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Contents Our objective was to study reproductive consequences of lactation bodyweight loss occurring in primiparous sows with mild feed restriction and to relate these lactation weight losses and its consequences to metabolic profiles during lactation and subsequent early gestation. After weaning, 47 first-litter sows were retrospectively assigned to a high- (HWL, >13.8%, n = 24) or low (LWL, ≤13.8%, n = 23)-weight loss group. Thirty-six animals received an indwelling jugular vein catheter to determine lactational and gestational profiles of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) and urea and gestational profiles of progesterone. At day 35 after insemination, sows were euthanized and their reproductive tract collected. Pregnancy rate was 75% (18/24) for HWL and 96% (22/23) for LWL sows. High-weight loss sows had a lower number of implantation sites (17.2 ± 0.8 vs 19.5 ± 0.7, respectively, p = 0.03) and a lower embryonic survival (65.6 ± 3.4 vs 77.4 ± 2.9%, p = 0.02), resulting in fewer vital embryos (14.9 ± 0.9 vs 16.8 ± 0.7, p = 0.07) than LWL sows. Progesterone peak values were reached later in HWL than in LWL sows (day 13.4 ± 0.5 vs 12.0 ± 0.5, respectively, p = 0.05). Gestational concentrations of IGF-1, NEFA and urea were almost identical for HWL and LWL sows, whilst numerical differences were seen during lactation. The current study shows negative consequences of lactational weight loss in mildly feed-restricted primiparous sows for embryonic survival and shows that these consequences seem only mildly related with metabolic alterations during lactation and not with metabolic alterations during subsequent gestation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The number of intact and functional spermatozoa in semen can be assessed with flow cytometry and is believed to relate to male fertility. The aim of this study was to examine whether currently used sperm integrity assessments with flow cytometry correlate with field fertility data obtained for boar semen. For this purpose, 20 boars were followed for a 20-wk period (with a total average production of 33 ejaculates per boar) and the obtained fertility results (farrowing rate and number of piglets born) of commercial artificial insemination doses made from these ejaculates were recorded. Fertility results were corrected for farm, sow, boar, and semen-related parameters. From the same semen samples, sperm cell integrity was assessed with respect to DNA and to membrane integrity, acrosome intactness and responsiveness, and mitochondrial potential using established flow cytometric assays. This was done on freshly produced semen and on semen stored for up to 15 d. Remarkably, none of the individual membrane integrity variables was significantly related to fertility results. In contrast, the amount of DNA damage as assessed at 7 to 10 d and at 14 to 15 d of semen storage related to farrowing rate (P = 0.0400) and total number of piglets born (P = 0.0310), respectively. Therefore, the degree of DNA damage in stored boar semen samples may be a useful factor to evaluate semen as an indicator for litter size and farrowing rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sperm quality is often evaluated through computer-assisted semen analysis (CASA) and is an indicator of boar fertility. The aim of this research was to study the relationship between CASA motility parameters and fertility results in pigs. Insemination records and semen parameters from a total of 45,532 ejaculates collected over a 3-yr period were used. The statistical model for analysis of fertility data from these inseminations included factors related to sow productivity. The boar- and semen-related variance (direct boar effect) were corrected for the effects of individual boar, genetic line of the boar, age of the boar, days between ejaculations, number of sperm cells in an ejaculate, number of sperm cells in an insemination dose, and AI station. The remaining variance was analyzed if semen motility parameters had a significant effect. This analysis revealed significant (P < 0.05) effects of progressive motility, velocity curvilinear, and beat cross frequency on farrowing rate (FR). Total motility, velocity average path, velocity straight line, and amplitude of lateral head displacement affected (P < 0.05) total number of piglets born (TNB). Boar- and semen-related parameters explained 5.3% of the variation in FR and 5.9% of the variation in TNB. Motility parameters, measured by CASA, explained 9% of the boar- and semen-related variation in FR and 10% of the boar- and semen-related variation in TNB. Individual boar and genetic line of the boar affected (P < 0.0001) the variation in FR and TNB. No differences (P > 0.05) were observed between effects of AI stations on fertility outcome, underscoring the objectivity of the CASA system used. Motility parameters can be measured with CASA to assess sperm motility in an objective manner. On the basis of the motility pattern, CASA enables one to discriminate between the fertilizing capacity of ejaculates, although this depends on the genetic line of the boar used in AI stations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the effect of feeding level and protein content in feed in first- and second-parity sows during the first month of gestation on sow BW recovery, farrowing rate, and litter size during the first month of gestation. From d 3 to d 32 after first insemination, sows were fed either 2.5 kg/d of a standard gestation diet (Control, n = 49), or 3.25 kg/d (+ 30%) of a standard gestation diet (Plus Feed, n = 47), or 2.5 kg/d of a gestation diet with 30% greater level of ileal