b) determine the potential risks of galloping, being penalized, and disqualification when competing unshod (N = 111,755 records on 6,423 horses); and (c) identify additional environmental factors that affect velocity times and risks. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/travhastar-utan-hastskor-ar-snabbare/ 437852 Tue, 30 Jun 2020 13:44:12 +0100 Genetic determinants of canine hypothyroidism Hypothyroidism is a common complex endocrinopathy that typically has an autoimmune etiology, and it affects both humans and dogs. Genetic and environmental factors are both known to play important roles in the disease development. In this study, we sought to identify the genetic risk factors potentially involved in the susceptibility to the disease in the high-risk Giant Schnauzer dog breed. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/arftligt-skydd-mot-skoldkortelrubbning-hos-vissa-hundar/ 437899 Tue, 30 Jun 2020 12:29:25 +0100 Canine respiratory coronavirus in Swedish dogs Canine respiratory coronavirus (CRCoV) has been identified as a causative agent of canine infectious respiratory disease, an upper respiratory infection affecting dogs. The epidemiology is currently opaque, with an unclear understanding of global prevalence, pathology, and genetic characteristics. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/hundens-respiratoriska-coronavirus-funnet-i-sverige/ 437873 Tue, 30 Jun 2020 12:29:48 +0100 Novel viruses found in ticks from bat caves in Brazil In this study, we describe the viral composition of adult Antricola delacruzi ticks collected in a hot bat cave in the state of Rondônia, Western Amazonia, Brazil. A. delacruzi ticks, are special, compared to many other ticks, in that they feed on both bats (larval blood feeding) and bat guano (nymphal and adult feeding) instead of feeding exclusively on vertebrate hosts (blood feeding). Considering this unique life-cycle it is potentially possible that these ticks can pick up/be infected by viruses not only present in the blood of viremic bats but also by virus shed through the bat guano. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/vilt-fisk-och-renar/virus-frodas-hos-fastingar-i-varma-fladdermusgrottor/ 437883 Mon, 17 May 2021 09:31:38 +0100 Immune system differences in parasite tolerant goats Gastrointestinal nematode (GIN) infections are one of the major constraints for grazing sheep and goat production worldwide. Genetic selection for resistant animals is a promising control strategy. Whole-transcriptome analysis via RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) provides knowledge of the mechanisms responsible for complex traits such as resistance to GIN infections. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/globalt/skillnader-i-immunforsvaret-hos-parasittoleranta-getter/ 437868 Tue, 30 Jun 2020 10:02:22 +0100 Cod flounder The demersal fish community in the Baltic Sea has gone through substantial change in its structure during the past 40 years. The decrease of large predatory cod may be an important driver behind the increased abundance of flounder in parts of the Baltic Sea. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/miljoanalys/cod-flounder/ 439138 Wed, 17 Jun 2020 10:47:13 +0100 reed feed Reed is now turned into animal feed with an extra environmental benefit – reed harvest can also reduce eutrophication in our waters, according to researchers at SLU. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/2020/reed-feed/ 439005 Thu, 28 Mar 2024 09:47:32 +0100 Climate and sperm quality in dairy bull semen The aim of the present study was to make a retrospective analysis of the relationship between climatic factors and sperm quality of frozen–thawed semen from bulls kept in temperate climates. Semen samples from 21 European dairy bulls from 2 countries were collected and cryopreserved in winter, spring, and summer. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/notkreatur/tjurspermier-paverkas-av-arstidernas-vaxlingar/ 428779 Tue, 16 Jun 2020 11:18:31 +0100 Tenoscopic method affect risk of radiocarpal joint perforation The objective of the current study was to report the frequency of radiocarpal joint perforation during two proximolateral carpal sheath approaches and to investigate the presence or absence of a natural communication between the radiocarpal joint and the carpal sheath. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/forbattrad-titthalskirurgi-for-hastens-karpaltunnel/ 433326 Mon, 22 Jun 2020 08:17:42 +0100 Increased rider weight had no short term effect on horses The influence of rider weight on horse welfare, health and performance is often debated. We measured the effects of increasing the weight of the regular rider by 15% and 25% on horse behavior, gait symmetry and physiological responses in a standard dressage test. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/okad-ryttarvikt-paverkade-inte-hastens-beteende-eller-halsa/ 433323 Tue, 16 Jun 2020 09:50:26 +0100 Horse parasites in a Nordic year-round grazing system Grazing horses year-round may be a means to increase biodiversity. In this study, parasite occurrence was documented on a monthly basis in 1- to 3-year-old Gotlandsruss stallions grazed year-round for 2.5 years. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/parasitforekomst-hos-aret-runt-betande-gotlandsruss/ 433300 Tue, 16 Jun 2020 09:40:59 +0100 Point-of-care test may support suspicion of heart disease in cats Increased plasma concentration of N‐terminal‐prohormone B‐type natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP) can be detected in cats with cardiac disease. Potential effects of feline characteristics on NT‐proBNP concentration may influence clinical usefulness. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/katt/snabbtest-for-katt-kan-stodja-misstanke-om-hjartsjukdom/ 433346 Wed, 17 Jun 2020 11:04:33 +0100 Dental home care in dogs Periodontal disease remains one of the dog's most common health issues, even though it is largely preventable by tooth brushing. Implementation of daily tooth brushing would not only improve animal welfare, but also reduce veterinary costs for the owner. There is a paucity of studies investigating attitudes, opinions and practices of dog owners, veterinarians, and veterinary nurses regarding preventative dental home care in dogs. The objective of this study was to investigate these parameters in Sweden, thereby providing a basis for improved prophylactic strategies. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/alltfor-fa-hundagare-borstar-sina-hundars-tander/ 433315 Tue, 16 Jun 2020 09:12:31 +0100 Case report: Tumor lysis syndrome in a dog A 10‐year‐old golden retriever bitch was treated for diarrhea and vomiting that lasted about 1 month without a specific diagnosis until a hepatic biopsy provided a histopathologic diagnosis of lymphoma. The dog was referred to the Swedish University of Agricultural Science and treated with one dose of L‐asparaginase. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/tumor-lys-syndrom-hos-hund-efter-cellgiftsbehandling/ 433308 Tue, 16 Jun 2020 16:05:39 +0100 Redlist 2020 The marine environment is subjected to fast and substantial changes. In total 470 species found in the Swedish marine environment are listed in the 2020 version of the red-list from the SLU Swedish Species Information Centre. Among these species are the Baltic Sea population of harbour porpoise, European eel, sea lamprey and common eider. For more than half of the marine species included in the red list knowledge is lacking for a sound assessment of their status. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/miljoanalys/redlist-2020/ 438757 Mon, 15 Jun 2020 14:19:05 +0100 Future feed is circular Our research is about how we can select from thousands of possible microbes, to isolate promising candidates for a more detailed evaluation. The microbes are mainly intended to be used in fish feed as microbes are a natural part of diet for fish at certain life stages. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/vilt-fisk-och-renar/future-feed-is-circular/ 437074 Thu, 28 Mar 2024 09:46:47 +0100 Less complex ecosystems and loss of biodiversity can lead to new outbreaks of disease How can the loss of biodiversity affect the spread of diseases between animals and humans? A new meta-analysis of a phenomenon known as the dilution effect shows a relationship between loss of biodiversity and increased disease risk at any spatial scale. However, most studies have been performed in North America while for some continents, as for example Asia, there is less research available. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/miljoanalys/less-complex-ecosystems-and-loss-of-biodiversity-can-lead-to-new-outbreaks-of-disease/ 438455 Wed, 10 Jun 2020 16:47:37 +0100 Training of pigs used in renal transplantation studies The pig is commonly used in renal transplantation studies since the porcine kidney resembles the human kidney. To meet the requirements of intense caretaking and examination without stress, a 2-week socialisation and training programme was developed. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/forsoksdjur/systematisk-traning-for-trygga-grisar-i-transplantationsstudier/ 428709 Tue, 12 May 2020 09:54:32 +0100 Pathogenic bacteria in faeces from dogs fed raw meat diets Feeding dogs with raw meat-based diets (RMBD) has increased in popularity in recent years. Proponents claim that RMBD is more natural for dogs, because it is what their ancestors (wolves) eat. Opponents claim that RMBD is a health hazard to both humans and animals, with a risk of spreading zoonotic bacteria and resistant bacterial strains. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/utfodring-med-farskfoder-kan-sprida-sjukdomsframkallande-bakterier/ 428725 Tue, 12 May 2020 09:50:21 +0100 Genetics of behaviour traits in German Shepherds A favourable genetic structure and diversity of behavioural features highlights the potential of dogs for studying the genetic architecture of behaviour traits. However, behaviours are complex traits, which have been shown to be influenced by numerous genetic and non-genetic factors, complicating their analysis. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/enkater-kan-hitta-gener-for-hundars-beteende/ 428714 Tue, 12 May 2020 09:56:17 +0100 Thoracolumbar meningeal fibrosis in pugs Thoracolumbar myelopathies associated with spinal cord and vertebral column lesions, with a similar clinical phenotype, but different underlying etiologies, occur in pugs. The objective of the present study was to further characterize the clinical and neuropathological characteristics of pugs with longstanding thoracolumbar myelopathy. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/orsaker-till-vinglighet-hos-mops-studerade/ 428700 Tue, 12 May 2020 09:56:59 +0100 Case report: A large cyst in the distal femur of a horse A 10‐year‐old Warmblood gelding presented with a left hindlimb lameness. Diagnostic analgesia located the lameness to the stifle. Radiography showed an unusually large cyst in the distal femur. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/fallrapport-om-stor-bencysta-hos-hast/ 412950 Tue, 12 May 2020 13:08:27 +0100 Effect of acute lameness on COMP neo‐epitope in horses Molecular serum markers that can identify early reversible osteoarthritis (OA) in horses are lacking. Researchers from the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences studied serum concentrations of a novel cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP) neo‐epitope in horses subjected to short‐term exercise and with acute lameness. The effects of circadian rhythm and age were also evaluated. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/ny-markor-for-artros-hos-akut-halta-hastar/ 428805 Tue, 12 May 2020 10:01:14 +0100 Signs of selection in genome of Swedish warmblood horses A growing demand for improved physical skills and mental attitude in modern sport horses has led to strong selection for performance in many warmblood studbooks. The aim of this study was to detect genomic regions with low diversity, and therefore potentially under selection, in Swedish Warmblood horses (SWB) by analysing high-density SNP data. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/dna-visar-hur-avel-format-den-svenska-varmblodshasten/ 428800 Tue, 12 May 2020 09:59:28 +0100 Campylobacter contamination when handling raw chicken In many low- and middle-income countries, data limitations are a major challenge facing the development of food safety risk assessment. In the present study, a questionnaire data collection tool was designed with an emphasis on gathering specific data points required by a risk modeller for simulating a scenario of Campylobacter cross-contamination during handling of raw chicken meat at the consumer phase. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/globalt/campylobacter-cross-contamination-during-handling-of-raw-chicken/ 433312 Tue, 16 Jun 2020 11:21:31 +0100 zoonoses hantavirus infection Diseases spread between animals and humans, so called zoonoses, are an increasing threat to public health. The recent outbreak of covid-19 caused by the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 is one such example. The current pandemic has initiated a debate regarding the role of habitat degradation, decreased biodiversity and climate change for the outbreak of zoonoses. The discussions focus on disease outbreaks in Asia. However, we observe these relationships also in Sweden – not only in the future, they already occur. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/miljoanalys/zoonoses-hantavirus-infection/ 435512 Tue, 12 May 2020 07:10:46 +0100 Reporting crop damages caused by geese and cranes for a better protection of crops Farmers, researchers and wildlife managers need to work together. Without farmers reporting where geese and cranes cause damage, researchers and wildlife managers are blind to design or to assess strategies for crop protection. SLU researchers suspect that not all damages are reported today and urge farmers to use the system. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/ekologi/reporting-crop-damages-caused-by-geese-and-cranes-for-a-better-protection-of-crops/ 430047 Thu, 02 Apr 2020 10:30:29 +0100 Complex genetic background to insect bite hypersensitivity Equine insect bite hypersensitivity (IBH) is a pruritic skin allergy caused primarily by biting midges, Culicoides spp. IBH susceptibility has polygenic inheritance and occurs at high frequencies in several horse breeds worldwide, causing increased costs and reduced welfare of affected horses. The aim of this study was to identify and validate single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with equine IBH susceptibility. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/sommareksem-hos-hast-har-komplex-genetisk-bakgrund/ 417682 Tue, 24 Mar 2020 12:33:21 +0100 Few stallion sperm samples harbour pathogens Although artificial insemination (AI) was developed as a means of controlling disease transmission, pathogens can still be transmitted to females in semen used for AI. In addition, bacteria can cause deterioration in sperm quality during storage. Semen becomes contaminated by the male's normal bacterial flora as it passes out of the reproductive tract but potential pathogens may also contaminate the semen. Therefore, semen samples from stallions to be used for AI are tested before the breeding season to minimize transmission of pathogens to inseminated mares. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/bakterieforekomst-i-hingstsperma/ 417652 Tue, 24 Mar 2020 12:44:56 +0100 Important to analyze presence of Strongulus vulgaris Strongylus vulgaris is considered the most pathogenic nematode parasite of the horse. Frequent deworming programs since the 1970s have reduced the prevalence of S. vulgaris to low levels, but to the price of widespread benzimidazole resistance in the small strongyles (cyathostominae) and ivermectin resistance especially in the equine roundworm Parascaris spp. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/viktigt-att-analysera-forekomst-av-stor-blodmask/ 417644 Tue, 24 Mar 2020 11:33:46 +0100 Elevated glucose levels promote matrix repair Chondrocytes are responsible for remodeling and maintaining the structural and functional integrity of the cartilage extracellular matrix. Because of the absence of a vascular supply, chondrocytes survive in a relatively hypoxic environment and thus have limited regenerative capacity during conditions of cellular stress associated with inflammation and matrix degradation, such as osteoarthritis (OA). Glucose is essential to sustain chondrocyte metabolism and is a precursor for key matrix components. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/hastens-sjuka-broskceller-kan-reparera-sig/ 417643 Tue, 24 Mar 2020 14:02:29 +0100 Sealing of lung tissue with new technology The objective of the current study was to compare airway leak pressures after sealing peripheral lung biopsy sites with a resorbable ligation device (LigaTie) or thoracoabdominal (TA) staples. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/forsoksdjur/forslutning-av-lungvavnad-med-ny-teknik/ 417656 Tue, 24 Mar 2020 13:33:44 +0100 Lack of evidence for long term carriers of African swine fever virus African swine fever (ASF) was first described in 1921 as a highly fatal and contagious disease which caused severe outbreaks among settlers' pigs in British East Africa. Since then the disease has expanded its geographical distribution and is currently present in large parts of Africa, Europe and Asia and considered a global threat. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/globalt/inga-belagg-for-kroniska-barare-av-afrikansk-svinpest/ 417657 Tue, 24 Mar 2020 11:29:26 +0100 Caprine genes follow humans through Africa Indigenous goats make significant contributions to Cameroon's national and local economy, but little effort has been devoted to identifying the populations. Here, we assessed the genetic diversity and demographic dynamics of Cameroon goat populations using mitochondrial DNA (two populations) and autosomal markers (four populations) generated with the Caprine 50K SNP chip. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/globalt/getters-gener-foljer-manniskan-genom-afrika/ 417632 Tue, 24 Mar 2020 12:38:50 +0100 What are the most effective measures for sustainable intensification of sub-Saharan agriculture? In order to meet the food demand of a growing world population, agriculture needs to be intensified in a sustainable way. However, small farmers in sub-Saharan Africa face many barriers to increase crop productivity. SLU and CIMMYT have compiled results from various research projects that show what is most effective to do, taking into account labor demand and returns. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/soil-environment/vilka-arbetsinsatser-ar-mest-effektiva-for-hallbar-intensifiering-av-jordbruket-soder-om-sahara/ 386249 Mon, 10 Feb 2020 15:13:33 +0100 Feed ingredients for farmed fish – an opportunity for Sweden Fish can be farmed with low environmental impact and without antibiotics. What is lacking is domestic feed ingredients for fish feed that do not compete with our own food, and that suits the fish. Sweden has an advanced management of by-products, and the technology to process these by-products into other products. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/vilt-fisk-och-renar/feed-ingredients-for-farmed-fish--an-opportunity-for-sweden/ 270562 Thu, 14 Oct 2021 10:18:46 +0100 Who asks the farmed fish? Today, more than half of the fish we eat globally are raised in fish farms and the proportion originating from farming continue to increase. Unfortunately, there are some problems associated with fish farming. One of these is that it is difficult to assess the animal welfare of fish as they lack many of the behaviours that signal discomfort and disease in other animal species. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/vilt-fisk-och-renar/who-asks-the-farmed-fish/ 385227 Fri, 02 Sep 2022 12:53:14 +0100 Hang your hat on fish welfare! All fish kept by humans must be stunned before slaughter. However, how to do this in an ethically defensible manner is unclear. The lack of knowledge when it comes to stunning methods for fish is based on the difficulty of verifying whether a fish is unconscious or not. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/vilt-fisk-och-renar/hang-your-hat-on-fish-welfare/ 412792 Wed, 04 Jan 2023 09:03:38 +0100 Det svarta fårets gener studerade By studying genes associated with coat colour, we can understand the role of these genes in pigmentation but also gain insight into selection history. North European short‐tailed sheep, including Swedish breeds, have variation in their coat colour, making them good models to expand current knowledge of mutations associated with coat colour in sheep. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/far-och-alpacka-i-sverige/det-svarta-farets-gener-studerade/ 412862 Tue, 28 Jan 2020 10:56:02 +0100 Förekomst av neurom i kastrationsärr hos häst Inguinal pain, unexplained hind limb lameness, back pain or behavioural problems in geldings could be attributable to painful neuromas that develop as a consequence of crushing and severing the testicular nerves during castration. The presence of neuroma in this anatomical location has never been reported, hence the knowledge of possible clinical relevance is limited. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/forekomst-av-neurom-i-kastrationsarr-hos-hast/ 412966 Tue, 28 Jan 2020 10:57:22 +0100 Alternativ till antibiotika vid hantering av hingstsperma Bacteria contaminate semen during collection and handling. The objective of this study was to identify the bacteria in pony stallion semen, the effects of antibiotics included in commercial semen extenders (lincomycin and spectinomycin) and the effect of modified single layer centrifugation (MSLC), on bacterial load. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/alternativ-till-antibiotika-vid-hantering-av-hingstsperma/ 412903 Tue, 28 Jan 2020 10:54:56 +0100 Hästens broskceller uttrycker smärtmarkörer Osteoarthritis is a pain-associated progressive disease and pain mediators, such as opioid receptors, expressed in articular cartilage could represent novel therapeutic targets. Acute and chronic stages of OA indicate different metabolic abilities of the chondrocytes depending on inflammatory state. This study aimed to investigate the response of healthy and osteoarthritic chondrocytes and their expression and release of pain mediators in response to acute inflammation. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/hastens-broskceller-uttrycker-smartmarkorer/ 412872 Tue, 28 Jan 2020 10:53:09 +0100 Öroninflammation hos häst Otitis externa is rare in horses and the condition is poorly described in the literature. The objective of this study was to describe clinical signs, treatment regimens and prognosis of otitis externa in eight horses diagnosed with otitis externa during 2011–2018. The methods used were retrospective review of medical records and follow‐up contact with owners. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/oroninflammation-hos-hast/ 412859 Tue, 28 Jan 2020 10:49:28 +0100 Genetiska studier bekräftar hästrasers historia The spectrum of modern horse populations encompasses populations with a long history of development in isolation and relatively recently formed types. To increase our understanding of the evolutionary history and provide information on how to optimally conserve or improve these populations with varying development and background for the future, we analyzed genotype data of 184 horses from 9 Dutch or common horse populations in the Netherlands: The Belgian draft horse, Friesian horse, Shetland pony, Icelandic horse, Gelder horse, Groninger horse, harness horse, KWPN sport horse and the Lipizzaner horse population. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/genetiska-studier-bekraftar-hastrasers-historia/ 406758 Tue, 17 Dec 2019 14:52:02 +0100 Hästars Y-kromosomer ger ny information om hingstlinjer Analysis of the Y chromosome is the best-established way to reconstruct paternal family history in humans. Here, we applied fine-scaled Y-chromosomal haplotyping in horses with biallelic markers and demonstrate the potential of our approach to address the ancestry of sire lines. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/hastars-y-kromosomer-ger-ny-information-om-hingstlinjer/ 406681 Tue, 17 Dec 2019 14:49:27 +0100 Åretruntbete för hästar ökar den biologiska mångfalden Horse grazing may benefit biodiversity, but the impact of year-round grazing on nutrient dynamics has not been evaluated previously. This study compared pasture quality in a forest-grassland landscape grazed year-round by horses with that in exclosed mown areas. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/aretruntbete-for-hastar-okar-den-biologiska-mangfalden/ 406633 Tue, 17 Dec 2019 14:54:42 +0100 Ovanlig blodparasit hos en svensk hund In this case report, a Swedish flat‐coated retriever was diagnosed with an extensive Hepatozoon canis infection. The dog had a prominent monocytosis (14.0 × 109/L) with H. canis gamonts detected in most monocytes, but none were found in the neutrophils. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/ovanlig-blodparasit-hos-en-svensk-hund/ 412890 Tue, 28 Jan 2020 10:46:49 +0100 Resorption av kirurgiskt implantat utvärderad A resorbable self-locking device (LigaTie) was developed to enable safe and easy surgical ligation of blood vessels. The aim of this study was to compare the long-term in vivo resorption of the device to a commercially available suture of equivalent material (Maxon) following ovarian pedicle ligation. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/resorption-av-kirurgiskt-implantat-utvarderad/ 406688 Tue, 17 Dec 2019 14:47:21 +0100 Är import av hundar en bra avelsstrategi? Breeding against canine hip dysplasia (HD) may benefit from the importation of foreign sires. When foreign sires are evaluated on a different HD scale, this may diminish the efficacy. Using stochastic simulations, we evaluated genetic change and inbreeding levels for different scenarios of importing sires with high genetic merit for HD. Population size and genetic parameters (e.g. heritability, accuracy of selection, genetic correlation) were based on actual data for HD in Golden retrievers and Labrador retrievers in the UK and Sweden. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/ar-import-av-hundar-en-bra-avelsstrategi/ 406660 Tue, 17 Dec 2019 14:44:27 +0100 Bristfällig hormonanalys kan orsaka onödiga ingrepp hos hund Canine anti‐mouse antibodies are a potential source of immunoassay interference, but erroneous immunoassay results are not always easily identifiable. Anti‐Müllerian hormone (AMH) is a marker for the presence of gonads in dogs, but elevated AMH concentrations in neutered dogs could also be caused by antibody interference. For other assays, a discrepant result obtained after antibody precipitation might indicate antibody interference. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/bristfallig-hormonanalys-kan-orsaka-onodiga-ingrepp-hos-hund/ 406645 Tue, 17 Dec 2019 14:45:42 +0100 Novel protocol to distinguish and quantify cattle parasites Cooperia sp. and Ostertagia sp. are two cosmopolitan parasitic nematodes often found in mixed gastrointestinal infections in cattle across temperate regions. In light of the recent increase in the emergence of anthelmintic resistance in these and other nematodes derived from cattle around the globe, and their negative impact on animal health and productivity, novel molecular assays need to be put forth in order to facilitate the monitoring of parasite burden in infected herds, using pasture and/or fecal samples. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/notkreatur/ny-metod-for-diagnostik-av-maskar-hos-notkreatur/ 412932 Tue, 24 Mar 2020 10:40:18 +0100 Uppfattningar om smittskydd rörande afrikansk svinpest In Africa, intensified pig production is frequently accompanied by increased occurrence of African swine fever (ASF) outbreaks, leading to high case fatality rates and socio-economic impact for the farmers. ASF control relies on prevention of disease transmission and control of outbreaks. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/globalt/perceptions-about-infection-control-of-african-swine-fever/ 406656 Tue, 17 Dec 2019 15:02:30 +0100 Juverhälsan kan förbättras hos mjölkkor i Rwanda Dairy cows have cultural and economic importance in Rwanda, and are needed for enhanced human nutrition and food security. The Rwandan Ministry of Agriculture has prioritized research aiming at disease control for increased dairy production and productivity. Mastitis is one of the most common diseases in dairy cows. The disease lower the milk yield, also in cows with subclinical mastitis (without visible changes in udder and milk). https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/globalt/udder-health-has-potential-to-improve-in-rwanda/ 406751 Tue, 17 Dec 2019 15:05:02 +0100 Ugandiska djurägares syn på smittor och smittskydd Infectious diseases are an important obstacle to high productivity in Ugandan cattle production. General disease prevention is particularly important in low-income countries, where veterinary services and adequate treatment regimens for many infectious diseases are insufficient. Improved biosecurity could lead to improved animal health and production with lower mortality and better reproductive rates. Any sustainable biosecurity interventions must be feasible for the farmers, from a practical as well as social and cultural aspect. An understanding of the farmers' view of biosecurity and the diseases it is intended to prevent is also needed. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/globalt/ugandiska-djuragares-syn-pa-smittor-och-smittskydd/ 402271 Fri, 06 Sep 2019 13:32:49 +0100 Därför får hästar med EMS fång trots restriktiv utfodring Information about the effect of nonstructural carbohydrates (NSCs) in forage on the postprandial glucose and insulin response in horses is scarce. This is of interest as postprandial hyperinsulinemia in horses is a risk factor for laminitis. In addition, insulin sensitivity (IS) differs between breeds. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/darfor-far-hastar-med-ems-fang-trots-restriktiv-utfodring/ 402274 Thu, 05 Sep 2019 12:52:57 +0100 Hjärt-kärlförändringar hos hästar med EMS There is little evidence that horses with equine metabolic syndrome (EMS) have higher resting blood pressures than horses with normal insulin sensitivity. However, there are indications that EMS horses have an altered dynamic response to the cardiovascular effects of insulin. The objective of the current study was to examine heart rate and the systemic blood pressure response in EMS and control horses during insulin infusion. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/hjart-karlforandringar-hos-hastar-med-ems/ 402260 Thu, 05 Sep 2019 12:52:35 +0100 Ny metod för beräkning av inavelsgrad hos kallblod Since the 1950s, the Norwegian–Swedish Coldblooded trotter (NSCT) has been intensively selected for harness racing performance. As a result, the racing performance of the NSCT has improved remarkably; however, this improved racing performance has also been accompanied by a gradual increase in inbreeding level. Inbreeding in NSCT has historically been monitored by using traditional methods that are based on pedigree analysis, but with recent advancements in genomics, the NSCT industry has shown interest in adopting molecular approaches for the selection and maintenance of this breed. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/ny-metod-for-berakning-av-inavelsgrad-hos-kallblod/ 402256 Fri, 06 Sep 2019 13:59:41 +0100 Är alla rörelseasymmetrier hos ridhästar smärtutlösta? Quantitative gait analysis has revealed that a large proportion of horses in training, perceived as free from lameness by their owners, show movement asymmetries of equal magnitude to horses with mild clinical lameness. Whether these movement asymmetries are related to orthopaedic pain and/or pathology has yet to be further investigated. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine whether movement asymmetries in riding horses in training are affected by anti-inflammatory treatment with meloxicam. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/ar-alla-rorelseasymmetrier-hos-ridhastar-smartutlosta/ 402250 Thu, 05 Sep 2019 12:51:52 +0100 Kortison vid akut ledinflammation hos häst Dexamethasone is used for the intra-articular route of administration in management of aseptic arthritis in horses. Despite its widespread use there is very little quantitative data of the disposition and response to dexamethasone. The aim of this study was to investigate and describe the synovial fluid and plasma dexamethasone concentration over time and to explore the relation between synovial fluid concentration and response using clinical endpoints as response biomarkers after IA injection of dexamethasone disodium salt solution in an equine model of synovitis. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/kortison-vid-akut-ledinflammation-hos-hast/ 402205 Thu, 05 Sep 2019 12:51:22 +0100 Ny diagnostik för kronisk njursjukdom hos hund Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is clinically important in canine medicine. Current diagnostic tools lack sensitivity for detection of subclinical CKD. The aim of the present study was to evaluate urinary peptidome analysis for diagnosis of CKD in dogs. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/ny-diagnostik-for-kronisk-njursjukdom-hos-hund/ 402266 Thu, 05 Sep 2019 12:50:57 +0100 Alternative ligation device effective for lung lobectomies The objective of the current study was to compare the maximum pressure sustained by airways sealed with a resorbable ligation device (LigaTie) and with thoracoabdominal (TA) staples during thoracoscopic‐assisted hilar lung lobectomies. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/katt/framsteg-inom-kirurgi-for-sma-patienter/ 402267 Tue, 24 Mar 2020 10:45:22 +0100 Effect of insulin on IGF-I in cats with diabetes mellitus Insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) is used to screen for acromegaly in diabetic cats. In humans, most circulating IGF-I forms ternary complexes (TC) with IGF-binding protein (IGFBP-3) and an acid-labile subunit. Compared to humans, the amount of TC in cats is more variable. Insulin-like growth factor-I concentrations are reported to increase during insulin treatment, more rapidly in cats achieving remission. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/katt/igf-i-kopplad-till-prognos-for-katter-med-diabetes/ 382544 Thu, 05 Sep 2019 12:50:12 +0100 Modelling soil structure dynamics A good understanding of the dynamics of soil structure formation and degradation is a prerequisite to counteract soil degradation. Soil degradation can occur through compaction by heavy machinery and soil erosion and leads to lower soil quality. By modelling soil structure dynamics we get a better understanding of the processes and have better chances of getting healthy soils that are a prerequisite for agriculture and crop production. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/soil-environment/modelling-soil-structure-dynamics/ 401789 Fri, 02 Sep 2022 13:50:50 +0100 What happens to fungi and ecosystem processes if forest fires become more common? With global warming, there is a larger risk of fire. How will that affect ecologically important fungi in the soil? SLU researchers investigated the 2014 wildfire areas in Västmanland to find out. Crown fires, in which all trees were killed, affect soil fungi to a larger extent than ground fires with surviving trees and high loss of humus. The survival of Scots pines after fire seems to play a key role in maintaining fungal diversity and functionality. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/soil-environment/will-changes-in-future-fires/ 401643 Thu, 04 Jan 2024 10:11:06 +0100 Can cadmium content in crops be controlled by selenium fertilization? Swedish crops contain too little selenium and many people in Sweden has a selenium deficiency. A method to reduce uptake of the toxic heavy metal cadmium is to add selenium. In a new literature study, the effect of added selenium to reduce cadmium uptake in crops were investigated and the mechanisms behind this was highlighted. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/soil-environment/can-cadmium-content-in-crops-be-controlled-by-selenium-fertilization/ 401629 Fri, 02 Sep 2022 13:51:05 +0100 An interdisciplinary look at roots to improve crop productivity on hard soil Dry and compacted soils make it more difficult for roots to grow. Root growth is slower and requires more energy, which eventually leads to reduced crop productivity. A team of SLU researchers, consisting of both plant and soil scientist, are working on the adaption of crop roots to these conditions. Using wheat as a model plant, they identified root traits that may contribute to higher yields under drought and compaction. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/soil-environment/an-interdisciplinary-look-at-roots-to-improve-crop-productivity-on-hard-soil/ 401533 Fri, 02 Sep 2022 13:51:12 +0100 Förbättrad kvalitet hos fryst baggsperma med ny metod The cell membrane of ram spermatozoa is more sensitive to the freezing process than in other species due to its composition. As a result, the quality and viability of frozen thawed ram spermatozoa are often poor, which together with the specific structure of the ewe's cervix are the main reasons for lower fertility in ewes after intracervical insemination. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/far-och-alpacka-i-sverige/forbattrad-kvalitet-hos-fryst-baggsperma-med-ny-metod/ 398236 Fri, 05 Jul 2019 12:49:26 +0100 Miljögifter och reproduktion hos isbjörnshanar Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) are found in high concentrations in the Artic. Polar bears (Ursus maritimus) are one of the most exposed mammals in the Arctic and are thereby vulnerable to reproductive disruption. The aim of this study was to investigate male polar bear reproduction based on a detailed evaluation of testis histology and to assess possible effects of environmental chemicals on male polar bear reproduction. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/vilt-fisk-och-renar/miljogifter-och-reproduktion-hos-isbjornshanar/ 398245 Fri, 05 Jul 2019 12:31:51 +0100 Sjukdomsframkallande bakterier hos svenska vildsvin Pure Eurasian wild boars and/or hybrids with domestic pigs are present in the wild on most continents. These wild pigs have been demonstrated to carry a large number of zoonotic and epizootic pathogens such as Salmonella spp., Yersinia enterocolitica and Y. pseudotuberculosis. Wild boar populations throughout Europe are growing and more and more wild boar meat is being consumed, the majority within the homes of hunters without having passed a veterinary inspection. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/vilt-fisk-och-renar/sjukdomsframkallande-bakterier-hos-svenska-vildsvin/ 398242 Fri, 05 Jul 2019 12:22:25 +0100 Hälsan hos svenska ridskolehästar påverkas av inhysningssystem We compared welfare measures of horses among Swedish riding schools (RS) during winter where horses were kept either in group housing (n = 8) or in tie-stalls/boxes (n = 8). Health data for six previous months were obtained for all horses at each RS from their records. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/halsan-hos-svenska-ridskolehastar-paverkas-av-inhysningssystem/ 398207 Fri, 05 Jul 2019 12:16:19 +0100 Ny information om bukhinneinflammation hos häst Peritonitis in horses is historically associated with prolonged treatment regimens of broad-spectrum antimicrobials and a guarded prognosis for survival. The condition is most often seen as a secondary complication to traumatic injuries involving the abdominal cavity, rupture of bowel or abdominal surgery. However, cases of idiopathic peritonitis with no such underlying cause have been described. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/ny-information-om-bukhinneinflammation-hos-hast/ 398200 Fri, 05 Jul 2019 12:09:46 +0100 Vilka hundraser drabbas av ortopedisk sjukdom? A retrospective case–control study was conducted to estimate breed predisposition for common orthopaedic conditions in 12 popular dog breeds in Norway and Sweden. Orthopaedic conditions investigated were elbow dysplasia (ED); cranial cruciate ligament disease (CCLD); medial patellar luxation (MPL); and fractures of the radius and ulna. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/vilka-hundraser-drabbas-av-ortopedisk-sjukdom/ 398205 Fri, 05 Jul 2019 12:03:52 +0100 Låg nivå av fettransportör hos överviktiga hundar The prevalence of overweight is increasing in dogs, but the metabolic events related to this condition are still poorly understood. The purpose of the study was to investigate the postprandial response of plasma metabolites using a meal-challenge test and to identify metabolic variations related to spontaneous overweightness in privately owned dogs. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/lag-niva-av-fettransportor-hos-overviktiga-hundar/ 398238 Fri, 05 Jul 2019 12:01:49 +0100 Är utfodring med färskfoder en risk för hundägaren? The practice of feeding raw meat-based diets (RMBD) to dogs has increased in popularity in recent years. However, RMBD are based on offal that has not undergone any type of treatment to reduce the microbial content, so there is a risk of potential pathogenic microorganisms being present. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/ar-utfodring-med-farskfoder-en-risk-for-hundagaren/ 398220 Fri, 05 Jul 2019 11:46:56 +0100 Protein alterations during Increased knowledge on serum protein profiles during early pregnancy in dogs would be valuable for several reasons, including animal welfare. Inflammatory changes during this period have been described. Today, mass spectrometry (MS) is a well-established technique to perform unbiased qualitative and quantitative studies of proteins in body fluids regardless of species. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/protein-alterations-during-early-pregnancy-in-dogs/ 382538 Wed, 03 Jul 2019 11:50:09 +0100 Scientists propose ten policies to protect vital pollinators Pesticide regulation, diversified farming systems and long-term monitoring are all ways governments can help to secure the future of pollinators such as bees, flies and wasps, according to scientists. The article was published in November 2016 but the policies are still valid. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/ekologi/scientists-propose-ten-policies-to-protect-vital-pollinators/ 395874 Wed, 22 May 2019 11:19:28 +0100 Evaluation of dexamethasone suppression test protocols Cortisol is a steroid hormone relevant to immune function in horses and other species and shows a circadian rhythm. The glucocorticoid dexamethasone suppresses cortisol in horses. Pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID) is a disease in which the cortisol suppression mechanism through dexamethasone is challenged. Overnight dexamethasone suppression test (DST) protocols are used to test the functioning of this mechanism and to establish a diagnosis for PPID. However, existing DST protocols have been recognized to perform poorly in previous experimental studies, often indicating presence of PPID in healthy horses. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/optimering-av-kortisoltest-for-sakrare-diagnos/ 394036 Wed, 15 May 2019 11:13:39 +0100 Training and company is good for dog behavior As companion animals, a dog's lifestyle is mainly determined by its owner. Discrepancies between the dog's preferences and the owner's lifestyle might lead to the occurrence of unwanted behaviours that affect both the owner-dog relationship and the dog's welfare. The aim of this study was to identify behavioural traits that are characteristic of German Shepherd dogs (GSDs), and to analyse the relation between behavioural traits and demographic and management factors. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/traning-och-umgange-ar-bra-for-hundars-beteende/ 394041 Wed, 15 May 2019 10:49:11 +0100 Metabolic inflexibility detected in overweight Labradors Obesity in dogs is an increasing problem associated with morbidity, shortened life span and poor life quality. Overweight dogs exhibit postprandial hyperlipidaemia, highlighting the need to identify potential dysregulations in lipid metabolism. This study investigated metabolites related to lipid metabolism (i.e. acylcarnitines and taurine) and phospholipids in a feed-challenge test and aimed to identify metabolic variations in spontaneously overweight dogs. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/redan-lindrig-overvikt-andrar-hundens-amnesomsattning/ 394051 Tue, 14 May 2019 11:24:30 +0100 Value of SDMA in detection of kidney disease in dogs Early detection of decreased glomerular filtration rate (GFR) in dogs is challenging. Current methods are insensitive and new biomarkers are required. To compare overall diagnostic performance of serum symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA) and serum cystatin C to serum creatinine, for detection of decreased GFR in clinically stable dogs, with or without chronic kidney disease (CKD). https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/utvardering-av-ny-markor-for-nedsatt-njurfunktion-hos-hund/ 394055 Tue, 14 May 2019 11:20:04 +0100 New method for removal of bacteria from boar semen Antibiotics are added to semen extenders when preparing commercial semen doses for artificial insemination according to national and international guidelines. However, this addition of antibiotics represents non-therapeutic usage and could be contributing to the development of antibiotic resistance. Colloid centrifugation was shown to reduce the load of bacteria present in boar semen and was capable of removing all bacteria if performed directly after semen collection, albeit with some loss of spermatozoa. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/notiser-om-lantbrukets-djur/metod-for-avlagsnande-av-bakterier-fran-galtsperma/ 394553 Tue, 14 May 2019 11:05:34 +0100 Bornavirus identified from a Swedish Blue-winged macaw The genus Orthobornavirus comprises RNA viruses infecting humans, mammals, birds and reptiles, where parrot bornavirus 1 to 8 causes fatal neurological and/or gastrointestinal syndromes in psittacines. There is, to the best of our knowledge, no publication describing avian bornaviruses in pet parrots in Sweden. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/udda-sallskapsdjur/bornavirus-identified-from-a-swedish-blue-winged-macaw/ 394045 Tue, 14 May 2019 10:55:25 +0100 Tail position as an indicator of tail biting Tail biting is a well-known issue within European pig production and its subsequent tail injuries of this abnormal behaviour is known to cause stress and reduce welfare in both the injured and biting pigs. If tail biting is detected early, management might prevent an outbreak. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/notiser-om-lantbrukets-djur/tail-position-as-an-indicator-of-tail-biting/ 385245 Mon, 13 May 2019 12:26:06 +0100 A complex environment makes chicks more stress resilient Exposure to stress early in life can affect birds kept in commercial production systems in ways which alter the development of different morphological, immunological and behavioural indicators. Researchers from the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, in collaboration with several international partner institutes, have studied if a complex environment during early life better prepares birds to cope with stressful events as well as buffers them against future unpredictable stressful episodes. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/fjaderfa/complex-environment-makes-chicks-more-tolerant-to-stress/ 395001 Tue, 18 May 2021 12:45:35 +0100 Poor welfare predicts Campylobacter infection Infection of Campylobacter in a broiler flock can be predicted from a welfare assessment, according to a study carried out in collaboration between Anses, EFSA, UNIPR and the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/fjaderfa/poor-welfare-predicts-campylobacter-infection/ 380062 Mon, 30 Mar 2020 10:15:12 +0100 Welfare assessment in zoos and circuses Good animal welfare is crucial for the success of circuses and zoos. Welfare measures can be taken either by looking at the animal directly (animal-based), or at external factors such as the surroundings and management of the animal (resource- and management-based). Using data from routine animal welfare inspections from 28 circuses and 179 zoos in Sweden, researchers from the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences investigated if epidemiological studies could reveal associations between these different types of welfare measures. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/lagar-och/welfare-assessment-in-zoos-and-circuses/ 380058 Mon, 13 May 2019 10:10:29 +0100 No sustainability without animal welfare Animal welfare science and animal welfare policy-making need to find new ways of entering global debates over food security and sustainability. How to achieve this is the topic of a paper by researchers from The Centre of Excellence in Animal Welfare Science, coordinated by the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences. They argue that improved animal welfare should be a significant component of the global drive towards a more sustainable agricultural development, with animal welfare science as a base in driving that development. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/lagar-och/no-sustainability-without-animal-welfare/ 394560 Mon, 13 May 2019 09:54:19 +0100 New information improve dexamethasone screening Therapeutic agents capable of altering the performance of horses are monitored in racing and equestrian sports to guarantee horse welfare, fair competition, and integrity of the sport. Dexamethasone is a common glucocorticoid drug for treating horses. Among other effects, dexamethasone is gluconeogenic and increases blood glucose. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/safer-cortisone-treatment-and-doping-control/ 387161 Thu, 28 Mar 2019 13:29:36 +0100 Could hydrated lime help control cryptosporidiosis? Diarrhea is common in young calves and is often caused by Cryptosporidium parvum infection. The aim of this study was to investigate if disinfection of calf pens with hydrated lime would reduce contamination of C. parvum oocysts and improve calf health in herds with C. parvum associated diarrhea problems. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/notkreatur/could-hydrated-lime-help-control-cryptosporidiosis/ 387156 Thu, 28 Mar 2019 13:30:19 +0100 Olika villkor för vilda djur Wild animals are used for research and management purposes in Sweden and throughout the world. Animals are often subjected to similar procedures and risks of compromised welfare from capture, anesthesia, handling, sampling, marking, and sometimes selective removal. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/vilt-fisk-och-renar/unequal-conditions-for-wild-animals/ 387166 Thu, 28 Mar 2019 13:29:56 +0100 Heat-resistant transport of blood samples Peste des petits ruminants (PPR) is a highly contagious disease caused by peste-des-petits-ruminants virus. Following the successful eradication of the related rinderpest virus, a program to control and eradicate PPR was launched by the FAO and OIE. PPR is today present in many tropical countries where maintaining the cold chain for sample transportation is one of the major barriers for timely processing. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/globalt/heat-resistant-transport-of-blood-samples/ 387163 Thu, 28 Mar 2019 13:30:38 +0100 Asymptomatic young horses can be infected with strangles Streptococcus equi ssp. equi causes characteristic clinical signs that are most severe in young horses, including fever, purulent nasal discharge, and lymph node abscessation in the head region. Clinical, serologic, and microbiologic factors related to unexpectedly mild disease severity in a natural outbreak of strangles in immunologically naïve weanlings were investigated. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/asymptomatic-young-horses-can-be-infected-with-strangles/ 387177 Thu, 28 Mar 2019 13:29:21 +0100 Questionnaire on dogs' dental health validated Dental disease is one of the most common health problems in dogs. However, no studies have investigated the attitudes, opinions and practices of dog owners, veterinarians and veterinary nurses regarding dental health and preventative dental home care in dogs. The objective of this study was therefore to develop and validate questionnaires for this purpose, in accordance with survey methodology guidelines. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/questionnaire-on-dogs-dental-health-validated/ 387169 Thu, 28 Mar 2019 13:19:32 +0100 Could stress hormones be measured in cat urine? Catecholamines can be used to evaluate neuroendocrine tumors, stress, and potentially pain, but catecholamines degrade rapidly. Their metabolites normetanephrine (NME) and metanephrine (ME) have better stability in urine. In cats, urine sampling in a home environment would be beneficial to reduce effects of clinical stress and simplify sampling. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/katt/could-stress-hormones-be-measured-in-cat-urine/ 387173 Thu, 28 Mar 2019 13:28:58 +0100 Connection between performance and coat color in trotters The Swedish‐Norwegian Coldblooded trotter and the heavier North‐Swedish draught horse both descend from the North‐Swedish horse, but the Coldblooded trotters have been selected for racing performance while the North‐Swedish draught horse is mainly used for agricultural and forestry work. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/connection-between-performance-and-coat-color-in-trotters/ 363825 Thu, 24 Jan 2019 15:07:04 +0100 Dog pregnancy is an inflammatory condition Pregnancy is considered a pro-inflammatory state that requires physiologic adaptation of the immune system of the mother. The aim of the present study was to study inflammatory and hormonal changes during canine pregnancy. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/dog-pregnancy-is-an-inflammatory-condition/ 376544 Thu, 24 Jan 2019 13:48:23 +0100 The dog owner's lifestyle affects the dog's body condition Obesity is a common nutrition-related disorder leading to reduced life expectancy in both humans and dogs. With the aim of identifying new prevention and control options, the study objectives were (1) to investigate dog-owner perceptions about obesity in terms of themselves and their dogs, and (2) to identify factors associated with obesity and possible social, environmental and economic drivers for its development in dog owners and their pets. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/the-dog-owners-lifestyle-affects-the-dogs-body-condition/ 373243 Thu, 24 Jan 2019 13:47:43 +0100 Importance of Treponema for dental disease in dogs Periodontal disease is common in dogs and is initiated by gingival plaque composed of several hundred bacterial species. Some of these species have specifically been pointed out as potential periodontal pathogens, such as Treponema spp. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/importance-of-treponema-for-dental-disease-in-dogs/ 373225 Thu, 24 Jan 2019 12:48:58 +0100 The amount of seretonin in blood differs between dog breeds Serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine [5-HT]) has several biological functions. In different species, excessive 5-HT has been linked to valvular lesions, similar to those seen in dogs with myxomatous mitral valve disease. Previous studies suggest higher 5-HT in healthy Cavalier King Charles Spaniels (CKCSs), a breed highly affected by myxomatous mitral valve disease, compared to other breeds. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/the-amount-of-seretonin-in-blood-differs-between-dog-breeds/ 366695 Thu, 24 Jan 2019 12:40:11 +0100 Which values in dogs and cats are most important? The extensive keeping of companion animals and the substantial monetary amount we spend on these animals indicate that they are highly valued. Although the benefits humans derive from keeping cats and dogs have been extensively studied, how we conceptualize these animals has received limited attention. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/which-values-in-dogs-and-cats-are-most-important/ 363835 Thu, 24 Jan 2019 12:34:37 +0100 Extreme phenotype and and genetic disease raise concerns To improve the health and welfare of pedigree dogs, national kennel clubs (KCs) are key players in the governance and regulation of dog breeding. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/overdriven-exterior-och-genetiska-sjukdomar-oroar/ 363422 Thu, 24 Jan 2019 12:41:37 +0100 Risk factors for incorrect test results examined Interfering antibodies in human serum and plasma are known to react with mammalian antibodies in immunoassays and cause false‐positive test results. Although this phenomenon was recently shown in companion animals, knowledge regarding immunoassay interference in veterinary medicine is very limited. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/risk-factors-for-incorrect-test-results-examined/ 363406 Wed, 16 Jan 2019 15:40:43 +0100 Smaller dog car cage not safer Working dogs spend a large amount of their time in cars. It has been assumed that a larger compartment in the car would be more comfortable for the dog, but that a smaller space could be safer. This hypothesis was tested in a study from The Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/smaller-dog-car-cage-not-safer/ 366712 Fri, 21 Dec 2018 15:03:26 +0100 Kors kroppsspråk kan avslöja vad de känner Investigating cow body language is a first step towards a reliable method to assess emotional states in cattle. Researchers from the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences mapped the body language of cows in three everyday situations; while eating, using a mechanical brush, and queuing for the milking robot. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/notkreatur/kors-kroppssprak-kan-avsloja-vad-de-kanner/ 363840 Fri, 21 Dec 2018 15:02:16 +0100 Effekt av återkoppling efter hästvälfärdsmätningar The Horse Welfare Assessment Protocol was developed as a tool to improve horse welfare and prevent welfare problems. How different levels of feedback to horse owners and stable managers from these assessments affected the actual horse welfare was investigated in this study from the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/effekt-av-aterkoppling-efter-hastvalfardsmatningar/ 363432 Thu, 20 Dec 2018 15:02:51 +0100 Extreme weather variations require new solutions Despite having an English-sounding name, Jennie Barron, SLU’s new professor of agricultural water management, is from Skåne. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/miljoanalys/extreme-weather-variations-require-new-solutions/ 371167 Tue, 06 Nov 2018 09:28:06 +0100 Pedometrics in practice For a number of years our department has had a fruitful collaboration with the International Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT) in Kenya. It started with one project and has expanded with additional activities within the subject areas of proximal soil sensing, digital soil mapping and pedometrics. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/soil-environment/pedometrics-in-practice/ 364734 Fri, 02 Sep 2022 13:51:32 +0100 Moving around soil in an arctic mountain landscape to study microbe-soil fauna interactions A square meter of arctic tundra soil can contain over a million soil animals and uncountable numbers of bacteria and fungal hyphae. These soil organisms are omnipresent, are tremendously diverse and are known to play a major role in carbon turnover by constantly ingesting, excreting and respiring part of this carbon by feeding on dead organic material. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/soil-environment/oving-around-soil-in-an-arctic-mountain-landscape-to-study-microbe-soil-fauna-interactions/ 364452 Thu, 04 Jan 2024 10:06:42 +0100 Comparison of methods used to freeze stallion sperm Addition of seminal plasma (SP) prior to cryopreservation may influence stallion sperm cryosurvival. The objective of this study was to investigate the addition of pooled SP from “good” or “bad” freezer stallions to spermatozoa selected by single layer centrifugation (SLC) prior to cryopreservation on post-thaw sperm quality. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/comparison-of--methods-used-to-freeze-stallion-sperm/ 352602 Fri, 06 Jul 2018 13:49:26 +0100 Economic model describes the value of dogs and cats Although various benefits of cats and dogs have been extensively studied, their fundamental economic value is poorly understood. Economic values are, in contrast to monetary values, determined subjectively and guide individuals in their decisions. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/economic-model-describes-the-value-of-dogs-and-cats/ 352868 Fri, 06 Jul 2018 13:40:35 +0100 Visual vs objective lameness assessment Regular monitoring of movement asymmetry with inertial measurement units (IMUs) to aid in the diagnosis of the underlying cause of a lameness is feasible. Normal ranges for specific groups of horses may be required, with consideration of expert veterinary opinions for both asymmetry screening and lameness assessment. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/visual-vs-objective-lameness-assessment/ 352929 Fri, 06 Jul 2018 13:34:52 +0100 Parasitic infections in cattle affected by cattle breed Body weight gain (BWG) and gastrointestinal nematode challenge (GIN) were investigated in two genetically diverse groups of cattle. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/notkreatur/parasitic-infections-in-cattle-affected-by-cattle-breed/ 352857 Fri, 06 Jul 2018 13:26:51 +0100 New method for diagnosis of digital dermatitis Digital dermatitis in dairy cows is a widespread disease linked to infection with Treponema. The traditional diagnostic method is clinical inspection, which is subjective and laborious. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/notkreatur/new-method-for-diagnosis-of--digital-dermatitis/ 352580 Fri, 06 Jul 2018 14:18:52 +0100 Rising trot may affect lameness assessment Detailed knowledge of how a rider's seating style and riding on a circle influences the movement symmetry of the horse's head and pelvis may aid rider and trainer in an early recognition of low grade lameness. Such knowledge is also important during both subjective and objective lameness evaluations in the ridden horse in a clinical setting. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/rising-trot-may-affect-lameness-assessment/ 352597 Fri, 06 Jul 2018 11:30:22 +0100 New markers for autoimmune disease in dogs Dogs can spontaneously develop complex systemic autoimmune disorders, with similarities to human autoimmune disease. Autoantibodies directed at self-antigens are a key feature of these autoimmune diseases. Here we report the identification of interleukin enhancer-binding factors 2 and 3 (ILF2 and ILF3) as autoantigens in canine immune-mediated rheumatic disease. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/new-markers-for-autoimmune-disease-in-dogs/ 352600 Fri, 06 Jul 2018 11:22:44 +0100 Research for longer life of Labrador Retrievers Dogs are by many seen as family members and for most dog owners it is desirable to keep the dog for as long as possible. It is therefore important to increase the knowledge on how we best keep dogs, to give them long lifes of high quality. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/forskning-for-langre-liv-hos-labradorer/ 358115 Thu, 05 Jul 2018 13:59:15 +0100 How do you distinguish a true forelimb lameness? The main criteria for lameness assessment in horses are head movement for forelimb lameness and pelvic movement for hindlimb lameness. However, compensatory head nod in horses with primary hindlimb lameness is a well-known phenomenon. This compensatory head nod movement can be easily misinterpreted as a sign of primary ipsilateral forelimb lameness. Therefore, discriminating compensatory asymmetries from primary directly pain-related movement asymmetries is a prerequisite for successful lameness assessment. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/how-do-you-distinguish-a-true-forelimb-lameness/ 358143 Thu, 05 Jul 2018 13:09:46 +0100 New circovirus detected in Swedish pigs Porcine circovirus 3 (PCV3) is a newly detected circovirus belonging to the family Circoviridae with a circular ssDNA genome of 2000 bp that encodes two proteins—the replicase protein and the capsid protein. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/notiser-om-lantbrukets-djur/new-circovirus-detected-in-swedish-pigs/ 358123 Thu, 05 Jul 2018 13:00:31 +0100 High antibiotic resistance in Cambodia's pig production Administration of antimicrobials to food-producing animals is regarded as a major contributor to the overall emergence of resistance in bacteria worldwide. However, few data are available on global antimicrobial use and resistance (AMR) in livestock, especially from low- and middle-income countries. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/globalt/high-antibiotic-resistance-in-cambodias-pig-production/ 358128 Thu, 05 Jul 2018 12:52:54 +0100 Enriched environments keep chickens optimistic Chickens living in enriched environments remain happy despite exposure to stress, according to a study from SLU, Linköping University, Uppsala University and Neiker-Tecnalia, Spain. In the study, one group of chickens grew up in rather barren surroundings, and another group in a more complex and stimulating environment. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/fjaderfa/enriched-environments-keep-chickens-optimistic/ 358135 Thu, 05 Jul 2018 12:38:57 +0100 Effect of seminal plasma on bovine endometrial epithelium The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of seminal plasma (SP) from bulls of known fertility on bovine endometrial epithelial cells (bEEC) in culture. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/notkreatur/kan-seminalplasma-i-livmodern-paverka-kors-fertilitet/ 349282 Wed, 18 Apr 2018 10:19:04 +0100 Theoretical value of pre-trade testing for Salmonella The Swedish Salmonella control programme includes mandatory action if Salmonella is detected in a herd. The aim of this study was to assess the relative value of different strategies for pre-movement testing of cattle. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/notkreatur/theoretical-value-of-pre-trade-testing-for-salmonella/ 349286 Wed, 18 Apr 2018 10:04:46 +0100 Lameness prevalence in organic European dairy herds The objectives of this cross-sectional study were to assess the prevalence of lameness in organic dairy herds in France, Germany, Spain and Sweden, and to investigate risk factors for the occurrence of lameness in these herds. The study sample was derived within the IMPRO project, which aimed to improve animal health and welfare in European organic dairy herds, and contained 8109 cows from 201 herds. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/notkreatur/lameness-prevalence-in-organic-european-dairy-herds/ 349294 Wed, 18 Apr 2018 10:25:53 +0100 New useful tools for Swedish horse breeders A linear profiling protocol was introduced in 2013 at tests for 3‐year‐old Swedish Warmblood horses. In this protocol, traits are subjectively described on a nine‐point linear scale from one biological extreme to the other. This complements the traditional scoring where horses are evaluated in relation to the breeding objective. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/new-useful-tools-for-swedish-horse-breeders/ 349300 Tue, 17 Apr 2018 10:57:25 +0100 The threat amongst the berries – how dangerous is the fox tapeworm? Five years ago, the fox tapeworm was discovered for the first time in Sweden. Should we be afraid, and how much do we know about the tapeworm’s effect on us? https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/2018/dvargabandmask-hotet-bland-baren/ 348728 Fri, 23 Mar 2018 10:45:48 +0100 Food safety challenges and One Health within Europe This review discusses food safety aspects of importance from a One Health perspective, focusing on Europe. Using examples of food pathogen/food commodity combinations, spread of antimicrobial resistance in the food web and the risk of transmission of zoonotic pathogens in a circular system, it demonstrates how different perspectives are interconnected. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/lagar-och/food-safety-challenges-and-one-health-within-europe/ 321323 Fri, 02 Mar 2018 11:03:38 +0100 Leptospirosis in urban dairy farming a One Health issue? Global trends in urbanization are increasing the spread of neglected zoonotic infections such as leptospirosis, and reducing the number of human cases of leptospirosis is best accomplished by controlling the infection in the animal reservoir. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/globalt/leptospirosis-in-urban-dairy-farming--a-one-health-issue/ 321294 Fri, 02 Mar 2018 10:53:08 +0100 Microbiota in rumen and feces during SARA Challenge The effects of a grain-based subacute ruminal acidosis (SARA) challenge on bacteria in the rumen and feces of lactating dairy cows were determined. Six lactating, rumen-cannulated Danish Holstein cows were used in a cross-over study with two periods. Periods included two cows on a control diet and two cows on a SARA challenge. The control diet was a total mixed ration containing 45.5% dry matter (DM), 43.8% DM neutral detergent fiber, and 19.6% DM starch. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/notkreatur/microbiota-in-rumen-and-feces-during-sara-challenge/ 321309 Fri, 02 Mar 2018 10:37:09 +0100 High performing pig farms with low antimicrobial usage Pig farmers are strongly encouraged to reduce their antimicrobial usage because of the rising threat from antimicrobial resistance. However, such efforts should not compromise the herd health status and performance. This study aimed to describe the profile of so-called 'top-farms' that managed to combine both high technical performance and low antimicrobial usage. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/notiser-om-lantbrukets-djur/high-performing-pig-farms-with-low-antimicrobial-usage/ 321291 Fri, 02 Mar 2018 10:39:23 +0100 Effects of training distance on Standardbreds fed only forage This study examined feed intake, growth, body condition, muscle glycogen content and nutrition-related health in 16 Standardbred horses fed a high-energy, forage-only diet ad libitum and allocated to either a control training programme (C-group) or a training programme with the high-intensity training distance reduced by 30% (R-group), from January as 2-year olds until December as 3-year olds. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/effects-of-training-distance-on-standardbreds-fed-only--forage/ 321319 Fri, 02 Mar 2018 11:07:56 +0100 Melatonin and IL-25 induce apoptosis in mammary tumors Melatonin has oncostatic actions and IL-25 is active in inflammatory processes that induce apoptosis in tumor cells. The aim of this study was to evaluate melatonin and IL-25 in metastatic (CF-41) and non-metastatic (CMT-U229) canine mammary tumor cells cultured as monolayers and tridimensional structures. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/melatonin-and-il-25-induce-apoptosis-in-mammary-tumors/ 321301 Fri, 02 Mar 2018 11:11:09 +0100 Osmotic tolerance of feline epididymal spermatozoa During the cryopreservation process, spermatozoa are exposed to hypertonic solutions contributed by the high concentration of cryoprotectant. During addition and removal of cryoprotectant the spermatozoa are subjected to a substantial osmotic stress. Spermatozoa of different species and different stages of maturation may have different susceptibility to osmotic stress depending on the biology of the cell membrane and this will affect their tolerance to the freezing-thawing stress. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/katt/osmotic-tolerance-of-feline-epididymal-spermatozoa/ 321300 Thu, 01 Mar 2018 14:16:07 +0100 Overweight in adult cats: a cross-sectional study Overweight in cats is a major risk factor for diabetes mellitus and has also been associated with other disorders. Overweight and obesity are believed to be increasing problems in cats, as is currently seen in people, with important health consequences. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/katt/overweight-in-adult-cats-a-cross-sectional-study/ 321304 Thu, 01 Mar 2018 14:06:46 +0100 Human attachment style reflects in the dog-owner relationship A recent study from the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences investigated the adult attachment style in dog owners, which describes how you relate to other people, including aspects such as support and caregiving. In addition to this, a practical experiment tested how the dog sought contact and support from the owner in different challenging situations, such as a sudden loud noise or an odd stranger approaching. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/human-attachment-style-reflects-in-the-dog-owner-relationship/ 321898 Tue, 27 Feb 2018 12:27:43 +0100 Private animal welfare standards – opportunities and risks In all European countries, farmers keeping animals must comply with national animal welfare legislation, and if member of the EU also the EU legislation. Each government has a responsibility to make sure that the legislation is complied with. However, during the last decades it has become increasingly common that private organisations, such as the industry, farmers’ organisations, or animal welfare organisations, develop additional animal welfare regulations (‘private standards’) that the farmers also need to comply with. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/lagar-och/private-animal-welfare-standards--opportunities-and-risks/ 321894 Wed, 18 Apr 2018 12:08:59 +0100 How are cats affected by being home alone? Little is known about the cat’s need for human contact, although it is generally believed that cats are more independent than e.g. dogs. How true is this? In this study, researchers from the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences investigated the effect of time left alone at home on cat behaviour (e.g. social and distress-related) while alone and when the owner returned. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/katt/how-are-cats-affected-by-being-home-alone/ 304776 Wed, 14 Mar 2018 11:35:18 +0100 Chicken behave more synchronised in smaller groups Animals are often synchronised in their behaviour, with costs and benefits varying according to group size and the behaviour being performed. Synchronised behaviour is common in poultry, and designing housing that allow space and opportunity for many birds at one time to synchronise their behaviour is therefore a challenge. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/fjaderfa/chicken-behave-more-synchronised-in-smaller-groups/ 301766 Wed, 14 Mar 2018 11:36:42 +0100 Data from official controls reveal risk factors for equine welfare Determining the current welfare status in a population is the first step in efforts to improve their welfare. In order to investigate risk factors for poor equine welfare in Sweden, researcher from The Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences analysed data already collected as part of Swedish official animal welfare inspections for 2010–13. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/data-from-official-controls-reveal-risk-factors-for-equine-welfare/ 297308 Wed, 14 Mar 2018 11:37:58 +0100 MicroRNA indicate metastasis in canine mammary cancer MicroRNAs may act as oncogenes or tumour suppressor genes, which make these small molecules potential diagnostic/prognostic factors and targets for anticancer therapies. Several common oncogenic microRNAs have been found for canine mammary cancer and human breast cancer. On account of this, large-scale profiling of microRNA expression in canine mammary cancer seems to be important for both dogs and humans. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/microrna-indicate-metastasis-in-canine-mammary-cancer/ 318306 Fri, 02 Feb 2018 13:30:20 +0100 Innovation LigaTie tested in model for gall bladder surgery Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the standard of care in human medicine for gall bladder disease. Although infrequently reported in veterinary literature, laparoscopic cholecystectomy is an option for uncomplicated gall bladder disease in canine patients. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/innovation-ligatie-tested-in-model-for-gall-bladder-surgery/ 304833 Fri, 02 Feb 2018 13:21:05 +0100 Sperm properties associated with fertility depend on breed A means of discriminating among bulls of high fertility based on sperm quality is needed by breeding centers. The objective of the study was to examine parameters of sperm quality in bulls of known fertility to identify useful indicators of fertility. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/notkreatur/sperm-properties-associated-with-fertility-depend-on-breed/ 318317 Fri, 02 Feb 2018 13:14:43 +0100 Evaluation of hematology instrument shows shortages Erroneous neutrophil and lymphocyte counts from analysis of feline blood samples were transferred directly into the hospital information system from the ProCyte Dx hematology instrument in our after-hours laboratory. Errors usually were not detected by the users. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/katt/utvardering-av-blodanalysinstrument-visar-brister/ 318423 Fri, 02 Feb 2018 11:33:44 +0100 Genetic influence on four- and five-gaited Icelandic horses The Icelandic horse is a breed known mainly for its ability to perform the ambling four-beat gait 'tölt' and the lateral two-beat gait pace. The natural ability of the breed to perform these alternative gaits is highly desired by breeders. Therefore, the discovery that a nonsense mutation (C>A) in the DMRT3 gene was the main genetic factor for horses' ability to perform gaits in addition to walk, trot and canter was of great interest. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/genetic-influence-on-four--and-ve-gaited-icelandic-horses/ 318416 Fri, 02 Feb 2018 11:35:08 +0100 Analysis identifying ovarian tissue in the bitch evaluated Reliable methods for determining whether or not a bitch has ovarian tissue present are needed for cases with unknown neutering status. Vaginal cytology consistent with heat is indicative of functional ovarian tissue. Other methods are required when the bitch is not presented in suspected heat. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/analysis-identifying-ovarian-tissue-in-the-bitch-evaluated/ 318262 Fri, 02 Feb 2018 12:58:43 +0100 Chicken roundworm genetic response to BZ anthelmintics The nematode Ascaridia galli (order Ascaridida) is an economically important intestinal parasite responsible for increased food consumption, reduced performance and elevated mortality in commercial poultry production. This roundworm is an emerging problem in several European countries on farms with laying hens, as a consequence of the recent European Union (EU) ban on conventional battery cages. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/fjaderfa/chicken-roundworm-genetic-response-to-bz-anthelmintics/ 318414 Tue, 06 Feb 2018 08:21:49 +0100 Does reduced training limit ability to qualify for races? In this study, a survey was used to document the type and amount of training to which 2- to 3-year old Swedish Standardbred horses are generally subjected. Moreover, an experimental study was conducted to examine the ability to achieve conventional performance goals in 16 Standardbred geldings fed a forage-only diet and allocated to either a control training programme (C-group) or a training programme with the high intensity training distance reduced by 30% (R-group) from March as 2-year-olds until December as 3-year-olds. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/does-reduced-training-limit-ability-to-qualify-for-races/ 318418 Fri, 02 Feb 2018 11:34:45 +0100 Mercury Did you know that current efforts to reduce mercury pollution could result in environmental recovery faster than had been expected? A recent scientific discovery indicates that it could be a matter of decades rather than centuries before we can eat freshwater fish again in Sweden, without worrying about the mercury levels. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/miljoanalys/mercury/ 310993 Sun, 17 Dec 2017 07:01:34 +0100 Anaerobic microbes At SLU, we have a globally unique knowledge of anaerobic microorganisms, such as how to use them in various systems and create new products. According to Anna Schnürer, contact for the SLU Biogas Centre, the anaerobic processes can provide much more than biogas. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/2017/anaerobic-microbes/ 296678 Fri, 22 Nov 2019 16:27:20 +0100 Colostrum and milk proteins Administration of colostrum to the newborn calf before gut closure is pivotal to its health, because of the transfer of passive immunity. Traditionally, passive immunity has been attributed to the transfer of immunoglobulins although it is increasingly clear that multiple other factors contribute, including innate immune proteins, developmental factors, immunomodulatory factors, and the presence of cellular immunity. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/notkreatur/colostrum-and-milk-proteins/ 288368 Tue, 20 Jun 2017 15:01:42 +0100 Wild opportunities with rabbit genetics After domestication, wild progenitors, such as the aurochs and the wild horse, became extinct. For the European rabbit, however, ancestral, domestic, and feral populations exist. During domestication of the rabbit, very few alleles have been fixed for selective traits, and thus, the ancestral genotypes have been preserved in lowered frequencies. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/vilt-fisk-och-renar/wild-opportunities-with-rabbit-genetics/ 288526 Tue, 20 Jun 2017 14:53:48 +0100 Cartilage lesions in feline stifle joints Feline stifle osteoarthritis (OA) is common, however little is known about the early stages of the disease. Furthermore, the importance of small articular mineralizations (AMs) in feline stifle OA is controversial. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/katt/vavnadsforandringar-i-knaleden-hos-katt/ 288528 Tue, 20 Jun 2017 14:44:18 +0100 Metabolic imbalance impairs bovine fertility Metabolic imbalance impairs fertility, because changes in concentrations of metabolites and hormones in the blood and follicular fluid create an unfavourable environment for early embryonic development. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/notkreatur/insulin-exposure-changes-bovine-oocyte-development/ 288531 Tue, 20 Jun 2017 12:58:37 +0100 Lame or not lame? - that is the question Recent studies evaluating horses in training and considered free from lameness by their owners have identified a large proportion of horses with motion asymmetries. However the prevalence, type and magnitude of asymmetries when trotting in a straight line or on the lunge have not been investigated. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/lame-or-not-lame---that-is-the-question/ 288535 Tue, 20 Jun 2017 11:28:41 +0100 Disease prevalence in European organic dairy herds The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of production disease related indicators on 192 organic dairy farms in Germany, Spain, France and Sweden. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/globalt/disease-prevalence-in-european-organic-dairy-herds/ 288557 Tue, 20 Jun 2017 11:20:12 +0100 Climate affects bull sperm quality The aim of the present study was to evaluate the possible effects of climate factors on sperm quality of Holstein dairy bulls housed in northern Spain. Semen samples from 11 Holstein dairy bulls were collected and cryopreserved in winter, spring and summer. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/globalt/season-affect-bull-sperm-quality/ 285516 Mon, 22 May 2017 14:05:58 +0100 Merging pedigree databases can reduce inbreeding in dogs Merging pedigree databases across countries may improve the ability of kennel organizations to monitor genetic variability and health-related issues of pedigree dogs. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/merging-pedigree-databases-can-reduce-inbreeding-in-dogs/ 285574 Mon, 22 May 2017 10:35:10 +0100 Identification of inverted teat candidate genes in sows The number of functional teats is an important selection criterion in pig breeding. Inherited defects of the udder, such as the inverted teat, do have a considerable negative impact on the nursing ability of the sow. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/notiser-om-lantbrukets-djur/identification-of-inverted-teat-candidate-genes-in-sows/ 285577 Mon, 22 May 2017 10:26:03 +0100 Closed cervix associated with more severe pyometra Pyometra, a life-threatening bacterial infection of the uterus, is classified as open or closed depending on the functional patency of the cervix i.e. presence or absence of vaginal discharge. In closed cervix pyometra, pus and bacterial products accumulate in the uterus, which is thought to induce a more severe illness. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/closed-cervix-associated-with-more-severe-pyometra/ 285583 Mon, 22 May 2017 10:19:02 +0100 Effects of the DMRT3 gene differ between racing breeds The Swedish-Norwegian Coldblooded trotter (CBT) is a local horse breed in Sweden and Norway mainly used for harness racing. Previous studies have shown that a mutation from cytosine (C) to adenine (A) in the doublesex and mab-3 related transcription factor 3 (DMRT3) gene has a major impact on harness racing performance of different breeds. An association of the DMRT3 mutation with early career performance has also been suggested. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/effects-of-the-trot-gene-dmrt3-differ-between-breeds/ 285585 Mon, 22 May 2017 15:06:11 +0100 Imaging findings in dogs after dorsal laminectomy The aim of the present study was to describe postoperative computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings in dogs with degenerativelumbosacral stenosis (DLSS) treated by dorsal laminectomy and partial discectomy. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/imaging-findings-in-dogs-after-dorsal-laminectomy/ 285587 Mon, 22 May 2017 09:56:12 +0100 Breed affects energy balance of cows after calving This study examined the effect of two feeding levels during the antepartum and postpartum period on reproductive performance and blood metabolites (glucose, non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), insulin) in primiparous Holstein and Swedish Red (SRB) cows, in order to identify possible differences in the way these breeds respond to negative energy balance after calving. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/notkreatur/breed-affects-energy-balance-of-cows-after-calving/ 277755 Thu, 27 Apr 2017 09:58:01 +0100 Does predation risk affect reindeer habitat selection? The depredation of semi-domesticated reindeer by large carnivores reflects an important human–wildlife conflict in Fennoscandia. Recent studies have revealed that brown bears (Ursus arctos) may kill substantial numbers of reindeer calves (Rangifer tarandus tarandus) in forest areas in Sweden. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/vilt-fisk-och-renar/does-predation-risk-affect-reindeer-habitat-selection/ 277814 Thu, 27 Apr 2017 09:47:08 +0100 Piglet mortality is reduced by postponed group housing Housing lactating sows with piglets in a multi-suckling pen from around 14 days post-farrowing is common practice in Swedish organic piglet production. However, nursing-suckling interaction is less frequent in multi-suckling pens than in individual farrowing pens, thus affecting piglet performance, e.g., piglet growth. Moreover, piglet mortality is higher in systems using multi-suckling pens. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/notiser-om-lantbrukets-djur/piglet-mortality-is-reduced-by-postponed-group-housing/ 277821 Thu, 27 Apr 2017 09:39:37 +0100 Masitis modulates expression of mammary drug transporters Mastitis is the most common disease in dairy herds worldwide and is often caused by Staphylococcus aureus. Little is known about the effect of mastitis on transporters in the mammary gland and the effect on transporter-mediated secretion of drugs into milk. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/notkreatur/masitis-modulates-expression-of-mammary-drug-transporters/ 277842 Thu, 27 Apr 2017 09:26:40 +0100 Developing a horse welfare assessment protocol This paper describes the development and pilot-testing of a horse welfare assessment protocol (HWAP). The HWAP consists of the collective measurement of numerous factors considered likely to affect a horse's welfare and is thereby designed to provide a holistic score of its welfare status and to identify potential risk factors. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/developing-a-horse-welfare-assessment-protocol/ 277846 Thu, 27 Apr 2017 09:15:53 +0100 Blood test estimates prostate size in dogs Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is an age-related disorder in the intact male dog that is associated with an increase in the prostatic size. Ultrasonography gives a reliable estimate of the prostatic size, but a method for screening the prostate size using a serum sample has advantages, such as requiring less expensive equipment. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/blood-test-estimate-prostate-size-in-dog/ 277875 Thu, 27 Apr 2017 10:23:27 +0100 Synovial fluid lubricant altered in osteoarthritic joints The glycoprotein lubricin contributes to the boundary lubrication of the articular cartilage surface. The early events of osteoarthritis involve the superficial layer where lubricin is synthesised. The objective of the present study was to characterise the glycosylation profile of lubricin in synovial fluid from horses with osteoarthritis and study secretion and degradation of lubricin in an in vitro inflammation cartilage model. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/differences-in-synovial-fluid-lubricant--during-osteoarthritis/ 277876 Thu, 27 Apr 2017 11:12:39 +0100 Less biodiversity with conventionally farmed wheat In organically farmed wheat, the number of fungal species on the leaves is on average 40 % higher than in conventionally farmed and fungicide treated fields, according to a new study from SLU. The presence of weeds appear to be an important factor for the difference. This is potentially important knowledge for the future development of sustainable plant protection strategies. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/inst.mykopat/less-biodiversity-with-conventionally-farmed-wheat/ 277659 Thu, 20 Apr 2017 13:08:19 +0100 Behavioral differences between two broiler hybrids This study compared behavioural time budgets, presence of comfort behaviours and social behaviours in two different broiler genotypes (the fast-growing Ross 308 (R) and the slower-growing Rowan Ranger (RR)) fed organic diets with high (17.0% crude protein (CP)) or low (14.5% CP) protein content during a 10-week rearing period. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/fjaderfa/behavioral-differences-between-two-broiler-hybrids/ 274612 Mon, 30 Mar 2020 10:14:41 +0100 Objective measures of lameness in dogs Lameness detection can be challenging in dogs, as reflected in the reported low inter-rater agreement when visually assessing lameness. The aim of this study was to use an inertial sensor-based system to detect and quantify induced distal and proximal limb disturbances mimicking supporting and swinging limb lameness in dogs trotting on a treadmill by measuring vertical head and pelvic movement symmetry. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/sensor-technology-to-objectively-measure-lameness-in-dogs/ 274619 Thu, 30 Mar 2017 15:05:38 +0100 Biosecurity breaches behind African swine fever outbreak In Uganda, a low-income country in east Africa, African swine fever (ASF) is endemic with yearly outbreaks. In the prevailing smallholder subsistence farming systems, farm biosecurity is largely non-existent. Outbreaks of ASF, particularly in smallholder farms, often go unreported, creating significant epidemiological knowledge gaps. The continuous circulation of ASF in smallholder settings also creates biosecurity challenges for larger farms. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/globalt/lokal-anpassning-avgorande-for-effektivt-smittskydd/ 274627 Tue, 28 Mar 2017 13:15:50 +0100 Interdisciplinary collaboration for control of animal diseases Peste des Petits ruminants (PPR) is a potentially lethal, highly contagious viral disease of sheep and goats. Within societies where PPR is now spreading, poverty is widespread and the disease is expected to have significant negative impacts on livelihoods. Participatory epidemiology has been suggested as a particularly suitable research method to study epidemiology and social impacts of diseases in these contexts. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/globalt/interdisciplinary-collaboration-for-control-of-animal-diseases/ 274649 Mon, 30 Mar 2020 10:17:07 +0100 Infectious diseases in dogs in Malawi The aim of this study was to screen for selected parasites and antibody levels against vectorborne pathogens in owned dogs in Lilongwe, Malawi. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/infectious-diseases-in-dogs-in-malawi/ 274675 Tue, 28 Mar 2017 12:39:03 +0100 Exposure routes of chemicals found in indoor cats Pet cats may be used as a biomarker for assessing exposures to organohalogen compounds (OHCs) adsorbed to household dust in home environments. This study explores two exposure routes of OHCs, ingestion of OHCs via house dust and via cat food. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/katt/high-levels-of-chemicals-found-in-indoor-cats/ 274681 Mon, 03 Apr 2017 09:53:45 +0100 Assessing dog stress in a veterinary clinic Assessment of dogs’ stress levels at the veterinary clinic is important for dog welfare as well as the safety of the personnel. But how could this be done in a feasible way? https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/how-stressful-is-the-veterinary-appointment-for-the-dog/ 274685 Tue, 27 Feb 2018 15:05:17 +0100 Biological variation of 20 analytes in cat serum The applications of data on biological variation include assessment of the utility of population-based reference intervals, evaluation of the significance of change in serial results, and setting of analytical quality specifications. We investigated the biological variation of 19 biochemistry analytes and total T4, measured in serum from 7 clinically healthy domestic cats sampled once weekly for 5 weeks. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/katt/improved-interpretation-of-test-results-for-cats/ 271643 Thu, 02 Mar 2017 15:24:34 +0100 Blanketing and clipping of horses in the Nordic countries Limited information is available on the extent to which blankets are used on horses and the owners' reasoning behind clipping the horse's coat. Research on the effects of those practices on horse welfare is scarce but results indicate that blanketing and clipping may not be necessary from the horse's perspective and can interfere with the horse's thermoregulatory capacities. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/blanketing-and-clipping-of-horses-in-the-nordic-countries/ 271628 Thu, 02 Mar 2017 15:12:02 +0100 Virus prevalence in pigs with PMWS and in healthy pigs The development of high-throughput sequencing technologies have allowed the possibility to investigate and characterise the entire microbiome of individuals, providing better insight to the complex interaction between different microorganisms. This will help to understand how the microbiome influence the susceptibility of secondary agents and development of disease. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/notiser-om-lantbrukets-djur/virus-prevalence-in-pigs-with-pmws-and-in-healthy-pigs/ 271625 Thu, 02 Mar 2017 15:05:04 +0100 Dominance and leadership in human-horse interactions There is considerable debate about whether the roles horses attain in their social group are of any relevance in their reactions to humans. This article reviews the empirical data on social dynamics in horses, focusing on dominance and leadership theories and the merits of incorporating those concepts into the human-horse context. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/dominance-and-leadership-in-human-horse-interactions/ 271621 Thu, 02 Mar 2017 15:29:02 +0100 PCR or bacterial culture to identify cause of IMI? Real-time PCR analysis of milk samples is a fast method to identify intramammary infections (IMI) in dairy cows, and has the potential to be used for routine analysis of test milking composite milk samples. However, the results of the PCR analysis can be difficult to interpret. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/notkreatur/pcr-or-bacterial-culture--to-identify-cause-of-imi/ 271612 Thu, 02 Mar 2017 14:52:57 +0100 Group housing of horses rarely lead to severe injury There is increasing interest in keeping horses in groups, but progress is hampered by a lack of knowledge about which horses can and should be kept together. Therefore, our objective was to investigate the effect of group composition on the occurrence of injuries among horses, the ease of removing horses from groups and horses' reactivity to a fearful stimulus. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/group-housing-of-horses-rarely-lead-to-severe-injury/ 271609 Thu, 02 Mar 2017 14:43:23 +0100 Dry food linked to diabetes in cats Diabetes in cats resembles type 2 diabetes in people. The etiology is not fully understood, but both genetic and environmental factors are believed to contribute. The objective of the present study was to assess the associations of environmental risk factors with diabetes in cats. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/katt/dry-food-linked-to-diabetes-in-cats/ 265356 Thu, 02 Mar 2017 11:47:35 +0100 Promising findings for airway disorders in horses Mast cells are known for their detrimental effects in various inflammatory conditions. Regimens that induce selective mast cell apoptosis may therefore be of therapeutic significance. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/promising-findings-for--airway-disorders-in-horses/ 265360 Thu, 02 Mar 2017 11:42:11 +0100 Penicillin is “good enough” for treatment of acute metritis Acute puerperal metritis affects cows during the early postpartum period and causes fever, fetid vaginal discharge and general depression. The disease is severe and treatment with antimicrobials is often required. This study followed 79 Swedish dairy cows with acute puerperal metritis with registered treatment and outcome in terms of recovery. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/notkreatur/penicillin-is-good-enough-for-treatment-of-acute-metritis/ 265364 Mon, 17 May 2021 09:28:29 +0100 Neonatal porcine diarrhoea common in Swedish herds In recent years reports from a number of countries, including Sweden, describe problems with diarrhoea in newborn piglets despite the use of previously effective preventive measures. This seemingly altered disease pattern of neonatal porcine diarrhoea (NPD) warrants investigations on the magnitude and manifestation of the problem. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/notiser-om-lantbrukets-djur/diarrhoea-in-newborn-piglets-common-in-sweden/ 265368 Thu, 02 Mar 2017 11:49:09 +0100 Keep the horse slender! This study investigated the variation in plasma insulin concentration (PIC) in a group of Icelandic horses in training, considered to be healthy and examined possible relationships between PIC and gender, age, body size, body condition score and management factors such as feed allowance and subjective level of fitness. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/keep-the-horse-slim/ 265376 Thu, 02 Mar 2017 11:48:46 +0100 Surgical stress during ovariohysterectomy Surgery causes a stress response, a physiologic response to trauma. The intraoperative surgical stress response in dogs diagnosed with pyometra has not previously been described. The aim of this study was to investigate the intraoperative surgical stress response, assessed by blood pressure and heart rate measurements, in dogs diagnosed with pyometra and healthy controls. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/surgical-stress-during-ovariohysterectomy-in-pyometra/ 265378 Thu, 02 Mar 2017 11:47:56 +0100 The body condition of dairy cows affect health and fertility Optimal body condition in early lactation is generally accepted as a prerequisite for good reproductive performance. Examination of milk progesterone profiles offers an objective method for characterization of postpartum ovarian activity in dairy cows. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/notkreatur/the-body-condition-of-dairy-cows-affect-health-and-fertility/ 265578 Wed, 01 Mar 2017 16:19:44 +0100 Sharing and supporting knowledge Kevin Bishop, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Environmental Monitoring and Assessment at SLU, predicts a bright future for Swedish work methods when it comes to meeting the objectives in Agenda 2030. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/2017/sharing-and-supporting-knowledge/ 265515 Tue, 07 Mar 2017 09:45:11 +0100 CRP in diagnosis of joint disease in dogs In a dog with joint pain, it is important to determine whether it has suppurative joint disease, characterized by exudation of neutrophils in the synovial fluid, or not, as this affects choice of diagnostic tests and treatments. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/crp-in-diagnosis-of-joint-disease-in-dogs/ 263699 Tue, 24 Jan 2017 09:04:56 +0100 Cat heart dimensions can be estimated from body weight Echocardiography is a cost‐efficient method to screen cats for presence of heart disease. Current reference intervals for feline cardiac dimensions do not account for body weight (BW). https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/katt/heart-dimensions-can-be-estimated-from-the-weight-of-the-cat/ 263693 Tue, 24 Jan 2017 10:23:31 +0100 Soft tissue tumors in Golden Retrievers Morphologically, canine soft-tissue sarcomas (STSs) resemble human STSs. In humans, proper classification of STSs is considered essential to improve insight in the biology of these tumors, and to optimize diagnosis and therapy. To date, there is a paucity of data published on the significance of detailed classification of STSs in the dog. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/soft-tissue-tumors-of-golden-retriever/ 263689 Tue, 24 Jan 2017 09:15:57 +0100 Modified screening test for equine metabolic syndrome An oral sugar test (OST) using Karo® Light Corn Syrup has been developed in the USA as a field test for the assessment of insulin sensitivity in horses but the syrup is not available in Europe. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/easier-diagnosis-of-the-equine-metabolic-syndrome/ 263659 Wed, 25 Jan 2017 08:46:23 +0100 Cruciate ligament injury changes the behaviour of cats Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common cause of chronic pain and dysfunction in older cats. The majority of cats with OA do not show signs of overt lameness, yet cats with orthopaedic disease are known to redistribute their body weight from the affected limb. OA can cause changes in the cat's behaviour, which is often misinterpreted as signs of aging. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/katt/cruciate-ligament-injury-changes-the-cats-way-to-walk-and-be/ 263654 Tue, 24 Jan 2017 09:19:50 +0100 Treatment with pimobendan delays heart failure Pimobendan is effective in treatment of dogs with congestive heart failure (CHF) secondary to myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD). Its effect on dogs before the onset of CHF is unknown. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/treatment-with-pimobendan-delays-heart-failure/ 263647 Mon, 30 Jan 2017 09:02:34 +0100 How well do you and your dog fit together? Previous research suggests that dogs (Canis familiaris) form attachment bonds to their owners and that the strengths of the attachment can vary. However, it does not seem reasonable to believe that all dogs share the same attachment style, considering their differences in genetic background, their previous experiences, and the many different caregiving strategies that are known to exist among humans. Rather, the level of security felt by dogs towards their owner probably varies, as seen in children towards their parent. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/how-well-do-you-and-your-dog-fit-together/ 259396 Wed, 14 Dec 2016 09:38:46 +0100 Uterine proteins altered in the cyclic and early pregnant bitch The endometrium changes during the oestrous cycle and early pregnancy in the bitch. Changes in the amount of the proteins E-cadherin and β-catenin are critical since the proteins are related to epithelial integrity and thus the potential for the bitch to become pregnant. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/uterine-proteins-altered-in-the-cyclic-and-early-pregnant-bitch/ 259399 Thu, 15 Dec 2016 09:57:31 +0100 Antibiotic use varies in European pig production Data on sales of antimicrobials using a standardised methodology have shown that there are vast differences between countries in amounts of antimicrobials sold for food-producing animals. However, these data do not provide insight on how sales are distributed by species and age groups. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/globalt/antibiotic-usage-varies-in-european-pig-production/ 259402 Wed, 14 Dec 2016 09:43:55 +0100 How is equine welfare best assessed? Two assessment protocols for horse welfare were compared: the Swedish official protocol (OP) and a newly developed horse welfare assessment protocol (HWAP). https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/how-is-equine-welfare-best-assessed/ 259403 Tue, 13 Dec 2016 12:14:24 +0100 Can NSAIDs be used during and after bone surgery? In connection with bilateral maxillary sinus augmentation, the acute effects of the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug carprofen on facial expressions and long-term effects on bone formation were evaluated in 18 male New Zealand White rabbits. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/forsoksdjur/can-nsaids-be-used-during-and-after-bone-surgery/ 259406 Wed, 14 Dec 2016 09:49:35 +0100 Immature sperm useful when saving endangered felids Epididymal sperm preservation offers a potential for rescuing genetic material from endangered or valuable animals after injury or death. Spermatozoa from corpus, as well as from cauda, have the capability to be motile and to undergo capacitation and can thus potentially be preserved for assisted reproductive technologies. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/vilt-fisk-och-renar/immature-sperm-useful-when-saving-endangered-felids/ 259438 Mon, 08 Nov 2021 10:40:10 +0100 Sows with healthy legs produce more piglets Lameness is an issue of concern in pig production due both to animal welfare and to economical aspects. Lame sows are believed to suffer from pain and stress which is reported to have a negative influence on reproduction. Leg conformation and locomotion traits in young animals are associated with the risk of lameness at higher age. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/notiser-om-lantbrukets-djur/sows-with-healthy-legs-produces-more-piglets/ 260269 Thu, 15 Dec 2016 10:02:11 +0100 Controlling phosphorus pollution More than 50 percent of lake ecosystems in Europe have not recovered from excess nutrient pollution even after the nutrient loading from outside the lake has been minimised. This is due to the internal loading of phosphorus (P) from lake sediments, the debt of phosphorus pollution deposited over decades and more. How to speed up the recovery? Compiling data from over 114 lakes Brian Huser and co-authors have estimated under which circumstances the treatment with Aluminium addition is an efficient restauration method. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/2016/controlling-phosphorus-pollution/ 258079 Fri, 16 Dec 2016 08:46:11 +0100 Udder infections could affect the milk consumer Inflammation in the mammary gland (mastitis) is the most common disease in dairy herds worldwide, often caused by the pathogens Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Escherichia coli (E. coli). Little is known about the effects of mastitis on drug transporters and the impact on transporter-mediated excretion of drugs into milk. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/notkreatur/a-duseased-udder-may-affect-the-milk-consumer1/ 269514 Mon, 13 Feb 2017 11:02:40 +0100 Udder infections could affect the milk consumer Inflammation in the mammary gland (mastitis) is the most common disease in dairy herds worldwide, often caused by the pathogens Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Escherichia coli (E. coli). Little is known about the effects of mastitis on drug transporters and the impact on transporter-mediated excretion of drugs into milk. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/notkreatur/a-duseased-udder-may-affect-the-milk-consumer/ 253370 Tue, 15 Nov 2016 16:18:16 +0100 How does the perch cope with a warmer climate? Understanding the resilience of aquatic ectothermic animals to climate warming has been hindered by the absence of experimental systems experiencing warming across relevant timescales. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/vilt-fisk-och-renar/how-does-the-perch-cope-with-a-warmer-climate/ 253372 Fri, 18 Nov 2016 13:29:08 +0100 Toxoplasma more common in organic pigs As consumer awareness of animal welfare increases throughout Europe, housing of pigs in more animal-friendly systems is becoming more common. There is concern that these free-range and organic management systems increase the prevalence of zoonotic meat-borne pathogens, such as Toxoplasma gondii. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/notiser-om-lantbrukets-djur/toxoplasma-more-common-in-organic-pigs/ 253406 Tue, 15 Nov 2016 16:14:55 +0100 High insulin levels are harmful for embryos Insulin is a key metabolic hormone that plays a crucial role in regulating energy homeostasis in the body. In addition, insulin-dependent signaling has important functions in reproduction and early embryo development. As metabolism and reproduction are closely linked, metabolic challenges may be the source of reproductive disorders and decreased fertility. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/notkreatur/high-insulin-levels-are-harmful-for-embryos/ 253419 Tue, 15 Nov 2016 16:14:33 +0100 Eye test for horses Electrical potentials generated in the central nervous system in response to brief visual stimuli, flash visual evoked potentials (FVEPs), can be recorded non-invasively over the occipital cortex. FVEPs are used clinically in human medicine and also experimentally in a number of animal species, but the method has not yet been evaluated in the horse. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/eye-test-for-horses/ 253511 Mon, 21 Nov 2016 09:02:43 +0100 New test for inherited disease in Shetland ponies Skeletal atavism in Shetland ponies is a heritable disorder characterized by abnormal growth of the ulna and fibula that extend the carpal and tarsal joints, respectively. This causes abnormal skeletal structure and impaired movements, and affected foals are usually killed. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/gentest/ 253520 Tue, 15 Nov 2016 16:13:37 +0100 Laser pointers improved guidance during surgery In veterinary clinical education, students perform surgery under guided supervision. This study aimed to determine if students' perception of how well they understood verbal guidance could be improved by using a laser pointer during feline castration. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/katt/laser-pointer-may-faciliate-surgury-teaching/ 250990 Tue, 18 Oct 2016 11:32:11 +0100 Checklist reduces surgical complications The objective of the present study was to examine whether the use of a surgical safety checklist (SSC) could reduce the incidence of complications after small animal surgery. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/checklist-reduces-surgical-complications/ 251860 Fri, 14 Oct 2016 12:05:17 +0100 Evaluation of X-ray data from young thoroughbred horses Diagnostic reports written to assist stud managers in the sale of young Thoroughbreds have not previously been used as a data source for the study of skeletal lesions. However, analyses of these reports may provide efficient and cost-effective insights into the prevalence and distribution of skeletal lesions within a population. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/evaluation-of-x-ray-data-from-young-thoroughbred-horses/ 251864 Fri, 14 Oct 2016 12:04:45 +0100 Gene mapping of canine atopic dermatitis Canine atopic dermatitis (CAD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease triggered by allergic reactions involving IgE antibodies directed towards environmental allergens. We previously identified a ~1.5 Mb locus on canine chromosome 27 associated with CAD in German shepherd dogs (GSDs). Fine-mapping indicated association closest to the PKP2 gene encoding plakophilin 2. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/genetic-mapping-of-atopic-dermatitis-in-the-german-shepherd/ 251871 Tue, 18 Oct 2016 11:00:15 +0100 Antibiotics to Bacteroides infections in horses Rarely are Bacteroides spp. identified to species level, and treatment of infection with anaerobes is seldom guided by antimicrobial susceptibility testing. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/choice-of-antibiotics-for-bacteroides-infections-in-horses/ 251878 Fri, 14 Oct 2016 12:01:17 +0100 Cardiac monitoring important during PET scans Radiolabeled Exendin-4, a synthetic glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) analog, is used as a tracer for diagnostic purposes of β-cells and in experimental animal research. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/forsoksdjur/cardiac-monitoring-important-during-pet-scans/ 251885 Fri, 14 Oct 2016 12:01:37 +0100 Moderately large first litters promote sow stayability Sows’ ability to produce an excessive amount of piglets has shaped modern piglet production and there has been a steady increase in litter size during the last decades. This development has caused some negative side-effects, such as an increase in the proportion of stillborn piglets, a decrease in the proportion of weaned piglets and a larger variation in quality of piglets. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/notiser-om-lantbrukets-djur/moderately-large-first-pig-litters-promote-sustainable-sows/ 244942 Mon, 19 Sep 2016 10:57:27 +0100 Risk factors for feared sheep and goat disease in Pakistan Peste des petits ruminants virus (PPRV) is causing infectious disease with high morbidity and mortality rate in domestic and wild small ruminants of Pakistan with valuable economical losses. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/globalt/risk-factors-for-important-disease-of-sheep-and-goats-in-pakistan/ 245018 Mon, 19 Sep 2016 11:13:36 +0100 For how long do infected calves spread coronavirus? Bovine coronavirus (BCoV) is a widely distributed pathogen, causing disease and economic losses in the cattle industry worldwide. Prevention of virus spread is impeded by a lack of basic knowledge concerning viral shedding and transmission potential in individual animals. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/notkreatur/for-how-long-do-coronavirus-infected-calves-spread-disease/ 245020 Mon, 19 Sep 2016 10:58:40 +0100 Surgery training on dummy reassures students Lack of confidence and self-efficacy are the main causes of negative emotions experienced by veterinary students when performing surgery. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/katt/sugery-taining-on-dummy-reassures-students/ 245023 Mon, 19 Sep 2016 10:59:44 +0100 Research for early detection of systemic inflammation Local inflammation may progress into systemic inflammation. To increase our understanding of the basic immunological processes during transition of equine local inflammation into a systemic state, investigation into the equine systemic immune response to local inflammation is warranted. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/research-for-early-detection-of-systemic-inflammation/ 245405 Mon, 19 Sep 2016 11:00:56 +0100 Objective measurements of lameness Gait analysis in horses has moved from the laboratory into the outside world enabling researchers and clinicians to make use of quantitative measurements to provide evidence aiding clinical decision making. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/objective-measurements-of-lameness/ 245416 Mon, 19 Sep 2016 11:01:48 +0100 A refined oral glucose tolerance test for pigs Diabetes mellitus is increasing worldwide and reliable animal models are important for progression of the research field. The pig is a commonly used large animal model in diabetes research and the present study aimed to refine a model for oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) in young growing pigs, as well as describing intravenous glucose tolerance test (IVGTT) in the same age group. The refined porcine OGTT will reflect that used in children and adolescents. Eighteen pigs were obtained one week after weaning and trained for two weeks to bottle-feed glucose solution, mimicking the human OGTT. The pigs subsequently underwent OGTT (1.75 g/kg BW) and IVGTT (0.5 g/kg BW). Blood samples were collected from indwelling vein catheters for measurements of glucose and the diabetes related hormones insulin, glucagon and active glucagon-like peptide-1. The study confirmed that pigs can be trained to bottle-feed glucose dissolved in water and thereby undergo an OGTT more similar to the human standard OGTT than previously described methods in pigs. With the refined method for OGTT, oral intake only consists of glucose and water, which is an advantage over previously described methods in pigs where glucose is given together with feed which will affect glucose absorption. Patterns of hormonal secretion in response to oral and intravenous glucose were similar to those in humans; however, the pigs were more glucose tolerant with lower insulin levels than humans. In translational medicine, this refined OGTT and IVGTT methods provide important tools in diabetes research when pigs are used as models for children and adolescents in diabetes research. Link to the article: http://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0148896 Reference: Manell E, Hedenqvist P, Svensson A, Jensen-Waern M (2016) Establishment of a Refined Oral Glucose Tolerance Test in Pigs, and Assessment of Insulin, Glucagon and Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Responses. PLoS ONE 11(2): e0148896. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0148896 https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/forsoksdjur/a-refined-oral-glucose-tolerance-test-for-pigs/ 93435 Mon, 30 Mar 2020 10:19:44 +0100 Stride-related rein tension in walk and trot Background The use of tack (equipment such as saddles and reins) and especially of bits because of rein tension resulting in pressure in the mouth is questioned because of welfare concerns. We hypothesised that rein tension patterns in walk and trot reflect general gait kinematics, but are also determined by individual horse and rider effects. Six professional riders rode three familiar horses in walk and trot. Horses were equipped with rein tension meters logged by inertial measurement unit technique. Left and right rein tension data were synchronized with the gait. Results Stride split data (0–100 %) were analysed using mixed models technique to elucidate the left/right rein and stride percentage interaction, in relation to the exercises performed. In walk, rein tension was highest at hindlimb stance. Rein tension was highest in the suspension phase at trot, and lowest during the stance phase. In rising trot there was a significant difference between the two midstance phases, but not in sitting trot. When turning in trot there was a significant statistical association with the gait pattern with the tension being highest in the inside rein when the horse was on the outer fore-inner hindlimb diagonal. Conclusions Substantial between-rider variation was demonstrated in walk and trot and between-horse variation in walk. Biphasic rein tensions patterns during the stride were found mainly in trot. Link to the article: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4696263/ Reference: Agneta Egenvall, Lars Roepstorff, Marie Eisersiö, Marie Rhodin, René van Weeren. Stride-related rein tension patterns in walk and trot in the ridden horse. Acta Vet Scand. 2016, 57(1):89. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/stride-related-rein-tension-in-walk-and-trot-/ 93431 Mon, 30 Mar 2020 10:33:58 +0100 Improved detection of bordetella in dogs Infection with Bordetella bronchiseptica is the most common bacterial cause of kennel cough or canine infectious respiratory disease (CIRD) in dogs. Other disease agents include various respiratory viruses and co-infection can exacerbate the clinical signs. CIRD is highly contagious and can spread rapidly, especially among dogs in close quarters. Fast and accurate diagnostics enables the selection of proper management. Our objective was to develop a sensitive and specific real-time PCR for detection of B. bronchiseptica in samples from dogs with respiratory signs. A genome comparison program was used to select a suitable target DNA sequence. A PCR targeting the bfrZ gene was developed which showed no cross-reactivity in silico or when tested with a panel of bacterial isolates. The limit of detection was determined to 4x103 bacteria per mL of nasal swab sample and less than 10 copies of target DNA per PCR reaction. Out of 23 isolates of B. bronchiseptica tested, one isolate from a hedgehog was not amplified. Sequencing of the 16S rDNA showed that the isolate was similar to strains of both B. bronchiseptica and B. parapertussis but was considered to be of minor importance for the diagnostics of dogs. In a panel of culture-negative nasopharyngeal swabs from dogs with (n=57) or without (n=17) clinical signs of CIRD, three resulted PCR-positive for B. bronchiseptica . Altogether, the novel assay is highly specific and sensitive for detection of B. bronchiseptica in clinical samples. Link to the publication: http://smithandfranklin.com/current-issues/Development-of-a-Taqman-Real-Time-PCR-Assay-for-Detection-of-Bordetella-bronchiseptica/18/1/152 Reference: Jinnerot, T., Malm, K., Eriksson, E. & Wensman, J.J. 2015. Development of a TaqMan real-time PCR assay for detection of Bordetella bronchiseptica. Veterinary Sciences: Research and Reviews. 1(1):14-20. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/improved-detection-of-bordetella-in-dogs/ 93430 Mon, 30 Mar 2020 10:26:39 +0100 Closantel treatment failure against Fasciola hepatica Control of Fasciola hepatica infection in livestock is based on annual treatment using flukicides such as triclabendazole, albendazole and closantel. However, triclabendazole resistant F. hepatica populations are emerging worldwide and resistance is emerging to albendazole, whereas it has until now never been described for closantel. In Sweden, a topical formulation containing a combination of closantel and ivermectin (Closamectin Pour On) has been registered for use in cattle only since 2011. This study evaluated the efficacy of closantel against F. hepatica in naturally infected beef cattle using both coproantigen and faecal egg count reduction tests. Faecal egg counts (FEC) and coproantigen ELISA examinations were conducted in February 2014 in three beef cattle herds (A, B, C) in south-western Sweden. On each farm, 10 F. hepatica coproantigen-positive and F. hepatica egg-positive animals were allocated after 12–16 weeks of housing into groups and treated topically with a minimum of 20 mg closantel per kg body weight. Faecal samples were collected from selected animals on 0, 7 and 21 day post-treatment (PT). Based on FEC, closantel efficacy 21 days PT was 72% (95% CI: 65–77%) and 97% (95% CI: 95–98%) on farms A and B, respectively. No FEC reduction at all was observed on farm C. In total, 4, 1 and 6 animals remained coproantigen-positive at 21 days PT on farms A, B and C, respectively. Closantel treatment failure was confirmed on two of the farms. As the animals were housed 12–16 weeks before treatment and thereafter during the entire study, failure due to the presence of juvenile flukes was excluded. Although the cause of closantel failure currently remains unclear, development of resistance or/and absorption failure of topical administration should be considered. To our knowledge, this is the first report of closantel treatment failure against F. hepatica in cattle. Link to the article: http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2211320715300075 Reference: Novobilský, A., Höglund, J., 2015. First report of closantel treatment failure against Fasciola hepatica in cattle. International Journal for Parasitology: Drugs and Drug Resistance 5, 172–177. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/notkreatur/closantel-treatment-failure-against-fasciola-hepatica/ 93427 Mon, 30 Mar 2020 10:19:07 +0100 Altered metabolism in overweight dogs Background Obese dogs risk poor life quality, creating a need for increased knowledge of metabolism in overweight dogs. Objectives Investigate postprandial metabolic and hormonal responses to a high-fat mixed-meal in dogs and responses of lean versus overweight dogs. Animals Twenty-eight healthy intact male Labrador Retrievers were included. Methods Prospective observational study. Twelve dogs were grouped as lean (body condition score (BCS 4–5), 10 as slightly overweight (BCS 6), and 6 as overweight (BCS 6.5–8) on a 9-point scale. After an overnight fast, urine and blood samples were collected. Dogs were then fed a high-fat mixed-meal, and blood was collected hourly for 4 hours and urine after 3 hours. Results Postprandial concentrations of insulin and glucagon were increased at 1 hour (both P < 0.0001), triglycerides at 2 hours ( P < 0.0001), and glucose at 3 hours (P = 0.004); and all remained increased throughout the feed-challenge in all dogs. Postprandial urine cortisol/creatinine ratio was higher than fasting values (P = 0.001). Comparing between groups, there was an overall higher triglyceride response in overweight compared to lean (P = 0.001) and slightly overweight (P = 0.015) dogs. Overweight dogs also had higher fasting cortisol/creatinine ratio compared to lean dogs (P = 0.024). Conclusions and clinical importance Postprandial responses of dogs to a high-fat mixed-meal were similar to those previously reported in people. The higher postprandial triglyceride response and fasting cortisol/creatinine ratio in the overweight dogs could be early signs of metabolic imbalance. Thus, although overweight dogs often appear healthy, metabolic alterations might be present. Link to the article: http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jvim.13830/full Reference: Söder, J., Wernersson, S., Hagman, R., Karlsson, I., Malmlöf, K. and Höglund, K. (2016), Metabolic and Hormonal Response to a Feed-challenge Test in Lean and Overweight Dogs. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine. doi: 10.1111/jvim.13830 https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/altered-metabolism-in-overweight-dogs/ 93421 Mon, 30 Mar 2020 10:26:22 +0100 Measure your alpaca's testicles Background The popularity of alpacas ( Vicugna pacos ) is increasing in Sweden as well as in other countries; however, knowledge about optimal management practices under Swedish conditions is still limited. The wide age range reported when the onset of puberty can occur, between 1 and 3 years of age, makes management decisions difficult and may be influenced by the conditions under which the alpacas are kept. The aim of this study was to find out when Swedish alpacas can be expected to start producing sperm, by using testicular length and body condition score as a more precise indirect indicator than age. Results This study suggests that animals with a testicular length ≥3.8 cm would be producing sperm; however, if it is crucial to know that there is no sperm production for management purposes, the threshold level for testicular length used to differentiate between sperm-producing and non-sperm producing animals should be ≤1.6 cm instead. If only one variable is considered, testicular length appears to better than age alone to predict sperm production. Body condition score together with testicular length explains the individual onset of puberty and better guide management recommendations. Conclusions Using a combination of these parameters (testicular length, body condition score and age) as a tool for decision making for alpaca husbandry under Swedish conditions is suggested. Link to the article: http://actavetscand.