digestible AA (Plus Protein, n = 49). Feed intake during the experimental period was 29% greater for Plus Feed sows compared with Control and Plus Protein sows (93 vs. 72 kg, P < 0.05). Plus feed sows gained 10 kg more BW during the experimental period compared with Control and Plus Protein sows (24.2 ± 1.2 vs. 15.5 ± 1.2 and 16.9 ± 1.2 kg, respectively, P < 0.001). Backfat gain and loin muscle depth gain were not affected by treatment (P = 0.56 and P = 0.37, respectively). Farrowing rate was lesser, though not significantly, for Plus Feed sows compared with Control and Plus Protein sows (76.6% vs. 89.8% and 89.8%, respectively, P = 0.16). Litter size, however, was larger for the Plus Feed sows (15.2 ± 0.5 total born) compared with the Control and Plus Protein sows (13.2 ± 0.4 and 13.6 ± 0.4 total born, respectively, P = 0.006). Piglet birth weight was not different among treatments (P = 0.65). For both first- and second-parity sows, the Plus Feed treatment showed similar effects on BW gain, farrowing rate, and litter size. In conclusion, an increased feed intake (+ 30%) during the first month of gestation improved sow BW recovery and increased litter size but did not significantly affect farrowing rate in the subsequent parity. Feeding a 30% greater level of ileal digestible AA during the same period did not improve sow recovery or reproductive performance in subsequent parity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Contents This contribution provides an overview of approaches to correlate sow fertility data with boar semen quality characteristics. Large data sets of fertility data and ejaculate data are more suitable to analyse effects of semen quality characteristics on field fertility. Variation in fertility in sows is large. The effect of semen factors is relatively small and therefore impossible to find in smaller data sets. Large data sets allow for statistical corrections on both sow- and boar-related parameters. Remaining sow fertility variation can then be assigned to semen quality parameters, which is of huge interest to AI (artificial insemination) companies. Previous studies of Varkens KI Nederland to find the contribution to field fertility of (i) the number of sperm cells in an insemination dose, (ii) the sperm motility and morphological defects and (iii) the age of semen at the moment of insemination are discussed in context of the possibility to apply such knowledge to select boars on the basis of their sperm parameters for AI purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Contents The purpose of this article is to summarize the current knowledge on genetic and management methods for improving fertility in sows. Fertilization rate, litter size and the interval between weaning and oestrus are traits that can be monitored on farms. These traits are heritable but can also be influenced by management. Age at puberty and the interval between weaning and oestrus are genetically linked (rg = 0.3) and a shorter weaning-to-oestrus interval is related to a longer duration of oestrus. Consequently, selection may be used to simplify detection of oestrus but because of variation in duration of oestrus between lines/breeds, farm-specific insemination strategies are needed. The direct boar effect on fertilization is small, probably due to the superabundance of sperm cells that is available in each dose of semen. Consequently, the use of a large number of sperm cells per dose is the best management tool for avoiding fertilization problems in sows. Health status of the boars, both for artificial insemination and natural mating, is of importance in order to produce a large number of sperm cells/doses of good quality per ejaculate. It is concluded that factors that influence fertility in sows, particularly prior to and during fertilization, are mainly related to oestrus and the optimal timing of insemination. Selection for adequate symptoms of oestrus, together with farm-specific insemination strategies are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The neutrophil elastase inhibitor, secretory leucocyte protease inhibitor (SLPI), is a potential therapeutic tool in inflammatory lung diseases such as cystic fibrosis and pulmonary emphysema. The distribution and disappearance in the lung of aerosolised recombinant SLPI (rSLPI) was investigated in healthy humans and in patients with cystic fibrosis or alpha 1-antitrypsin-associated emphysema.Methods: To distinguish aerosolised rSLPI from endogenous SLPI the recombinant inhibitor was radiolabelled with 99m-technetium (99mTc) pertechnetate. Distribution and disappearance of aerosolised 99mTc-rSLPI in the lungs were studied by gamma radiation imaging.Results: The deposition of 99mTc-rSLPI in normal volunteers was homogeneous in all lung lobes, while in patients with cystic fibrosis or emphysema only well ventilated areas showed deposition of the aerosol. The disappearance rate of 99mTc-rSLPI was biexponential. The half life of the rapid phase was 0.2-2.8 hours, while that of the slow phase was more than 24 hours.Conclusions: Future aerosol therapy with rSLPI will be most beneficial for well ventilated lung tissue that needs protection against neutrophil derived elastase. It may be more difficult to neutralise the burden of elastase in poorly ventilated, highly inflamed areas as are seen in cystic fibrosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Contents Boar studs are often offered new technologies including several CASA (computer-assisted semen analysis) systems. However, independent information to assist their purchase decisions is not available. The systems accuracy and repeatability variation because of different factors can be evaluated