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13028-016-0191-x Reference: Maria Celina Abraham, Johanna Puhakka, Alejandro Ruete, Essraa Mohsen Al-Essawe, Kerstin de Verdier, Jane Margaret Morrell and Renée Båge. Testicular length as an indicator of the onset of sperm production in alpacas under Swedish conditions. Acta Veterinaria Scandinavica 2016 58:10. DOI: 10.1186/s13028-016-0191-x https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/far-och-alpacka-i-sverige/measure-your-alpacas-testicles/ 93420 Mon, 30 Mar 2020 10:34:33 +0100 Early handling may result in happier pigs It is known that tactile stimulation (TS) during ontogeny modifies brain plasticity and enhances the motor and cognitive skills.Our hypothesis was that early handling including TS would increase play and exploratory behaviour in commercial pigs under standardized test conditions. Piglets from 13 litters were subjected to three handling treatments from 5 to 35 days of age: all the piglets were handled (H), none of the piglets were handled (NH) or half of the piglets in the litter were handled (50/50). At 42 days of age, the pigs' behaviour was observed in pairs in a novel pen with a 'toy' (tug rope). The main results were that more locomotorplay was performed by pigs from litters where all or half of them had been handled, whereas social exploratory behaviour was more pronounced in pigs from litters where half of them had been handled. Although behaviour was affected by the interaction of treatment with sex or with weight category, we propose that the handling procedure does seem to have acted to increase locomotor skills and that handling half of the piglets in the litter may have triggered a series of socio-emotional interactions that were beneficial for the whole group. Link to the article: http://journals.cambridge.org/action/displayAbstract?fromPage=online&aid=10044662&fileId=S1751731115001743 Reference: M. Zupan, T. Rehn, D. de Oliveira and L. J. Keeling. Promoting positive states: the effect of early human handling on play and exploratory behaviour in pigs. Animal (2016), 10:1, pp 135–141. doi:10.1017/S1751731115001743 https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/notiser-om-lantbrukets-djur/early-handling-may-result-in-happier-pigs/ 93419 Mon, 30 Mar 2020 10:24:35 +0100 Disease surveillance methods for resource-poor settings Animal diseases impact negatively on households and on national economies. In low-income countries, this pertains especially to socio-economic effects on household level. To control animal diseases and mitigate their impact, it is necessary to understand the epidemiology of the disease in its local context. Such understanding, gained through disease surveillance, is often lacking in resource-poor settings. Alternative surveillance methods have been developed to overcome some of the hurdles obstructing surveillance. The objective of this study was to evaluate and qualitatively compare three methods for surveillance of acute infectious diseases using African swine fever in northern Uganda as an example. Report-driven outbreak investigations, participatory rural appraisals (PRAs), and a household survey using a smartphone application were evaluated. All three methods had good disease-detecting capacity, and each of them detected many more outbreaks compared to those reported to the World Organization for Animal Health during the same time period. Apparent mortality rates were similar for the three methods although highest for the report-driven outbreak investigations, followed by the PRAs, and then the household survey. The three methods have different characteristics and the method of choice will depend on the surveillance objective. The optimal situation might be achieved by a combination of the methods: outbreak detection via smartphone-based real-time surveillance, outbreak investigation for collection of biological samples, and a PRA for a better understanding of the epidemiology of the specific outbreak. All three methods require initial investments and continuous efforts. The sustainability of the surveillance system should, therefore, be carefully evaluated before making such investments. Use of a smartphone app allows rapid household interviews needed for the early detection of disease outbreaks. Photo: Erika Chenais Link to the article: http://journal.frontiersin.org/article/10.3389/fvets.2015.00051/abstract Reference: Chenais E, Sternberg-Lewerin S, Boqvist S, Emanuelson U, Aliro T, Tejler E, Cocca G, Masembe C, Ståhl K. African swine fever in Uganda: qualitative evaluation of three surveillance methods with implications for other resource-poor settings. Frontiers in Veterinary Science. 2015, 2; 0051. doi: 10.3389/fvets.2015.00051 https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/globalt/disease-surveillance-methods-for-resource-poor-settings/ 92485 Mon, 30 Mar 2020 10:16:43 +0100 Is tölt more exhausting than trot? This study compared the effect of ridden tölt and trot at 3 speeds on physiological responses in trained adult (15.3 ± 1.6 yr) Icelandic horses. The experiment had a crossover design with 8 horses, 2 treatments (incremental exercise test in tölt and trot), and 2 riders. Each horse performed 2 tests per day (1 gait with 2 riders, minimum 4.5 h between) on 2 separate days, with 1 d of rest in between. The exercise test consisted of three 642-m phases at 3.0 m/s (Speed3), 4.0 m/s (Speed4), and 5.0 m/s (Speed5) and was performed outdoors on a 300-m oval gravel riding track in northern Iceland in May 2012. Heart rate (HR) was measured during warm-up, the exercise test, and after 5, 15, and 30 min of recovery. Blood samples were taken at rest, after warm-up, after each phase of the exercise test, and after 5, 15, and 30 min of recovery. Respiratory rate was counted for at least 15 s at rest, at the end of the exercise test, and at the end of the 30-min recovery, and rectal temperature was measured on these occasions. There were no differences in HR between tölt and trot at any time point (P > 0.05). At Speed3, hematocrit and plasma lactate concentration were greater (P < 0.05) in tölt (40% ± 1%, 1.1 ± 0.06 mmol/L) than in trot (39% ± 1%; 0.9 ± 0.06 mmol/L). There was a prolonged recovery of hematocrit and respiratory rate, a slower decrease in rectal temperature, and a tendency of a prolonged recovery of plasma lactate concentration (P = 0.0675) after tölt. In conclusion, there were only minor differences in physiological responses to tölt and trot in this selected group of experienced adult Icelandic horses and the biological and practical significance of the slightly elevated physiological responses to tölt and the slower recovery remains to be determined. Link to the article: http://dx.doi.org/10.2527/jas.2015-9141 Reference: Stefánsdóttir G J, Ragnarsson S, Gunnarsson V, Roepstorff L, Jansson A. (2015) A comparison of the physiological response to tölt and trot in the Icelandic horse. Journal of Animal Science. Vol. 93 no. 8. DOI: 10.2527/jas.2015-9141 https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/is-tolt-more-exhausting-than-trot/ 92494 Mon, 30 Mar 2020 10:33:41 +0100 Pain evaluation in dairy cattle Pain compromises the welfare of animals. A prerequisite for being able to alleviate pain is that we are able to recognize it. Potential behavioural signs of pain were investigated for dairy cattle with the aim of constructing a pain scale for use under production conditions. Forty-three cows were selected and fifteen different behaviours were scored, subsequently a clinical examination was performed to allocate the cows to a pain and non-pain group. The animals were then treated with an analgesic or a placebo and after a resting period the cows were re-scored by two observers blinded to the treatment. Six behaviours were found to be significantly different between the pain and non-pain group and robust enough to be included in the pain scale: 'attention towards the surroundings' 'head position', 'ears position', 'facial expressions', 'response to approach' and 'back position' (a seventh, piloerection, was also significant but seemed difficult to use as it changed rapidly; p < 0.05 for all measures). The Cow Pain Scale is the sum of the score for the aforementioned behaviours. For each individual animal before and after treatment, it was significantly lower after analgesic treatment (p = 0.003) in the ClinPain group but not after placebo treatment (p = 0.06); the pain score did not differ significantly before compared to after treatment with analgesic or placebo for the non-pain group (p = 0.2; p = 0.1). A second study was conducted to further validate the Cow Pain Scale. Cows from two herds were randomly selected (n = 119) and their behaviour scored by two observers. Subsequently the cows were clinically examined and allocated to a pain and non-pain group (n = 96, 23 cows were excluded because of incomplete examination). The cows from the pain group scored higher on The Cow Pain Scale compared to the non-pain group for both observer I (p < 0.0001) and observer II (p = 0.0001). For the two observers the sensitivity of the Cow Pain Scale was calculated to 0.61/0.75 and the specificity to 0.75/0.75 with a weighted Kappa of 0.62. In conclusion the Cow Pain Scale has the potential to be applied for the assessment of pain in dairy cattle under production conditions. Link to the article: http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0168159115002269 Reference: Karina Bech Gleerup, Pia Haubro Andersen, Lene Munksgaard, Björn Forkman. Pain evaluation in dairy cattle. Applied Animal Behaviour Science. Volume 171, October 2015, Pages 25–32. doi:10.1016/j.applanim.2015.08.023 https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/notkreatur/pain-evaluation-in-dairy-cattle/ 92490 Mon, 30 Mar 2020 10:18:48 +0100 New method for cancer treatment surveillance in dogs Thymidine kinase 1 (TK1) is a DNA precursor enzyme whose expression is closely correlated with cell proliferation and cell turnover. Sensitive serum TK1 activity assays have been used for monitoring and prognosis of hematological malignancies in both humans and dogs. Here we describe the development of a specific sandwich TK1-ELISA for the quantification of TK1 protein levels in sera from dogs with different malignancies. A combination of rabbit polyclonal anti-dog TK1 antibody and a mouse monoclonal anti-human TK1 antibody was used. Different concentrations of recombinant canine TK1 was used as standard. Clinical evaluation of the ELISA was done by using sera from 42 healthy dogs, 43 dogs with hematological tumors and 55 with solid tumors. An established [3H]-dThd phosphorylation assay was used to determine the TK1 activity levels in the same sera. The mean TK1 activities in dogs with hematological tumors were significantly higher than those found in healthy dogs. In agreement with earlier studies, no significant difference was observed in serum TK1 activities between healthy dogs and dogs with solid tumors. However, the mean TK1 protein levels determined by new TK1-ELISA were significantly higher not only in hematological tumors but also in solid tumors compared to healthy dogs (mean ± SD = 1.30 ± 1.16, 0.67 ± 0.55 and 0.27± 0.10 ng/mL, respectively). Moreover, TK1-ELISA had significantly higher ability to distinguish lymphoma cases from healthy based on receiver operating characteristic analyses (area under the curve, AUC, of 0.96) to that of the activity assay (AUC, 0.84). Furthermore, fluctuations in TK1 protein levels during the course of chemotherapy in dogs with lymphoma closely associated with clinical outcome. Overall, the TK1-ELISA showed significant linear correlation with the TK1 activity assay (rs = 0.6, p<0.0001). Thus, the new TK1-ELISA has sufficient sensitivity and specificity for routine clinical use in veterinary oncology. Link to article: http://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0137871 Reference: Jagarlamudi KK., Moreu L., Westberg S., Rönnberg H., Eriksson S., 2015. A new Sandwich ELISA for quantification of thymidine kinase 1 protein levels in sera from dog's with different malignancies can aid in disease management. Plos One, 10 (9). https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/new-method-for-cancer-treatment-surveillance-in-dogs/ 92498 Mon, 30 Mar 2020 10:26:01 +0100 Group housing of horses and horse owners' attitudes Keeping horses in groups is widely recommended but limited information is available about how this is implemented in practice. The aim of this survey was to describe how horses are kept in the Nordic countries in relation to sex, age, breed, and equestrian discipline and to assess owners' attitudes toward keeping horses in groups. Horse owners in Denmark, Finland, Norway, and Sweden were approached using a web-based questionnaire, which was translated into 4 languages and distributed online via equestrian forums, organizations, and social media. The number of respondents was 3,229, taking care of 17,248 horses. Only 8% of horses were never kept in groups, 47% were permanently grouped for 24 h/d, and 45% were stabled singly but grouped during turnout. Yearlings were most often permanently kept in groups (75%), mares and geldings more commonly during parts of the day (50 and 51%, respectively), and stallions were often kept alone (38%). Icelandic horses were more likely to be permanently kept in groups (36%) than warmbloods (16%) and ponies (15%). Twice as many competition horses (51%) were never grouped compared with horses used for breeding (20%) or leisure purposes (15%). The majority of respondents (86%) strongly agreed that group housing benefits horse welfare and that it is important for horses to have the company of conspecifics (92%). Nevertheless, not all horses were kept in groups, showing that attitudes toward group housing may not necessarily reflect current management. The risk of injury was a concern of many respondents (45%), as was introducing unfamiliar horses into already established groups (40%) and challenges in relation to feeding in groups (44%). Safety of people (23%) and difficulties handling group-kept horses (19%) were regarded as less problematic. Results suggest that the majority of horses have the possibility to freely interact with other horses, either as fulltime members of a group during 24 h/d or during turnout. Future research should address the extent to which being a part-time member of a group affects horse welfare. For permanent group housing to become more widespread, such as it is the case for most farm animals, future research could focus on solving some of the reoccurring problems perceived with keeping horses in groups. The dissemination of evidence-based information on all aspects around keeping horses in groups can ultimately stimulate further positive changes in the management of group-kept horses. Link to article: https://www.animalsciencepublications.org/publications/jas/articles/93/9/4564 Reference: Hartmann, E., Bøe, K.E., Christensen, J.W., Hyyppä, S., Jansson, H., Jørgensen, G.H.M., Ladewig, J., Mejdell, C.M., Norling, Y., Rundgren, M., Särkijärvi, S., Søndergaard, E., Keeling, L.J. 2015. A Nordic survey of management practices and owners' attitudes towards keeping horses in groups. J. Anim. Sci. 93:4564-4574. doi:10.2527/jas2015-9233 https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/group-housing-of-horses-and-horse-owners-attitudes/ 92492 Mon, 30 Mar 2020 10:33:21 +0100 Calicivirus in Swedish cats Background Feline calicivirus (FCV) is a common cause of upper respiratory tract disease in cats worldwide. Its characteristically high mutation rate leads to escape from the humoral immune response induced by natural infection and/or vaccination and consequently vaccines are not always effective against field isolates. Thus, there is a need to continuously investigate the ability of FCV vaccine strain-induced antibodies to neutralize field isolates. Methods Seventy-eight field isolates of FCV isolated during the years 2008–2012 from Swedish cats displaying clinical signs of upper respiratory tract disease were examined in this study. The field isolates were tested for cross-neutralization using a panel of eight anti-sera raised in four pairs of cats following infection with four vaccine strains (F9, 255, G1 and 431). Results The anti-sera raised against F9 and 255 neutralised 20.5 and 11.5 %, and 47.4 and 64.1 % of field isolates tested, respectively. The anti-sera against the more recently introduced vaccine strains G1 and 431 neutralized 33.3 and 55.1 % and 69.2 and 89.7 %, respectively. Dual vaccine strains displayed a higher cross-neutralization. Conclusions This study confirms previous observations that more recently introduced vaccine strains induce antibodies with a higher neutralizing capacity compared to vaccine strains that have been used extensively over a long period of time. This study also suggests that dual FCV vaccine strains might neutralize more field isolates compared to single vaccine strains. Vaccine strains should ideally be selected based on updated knowledge on the antigenic properties of field isolates in the local setting, and there is thus a need for continuously studying the evolution of FCV together with the neutralizing capacity of vaccine strain induced antibodies against field isolates at a national and/or regional level. Link to the publication: http://www.actavetscand.com/content/57/1/86 Reference: Wensman JJ, Samman A, Lindhe A, Thibault J-C, Berndtsson LT, Hosie MJ. 2015. Ability of vaccine strain induced antibodies to neutralize field isolates of caliciviruses from Swedish cats. Acta Vet Scand, 57:86. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/katt/calicivirus-in-swedish-cats/ 92484 Mon, 30 Mar 2020 10:28:07 +0100 Antimicrobial usage in Swedish pig herds The aim of this study was to quantify antimicrobial consumption in Swedish farrow-to-finish pig herds. Sixty herds with 100 sows or more producing more than 500 fatteners per year participated in a study where data on antimicrobial consumption over a period of one year were collected. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/notiser-om-lantbrukets-djur/antimicrobial-usage-in-swedish-pig-herds/ 91729 Mon, 30 Mar 2020 10:24:20 +0100 Aiming at safer cortisone treatment of horses The cortisol response to glucocorticoid intervention has, in spite of several studies in horses, not been fully characterized with regard to the determinants of onset, intensity and duration of response. Therefore, dexamethasone and cortisol response data were collected in a study applying a constant rate infusion regimen of dexamethasone (0.17, 1.7 and 17 μg/kg) to six Standardbreds. Plasma was analysed for dexamethasone and cortisol concentrations using UHPLC-MS/MS. Dexamethasone displayed linear kinetics within the concentration range studied. A turnover model of oscillatory behaviour accurately mimicked cortisol data. The mean baseline concentration range was 34–57 μg/L, the fractional turnover rate 0.47–1.5 1/h, the amplitude parameter 6.8–24 μg/L, the maximum inhibitory capacity 0.77–0.97, the drug potency 6–65 ng/L and the sigmoidicity factor 0.7–30. This analysis provided a better understanding of the time course of the cortisol response in horses. This includes baseline variability within and between horses and determinants of the equilibrium concentration–response relationship. The analysis also challenged a protocol for a dexamethasone suppression test design and indicated future improvement to increase the predictability of the test. The study was funded by the Swedish-Norwegian Foundation for Equine Research. Link to the article: http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jvp.12276/abstract Reference: Ekstrand, C. Ingvast-Larsson, C. Olsèn, L. Hedeland, M. Bondesson, U. Gabrielsson, J.2015. A quantitative approach to analysing cortisol response in the horse. Journal of Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. doi: 10.1111/jvp.12276 https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/towards-safer-cortisone-treatment-of-horses/ 91727 Mon, 30 Mar 2020 10:33:01 +0100 Normal heart rhythm in asymptomatic HCM cats Objectives The aims of the study were to determine the heart rate, rhythm, number of ventricular premature complexes (VPCs) and atrial premature complexes (APCs) in unsedated cats with asymptomatic hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), using 24 h ambulatory electrocardiogram (ECG) (Holter) in the home environment and to compare the results with those from healthy control cats. Methods Fifteen privately owned cats with asymptomatic HCM entered the study. Data from 23 healthy cats, previously published by our group, were used as the control. Clinical examination, measurement of blood pressure, echocardiographic examination, Holter recordings and biochemical analyses were performed in all cats. Holter recordings were obtained in the home environment. Results Three-lead ECGs of good quality were obtained from 15 cats with HCM. The median heart rate was 145 (interquartile range [IQR] 137–184) beats per minute for the cats with HCM. All cats with HCM presented with normal sinus rhythm; 60% of cats had intermittent sinus arrhythmia. Median number of VPCs was 3 (IQR 1–17). Three cats had APCs and three cats had both escape beats and intermittent sinus arrhythmia. Conclusions and relevance Asymptomatic cats with HCM had few VPCs and APCs on 24 h ambulatory ECG in the home environment. Intermittent sinus arrhythmia was observed in 60% of cats with HCM. The present study shows that the heart rate and the number of VPCs and APCs in cats with asymptomatic HCM are similar to that found in healthy control cats. Link to the article: http://jfm.sagepub.com/content/early/2015/11/29/1098612X15618702.full Reference: Sofia Hanås, Anna Tidholm, Bodil S Holst. Ambulatory electrocardiogram recordings in cats with primary asymptomatic hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery, 2015. Published before print. DOI: 10.1177/1098612X15618702   https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/katt/normal-heart-rhythm-in-asymptomatic-myocardial-cats/ 91712 Mon, 30 Mar 2020 10:27:47 +0100 Low awareness of Rift Valley fever in Tanzania Introduction Rift Valley fever (RVF) is a zoonosis primarily affecting ruminants, resulting in epidemic abortions, fever, nasal and ocular discharges, haemorrhagic diarrhoea, and a high mortality rate among young animals. Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) is an arthropod-borne RNA virus occurring in epizootic periods associated with heavy rainfall. The last outbreak of RVF in Tanzania was in 2006–2007, resulting in severe economic losses and impaired food security due to greater number of deaths of livestock. The aim of this study was to investigate the presence of antibodies against RVFV in sheep and goats in two different regions of Tanzania during an inter-epidemic period (IEP). In addition, the perception of important diseases among livestock keepers was assessed. Material and methods A cross-sectional serological survey was conducted in three purposively selected districts in Arusha and Morogoro regions of Tanzania. Serum samples from 354 sheep and goats were analysed in a commercial RVFV competitive ELISA. At the sampling missions, a questionnaire was used to estimate the socio-economic impact of infectious diseases. Results and discussion In total, 8.2% of the analysed samples were seropositive to RVF, and most seropositive animals were younger than 7 years, indicating a continuous circulation of RVFV in the two regions. None of the livestock keepers mentioned RVF as an important livestock disease. Conclusions This study confirms that RVFV is circulating at low levels in small ruminants during IEPs. In spite of recurring RVF outbreaks in Tanzania, livestock keepers seem to have a low awareness of the disease, making them poorly prepared and thus more vulnerable to future RVF outbreaks. Link to the article: http://www.infectionecologyandepidemiology.net/index.php/iee/article/view/30025 Reference: Wensman JJ, Lindahl J, Wachtmeister N, Torsson E, Gwakisa P, Kasanga C, Misinzo G. A study of Rift Valley fever virus in Morogoro and Arusha regions of Tanzania – serology and farmers' perceptions. Infection Ecology & Epidemiology 2015, 5: 30025. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/globalt/low-awareness-of-rift-valley-fever-in-tanzania/ 91711 Mon, 30 Mar 2020 10:16:19 +0100 Training affects health and locomotions in horses The aim of this study was to document effects of two high-intensity training regimes on horse health. Sixteen Standardbred horses in training from September as 1-year-olds with the goal to race as 3-year-olds were used in a 2.5 year study. Horses were trained in either a control training program (C-group) or in a program with 30% reduced high intensity distance compared to the C-group (R-group). Clinical examinations were performed nine times. Locomotion asymmetry was registered with a sensor-based system 17 times. There was no difference in health scores, locomotion asymmetry or veterinary treatments between groups. Subjective lameness score and objective front limb locomotion asymmetry increased during the spring both as 2- and 3-year-olds after introduction of speed- and uphill interval training but decreased during winter. Hind limb locomotion asymmetry increased during spring as 2-year-olds and was still above initial level in December as 3-year-olds. Horses that qualified for races early had less asymmetric front limb locomotion and were less lame in clinical examinations (0.7 ± 0.3 vs. 1.6 ± 0.2 degrees [AAEP scale], P = 0.04) than late qualifiers. Days lost to training were higher in C-group than in R-group (27 ± 3% and 17 ± 3%, P = 0.029). It is concluded that (1) less days may be lost to training by reducing the high intensity training distance and (2) the introduction of new training may alter locomotion asymmetry and this can be detected with objective locomotion analysis. Link to the article: http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1090023315004633 Reference: Ringmark S, Jansson A, Lindholm A, Hedenström U and Roepstorff L. A 2.5 year study on health and locomotion symmetry in young Standardbred horses subjected to two levels of high intensity training distance. The Veterinary Journal, in press 2015. doi:10.1016/j.tvjl.2015.10.052 https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/impact-of-training-on-health-and-movements-of-trotters1/ 91709 Mon, 30 Mar 2020 10:32:41 +0100 New method measures several hormones in dogs Background Blood samples from dogs are often limited in volume, only allowing few steroids to be quantified with immunoassays. In addition, immunoassays may be compromised by interferences such as anti-reagent antibodies. Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) can be used for the simultaneous quantitation of several steroids. This has not been described in dogs before. Objectives The aims were to use LC-MS/MS to study steroid profiles in early pregnancy and luteal phase in dogs, and to determine if differences exist between pregnant (P) and nonpregnant (NP) dogs. Methods Nine female dogs were included, 4 during a NP luteal phase, 4 during a P luteal phase, and one during one NP and one P luteal phase. Blood samples were collected around the time of the LH surge (Day 0) and on Day 26. Serum was analyzed for 5 classes of steroids, including glucocorticoids, androgens, estrogens, pregnanes, and progestins, using LC-MS/MS methods. Results The concentration of progesterone was significantly higher on Day 26 in P than in NP bitches. Distribution of concentrations of glucocorticoids, androgens, estrogens, or pregnanes in P and NP dogs were not statistically different. The predominating glucocorticoid was cortisol, and dihydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) was the predominating androgen. Concentration of estrone was comparable to oestradiol, whereas concentrations of pregnenolone were higher than those of 17-OH pregnenolone. Conclusions Only concentration of progesterone differed between P and NP bitches, being significantly higher on Day 26 in P than in NP bitches. LC-MS/MS offers interesting possibilities for studies of canine reproductive endocrinology. Link to the article: http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/vcp.12301/abstract Reference: Holst BS, Kushnir MM, Bergquist J. Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) for analysis of endogenous steroids in the luteal phase and early pregnancy in dogs: a pilot study. Vet Clin Pathol. 2015 Nov 23. doi: 10.1111/vcp.12301. [Epub ahead of print] https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/impact-of-training-on-health-and-movements-of-trotters/ 91708 Mon, 30 Mar 2020 10:25:40 +0100 Breed differences in everyday behaviour of dogs The domestication of the dog and the ensuing breed creation has resulted in a plethora of dog breeds that differ not only in morphology but also in terms of behaviour. In addition, a majority of the dogs today are no longer utilized for their working ability, but are mainly kept as companion animals. The main aim of this study was to estimate breed differences in everyday behaviour traits, as well as to study the phenotypic correlations between these traits. Dog owners described their dogs' everyday behaviour in a questionnaire. The responses to the questions were combined into 18 behavioural subscale scores (BSS). After editing, the material included dog owner responses for 3591 dogs from 20 different breeds. The breeds represent both working and non-working breeds. We can conclude that breed (and grouping into working vs non-working breeds), age and sex had significant effects on many everyday behaviour traits. The working breeds were about 10% more trainable, showed 30% more interest in playing with humans and were 10–60% less fearful. Furthermore, our results showed that fearful dogs were more aggressive, whereas more social dogs were less fearful and less aggressive. We also found that dogs that were more eager to play with humans were also easier to train. Link to the article: http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0168159115001240 Reference: Helena Eken Asp, Willem Freddy Fikse, Katja Nilsson, Erling Strandberg. Breed differences in everyday behaviour of dogs. Applied Animal Behaviour Science. 2015, 169:69-77. doi:10.1016/j.applanim.2015.04.010 https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hundnotiser/breed-differences-in-everyday-behaviour-of-dogs/ 90935 Mon, 30 Mar 2020 10:25:19 +0100 Clinical review: Attitudes to different methods of fertility control in cats Overview Fertility control is important for population management of owned and unowned cats, provides health benefits at the individual level and can reduce unwanted sexually dimorphic behaviors such as roaming, aggression, spraying and calling. This article reviews the available evidence regarding European and American veterinarian, owner and pedigree cat breeder attitudes toward both surgical sterilization and non-surgical fertility control. It additionally presents new data on veterinarians' and pedigree cat breeders' use of, and attitudes toward, alternative modalities of fertility control. Proportion of cats that are neutered Within the United States and Europe, the proportion of cats reported to be sterilized varies widely. Published estimates range from 27–93% for owned cats and 2–5% for cats trapped as part of a trap–neuter–return (TNR) program. In some regions and populations of cats, non-surgical fertility control is also used. Social context, cultural norms, individual preferences, economic considerations, legislation and professional organizations may all influence fertility control decisions for cats. Non-surgical methods of fertility control Particularly in Europe, a limited number of non-surgical temporary contraceptives are available for cats; these include products with regulatory approval for cats as well as some used 'off label'. Non-surgical methods remove the risk of complications related to surgery and offer potential to treat more animals in less time and at lower cost; they may also appeal to pedigree cat breeders seeking temporary contraception. However, concerns over efficacy, delivery methods, target species safety, duration and side effects exist with current non-surgical options. Research is under way to develop new methods to control fertility in cats without surgery. US and European veterinarians place high value on three perceived benefits of surgical sterilization: permanence, behavioral benefits and health benefits. Non-surgical options will likely need to share these benefits to be widely accepted by the veterinary community. Link to the article: http://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/1098612X15594994 Reference: Jane K Murray, Jill R Mosteller, Jenny M Loberg, Maria Andersson and Valerie A W Benka. METHODS OF FERTILITY CONTROL IN CATS. Owner, breeder and veterinarian behavior and attitudes. Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery (2015) 17, 790–799 https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/katt/clinical-review-attitudes-to-different-methods-of-fertility-control-in-cats/ 90289 Mon, 30 Mar 2020 10:27:30 +0100 Risk factors for quinolone-resistant Escherichia coli Quinolone resistance may emerge in gut bacteria (e.g., in Escherichia coli) of animals. Such bacteria could cause infections in the animal itself or be transmitted to humans via the food chain. Quinolone resistance is also observed in fecal E. coli of healthy dairy cattle, but the prevalence varies between farms, not solely as a result of varying degree of fluoroquinolone exposure. The objective of this study was to identify risk factors for the fecal shedding of quinolone-resistant E. coli (QREC) from dairy calves and postpartum cows. Rectal swabs from 15 preweaned calves and 5 postpartum cows per farm were collected on 23 Swedish dairy farms to determine the prevalence of QREC. Risk factors for the shedding of QREC were investigated using multivariable statistical models. Quinolone-resistant E. coli were found on all but one farm. Factors associated with QREC shedding by calves were being younger than 18 d, being fed milk from cows treated with antimicrobials, recent use of fluoroquinolones in the herd, carriage of QREC by postpartum cows, and using the calving area never or rarely as a sick pen compared with often. Factors associated with QREC shedding by cows were calving in group pens or freestalls compared with single pens or tiestalls, purchasing cattle, sharing animal transports with other farmers, and poor farm hygiene. Proper biosecurity and improved hygiene, as well as minimizing fluoroquinolone exposure and waste milk feeding, may be important factors to reduce the burden of QREC on dairy farms. Link to the article: http://www.journalofdairyscience.org/article/S0022-0302(15)00496-8/abstract Reference: Duse, A., Waller, K. P., Emanuelson, U., Unnerstad, H. E., Persson, Y. & Bengtsson, B. (2015). Risk factors for quinolone-resistant Escherichia coli in feces from preweaned dairy calves and postpartum dairy cows. Journal of Dairy Science, 98(9), pp 6387–6398. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/notkreatur/risk-factors-for-quinolone-resistant-escherichia-coli-/ 90286 Mon, 30 Mar 2020 10:18:25 +0100 Rein tension during canter Riders generally use reins as a means for communication with the horse. At present, the signalling pattern is poorly understood. The aim of this study was to illustrate and analyse the rein tension patterns in a number of rider/horse combinations across a variety of exercises in the canter gait. Our hypothesis was that some riders will follow the movement of the horse more closely than others. Data were collected from eight professional riders riding each three (in one case two) horses that were familiar to them in canter. Horses were instrumented with rein tension meters logged by inertial measurement unit technique (IMU). Inside and outside rein tension data were synchronised with the gait using the vertical acceleration IMU-signal at the poll. Stride-split data (0-100 percentages) were analysed using mixed models technique to elucidate the inside/outside and stride percentage interaction, taking into account the exercises performed. In general, tension was maximal just before the beginning of vertical stance, as defined by the maximal acceleration of the head, with the release closer to the suspension phase. The release was significantly more marked on the outside rein, but between riders and horses the pattern varied substantially. In total 26% of the variation was represented by riders and 21% by the horses. On average there were significant inside/outside rein differences, but at the same time in some horse/rider combinations these differences did not exist. The study was financed by the Swedish research council Formas. Link to the article: http://www.wageningenacademic.com/doi/abs/10.3920/CEP150005 Reference: A. Egenvall, M. Eisersiö, M. Rhodin, R. van Weeren and L. Roepstorff. Rein tension during canter. Comparative Exercise Physiology 2015, 11 (2), 107-117. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3920/CEP150005 https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/hastnotiser/rein-tension-during-canter-/ 90282 Mon, 30 Mar 2020 10:28:41 +0100 Dystocia in the cat evaluated using an insurance database Objectives The aim of this study was to describe the incidence of feline dystocia with respect to breed. Methods The data used were reimbursed claims for veterinary care insurance and/or life insurance claims in cats registered in a Swedish insurance database from 1999–2006. Results The incidence rates for dystocia were about 22 cats per 10,000 cat years at risk, 67 per 10,000 for purebred cats and seven per 10,000 for domestic shorthair cats. The median age was 2.5 years. A significant effect of breed was seen. An incidence rate ratio (IRR) that was significantly higher compared with other purebred cats was seen in the British Shorthair (IRR 2.5), the Oriental group (IRR 2.2), Birman (IRR 1.7), Ragdoll (IRR 1.5) and the Abyssinian group (IRR 1.5). A significantly lower IRR was seen in the Norwegian Forest Cat (IRR 0.38), the Maine Coon (IRR 0.48), the Persian/Exotic group (IRR 0.49) and the Cornish Rex (IRR 0.50). No common factor among the high-risk breeds explained their high risk for dystocia. There was no effect of location; that is, the incidence rate did not differ depending on whether the cat lived in an urban or rural area. Caesarean section was performed in 56% of the cats with dystocia, and the case fatality was 2%. Conclusions and relevance The incidence rate for dystocia was of a similar magnitude in purebred cats as in dogs. The IRR varied significantly among breeds, and the main cause for dystocia should be identified separately for each breed. A selection for easy parturitions in breeding programmes is suggested. Link to the article: http://jfm.sagepub.com/content/early/2015/08/21/1098612X15600482.long Reference: Holst BS, Axnér E, Öhlund M, Möller L, Egenvall A. Dystocia in the cat evaluated using an insurance database. J Feline Med Surg. 2015 Aug 21. pii: 1098612X15600482. Epub ahead of print. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/sport--och-sallskapsdjur/katt/dystocia-in-the-cat-evaluated-using-an-insurance-database1/ 90281 Mon, 30 Mar 2020 10:27:12 +0100 Osteochondrosis is more frequent in free-range pigs Background Organic pig production is expanding and amongst the objectives of organic farming are enhancing animal health and welfare. However, some studies have reported a higher prevalence of lameness and joint condemnation at slaughter in free-range/organic pigs than in conventionally raised pigs. Organic slaughter pigs have free-range housing in which indoor and outdoor access is compulsory, while in conventional farming the pigs are commonly confined to indoor pens. The present study evaluated the effects of free-range and confined housing on lameness prevalence in a herd of 106 finisher pigs, and whether osteochondrosis and Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae associated arthritis influences these effects. We also evaluated the association between clinical lameness during the rearing period and joint condemnations at slaughter. Results Seventy free-range and 36 confined housed fattener pigs were scored for their gait twice during the rearing period and 848 joints were evaluated post mortem. Osteochondrosis was more frequent among free-range than confined pigs (P < 0.05), and when present it was also more severe (P < 0.001). Pigs with more numerous and more severe osteochondral lesions had their gait affected more than did pigs with fewer such lesions (P < 0.05). Hence it was a paradox that we did not detect more lameness among the free-range pigs than the confined pigs. E. rhusiopathiae associated arthritis was not diagnosed. The association between gait remarks/clinical lameness and joint condemnations at slaughter was not significant. Conclusions The results indicate that free-range housing may have both positive and negative effects on locomotory traits. Free-range pigs may be less clinically affected by osteochondrosis than are confined pigs. One explanation for this effect may be strengthening of joint supportive tissue and pain relief promoted by exercise. Visual gait scoring missed serious joint lesions that probably were harmful to the pigs, and should therefore not be used as a sole indicator of joint/leg health in welfare inspection of pigs. The association between gait scores and joint condemnation appeared to be poor. This study was limited to one herd, and so more and larger studies on the effects of free-range housing on lameness severity and osteochondrosis development in pigs are recommended. Link to the article: http://www.actavetscand.com/content/57/1/63 Reference: Etterlin, P.E., Morrison, D.A., Österberg, J., Ytrehus, B., Heldmer, E. & Ekman, S. Osteochondrosis, but not lameness, is more frequent among free-range pigs than confined herd-mates. Acta Veterinaria Scandinavica, 2015, 57(1):63. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/notiser-om-lantbrukets-djur/osteochondrosis-is-more-frequent-in-free-range-pigs-/ 90280 Mon, 30 Mar 2020 10:21:24 +0100 Pros and cons with growing wildlife populations In many parts of Europe and North America, populations of large mammals and birds have recovered during recent decades. In Sweden, this has resulted in more wildlife than was historically recorded. This positive development provides a number of opportunities for ecosystem services and for biodiversity. More wildlife also means more interactions with humans, as many birds and mammals may interfere with human interests in the landscape, such as natural resource use. Thus, more wildlife may shift the baseline for societal perception of wildlife. https://www.slu.se/en/research/knowledge-bank/vh/vilt-fisk-och-renar/dystocia-in-the-cat-evaluated-using-an-insurance-database/ 90279 Mon, 08 Nov 2021 10:43:57 +0100