through duplicate testing of semen samples and comparison of the results according to WHO standards for humans. This primary analysis and a thorough economic cost benefit evaluation will help to decide whether the purchase of a CASA system will be profitable for a boar stud. Our experience of implementing several CASA systems in the cooperative Dutch Artificial Insemination (AI) centres is used as a base for this discussion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Structural variants in DNA such as translocations are increasingly found as key oncogenic events in tumors, and detection is clinically relevant for therapy choice in many conditions. Despite developments in targeted and whole genome gene sequencing, the robust detection of structural variants remains a challenge, especially in FFPE specimens. Methods Targeted proximity ligation assays selectively amplify and sequence entire genes based on the crosslinking of physically proximal sequences, and thereby enable complete sequencing of genes of interest, including single nucleotide and structural variants. Because these assays are based on the crosslinking and fragmenting of DNA, they have particular advantages in the analysis of FFPE samples, in which DNA is inherently crosslinked and fragmented. Results We will show that we have successfully developed targeted proximity ligation assays on representative clinical FFPE samples with considerably fragmented DNA. By making use of the DNA crosslinks in these samples, we can generate very broad sequence information over 100's of kb's, where other targeted NGS technologies are limited by the fragment size. We will show that we can detect NTRK fusions at DNA level, including determination of the fusion partner and the exact translocation breakpoint sequence. The latter can be used as a very sensitive and cancer-specific marker for minimal residual disease (MRD) testing and ctDNA monitoring with PCR. Conclusions Our newly developed targeted proximity ligation assays enable robust detection of structural variation in FFPE samples and the development of personalized MRD/ctDNA tests. Legal entity responsible for the study Cergentis. Funding Cergentis via Horizon2020 SME funding. Disclosure H. Feitsma: Full / Part-time employment: Cergentis. M. Yilmaz: Full / Part-time employment: Cergentis. J. Swennenhuis: Full / Part-time employment: Cergentis. A. Rakszewska: Full / Part-time employment: Cergentis. K. Hajo: Full / Part-time employment: Cergentis. E. Splinter: Full / Part-time employment: Cergentis. M. Simonis: Full / Part-time employment: Cergentis. M. Van Min: Shareholder / Stockholder / Stock options, Full / Part-time employment: Cergentis. All other authors have declared no conflicts of interest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: An impaired reproductive performance in second parity compared to first parity sows, decreases reproductive efficiency and, perhaps, longevity of sows. This study aims to quantify the effect of live weight development and reproduction in first parity on reproductive performance of second parity sows, i.e. pregnancy rate as well as litter size. Measures of sow development (live weight at first insemination, farrowing and weaning) and reproduction (total number of piglets born, weaning to insemination interval, lactation period, number piglets weaned) were recorded on two experimental farms. Logistic regression analysis was done for the binary outcome ‘non-pregnancy from first insemination after first weaning’ (yes/no). General linear regression analysis was used for litter size from 1st insemination in second parity. Repeat breeders were omitted from the analysis on litter size in second parity, since a prolonged period between weaning and conception can positively influence litter size. Farms differed significantly in measures of sow live weight development and therefore data were analyzed per farm. Compared with gilts from farm A, gilts from farm B were older and heavier at: first insemination (275±0.9 days and 145±0.8kg for farm B vs. 230±0.6 days and 124±0.5kg for farm A), first farrowing (resp. 189±1.1 vs. 181±0.9kg) and first weaning (resp. 165±1.1 vs. 156±0.9kg). Weight loss during pregnancy was similar for both farms (resp. 24.9±0.7 and 23.7±1.0kg). Gilts from farm A, however, gained more weight in the period between first insemination and first weaning compared with gilts from farm B (resp. 36.1±0.8 and 20.9±1.3kg). Non-pregnancy in second parity was 11% for farm A and 15% for farm B. Litter sizes in first and second parity were, respectively, 10.7±0.1 and 11.6±0.2 for farm A and 11.8±0.1 and 11.6±0.1 for farm B. Variables associated with non-pregnancy and litter size in second parity differed between farms. On farm A, mainly sow live weight development was associated with non-pregnancy and litter size in second parity, whilst on farm B variables like total number born in 1st parity and sow line, were associated with non-pregnancy and litter size in second parity. On both farms, higher weight gain from first insemination to first weaning was associated with a decrease in non-pregnancy (odds ratio 0.7 per 10kg for farm A and 0.8 per 10kg for farm B) and on farm A with higher litter size in second parity (β =0.42 per 10kg weight gain). Results show that sow live weight development affects reproductive performance in second parity, especially on farm A where gilts are relatively light or young at first insemination. Management of these animals should aim to optimize development at first insemination and to increase growth between first insemination and first weaning in order to optimize production in second parity. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]